Mastering Dead Rising 3: A Guide to Unlocking Every Ending
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
So you want to see all the endings Dead Rising 3 has to offer? You’ve come to the right place! Unlike some games where the ending hinges on a single binary choice, Dead Rising 3 offers a spectrum of conclusions based on your performance, side quests completed, and overall dedication to surviving the Los Perdidos zombie outbreak. In short:
To truly “get” an ending in Dead Rising 3, you need to focus on completing the main story missions, especially side missions that help specific survivors, and meet time-sensitive objectives. Your efficiency and dedication to fulfilling these tasks will determine which of the five core endings, S, C, D, F, or the alternate ending, you achieve. Ending S is considered the canon ending, and achieving it requires the most thorough and skillful gameplay.
Now, let’s break down what influences the ending you’ll see:
-
Time Management: This is crucial. Dead Rising is all about time pressure, and DR3 is no different. Failing to meet key deadlines or running out of time completely will result in a bad ending.
-
Main Case Files: Obviously, progressing through the main story is essential. Each case file has its own timeline and objectives. Prioritize completing these.
-
Survivor Rescue Missions: Saving survivors isn’t just about being a good guy; it directly impacts your ending. Certain survivors offer crucial assistance or information that’s vital for achieving the better endings.
-
Psychopath Battles: Defeating the psychopaths in the game is important for progressing the story and unlocking additional content.
-
The Truth: Uncovering the full story behind the outbreak is intrinsically linked to unlocking the best ending.
Endings Breakdown
Let’s briefly break down the endings:
- Ending S (Canon Ending): This is the holy grail. To achieve this, you need to complete all main case files, save key survivors, uncover the truth behind the outbreak, and generally be a completionist hero.
- Ending C: You’ll get this if you complete most of the main story missions and the final boss, but skip some side objectives.
- Ending D: This ending shows up if you miss some key story beats or fail to save certain survivors.
- Ending F: This is one of the “bad” endings and requires failing a few missions or making a few wrong choices in key moments of the main story.
- Alternate Ending (Chapter 8): This ending is more of a variation.
Achieving the canon ending is the aim! Now let’s answer some questions to flesh this out.
Dead Rising 3: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I ensure I get Ending S in Dead Rising 3?
To secure Ending S, focus on completing all the main case files within the time limit, rescuing all survivors, defeating all psychopaths, and uncovering the truth behind the outbreak by finding all relevant collectibles and information. Specifically, pay attention to anything related to Nick’s past and Carlito Keyes’s experiments. Don’t procrastinate on story objectives; efficient time management is key.
2. What happens if I miss the helicopter in Dead Rising 3?
If you miss the helicopter during the final escape sequence, you’ll likely get one of the “bad” endings (likely Ending F). This signifies your failure to complete the main objectives within the allotted time. You’ll then be given the option to reload your last save or start a new game.
3. How many endings does Dead Rising 3 have?
Dead Rising 3 has five main endings: S, C, D, F, and an alternate ending specifically tied to Chapter 8. The “best” ending, and the canon ending, is Ending S.
4. Is Nick immune in Dead Rising 3, and how does that affect the story?
Yes, Nick Ramos is immune to the zombie virus. This immunity is due to experiments that Carlito Keyes performed on him as a child. This reveal is crucial to the story and directly impacts the ending. The knowledge of his immunity could be used to create a cure.
5. What are Tragic Endings in Dead Rising 3, and do they influence the main ending?
Tragic Endings are collectible items scattered throughout Los Perdidos. Each one represents a unique story of how someone died during the outbreak. While collecting all Tragic Endings doesn’t directly influence which ending you get, it does contribute to your overall completion percentage and provides valuable backstory and world-building, making the experience richer.
6. What year does Dead Rising 3 take place?
Dead Rising 3 takes place in 2021, ten years after the events of Dead Rising 2 and 15 years after the original Dead Rising.
7. Who is the final boss in Dead Rising 3, and how do I defeat them?
The final boss is General John Hemlock. He is fought at the end of the main story. Employing the right combo weapons, and dodging his attacks is crucial for victory.
8. Can you save all the survivors in Dead Rising 3, and is it necessary for the best ending?
Yes, it’s possible to save all the survivors, and rescuing key survivors is essential for achieving Ending S. Some survivors provide crucial information or support that directly impacts the story’s outcome. Prioritize their rescue missions whenever they appear.
9. What happens if I fail a case in Dead Rising 3?
Failing a case can lock you out of certain endings, generally leading you down the path to Ending D or F. It’s crucial to reload your save and retry the case if you fail to meet its objectives.
10. How important are combo weapons in Dead Rising 3 for getting a good ending?
Combo weapons are incredibly important. They significantly increase your effectiveness against hordes of zombies and psychopaths. They also unlock PP opportunities for leveling up and earning useful skill upgrades.
11. What is the max level in Dead Rising 3, and how does leveling up help me get a better ending?
The max level in Dead Rising 3 is Level 50. Leveling up grants you Attribute Points, which you can use to increase your health, stamina, inventory size, and other vital stats. These enhancements make you more effective at completing missions and saving survivors, ultimately contributing to a better ending.
12. Does difficulty level affect the ending I get in Dead Rising 3?
The difficulty level does not directly affect which ending you receive. Endings are determined by your actions and whether or not you complete the core objectives of the story. However, playing on a higher difficulty can make achieving those objectives more challenging, indirectly impacting your chances of getting Ending S.
13. Where does Dead Rising 3 take place?
Dead Rising 3 takes place in the fictional city of Los Perdidos, California.
14. How do I find all the survivor rescue missions in Dead Rising 3?
Survivor rescue missions appear throughout the game as you progress through the main story. Pay attention to your map, as survivor icons will pop up when they need assistance. Also, explore thoroughly, as some survivors are hidden in less obvious locations.
15. Are there any online resources or communities that can help me achieve Ending S in Dead Rising 3?
Absolutely! There are numerous online resources available, including wikis, forums, and video guides. Don’t be afraid to consult these resources for tips, strategies, and walkthroughs. Furthermore, the Games Learning Society is another resource that provides insights into the educational and engaging aspects of games, including Dead Rising 3. Check them out at: https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, getting the “best” ending in Dead Rising 3 is a matter of dedication, skillful gameplay, and efficient time management. Complete the main story objectives, save as many survivors as possible, and pay attention to the details. By doing so, you’ll not only unlock the canon ending but also experience the full depth and richness of the Dead Rising 3 universe. Good luck, survivor!