I’ve loved theMass Effectseries since I first bought my copy of the original game on Xbox 360 back in 2007. The series has done a great job of introducing us to intriguing alien races such as the alluring Asari and the telepathic Hanar. Among these, the Batarians stand out as a tragically misunderstood race that, despite their negative depiction in the first four games, deserves more love and redemption in the upcoming Mass Effect 5.
Understanding The Batarians
My journey into the intricate lore of the Batarians began with a realization during my Mass Effect 3 multiplayer experience. I recall the moment when I hesitated to play as a Batarian character.
The internal conflict I grappled with, questioning why I was engaging with a seemingly malevolent race, served as a catalyst for my exploration into the depths of Batarian history. It sparked the question that, perhaps, all the Batarians needed was positive representation within the games to shed the unfair labels they carried.
The Batarians were initially introduced in Mass Effect 1 as an aggressive and despised race, known for slaving, pirating, and engaging in terrorist activities. However, my research delving into their history revealed a complex narrative that began with their early days in Council space.
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The Batarians achieved faster-than-light travel through a damaged Prothean site, causing diplomatic strife with the Council races. Discontent escalated with humanity’s arrival, leading to conflicts over colonial expansion. They have an aggressive demeanor as internal dissent and an isolationist authoritarian government have dominated Batarian life.
Beyond political conflicts, the Batarians have showcased a unique approach to technological advancement. They hoarded knowledge and conducted secretive research, to gain an edge over other species. The discovery of the Leviathan and the Alpha Relay had the Batarians hungry for their glory days, even if it meant hiding crucial information from the galactic community.
Initially, I found solace in the notion that the Batarians' secretive nature might explain their actions. It seemed a reasonable justification for their behavior. Yet, as I delved deeper, I realized that understanding their secrecy does little to foster empathy. The complexities of their society and the impact of an authoritarian government cannot be used as complete justification but empathy demands a more nuanced comprehension of their struggles.
The “Arrival” Batarian Issue
Reflecting on the plight of the Batarians in the Mass Effect series, the most profound blow to their race occurred in the Arrival DLC. The destruction of the Bahak system’s Mass Relay resulted in substantial Batarian casualties, setting the stage for their near-extinction during the subsequent Reaper invasion in Mass Effect 3.
It’s disheartening to observe how the game swiftly moves on from this significant issue. While acknowledging the universe-saving stakes, the narrative seems to perpetuate a dismissive attitude towards the Batarians, portraying them as a rude and annoying race with little consideration for the profound losses and discrimination they faced. In hindsight, it’s a poignant reminder of the complexities and nuances overlooked amid the grandeur of the universe’s impending doom.
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The Batarians, despite being a significant race in the Milky Way, were notably sidelined inMass Effect: Andromeda. The game’s focus on the human Pathfinder, Ryder, and their exploration of the Andromeda galaxy left little room for Batarians in the primary narrative. This omission, alongside other issues attributed to the game’s rushed production and subsequent reception, raises the question of missed opportunities.
However, recent developments in the Mass Effect series, particularly the potential return to the Milky Way in the upcoming game, offer a glimmer of hope for the Batarians. As the narrative shifts back to their home galaxy, there’s a chance for the Batarians to reclaim their role and for the game to delve into the complexities of their race in a more meaningful way.
Batarians Moving Forward
In crafting Mass Effect 5, BioWare has a unique opportunity to showcase a different side of the Batarians. Offering us a Batarian squadmate could serve as a compelling narrative device to challenge stereotypes and prejudices associated with this vilified group. As a fan of BioWare’sDragon Ageseries, I can’t help but think about Inquisition’s Iron Bull and Dorian. Both provided nuanced perspectives on seemingly villainized groups of Thedas. A similar approach could be had for Batarians. I am hopeful that BioWare will seize the opportunity.
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