For me, the big problem with the Paragon/Renegade system was that Renegade wasn't a character.
For the most part, Paragon Shepard is a consistent, relatable character with a structured and defined morality and goal system. Generally, Paragon Shepard tried to understand everyone's viewpoint, and find ways to work with most of them, except when it was found to be completely abhorrent to that defined morality system. So, if you did play pure Paragon, you had a pretty consistent and logical character.
On the other hand, Renegade Shepard's sole point of consistency was "be an asshole to everyone". There was no overarching goal or system to it. Sometimes your character would argue one position with astounding ferocity, then turn around and argue the exact opposite position later just because the new person you're talking to was on the other side. Renegade Shepard didn't make sense as a character. The idea of the "do whatever the mission takes" character that was supposedly the original goal never really surfaced. At least, definitely not in ME2 or ME3. I need to play the original again.
Which is why I only generally took a few Renegade points throughout the games. A few of the interrupts (Garrus, you're my buddy, but I'm a sniper, and I'm not going to let you out-snipe me), and basically all the Renegade options on Tuchanka. Because they fit with my idea of a character who understands and works with other cultures.




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