Unlocking the Truth: A Comprehensive Guide to the True Ending in Dead Rising 1
The quest for the true ending in the original Dead Rising is a challenging but rewarding endeavor, demanding precise timing and a solid understanding of the game’s mechanics. Unlike some games where the “best” ending is straightforward, Dead Rising hides its true conclusion behind a specific set of actions and timing windows. Here’s a breakdown of how to achieve the coveted Ending A, often considered the true finale, and what it entails.
To obtain the true ending, you must adhere to these critical steps:
- Advance the Story: Progress through the main case files until the military arrives at the Willamette Parkview Mall on the third day. This typically occurs around 10:00 AM on the third day of the outbreak (in-game time).
- The Isabella Encounter: Immediately after the military’s departure, seek out Isabella at Carlito’s Hideout in the North Plaza. It’s crucial to locate her after the military leaves. She will be located in the storeroom attached to the hideout.
- Isabella’s Directive: During your conversation, Isabella will instruct you to leave the mall and “save yourself”. This is a pivotal moment that triggers the ending requirements.
- The Race to the Heliport: Following Isabella’s advice, you must reach the heliport on the roof of the mall before noon (12:00 PM) on the third day. This is a time-sensitive challenge.
- Avoiding Knockouts: An added layer of difficulty for the “True Ending” achievement is avoiding being knocked unconscious during your playthrough. This means you cannot be captured by the Special Forces or the True Eye cultists during either 72 Hour Mode or Overtime Mode. This is not a requirement for ending A in the base game, only for the achievement tied to the ending.
Successfully executing these steps will unlock Ending A which is the cannon ending to the game, leading into Overtime Mode. It’s a delicate balancing act of completing necessary case files, avoiding capture, and precise timing. Failure to meet any of these criteria, particularly the time constraints, will result in a different ending. Getting to the heliport before noon is the most important aspect of achieving Ending A.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dead Rising 1 Endings
Here are some common questions about achieving the true ending and the ending system in Dead Rising 1:
What Happens if I Miss the Helicopter?
Missing the helicopter results in the “The Truth Has Vanished” ending. The game allows you to continue playing, but if you fail to return to the helipad on Day 3 before noon, you are considered to have “died” and will need to load your last save or start a new game.
What is the Main or Helicopter Ending?
The main or helicopter ending occurs when you choose to follow Donut Dave. This path leads you to the military safe zone. However, upon arrival, you find all the soldiers dead. This is not the True Ending, but rather an alternative that precedes the events leading to Ending A.
Which Dead Rising 1 Ending is Canon?
The original canon ending was Ending S, which saw Frank defeated in the mall. However, Ending A is now considered the canon ending as of Dead Rising 3‘s Overtime Mode. Ending S was previously the cannon ending until the release of Dead Rising 2: Case West. The ending A shows Frank escaping with Isabella by helicopter and leads into Overtime Mode.
Can I Save in Dead Rising 1?
Yes. Dead Rising 1 utilizes save points located throughout the mall. These are clearly marked on your map and usually found in bathrooms and on green couches. You also get a save point when a new case file begins. Frequent saving is vital for tackling the time-sensitive nature of achieving ending A.
How Long is 72 Hours in Dead Rising?
The game’s story takes place over 72 hours in-game time, which translates to roughly 6 hours of real-time gameplay during which time players must explore, complete cases, and rescue survivors. The 72 Hour mode is the default setting for Dead Rising.
Can I Get the True Ending Without Being Knocked Out?
Yes. To earn the “Level Max” achievement, you need to achieve the True Ending without being captured by the True Eye cultists or the Special Forces. This means you must avoid being knocked out throughout both 72 Hour Mode and Overtime Mode.
What Happens to the Survivors in Dead Rising 1?
The survivors are rescued by SpecOps (Special Operatives). They are later allowed to return to their normal lives after signing government contracts to remain silent about the events of Willamette.
How Many Survivors Can I Save?
Due to the Eight Survivor Rule, only 8 active survivors can be with you in the mall at one time. You’ll find these survivors through the numerous scoops throughout the mall.
What is the Max Level in Dead Rising 1?
The maximum level in the game is level 50. This can be achieved by playing multiple times, in any mode. Reaching max level is an achievement and will max out all of Frank’s stats.
How Many Queens Does Isabella Need?
Isabella requires a total of 10 queens to be brought to her in the storeroom attached to Carlito’s Hideout. You’ll find these in the Maintenance Tunnels. If you brought her some during your previous visit, then you should need to collect fewer during your second trip to the maintenance tunnels.
Can I Run Faster?
While you cannot sprint in Dead Rising 1, you can upgrade Frank’s speed by leveling up. Additionally, you can create the Quicksteps mixed juice using Wine and Coffee Creamer, which will make Frank run much faster while curing him.
Is it Possible to Save Brad in Dead Rising?
Yes. Saving Brad and Jessie means you cannot finish all the cases and are limited to getting Ending B. If you’re going for the True Ending (A), they’ll die during the course of the game.
Who is the Final Boss in Dead Rising 1?
The final boss is Brock Mason, though he never reveals his name until the opening sequence of Dead Rising: Road to Fortune when Frank is in the tank.
Why Does Frank Scream in Some Endings?
Frank’s screaming, particularly in Ending S, is commonly interpreted as Capcom’s way of portraying that Frank is nearing zombification, due to not achieving the True Ending and also due to time constraints. The game ends before Frank is able to turn.
Is Dead Rising 5 in Development?
Unfortunately, Dead Rising 5 was cancelled during development at Capcom Vancouver. Although it was not publicly known for years, gaming historian Liam Robertson confirmed its existence and cancellation.
Understanding these points will significantly improve your chances of unlocking the true ending in Dead Rising 1. The game’s tight time limits and unforgiving gameplay demand careful planning and skilled execution, making achieving Ending A a satisfying experience for dedicated players. Good luck, and may your photojournalism skills lead you to the truth!