I've been replaying the Mess Effect trilogy and I'd forgotten how good it is. I'd love to read books along a similar vein: vast, sprawling stories filled with fleshed out characters and interesting aliens, though hopefully with a more satisfying ending! I'd especially love for the aliens to be genuine, deep characters that join the main character on their journey rather than just being there for decoration. Bonus points if it has that found family feel that ME has, and bonus bonus points if it features some evil, eldritch-esque antagonistic aliens for everyone to unite against.
I already have The Culture series by Iain M Banks in my TBR but I'd love to see what else is out there.
TIA!
by TraumaticBarnacle