What is the Canon Ending to DS2?
The Dark Souls series is notorious for its complex storyline and multiple endings. Players of Dark Souls 2 have been debating for years which ending is the canon one. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of Drangleic and explore the possible endings, ultimately answering the question: What is the canon ending to DS2?
A Brief Overview of Dark Souls 2
Dark Souls 2 is set in the world of Drangleic, where players take on the role of a cursed undead, seeking to escape the cycle of death and rebirth. The game’s story revolves around the themes of fire and flame, with multiple characters vying for power and control.
The Linking of the Fire Ending
The most widely accepted ending in Dark Souls 2 is the Linking of the Fire ending. This ending sees the player character become the True Monarch, choosing to relight the Flame and continue the cycle of the Undead. This choice has significant implications for the world of Drangleic, as it means the player has chosen to continue the cycle of life and death, rather than finding a way to break free.
The True Ending: A Matter of Debate
While the Linking of the Fire ending is the most widely accepted conclusion to the game, it’s not the only option. Some players believe that the True Monarch’s sacrifice is the actual canon ending, as it marks the end of the Undead’s existence and the beginning of a new era for Drangleic.
Shanalotte’s Prophecy
In the game’s finale, Shanalotte speaks of two possible outcomes: either the player chooses to inherit the order of the world or renounce it. These two options have led to intense debate among players and theorists, with some believing that the True Monarch’s sacrifice is the more powerful and meaningful choice.
The Scholar of the First Sin
For players who choose to take on the Scholar of the First Sin DLC, there is another possible ending: the Scholar’s descent into madness. In this ending, the player is consumed by the memories and knowledge of the past, leading to a sense of despair and loss. This ending is not directly connected to the main story, but it adds an interesting layer of depth to the world of Drangleic.
Conclusion: What is the Canon Ending?
In conclusion, while the Linking of the Fire ending is the most widely accepted conclusion to Dark Souls 2, it’s not the only possible outcome. The True Monarch’s sacrifice and the Scholar’s descent into madness offer alternative endings that explore the themes of fire, flame, and the cycle of life and death. Ultimately, the question of what is the canon ending to DS2 is left to individual interpretation, allowing players to draw their own conclusions about the fate of the world of Drangleic.
Important Notes
- The Linking of the Fire ending is widely accepted as the primary conclusion to the game, but it’s not the only possible outcome.
- The True Monarch’s sacrifice and the Scholar’s descent into madness offer alternative endings that explore the themes of fire, flame, and the cycle of life and death.
- Shanalotte’s prophecy sets out two possible outcomes for the player: inheriting the order of the world or renouncing it.
- The Scholar of the First Sin DLC offers an additional ending that is not directly connected to the main story.