20 Best Video Game Heroes Of The 21st Century - Ranked

"Let's get our people home."

Commander Shepard may be shaped by the player, but even in his default form, everyone knows exactly who he is.

The fact that the Mass Effect games are some of the most popular and beloved RPGs out there helps contribute massively to why Shepard is so loved, but the character himself has to play a part in it too.

Obviously one of the things that sets him (or her!) apart from the rest is the fact that Shepard can either be a Paragon or a Renegade, with both being pretty unique characterisations. This level of choice is key to why Shepard works as a character.

Mass Effect's ability as a franchise to carry your decisions across more than one game is one of the reasons that Shepard stand out.

When you consider that gamers had three whole games of custom stories and decisions to make, it's no wonder that they got more than a little attached to their own idea of Shepard and what he represents.

Let's just hope we get to see the Mass Effect series return to its former glory one day.