Embark on a journey into the realm of Dark Souls 1 endings, where choices shape destinies and the fate of the world hangs in the balance. From linking the fire to embracing the darkness, each path offers unique challenges, rewards, and profound implications for the game’s narrative.
As we delve into the intricacies of these endings, we will unravel their significance, compare their outcomes, and explore the lore and community perceptions that surround them. Join us as we uncover the depths of Dark Souls 1’s enigmatic conclusion.
Dark Souls 1 Endings
Dark Souls 1 presents players with a choice of multiple endings, each with its own unique consequences and implications. These endings are heavily influenced by the player’s actions and decisions throughout the game.
Dark Souls 1 Endings Overview
There are four main endings in Dark Souls 1:
- Link the Fire
- Dark Lord
- Usurpation of Fire
- Leave the Fire to Fade
Each ending requires specific conditions to be met in order to achieve it.
Link the Fire Ending
Linking the Fire is the traditional ending of Dark Souls 1. In this ending, the player sacrifices themselves to rekindle the First Flame, extending the Age of Fire.
- Conditions:Defeat Gwyn, Lord of Cinder.
- Consequences:The Age of Fire is extended, but the player character becomes a Lord of Cinder.
- Unique Dialogue:“As I kindle the flame, I can feel the curse leaving my body.” – Chosen Undead
Dark Lord Ending
The Dark Lord ending is achieved by choosing to embrace the Darksign and become the Lord of Darkness. In this ending, the player character usurps Gwyn and rules over the world in darkness.
- Conditions:Place the Lordvessel in the Kiln of the First Flame and choose to “Walk Away.”
- Consequences:The Age of Fire ends, and the Age of Dark begins. The player character becomes the Dark Lord.
- Unique Dialogue:“Now, the Age of Fire is over. And now, a new age begins. An age of darkness.” – Kaathe
Usurpation of Fire Ending
The Usurpation of Fire ending is achieved by choosing to link the Fire with the Soul of Cinder, but then refusing to become a Lord of Cinder. In this ending, the player character becomes the Lord of Hollows and ushers in a new age.
- Conditions:Defeat the Soul of Cinder and choose to “Usurp the Flame.”
- Consequences:The Age of Fire ends, and the Age of Hollows begins. The player character becomes the Lord of Hollows.
- Unique Dialogue:“I will cast aside this vessel. I will carve a new path. I will usher in a new age.” – Chosen Undead
Leave the Fire to Fade Ending, Dark souls 1 endings
The Leave the Fire to Fade ending is achieved by choosing to do nothing at the Kiln of the First Flame. In this ending, the Age of Fire ends, and the world is plunged into darkness.
- Conditions:Stand at the Kiln of the First Flame for an extended period without taking any action.
- Consequences:The Age of Fire ends, and the world is plunged into darkness.
- Unique Dialogue:“The flame has faded, and now only darkness remains.” – Fire Keeper
Quick FAQs: Dark Souls 1 Endings
What is the significance of linking the fire in Dark Souls 1?
Linking the fire is the traditional ending of Dark Souls 1 and perpetuates the Age of Fire. However, it comes at the cost of sacrificing the player character’s life and reinforces the endless cycle of decay and rebirth.
What are the unique gameplay elements of the Dark Lord ending?
Choosing the Dark Lord ending grants the player access to unique dialogue, cutscenes, and gameplay mechanics. Players become the Dark Lord, gaining increased power and the ability to summon powerful allies.
What is the role of the Lord of Hollows in the Usurpation of Fire ending?
In the Usurpation of Fire ending, the player character becomes the Lord of Hollows and inherits the power of the Dark Soul. This ending challenges the traditional cycle of linking the fire and offers a new path for the world of Lordran.