They didn't gay him up, and unironically the end of his quest chain in Mass Effect 3 is one of the most redeeming elements of the game. Legit one of my favorite scenes in gaming ever and they absolutely nailed that final bit. Well worth youtubing it just because of how excellent it is.

Also the fact that if you don't romance him, he starts an offscreen one of his own with Tali means he is the most heterosexual male in existence with excellent taste in women.

Its one of the reasons why ME3 is so hateable. Because its filled with moments that show they could create those satisfying conclusions and beats, but instead they turn it into a number and a "pick your color" ending.

because they removed, or rather replaced, the strong bro-bond for faggotry.

Its the same problem as when you add a single woman into any room of men. Now, no matter what, fucking has been added to the equation. No matter how small the chance, no matter how ridiculous the scenario has to be for it to happen, the possibility is now brewing in your mind.

And that changes everything. You will second guess every interaction, you will run through everything you say an extra time, and it just cannot be the same. Its a door that has to remain firmly closed or it will bleed all over everything.