Why Some Games Have Multiple Canon Endings
Why Some Games Have Multiple Canon Endings
In the realm of interactive storytelling, video games stand apart by offering players the ability to shape narratives through their choices. Unlike books or films, which follow a single, predetermined path, many games embrace branching storylines that lead to multiple endings. While some titles settle on one “true” conclusion, others boldly declare that several—or even all—endings are equally valid within the game’s lore. This phenomenon raises an intriguing question: Why do some games embrace multiple canon endings?
Player Agency and Narrative Weight
One of the primary reasons for multiple canon endings is to reinforce the significance of player choice. Games like The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt and Mass Effect thrive on the idea that decisions carry real consequences. When developers validate multiple endings as canon, they acknowledge that no single path is inherently “correct.” This approach makes players feel that their unique journey through the story is legitimate, enhancing immersion and replayability.
Expanding the Lore
Some franchises use multiple endings to explore different facets of their universe. Elder Scrolls games, for instance, often leave major events open to interpretation, allowing future installments to reference conflicting outcomes without outright dismissing any. Similarly, Dark Souls and Bloodborne weave ambiguity into their lore, where multiple endings coexist as different perspectives on the same mythic cycle. By treating each ending as a fragment of a larger truth, these games deepen their worlds and encourage fan theories.
Artistic Expression and Thematic Depth
Certain narratives benefit from unresolved conclusions. Games like NieR: Automata and Undertale use multiple endings to explore themes of repetition, morality, and existentialism. In these cases, no single ending provides a complete picture—instead, the “truth” emerges from experiencing all possible outcomes. This layered storytelling challenges players to reflect on the broader meaning behind their choices rather than seeking a definitive resolution.
Commercial and Creative Flexibility
From a practical standpoint, keeping multiple endings canon allows developers to avoid alienating segments of their fanbase. Declaring one ending as “official” might invalidate the emotional investment of players who preferred another. Additionally, leaving endings open-ended provides creative freedom for sequels or DLC, as seen in Dragon Age and Fallout, where divergent outcomes are often acknowledged in later titles.
Conclusion
Multiple canon endings are more than a narrative gimmick—they reflect the unique strengths of gaming as a storytelling medium. By embracing ambiguity, honoring player agency, and enriching their worlds, these games create experiences that linger in the mind long after the credits roll. Whether through philosophical depth or sheer replay value, they prove that sometimes, the journey matters far more than the destination.
