The Asari are a fictional extraterrestrial humanoid species in the Mass Effect multimedia franchise developed by BioWare and published by Electronic Arts. First introduced in the novel Mass Effect: Revelation , the asari are a non-binary gendered sapient homeotherm species with a pansexual - panromantic orientation and are naturally inclined towards biotics, [1] the ability to "manipulate dark energy and create mass effect fields through the use of electrical impulses from the brain", allowing for telekinesis and other abilities. Variously described as all-female and mono-gendered, [3] or hermaphroditic and sexually ambiguous, [4] the asari may reproduce with any species using their biotic ability to mind meld. In addition, the asari are playable characters in the multiplayer modes for Mass Effect 3 and Mass Effect: Andromeda. The asari have been recognized as an iconic aspect of the Mass Effect series and are popular among fans as subjects for expressions of fan labor , though they have received a wide range of positive and negative critical responses from their various appearances. As the initial step in the design process for alien races, the writing team would first supply a short paragraph describing the species.

In the Mass Effect universe, many advanced races live together on the galactic stage, and the Asari race is arguably on top. No single race dominates the galaxy the way the Protheans did in their time, but few could argue that the Asari, with their long life spans, wisdom, biotic powers and commandos, are the most significant and influential race on the galactic landscape. The Asari are unique in that they have only one sex female , and therefore there are no meaningful gender differences in their society. All Asari can give live birth, and their mating process is the subject of speculation, fascination and mockery alike throughout the galaxy. An Asari can mate with an intelligent being of any species, since the melding involves combining the minds of the two individuals and using the partner's DNA to combine the Asari's and create a unique child.

We use cookies and other tracking technologies to improve your browsing experience on our site, show personalized content and targeted ads, analyze site traffic, and understand where our audiences come from. To learn more or opt-out, read our Cookie Policy. The asari are possibly the most infamous alien race to appear in the Mass Effect series.