The Mass Effect series is filled with all sorts of cool alien races, and the writers do a fantastic job at making each one feel like a real species. But that doesn’t mean that Humans are ignored. The people of Earth are a vital part of Mass Effect’s story. So, naturally, there are still plenty of them in the Milky Way galaxy.
Unfortunately, Humans’ flesh and bone make them naturally weaker than the likes of Krogans and Turians. Although, several people can still rival the other species in terms of strength. In this case, ‘strength’ doesn’t necessarily mean physical power but one’s overall combat ability. With that in mind, here are humanity’s finest fighters.
10 Kaidan Alenko, The L2 Biotic
During his days at the biotic training camp, Jump Zero, Kaidan showed plenty of potential. The young man was even able to take down one of his instructors.
Yet, it’s the experience he gains in Shepard’s squad that really takes him to the next level. He even earns the celebrated title of Spectre, which is only given to the best. Yes, he might not stand a chance against the likes of Wrex, but for a Human, he’s tougher than most.
9 Ashley Williams, The Eden Prime Survivor
If Kaidan perishes on Virmire, Ashley is the one who becomes a Spectre. And it’s quite a surprise that she gets the opportunity because the Williams name is not a beloved one.
This is due to her grandfather surrendering to the Turians back in the First Contact War. That one incident has held Ashley back throughout her career. However, she’s such an excellent soldier that she still manages to reach the top.
8 Miranda Lawson, The Perfect Human
Miranda Lawson was designed to be pretty much perfect. Through the use of genetic engineering, her father gave her every advantage possible. So, that’s why she’s both one of the smartest and strongest characters in the series.
Her fighting capabilities are partially impressive because of her well-rounded nature. She excels in battle, whether she’s using a firearm or utilizing her powerful biotics. If only she could’ve seen the flaws in her favorite organization earlier.
7 Ryder, The Heroic Pathfinder
Shortly after the Human ark arrives in Andromeda, the Pathfinder Alec Ryder dies. It’s then up to his off-spring to pick up the reins, and the younger Ryder does a fantastic job.
Despite being a rookie Pathfinder, they manage to turn several inhabitable planets into true homes. And that task isn’t only achieved through deep exploration — Ryder has to defeat some major adversaries along the way, some that few Humans have faced before.
6 David Anderson, The Experienced Captain
Seeing David Anderson in action is a rarity during the games. He’s mainly there to provide Shepard with advice. Yet, if you’re paying attention, then you know he’s an excellent soldier.
Not only was he once considered for the Spectre program — an opportunity he only lost due to Saren — but he helps hold the Reapers back on Earth. While Shepard is recruiting the entire galaxy, Anderson manages to survive the machines’ ruthless assault for a long time. It’s a feat that few other Humans could pull off.
5 Kai Leng, The Cerberus Assassin
Kai Leng is an agent for Cerberus throughout the entire franchise. Although, he doesn’t make his video game debut until Mass Effect 3. Then in every scene, he proves why he’s one of The Illusive Man’s top agents.
He’s got the balance and agility of a ninja, not to mention he’s incredibly adept with a sword in his hand. If he didn’t have to go against Shepard, he could’ve finally made Cerberus the dominant force in the galaxy.
4 Cora Harper, The Human Asari Commando
The Asari Commandos are a well-respected group of incredibly strong biotics. In fact, they are among the most feared soldiers in the Milky Way. As their name suggests, they are typically made up of Asari. Yet, Cora Harper managed to join their ranks.
The extreme biotic power required to be a part of a group like that is off the charts. So, that achievement alone proves the unbelievable ability of the Pathfinder’s second-in-command. Plus, you get to see her impressive skills up close during Mass Effect: Andromeda.
3 Zaeed Massani, The Veteran Mercenary
Right from the beginning of the series, Zaeed is among the galaxy’s toughest combatants, regardless of species, and he’s got the history to prove it. From taking down frigates to killing groups of Batarians single-handedly, the mercenary has completed a litany of dangerous contracts in his time.
He hasn’t always achieved victory unscathed, but the fact he’s survived as long as he has is impressive. The many ways he knows how to kill people have likely helped him along the way.
2 Jack, The Psychotic Biotic
From a young age, Jack had unbelievable biotic potential, especially for a Human — so much so that Cerberus spent plenty of money and resources to harness it, but she never gave them the chance. This is because their torment transformed the young girl into an extremely powerful woman who hates them.
Her strength is no secret — simply watch her in action. She’s able to take out groups of enemies and even mechs without a single weapon. It’s why she’s such a beloved companion.
1 Commander Shepard, The First Human Spectre
Commander Shepard’s list of achievements is unparalleled. The legendary hero saves the galaxy from Saren, the Collectors, and the Reapers. Yes, they have allies that help them achieve those goals, but they’re always the leading force.
Those are just the big accomplishments as well. During their adventures, Shepard performs all sorts of smaller feats that would be career highlights for anyone else. Not only is the Commander humanity’s best, but the soldier is perhaps number one in the entire galaxy.
NEXT: Mass Effect: 5 Reasons Shepard Should Go Paragon (& 5 To Go Renegade)
