What Happens When You Link the Flame in Dark Souls 3?
In Dark Souls 3, the Link the Flame ending is one of the most debated and coveted conclusions to the game’s narrative. For those who have not yet completed the game, this article aims to provide a comprehensive explanation of what happens when you link the flame.
Direct Answer:
The act of linking the flame is a crucial event that occurs at the end of the game. To put it simply, Linking the Flame means perpetuating the cycle of Undead existence. It’s a choice that essentially prolongs the curse that has plagued the world, keeping the Undead from achieving true death and potentially finding peace.
History of the First Flame
To understand the significance of linking the flame, let’s delve into the history of the First Flame. According to the lore, the First Flame was brought to the world by the gods, who sought to bring light and fire to the land. This spark of life and energy revitalized the world, ending the Age of Darkness. However, as time passed, the flame began to dwindle, and the Age of Fire commenced. This period saw the rise of powerful kingdoms, mighty warriors, and great empires.
Gwyn, Lord of Sunlight
Gwyn, Lord of Sunlight, was one of the most powerful beings of the Age of Fire. He was tasked with finding a way to preserve the First Flame, as its fading would plunge the world back into darkness. Gwyn’s solution was to merge his own soul with the flame, effectively linking the flame and sustaining its power. This act not only saved the world from certain destruction but also brought about a new era of humanity, where the Undead were born.
Linking the Flame in Dark Souls 3
Fast-forward to the present, where the player takes on the role of the Chosen One, tasked with navigating the world and ultimately making the choice to Link the Flame or not. When you choose to link the flame, you’re essentially following in the footsteps of Gwyn, perpetuating the cycle of Undead existence and extending the Age of Fire. This choice has far-reaching consequences, as it influences the fate of the world and its inhabitants.
Consequences of Linking the Flame
Here are some key consequences of choosing to link the flame:
- Perpetuating the Undead curse: By linking the flame, you’re ensuring that the Undead will continue to exist, trapped in an endless cycle of life, death, and rebirth.
- Prolonging the Age of Fire: The Age of Fire will continue, but with the flame dwindling, the world will become increasingly desolate and desperate.
- No end to the cycle: Without an alternative solution, the world will remain stuck in an endless cycle of Undead existence, with no respite or hope of peace.
Alternative Ending
In contrast, choosing not to link the flame will allow the flame to fade, plunging the world back into darkness. This route offers a chance for redemption and a new beginning, but it also means sacrificing the world as we know it.
In Conclusion
Linking the Flame in Dark Souls 3 is a choice that weighs heavily on the player. By understanding the significance of this event and the consequences that follow, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision that will shape the fate of the world. Whether you choose to perpetuate the Undead curse or bring about a new era, your choice will have a profound impact on the narrative and its characters.
Bibliography
- Official Dark Souls 3 Strategy Guide
- Dark Souls 3 Wiki
- Interviews with the developers (e.g., FromSoftware, Bandai Namco)