Which Elden Ring ending is canon?

Which Elden Ring Ending is Canon?

The answer to this question is far from straightforward. In Elden Ring, players can choose from multiple endings, each with its own distinct narrative and implications. Without a clear "canon" ending, players have been left to debate the significance of each choice.

The Problem with Ending Choice

One of the main issues with ending choices in Elden Ring is that they often involve different narrative paths and interpretations of the game’s world and characters. For example, the Destined Death ending, where players choose to fulfill Ranni’s vision of a lands without the Golden Order, is vastly different from the Elden Lord ending, where players become the ruler of the Lands Between. These varying narrative paths make it challenging to determine which ending is truly "canon".

The Art for Shadow of the Erdtree: A Clue

According to the game’s concept art, the Erdtree remains standing, albeit in a decayed state. This suggests that the world is still in existence and the Erdtree remains relevant, regardless of the chosen ending. This detail raises interesting questions about the impact of the player’s choice and the fate of the lands.

Ranni and the Rune of Death: A Key to Canon?

Ranni, one of the game’s mysterious characters, steals a fragment of the Rune of Death from Maliketh and uses it to create the Black Knives. These knives could grant death, potentially serving as a catalyst for significant events in the world of Elden Ring. However, the impact of these events on the narrative outcome is unclear. If the player chooses the Destined Death ending, has Ranni’s actions altered the course of history? Can we assume that this alternative narrative path is a different canon?

Table of Endings:

The following table provides a list of the main endings available to the player and the general narrative implications of each.

Conclusion

Determining the canon ending of Elden Ring is an unresolved debate among fans. Although the game offers various choices, the impact of each decision on the narrative path is unclear. While art and concept hints provide guidance, the actual meaning behind the endings remains uncertain.

Key Points to Keep in Mind:

• The Erdtree’s concept art suggests a lingering significance despite various narrative choices.
• Ranni’s actions regarding the Rune of Death introduce uncertainty about the true "canon".
• Choosing specific endings may influence the broader narrative, but this hasn’t been explicitly stated in the game.
• Unifying the story may come from understanding the motivations of key characters, rather than the chosen ending itself.