What is the best ending for Dark Souls?

What is the Best Ending for Dark Souls?

Dark Souls, a notoriously challenging action role-playing game, has been a topic of discussion among gamers for years. One of the most debated aspects of the game is the ending, with many players wondering what the best ending is. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Dark Souls and explore the different endings, their implications, and what makes one ending better than the others.

The Two Main Endings

Dark Souls has two main endings, which are often referred to as the "Good" and "Bad" endings. However, it’s essential to note that these terms are subjective and don’t necessarily imply moral implications. The two endings are determined by the player’s choice at the end of the game, which is to either link the fire or not.

Linking the Fire

Linking the Fire: The "Good" Ending

Linking the fire is considered the "good" ending by many players. This ending involves lighting the fire at the Kiln of the First Flame, which is the final boss of the game. By doing so, the player is essentially choosing to continue the cycle of fire and darkness, maintaining the balance of the world.

Pros of Linking the Fire:

• Maintains the Balance of the World: Linking the fire ensures that the world remains in balance, with the forces of fire and darkness maintaining their equilibrium.
• Provides a Sense of Closure: This ending provides a sense of closure, as the player has completed the main story and achieved their goal.

Cons of Linking the Fire:

• Perpetuates the Cycle of Fire and Darkness: By linking the fire, the player is perpetuating the cycle of fire and darkness, which may not be the most desirable outcome.
• Leaves Room for Sequels: Linking the fire leaves room for sequels, as the story can continue in new ways.

Not Linking the Fire

Not Linking the Fire: The "Bad" Ending

Not linking the fire is considered the "bad" ending by many players. This ending involves choosing not to light the fire at the Kiln of the First Flame, which means the player is choosing to let the fire fade away.

Pros of Not Linking the Fire:

• Breaks the Cycle of Fire and Darkness: Not linking the fire breaks the cycle of fire and darkness, potentially leading to a new era of peace and prosperity.
• Provides a Fresh Start: This ending provides a fresh start, as the world is reset, and new possibilities emerge.

Cons of Not Linking the Fire:

• Leaves the World in Chaos: Not linking the fire leaves the world in chaos, as the forces of fire and darkness are no longer balanced.
• May Not Provide a Sense of Closure: This ending may not provide a sense of closure, as the player’s goal is not achieved.

The Verdict

Ultimately, the best ending for Dark Souls is a matter of personal preference. Both endings have their pros and cons, and the player’s choice should be based on their own values and goals. Linking the fire provides a sense of closure and maintains the balance of the world, while not linking the fire breaks the cycle of fire and darkness and provides a fresh start.

Additional Endings and Branches

Dark Souls has additional endings and branches that players can explore, including:

• The Lordvessel Ending: This ending is achieved by using the Lordvessel to ascend to the throne of the gods.
• The Bed of Chaos Ending: This ending is achieved by defeating the Bed of Chaos boss and using the Lordvessel to ascend to the throne of the gods.
• The Dragon Slayer Ending: This ending is achieved by defeating the Dragon Slayer Ornstein and Smough boss and using the Lordvessel to ascend to the throne of the gods.

Conclusion

Dark Souls is a game that offers multiple endings and branches, each with its own implications and consequences. The best ending for Dark Souls is a matter of personal preference, and players should choose the ending that aligns with their values and goals. Whether you choose to link the fire or not, the game’s multiple endings and branches offer a rich and immersive experience that will keep you engaged for hours on end.