Mass Effect quietly confirmed the Illusive Man's real name and you probably missed it

Mass Effect is one of the best sci-RPGs of all time from BioWare and when the first game was released in 2007 for Xbox 360, it was considered by some to be a spiritual successor to Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic.

Since its launch in 2007, BioWare has given us three sequels which include the last entry in the series from 2017, Mass Effect Andromeda. It’s hard to pinpoint just one lone favourable feature of the Mass Effect series as it's widely praised for its immersive stories, interesting characters, sense of exploration and multiple-choice scenarios that allow players to forge their own tales.

Check out the Mass Effect 2 trailer below!

In 2021, we were treated to Mass Effect Legendary Edition, a bundle of sci-fi RPG joy that included remasters of the original trilogy as well as all previously released DLC for PC, PlayStation and Xbox. In 2020, Mass Effect 5 was revealed during The Game Awards sparking mass excitement from fans in attendance and those watching at home.

Sadly, since 2020, we’ve had very few details on the development progress of Mass Effect 5, which has led some to fear that it might be a next-gen title. However, I’m still hoping that we finally get to see some gameplay in the next 12 months and if we’re extra lucky, that elusive release window.

One of the most interesting characters in the series is the Illusive Man, who we were introduced to in 2010’s Mass Effect 2. The word “illusive” for an individual can be used for someone unreal or deceptive, which certainly fits the description of the Illusive Man played by legendary Hollywood actor Martin Sheen.

As you might expect from someone who is named the Illusive Man, not much is known about this mysterious character such as his real name. Well actually, for those who have read the prequel comic Mass Effect: Evolution from Dark Horse Comics, it provides interesting lore about the character such as his back story and his real name.

Those of you who have read the Mass Effect comics, as well as the novels, will know that they provide an interesting read, to say the least, and if you’ve not read any of the comics or novels, I can wholeheartedly recommend them. So going back on track, what is the real name of the Illusive Man, I hear you ask?

As revealed in Mass Effect: Evolution, the real name of the Illusive Man is Jack Harper. I won't reveal anything else about this comic because you should check it out.

Despite not having a release date, Mass Effect 5 is expected to be released on PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, if we’re lucky.