The Most Controversial Video Game Endings

Video games have the power to immerse players in rich, interactive narratives, but not all conclusions leave audiences satisfied. Some endings spark heated debates, divide fanbases, or leave players scratching their heads in frustration. Here, we explore some of the most controversial video game endings that still provoke discussion years—sometimes decades—after their release.

Mass Effect 3 (2012) – The Infamous “RGB” Ending

BioWare’s Mass Effect trilogy was celebrated for its deep storytelling and player-driven choices, but the finale of Mass Effect 3 became one of gaming’s most infamous letdowns. After years of building relationships and making galaxy-altering decisions, players were presented with three nearly identical endings, differentiated only by color (red, green, or blue). The lack of meaningful consequences based on past choices led to widespread backlash, prompting BioWare to release an extended cut DLC to clarify the conclusion—though the controversy never fully faded.

The Last of Us Part II (2020) – A Bitter Pill to Swallow

Naughty Dog’s The Last of Us Part II polarized players with its relentless brutality and morally ambiguous storytelling. The game’s ending, where Ellie spares Abby after a grueling journey of revenge, left many feeling emotionally drained and unsatisfied. Some praised the narrative’s boldness, while others criticized it for undermining the original game’s emotional core. The divisive finale ensured that debates over its meaning and execution continued long after the credits rolled.

Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain (2015) – An Unfinished Symphony

Hideo Kojima’s Metal Gear Solid V was a masterpiece of gameplay but ended abruptly with a cutscene revealing that players had been controlling a body double, not the real Big Boss. The revelation, combined with the game’s missing final chapter (dubbed “Episode 51”), left fans feeling cheated. While some appreciated the meta-commentary on identity and war, others saw it as an unsatisfying conclusion to a legendary series—especially given Kojima’s rumored departure from Konami during development.

BioShock Infinite (2013) – A Mind-Bending, Confusing Climax

BioShock Infinite wove a complex narrative involving alternate realities and time loops, culminating in a finale where Booker DeWitt is drowned to erase all versions of himself across dimensions. While some players praised its ambition, others found the ending convoluted and emotionally hollow compared to the original BioShock’s iconic twist. The debate over whether it was profound or pretentious remains unresolved.

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided (2016) – A Cliffhanger Without Resolution

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided set up an intriguing cyberpunk conspiracy, only to end abruptly on a cliffhanger with no resolution. Fans expecting a payoff to Adam Jensen’s story were left frustrated, especially since the planned sequel was never greenlit. The abrupt conclusion turned what could have been a compelling narrative into a source of disappointment.

Conclusion: Why Controversial Endings Matter

While divisive endings can frustrate players, they also demonstrate the power of video games as a storytelling medium. Whether due to rushed development, artistic risks, or unmet expectations, these controversial conclusions keep fans talking, theorizing, and debating—proving that even when a game stumbles at the finish line, its impact can endure.

What do you think? Did any of these endings resonate with you—or leave you furious? The discussion is far from over.