What Ending is Canon in Elden Ring?
Elden Ring, the latest release from FromSoftware, has left fans with more questions than answers. One of the most pressing concerns is which ending is considered canon. The game’s six endings leave players wondering which path is the "true" ending, and the developer’s own statements have added to the confusion. In this article, we’ll delve into the possibilities and explore what we know so far about the canon ending in Elden Ring.
The Age of Fracture: A Simple yet Compelling Option
One of the simplest endings to grasp is the Age of Fracture. This ending can be achieved by simply following the game’s story and defeating the Elden Beast. This path is straightforward and doesn’t require any additional effort beyond completing the main storyline. This is often cited as a popular choice among fans and could be considered a possible canon ending.
The Frenzied Flame: A Contested Conclusion
Another ending that has sparked debate is the Frenzied Flame. This path requires players to make a series of choices that deviate from the main storyline. The Frenzied Flame ending has been confirmed as canon by developer Hidetaka Miyazaki, although some fans argue that it may not be the most realistic or narratively coherent conclusion.
The Strength of the Frenzied Flame
Some arguments in favor of the Frenzied Flame as the canon ending:
• Confirmation from the developer: Miyazaki’s statement confirms that the Frenzied Flame ending is indeed part of the game’s canon.
• Thematic relevance: The Frenzied Flame ending ties into the game’s themes of sacrifice and the cyclical nature of the Lands Between’s history.
• Emotional resonance: The ending’s focus on Radahn’s story and the impact of the player’s choices can create a strong emotional connection with the player.
Challenges to the Frenzied Flame’s Canon Status
However, there are also valid arguments against the Frenzied Flame as the canon ending:
• Lack of clarity: The Frenzied Flame ending can be achieved through multiple routes and choices, making it unclear which specific path is the "correct" one.
• Narrative inconsistency: The Frenzied Flame ending can lead to plot holes and inconsistencies within the game’s lore.
• Fan divided: Not all fans agree that the Frenzied Flame ending is the most satisfying or cohesive conclusion to the game.
The Search for Canon: A Comprehensive Look
Here’s a breakdown of each ending’s pros and cons:
| Ending | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Age of Fracture | Simple, straightforward, narratively coherent | Limited narrative impact |
| Frenzied Flame | Thematic relevance, emotional resonance, developer confirmation | Lack of clarity, narrative inconsistency, divided fan opinion |
Conclusion: The Truth Remains Uncertain
In the end, the question of which ending is canon in Elden Ring remains uncertain. Both the Age of Fracture and the Frenzied Flame have valid arguments for being considered canon, and fans will continue to debate and discuss the topic. As the developer, FromSoftware, continues to expand the game’s lore and narrative, it’s possible that new information will shed light on the canon ending. Until then, the Age of Fracture and the Frenzied Flame will remain the most popular contenders for the top spot.
Ultimately, the canon ending in Elden Ring is a matter of personal interpretation, and fans will continue to weigh the pros and cons of each ending. Which ending do you believe is the true canon in Elden Ring? Share your thoughts in the comments below!