Dark souls 2 ending – Dark Souls 2’s enigmatic endings have captivated players with their profound lore implications and thought-provoking choices. Embark on a journey through the various narrative, character, and lore-based conclusions, deciphering the symbolism and analyzing the impact of player agency in shaping these haunting finales.
From the melancholic embrace of the Curse to the glimmering hope of the Emerald Herald’s guidance, each ending unveils a unique tapestry of themes and consequences. Dive into the depths of Dark Souls 2’s endings and unravel the secrets that lie within.
Narrative Endings
Dark Souls 2 offers several narrative endings, each with unique requirements and consequences. The four main endings are:
- Throne of Want Ending:Link the First Flame, sacrificing yourself to extend the Age of Fire.
- Lord of Hollows Ending:Embrace the Darksign, becoming the Lord of Hollows and ushering in an age of darkness.
- Emerald Herald Ending:Leave Drangleic with the Emerald Herald, seeking a new destiny beyond the curse.
- Usurpation of Fire Ending:Betray the Throne of Want and usurp the First Flame, becoming the new ruler of the world.
Each ending reflects different themes and choices in the game, such as the cycle of life and death, the nature of sacrifice, and the player’s agency in shaping the world.
Character Endings
In addition to the narrative endings, Dark Souls 2 features multiple character endings for key NPCs. These endings depend on player choices and interactions throughout the game. Some notable character endings include:
- Lucatiel of Mirrah:Help her overcome her despair and find redemption.
- Benhart of Jugo:Guide him to the Throne of Want and witness his transformation.
- Chancellor Wellager:Uncover his true intentions and make a choice regarding his fate.
- Licia of Lindeldt:Help her achieve her goals or expose her treacherous nature.
These character endings add depth and complexity to the game’s narrative, showcasing the consequences of player decisions and the impact they have on the lives of others.
Lore Implications
The endings of Dark Souls 2 have profound implications for the game’s lore and world-building. They provide insights into the nature of the First Flame, the cycle of life and death, and the destiny of Drangleic.
The Throne of Want Ending perpetuates the Age of Fire, while the Lord of Hollows Ending embraces the Darksign and ushers in an age of darkness. The Emerald Herald Ending suggests a departure from the cycle, while the Usurpation of Fire Ending presents a potential for change and a new beginning.
These endings connect to the overarching mythology of Dark Souls, exploring themes of sacrifice, duty, and the consequences of one’s choices in a world on the brink of collapse.
Symbolism and Metaphor
Dark Souls 2’s endings are rich in symbolism and metaphor, contributing to the game’s themes and atmosphere.
The First Flame represents the cycle of life and death, while the Darksign symbolizes the inevitable decay and darkness that awaits all living beings. The Emerald Herald serves as a guide through the chaos, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the despair.
The imagery of fire, darkness, and the Emerald Herald’s green glow evokes a sense of struggle, renewal, and the constant tension between light and shadow.
Player Choice and Agency
Dark Souls 2 places great emphasis on player choice and agency, allowing players to shape the narrative and character outcomes through their decisions.
The choice of ending, for example, is a major decision that determines the fate of Drangleic and its inhabitants. Interactions with NPCs can also have significant consequences, influencing their storylines and affecting the game’s world.
This emphasis on player choice reinforces the game’s theme of personal responsibility and the impact of one’s actions in a world where destiny is not set in stone.
Comparison to Other Souls Games
The endings of Dark Souls 2 differ in some key aspects from those of other Souls games.
- Throne of Want Ending:In Dark Souls, linking the First Flame was the only true ending, while in Dark Souls 2, it is one of several possible outcomes.
- Lord of Hollows Ending:This ending is unique to Dark Souls 2, offering an alternative path that embraces the darkness and challenges the traditional cycle of fire and dark.
- Character Endings:Dark Souls 2 features more developed character endings, allowing players to have a greater impact on the fates of key NPCs.
These differences contribute to Dark Souls 2’s distinct narrative and world-building, while still maintaining the series’ core themes and challenges.
Fan Theories and Interpretations: Dark Souls 2 Ending
The endings of Dark Souls 2 have sparked numerous fan theories and interpretations, contributing to the game’s enduring legacy and community engagement.
One popular theory suggests that the Lord of Hollows Ending is the true ending, as it breaks the cycle of fire and dark and offers a potential for a new beginning.
Other theories explore the significance of the Emerald Herald, the nature of the First Flame, and the ultimate fate of Drangleic. These fan interpretations add depth to the game’s lore and provide a testament to its thought-provoking and enigmatic nature.
Answers to Common Questions
What is the “Curse Ending” in Dark Souls 2?
The Curse Ending occurs when the player chooses to link the First Flame at the end of the game. This perpetuates the cycle of light and dark, ensuring the continued existence of the world but at the cost of the player’s own life.
How do I achieve the “Emerald Herald Ending”?
To obtain the Emerald Herald Ending, the player must collect all four Lord Souls and speak to the Emerald Herald in the Throne of Want. This ending breaks the cycle of light and dark, offering a glimmer of hope for the future.
What is the significance of the “Throne Watcher and Throne Defender” boss fight?
The Throne Watcher and Throne Defender boss fight represents the player’s confrontation with the forces of the Old Iron King and the Lost Sinner. Defeating them is a crucial step in accessing the game’s various endings.