Which is the Better Dark Souls Ending?
The Dark Souls series is renowned for its complex and thought-provoking storytelling, and the endings are no exception. With multiple endings to choose from, players are left wondering which one is the "better" ending. In this article, we’ll delve into the various endings of Dark Souls and explore the pros and cons of each.
The Usurpation of Fire Ending
This ending is often considered the "hardest" ending to achieve, as it requires players to follow a specific set of tasks and make certain choices throughout the game. The Usurpation of Fire ending sees the player character replace the Soul of Cinder, the chosen one who is tasked with linking the fire. This ending is often seen as the "bad" ending, as it implies that the player has chosen to abandon their role as the chosen one and instead seek power for themselves.
Pros:
- The Usurpation of Fire ending offers a unique and thought-provoking storyline that challenges the player’s moral compass.
- It provides a sense of closure and finality, as the player’s actions have a direct impact on the world of Dark Souls.
Cons:
- The ending can be seen as a cop-out, as the player is essentially abandoning their role as the chosen one.
- The ending may not provide the sense of satisfaction that players are looking for, as it implies that the player’s actions have no lasting impact on the world.
The Linking of the Fire Ending
The Linking of the Fire ending is often seen as the "good" ending, as it sees the player character successfully link the fire and bring about a new era of peace and prosperity to the world of Dark Souls. This ending is often considered the most "traditional" ending, as it follows the expected narrative arc of the game.
Pros:
- The Linking of the Fire ending provides a sense of closure and finality, as the player’s actions have a direct impact on the world of Dark Souls.
- It offers a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment, as the player has successfully completed their role as the chosen one.
Cons:
- The ending may be seen as too conventional and predictable, as it follows the expected narrative arc of the game.
- The ending may not provide the same level of moral complexity as the Usurpation of Fire ending.
The Age of Dark Ending
The Age of Dark ending is often seen as the "default" ending, as it is the ending that players will typically experience if they do not make any specific choices throughout the game. This ending sees the world of Dark Souls descend into darkness and chaos, as the fire is extinguished and the Age of Dark begins.
Pros:
- The Age of Dark ending provides a sense of closure and finality, as the player’s actions have a direct impact on the world of Dark Souls.
- It offers a sense of realism, as the world of Dark Souls is often depicted as a dark and unforgiving place.
Cons:
- The ending may be seen as too bleak and depressing, as the world of Dark Souls is plunged into darkness and chaos.
- The ending may not provide the same level of moral complexity as the Usurpation of Fire ending.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the "better" ending in Dark Souls is a matter of personal preference. The Usurpation of Fire ending offers a unique and thought-provoking storyline, while the Linking of the Fire ending provides a sense of closure and finality. The Age of Dark ending offers a sense of realism and closure, but may be seen as too bleak and depressing. No matter which ending the player chooses, it is clear that the Dark Souls series is a masterclass in storytelling and world-building.
Table: Dark Souls Endings
| Ending | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Usurpation of Fire | The player replaces the Soul of Cinder and seeks power for themselves. | Unique storyline, sense of closure | Abandoning role as chosen one, lack of lasting impact |
| Linking of the Fire | The player successfully links the fire and brings about a new era of peace and prosperity. | Sense of closure, sense of satisfaction | Conventional and predictable, lack of moral complexity |
| Age of Dark | The world of Dark Souls descends into darkness and chaos. | Sense of closure, sense of realism | Bleak and depressing, lack of moral complexity |
Bullets:
- The Dark Souls series is renowned for its complex and thought-provoking storytelling.
- The endings of Dark Souls offer a range of choices and moral complexities.
- The Usurpation of Fire ending is often seen as the "hardest" ending to achieve.
- The Linking of the Fire ending is often seen as the "good" ending.
- The Age of Dark ending is often seen as the "default" ending.