10 Biggest WTF Moments In Mass Effect History

9. The Conversation With Sovereign

The big mystery at the heart of the first Mass Effect is Saren's motive and its relation to the Reapers, which at this point are regarded as mere myth. As Shepard follows Saren's trail and starts to piece it all together, the reality of the Reaper threat becomes more apparent, leading up to the full reveal of Sovereign, who sheds light on the Reaper's motives in an incredibly intimidating way.

This is a very simple moment; just Shepard and Sovereign face to face for the first time.

What gives it such lasting power is how truly menacing Sovereign is. His speech about the meaningless of organic existence and the revelation of the role they play in its evolution is chilling; a Lovecraftian nightmare brought to life. Quickly it dawns on you just out overwhelming the reality of the Reapers are.

Credit must be given to voice actor Peter Jessop, who conveys the cold, emotionless malice of this particular Reaper so convincingly that no other, including Harbinger, ever comes close.

A good story is only as good as its villain, and despite limited screen time, Sovereign immediately makes an impression that changes your interpretation of the series going forward.