Mass Effect is arguably one of the most beloved sci-fi RPG franchises of all time, largely thanks to its endearing cast of characters that have left everlasting impressions on millions of gamers. Despite its status as a trendsetter in the gaming industry, the game isn’t without its share of shortcomings. However, I’m happy to say that one of the more controversial reveals of the trilogy, Tali’s face, has been updated in the newly released Mass Effect Legendary Edition. 

Warning: Light spoilers for the Mass Effect trilogy ahead.

One of your core party members throughout the franchise, Tali, is a member of a race of aliens known as Quarians. An alien species with a particularly weak immune system that requires them to constantly wear protective environmental suits. While Quarians can remove these suits, it requires a strict regimen of antibiotics, immuno-boosters, etc to make it possible and even then it’s still incredibly risky. 

Understandably, you never see a Quarian outside of their suit and so the mystery of what they look like was a hot topic of conversation for years. That is until Tali revealed her face in Mass Effect 3. 

Where many had expected a unique character design similar to that of the Asari, Turian, or any number of Mass Effect’s fascinating alien races, instead Bioware went with a photoshopped version of a human stock photo. 

After nearly three whole games of buildup across five years, it’s no wonder this felt like a slap in the face to dedicated fans. However, it’s nice to see that all these years after the original release of Mass Effect 3, Tali’s face has finally received a much-needed update. 

While it’s certainly not going to make everyone happy, and I’m still not sure that I like the new design in comparison to Mass Effect’s other races,  I’m glad the development team was able to add refresh Tali’s face for the Mass Effect Legendary Edition. It’s a small change, but sometimes the most subtle adjustments can be the most impactful.