The Mass Effect

The game is originally named after what is called the "Mass Effect." An event where a race/species finds a mass relay (basically a giant space transporter that allows you to travel across the galaxy in seconds to another relay station, shown in the picture above) in their local solar system and adapts their technology to allow them to explore the Milky Way Galaxy. Once a race uses the relay and discovers other  races they become part of the galactic community; therefore, experiencing the "Mass Effect" where slowly over time the entire galaxy is almost or completely aware of itself and the races within it. The main hub of this galactic transport system is called the Citadel (seen in the background picture) and this massive station becomes the galactic center for all the races. It houses the main galactic government for those who are willing to participate in the established system, which is entirely based on which race gets to the station first. However, not all races in this story end up wanting to participate in such a galactic government or system.