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Can you import a dead Shepard into Mass Effect 3?
No. Mass Effect 2 producer Casey Hudson told Game Informer: “If you have a dead Shepard at the end of Mass Effect 2, that saved game won’t import into Mass Effect 3.” Hudson also summarized the rule this way: “Dead is dead. Mass Effect 3, as with the rest of the trilogy, is Shepard’s story.”
This blocks that particular career from continuing; it does not prevent you from starting or playing ME3.
What happens if you start ME3 without importing?
You create a new Shepard and begin without the dead character’s imported history or decisions. The ME3 manual distinguishes an imported ME2 history from the game’s default conditions for a run without an import. Do not assume that every individual character outcome or decision will match a particular result: the available guidance establishes that the history is not imported, not a complete list of default outcomes.
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- Only at Amazon Limited Edition Content - The Rogue Infiltrator Character Pack includes cosmetics for Kay and Nix.
- Discover a galaxy of opportunity. Explore distinct locations with bustling cities and cantinas. Race across sprawling outdoor landscapes on your speeder. Each location brings new adventures, unique challenges, and enticing rewards if you’re willing to take the risk.
- Experience an original scoundrel story. Live the high-stakes lifestyle of an outlaw. Turn any situation to your advantage with Nix by your side: fight with your blaster, overcome enemies with stealth and gadgets, or find the right moments to distract enemies and gain the upper hand.
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How can you continue your Shepard’s story?
- Replay Mass Effect 2 and complete the Suicide Mission with Shepard alive.
- Start Mass Effect 3 and choose to import an eligible completed ME2 save.
EA’s Mass Effect 3 PC manual says an imported Shepard retains their level and decisions that affect ME3’s story. The save in which Shepard died is not eligible, so replaying ME2 is necessary if you want to carry forward that career’s continuity.
Choose between a fresh start and replaying ME2
| Option | Story continuity | Time required | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Start ME3 with a new Shepard | The dead Shepard’s history and choices do not transfer; the game uses default conditions for a run without an import. | Less time than replaying ME2. | Getting into ME3 quickly or starting fresh. |
| Replay ME2 and survive the Suicide Mission | An eligible completed save can be imported, carrying the character’s level and story-affecting decisions. | Requires replaying ME2 before starting the import. | Continuing your own Shepard’s story and choices. |
Mass Effect Legendary Edition includes Mass Effect, Mass Effect 2, and Mass Effect 3, so it provides a way to replay the relevant games. It does not change the rule that a dead-Shepard ME2 save cannot be imported.
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