The Mass Effect series has produced some of gaming’s most recognizable and iconic sci-fi stories. With a whole galaxy to explore and save from the Reapers, a player taking on the role of Commander Shepard has plenty of dangerous missions to undertake. With the Mass Effect: Legendary Edition releasing last year as well, a whole host of new players are being introduced to the exploits of Commander Shepard and their companions.
Sometimes though, the pressure of being Commander Shepard can seemingly get to the fictional character, making them want to step away from it all. With the aforementioned Reapers set on destroying all organic life, the insect-like Collectors stealing humans and harvesting their DNA, and a group of humans looking to prioritize human advancement over all else, there’s plenty of enemies for the player to deal with in Mass Effect, and it seems this all proves too much for one Commander Shepard.
In a short clip posted to Reddit, Shepard’s companions of assassin Thane and fan-favorite Tali can be seen discussing where the trio should go next. Once they’ve decided on their destination, instead of following his companions Commander Shepard walks away from them, seemingly fed up with saving the galaxy. It appears that Shepard may believe he’s heading in the right direction though, as he boldly declares “let’s go,” before heading off in the wrong direction. Whatever reason may be behind this hilarious glitch, it can certainly be added to the already impressive catalog of Mass Effect memes.
In the comments of the clip, Mass Effect fans theorized some reasons that could explain the moment. Some noted Shepard’s headgear, which appeared to be blocking the commander’s line of sight, as the reason behind his lack of direction. Others believe that the user who posted the clip, Superjacob101 is experiencing Mass Effect as if it were a play, and Shepard is simply exiting stage left. Shepard is often the butt of the joke in Mass Effect memes, such as a famous running gag which pokes fun at the character’s atrocious dancing.
Another thing in the clip fans picked up on was how Tali, one of Shepard’s squad mates, seems to notice him walking away from the group, but doesn’t do anything to stop him. Tali is one of the rare squad mates that can accompany Shepard in Mass Effect 1, 2, and 3. She has become a favorite among the fans, who have made incredible drawings and impressive cosplays of Tali in the years since Mass Effect first launched.