What is the True Ending of the Fires of Rubicon?
The ending of the Fires of Rubicon, a pivotal story arc in the Armored Core series, has sparked debate among fans and left many wondering what the "true" ending is. To clarify the matter, let’s delve into the lore and requirements to unlock the true ending.
Good Ending: Liberator of Rubicon
The game’s Good Ending, aptly named Liberator of Rubicon, is attainable through a series of decisions and actions throughout the game. To achieve this ending, players must:
• Complete both the Fires of Raven and the Liberation of Rubicon endings on a single save file.
• Side with Ayre throughout the game.
This ending is considered the "good" ending as it aligns with the game’s storyline and character development.
Bad Ending: The Fires of Raven
The Bad Ending, on the other hand, is achieved through a different set of choices and actions. To obtain this ending, players must:
• Complete Mission 22: Destroy the Special Forces Craft in Chapter 3.
• Complete Mission 32: Ambush the Vespers in Chapter 4.
This ending is considered the "bad" ending as it diverges from the game’s narrative and character arcs.
True Ending: Alea Iacta Est
The True Ending, Alea Iacta Est, is the culmination of the game’s story. To unlock this ending, players must:
• Complete the game twice, experiencing both the Good and Bad endings.
• Start an NG++ playthrough.
• Make specific choices during the game’s final moments.
This ending is the most complex and nuanced of the three, requiring a deep understanding of the game’s lore and mechanics. Alea Iacta Est is Latin for "The die is cast," reflecting the outcome of the player’s actions throughout the game.
Comparison of Endings
| Ending | Requirements | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Good Ending (Liberator of Rubicon) | Complete both Fires of Raven and Liberation of Rubicon endings on a single save file, side with Ayre | Aligns with the game’s storyline and character development |
| Bad Ending (The Fires of Raven) | Complete Mission 22 and Mission 32 | Diverges from the game’s narrative and character arcs |
| True Ending (Alea Iacta Est) | Complete the game twice, start an NG++ playthrough, and make specific choices during the final moments | The most complex and nuanced ending, reflecting the outcome of the player’s actions |
In conclusion, the true ending of the Fires of Rubicon is Alea Iacta Est, achieved through a combination of completing the game twice and making specific choices during the final moments. The game’s Good and Bad endings serve as bookends, providing a framework for understanding the narrative and character arcs. By exploring the intricacies of the game’s lore and mechanics, players can unlock the true ending and experience the full richness of the Armored Core series.