In the vast and elaborate universe of Elden Ring, players find themselves on a monumental journey filled with quests, battles, and an array of choices that ultimately lead to one of several unique endings. This tantalizing characteristic introduces an additional dimension to the gaming experience, allowing for multiple narratives and outcomes based on the decisions and relationships forged throughout the adventure. With the sheer size of the game, the prospect of experiencing all possible endings can seem daunting. However, understanding the paths that lead to each ending can make the journey both achievable and rewarding. Read on to delve into the diverse endings of Elden Ring, their requirements, and strategies to secure the one that connects with you on the deepest level.
Understanding the Endings
The vastness of Elden Ring comes with a culmination of six distinct endings. Each of these endings is linked to three primary narratives, with four of them branching from the wider 'Elden Lord ending' category. This classification means that no matter which of the specific variations you achieve, you’ll earn a trophy or achievement symbolizing your accomplishment. This richness in storytelling reflects the depth of choices available, compelling players to explore every inch and hidden spot of the Lands Between.
Embarking on Multiple Playthroughs
To experience every narrative arc, players may need to embark on at least six playthroughs, yet there are streamlined methods to enjoy the ride. Each ending is tied to your in-game actions; thus, it helps to remain aware of which sidequests you have completed and which non-playable characters (NPCs) you have allied with. Engaging with New Game Plus allows for a faster exploration of the game’s vast landscape without starting over from scratch every single time.
Defining the Pinnacle: The Age of the Stars
Among the cacophony of potential conclusions, the Age of the Stars stands out as the most favorable ending. It represents a narrative of hope and rejuvenation, where the Tarnished, rather than repairing the Elden Ring, summons Ranni the Witch to replace Marika as the guiding deity of the realm. In this scenario, the player becomes Ranni's consort, ushering in a new era devoid of chaos and the onerous influence of The Greater Will. Ultimately, the Lands Between are left to flourish unencumbered.
The Standard Outcome: Age of Fracture
Connecting to the core story, the Age of Fracture is the fundamental conclusion you will encounter. Achieving this result requires you to simply navigate the main storyline, defeat the required bosses, and reach the game’s finale. Following this straightforward approach will lead you to assume the role of the new Elden Lord, marking a significant accomplishment.
The Duskborn Fate
Transitioning to a more distinct ending, the Age of Duskborn emerges as a variant reliant upon the completion of Fia's quest. Known as the Deathbed Companion, Fia's storyline involves meticulous steps and a handful of additional formidable opponents. Successfully rewarding your efforts is the Mending Rune of the Death-Prince, which you use post-boss battle to conclude this tale.
The Path to Order: Age of Order
The Age of Order similarly demands a complex series of interactions, specifically involving Brother Corhyn and Goldmask’s questline. With a necessary intelligence level of 37 at a crucial point in the journey, succeeding in this quest grants you the Mending Rune of Perfect Order. This specific rune becomes your key to a resolved ending after your clash with the Elden Beast.
A Descent into Despair
In striking contrast to the uplifting narratives is the Blessing of Despair ending. Known for its grim nature, this pursueable fate stems from engaging in side quests associated with the infamous Dung Eater. Completing necessary tasks ultimately culminates in utilizing the Mending Rune of the Fell Curse, representing one of the bleakest conclusions to your adventure.
Embracing Chaos: Lord of Frenzied Flame
The Lord of Frenzied Flame ending offers a unique twist for players who seek to forsake the natural order. To achieve this, one must seek out the Three Fingers, surrendering their gameplay to embrace chaos. This decision transforms you, altering your character’s appearance and locking you into this outcome unless you take additional steps to reverse it post-battle.
The Allure of Ranni's Quest
Engaging with Ranni’s lengthy quest is pivotal to unveiling the conclusion of the Age of the Stars. Players must navigate through a labyrinthine series of challenges that include exploring monumental locations like Nokron, overcoming the challenges of the Lake of Rot, and competing against several of the top players in the game's most daunting bosses. Ranni’s questline is considered the most rewarding, granting access to the celestial powers that ensure a future filled with hope.
The Role of NPCs in Shaping Endings
Your relationships with NPCs significantly influence which ending you may unlock. Each character offers unique quests that hint toward various narrative threads. Your willingness to engage or ignore these characters can lead to drastically different conclusions in your quest.
Side Quests: The Road Less Traveled
Part of the charm of Elden Ring lies in its vast tapestry of side quests. These optional adventures can yield critical items or information that shape your ultimate fate. Understanding which quests align with your desired ending can guide your exploration and ensure you’re adequately prepared for the final confrontation.
New Game Plus: Replaying for Perfection
Embarking on New Game Plus presents a remarkable opportunity to explore alternative endings without the time-consuming repetition of starting anew. With previous playthrough knowledge, players can make more strategic choices, enhancing your efficiency and enjoyment as you navigate through variations of the game.
Choosing Your Path Wisely
The allure of Elden Ring is rooted in its ability to cater to different styles of gameplay. Whether you’re eager for the best endings or simply wish to see where your choices lead, the game is structured to ensure that every player can uncover a narrative path tailored to their preferences.
A Journey Worth Taking
Ultimately, the quest to uncover every ending in Elden Ring is not just about the destination; it’s about the journey. Each choice you make and each NPC path you follow contributes for a more engaging gaming journey. Whether you’re aiming for the jubilant Age of the Stars or the somber Blessing of Despair, every step offers unique insights into the narrative woven throughout. Embrace this journey, and revel in the multifaceted world of Elden Ring.