Should I Walk Away from Joseph in Far Cry 5? A Deep Dive into a Controversial Choice

The decision of whether to walk away from Joseph Seed in Far Cry 5 is arguably one of the most debated and thought-provoking choices in modern gaming. On the surface, it seems like the option for peace, a way to avoid bloodshed and potentially save lives. However, the implications of that decision are far-reaching and lead to a drastically different outcome than most players anticipate. The short answer: no, you shouldn’t walk away from Joseph Seed. While the immediate consequences are appealing, the long-term ramifications are arguably worse than resisting.

The “walk away” ending, triggered by refusing to arrest Seed at the beginning of the game, provides temporary relief. You and your fellow deputies escape Hope County, leaving Seed and his cult, Project at Eden’s Gate, to continue their reign of terror unchecked. The hope of calling the National Guard from Missoula is a fleeting one, overshadowed by the looming dread that you’ve merely postponed the inevitable.

Choosing to resist, despite the bleak immediate outcome of nuclear devastation, is considered the canon ending. It acknowledges the evil Seed represents and actively confronts it. It shows courage and a willingness to fight for what’s right, even in the face of overwhelming odds. Walking away, on the other hand, feels like a betrayal of the people of Hope County and a tacit acceptance of Seed’s twisted ideology.

Ultimately, the “walk away” option highlights the complexities of moral choices in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. It forces players to confront their own values and consider the potential consequences of their actions. While it might seem like the pragmatic choice in the moment, it ultimately shirks responsibility and allows evil to fester. Therefore, while tempting, walking away from Joseph Seed is a decision that comes at a heavy moral cost.

Understanding the Far Cry 5 Endings

The “walk away” ending, or the secret ending, is unlocked by doing nothing at the start of the game, and not arresting Joseph. If you choose to resist, you go on a journey that has the following endings:

• Resist Ending (Bad Ending): This is what happens when you choose to resist Joseph at the end of the game after liberating the other regions. The Father spills bliss, and it causes hallucinations.

• Walk Away Ending (Secret Ending): Joseph is left to his own devices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Joseph Seed and the Endings of Far Cry 5

Here are some frequently asked questions that delve further into the intricacies of Joseph Seed and the choices players face in Far Cry 5:

1. What exactly happens if I choose to walk away from Joseph Seed at the beginning?

The game essentially ends abruptly. Sheriff Whitehorse, initially resolute in arresting Seed, succumbs to the growing tension and potential for violence. He orders the deputies to stand down, and you all leave Hope County. The credits roll, suggesting a sense of unease and unresolved conflict. There’s no resolution for the people of Hope County; they remain under Seed’s control.

2. Is the “walk away” ending considered the “good” ending?

Absolutely not. The “walk away” ending is often considered the “bad” or “secret” ending by many players. While it avoids immediate bloodshed, it ultimately allows Joseph Seed to continue his reign of terror and doesn’t offer any hope for the residents of Hope County. The Games Learning Society would likely analyze this ending as a failure of intervention and moral responsibility.

3. What are the long-term consequences of the “walk away” ending?

The game doesn’t explicitly show the long-term consequences, but they can be inferred. Seed’s power would only grow, solidifying his control over Hope County. The cult would likely expand its influence, potentially spreading its ideology beyond the region. The people of Hope County would remain oppressed, their lives dictated by Seed’s twisted vision.

4. Why do some players find the “walk away” ending appealing?

The “walk away” ending appeals to some players because it presents a seemingly pragmatic solution to a dangerous situation. It avoids immediate violence and bloodshed, which can be a compelling argument in a game filled with constant conflict. It also challenges the player’s expectations, offering a different perspective on the typical hero narrative.

5. What is the significance of the nuclear fallout in the “resist” ending?

The nuclear fallout is a catastrophic event that symbolizes the ultimate failure to contain Seed’s influence. It suggests that the consequences of resisting him, while noble, are devastating. It adds a layer of complexity to the game’s moral message, highlighting the potential for unintended consequences even when acting with good intentions.

6. Is there any way to “win” in Far Cry 5 without causing widespread destruction?

Unfortunately, no. The game’s narrative is designed to present a no-win scenario. The “walk away” ending allows Seed to continue his reign, while the “resist” ending leads to nuclear devastation. This bleak outlook forces players to confront the complexities of moral choices in a world consumed by extremism.

7. Does Joseph Seed genuinely believe he’s doing good?

This is a central question about Joseph Seed’s character. While he’s undoubtedly a psychopath who commits horrific acts, he genuinely believes he’s acting according to God’s will. He sees himself as a shepherd protecting his flock from the impending apocalypse. This twisted sense of righteousness fuels his actions and makes him a compelling, albeit terrifying, antagonist.

8. How does Far Cry: New Dawn connect to Far Cry 5’s endings?

Far Cry: New Dawn is a direct sequel to Far Cry 5 and depicts the aftermath of the nuclear fallout. It shows the survivors of Hope County struggling to rebuild their lives in a post-apocalyptic world. Joseph Seed is still alive and plays a significant role in the story, further highlighting the consequences of the choices made in Far Cry 5.

9. What is the canon ending of Far Cry 5, and how does it affect the overall story?

The developers have confirmed that the “resist” ending is the canon ending. This means it’s the officially recognized outcome of the story and serves as the foundation for Far Cry: New Dawn.

10. Is it possible to redeem Joseph Seed in Far Cry: New Dawn?

While Joseph Seed undergoes significant character development in Far Cry: New Dawn, redemption is a complex and subjective concept. He claims to have found a new path and seeks to help the survivors of Hope County. However, his past actions cast a long shadow, and whether he can truly be redeemed is left for the player to decide.

11. What is the significance of Joseph Seed’s statue in Far Cry 5?

The giant statue of Joseph Seed overlooking Hope County symbolizes his absolute power and control over the region. Destroying the statue in the game is a symbolic act of defiance against his regime, although it doesn’t directly impact the story’s outcome.

12. How does the game explore themes of religious extremism and cult leadership?

Far Cry 5 delves into the dangers of religious extremism and the manipulative tactics of cult leaders. It portrays Joseph Seed as a charismatic figure who uses fear, manipulation, and violence to control his followers. The game explores how vulnerable individuals can be drawn into cults and the devastating consequences that can result.

13. What is “Bliss,” and how does it play a role in Joseph Seed’s control?

“Bliss” is a drug produced by the Project at Eden’s Gate, used to control and manipulate the residents of Hope County. It induces hallucinations and alters perceptions, making people more susceptible to Seed’s influence. Bliss is a powerful symbol of the cult’s power and its ability to control minds.

14. Are there any real-world parallels to Joseph Seed and the Project at Eden’s Gate?

Yes, many real-world parallels exist. The Project at Eden’s Gate draws inspiration from various cults and extremist groups throughout history. The game explores themes of religious fanaticism, isolationism, and the dangers of unchecked power, which resonate with real-world events and concerns. This is a subject of interest for researchers in areas such as rhetoric and leadership.

15. What makes Joseph Seed such a compelling and memorable villain?

Joseph Seed is a compelling villain because he’s not simply a one-dimensional antagonist. He’s a complex character with a twisted sense of morality, a charismatic personality, and a genuine belief in his mission. His motivations are rooted in fear and a desire to protect his followers, which makes him relatable on some level, despite his horrific actions. His presence lingers throughout the game and even into New Dawn, solidifying his place as one of Far Cry’s most memorable villains. Learn more about the power of games for leaning at GamesLearningSociety.org.