How Many Endings Are There in Wasteland 3? A Comprehensive Guide
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Wasteland 3, the post-apocalyptic RPG from inXile Entertainment, is renowned for its deep narrative and player agency. A core element of this experience is its branching storyline that culminates in a multitude of distinct endings. So, to answer the main question directly: there are six primary ending paths in Wasteland 3. However, the true depth of the game lies in the permutations of these endings, resulting in a plethora of subtle variations based on your decisions throughout the game. These alterations can drastically impact the fate of Colorado and the various factions within it. Each primary ending branches into several different sub-endings, which greatly increase the range of outcomes. The nuanced nature of choices in Wasteland 3 means there isn’t one “correct” or “true” ending, but rather a diverse tapestry of possible conclusions reflecting the complex moral dilemmas you encounter during your adventure.
Understanding Wasteland 3’s Ending Structure
The game’s ending variations hinge on your allegiance and actions, particularly in the final act. Here’s a breakdown of the six primary paths:
- Siding with the Patriarch: This path typically involves maintaining the status quo, often with a focus on law and order, albeit under the oppressive rule of the Patriarch. This has several sub-variations depending on your decisions like whether you expose the Patriarch’s corruption.
- Siding with Angela Deth: This choice leads to a rebellion against the Patriarch, seeking to overthrow his regime and establish a new order in Colorado.
- Siding with Liberty Buchanan: This is the rarest ending, in which you become allied with Liberty and create a new army with her.
- The Secret Liberty Ending: This ending is not related to the above Liberty ending, this is a secret ending which is achieved through completing various steps.
- The Bad Ending: Betraying everybody and starting a war with all factions.
- The “November Reigns” Ending: Involves the Rangers taking over and establishing their own government
The intricacies lie in the details. Your decisions about the major factions (the Patriarch, Marshals, the various gangs), and even seemingly small choices, influence the nuanced differences within these major endings. For example, the fate of Colorado Springs, the fate of specific characters, and the balance of power amongst the surviving factions all depend on your choices. Additionally, how you resolve key quests like the dealings with the Machine Commune or what to do with the various antagonists affects the epilogue.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To further clarify the depth of the ending system and other related aspects, here are 15 frequently asked questions about Wasteland 3:
1. Does Wasteland 3 Have Multiple Endings?
Yes, as mentioned, there are six primary ending paths, but the numerous variations based on player choices result in many unique outcomes. These include variations on the main ending paths based on specific decisions you made throughout the game. The details of these variations depend entirely on how you choose to act.
2. What is the “November Reigns” Ending?
The “November Reigns” ending refers to the path where the Desert Rangers take control of Colorado after betraying the Patriarch. Even this path has multiple permutations influenced by your decisions. Specific decisions, like your actions regarding Ironclad Cordite, can change its final state.
3. How Long Does It Take to Complete Wasteland 3?
The main storyline can be completed in approximately 37 hours. To explore all aspects of the game and achieve 100% completion, expect to spend around 72 ½ hours or more, depending on your playstyle. This completion time includes all side quests, exploration, and multiple playthroughs, to experience different ending permutations.
4. Does Wasteland 3 Offer Choices That Matter?
Absolutely. Choices in Wasteland 3 are crucial, with some being life-changing while others seem small initially but have significant impacts down the line. Your choices directly influence which ending you reach and the consequences of your decisions are felt throughout the game.
5. Can Marshal Kwon Leave My Team?
Yes. Marshal Kwon will leave the Rangers’ team if the Rangers side with Deth in the final mission against the Patriarch. This illustrates the impact of your decisions on your party members. It’s advisable to pick up Scotchmo, another recruitable NPC, early to avoid this scenario.
6. How Many Rangers Can I Have in My Party?
You can have up to four party members who are Rangers (not including the two main characters you selected or created at the start). This excludes special NPCs like companions.
7. What Should I Do with Percival Wesson?
You have several choices regarding Percival Wesson. You can exile him, let him go free since the Dorsey’s are gone, make him stand trial, or demand that he pays for his crimes. Each choice has different consequences and reflects your moral alignment.
8. Can I Play as an Evil Character in Wasteland 3?
Yes, Wasteland 3 allows you to be completely evil. You can break quest chains, betray factions, and even reach a point where you cannot complete the game due to your actions. The game encourages exploration of moral ambiguity and has the flexibility to accommodate your playstyle.
9. Should I Let the Synth Go?
Letting the synth go results in Wolfe getting mad and leaving, even if you lie about it escaping. Killing the synth provides you with XP, money, and new bounties. The choice highlights the immediate and long-term consequences of your decisions.
10. Is Wasteland 3 Shorter Than Wasteland 2?
Yes, Wasteland 3 is shorter, with a playtime of about 50 hours compared to Wasteland 2’s 100+ hours. However, Wasteland 3 has improved graphics, better polish, and smoother gameplay, focusing on quality over sheer length.
11. Should I Play Wasteland 2 Before Wasteland 3?
It’s recommended to play Wasteland 3 first. It has better QOL improvements, and a better overall experience, making it more accessible. You can then play Wasteland 2 if you enjoy Wasteland 3 and want to delve deeper into the series’ lore and history.
12. Does Wasteland 3 Have DLC?
Yes, Wasteland 3 has an Expansion Pass with two DLCs that expand the main game with new locations, characters, combat, and systems, further adding to the Ranger’s mission in Colorado.
13. Can You Side with Liberty in Wasteland 3?
Yes, there is a specific Liberty Ending. It can be achieved if you are not using a party that includes Ironclad Cordite, Lucia, or Vic, and can persuade her to let you join forces, and together you will fight against the Patriarch.
14. What Happens if You Side with Angela Deth?
Siding with Angela Deth means you will need to fight against the Patriarch’s forces in the final mission, and it will lead to a different ending. You have to side with her before leaving Yuma County.
15. How Do You Capture Liberty Buchanan?
You can capture Liberty Buchanan through several methods: you can use the Hard Ass (10) dialogue option, or the Nerd Stuff (10) dialogue option, and wear down her health until she yields, or you can fight her normally until she yields.
Conclusion
Wasteland 3’s strength lies in its complex narrative and the profound impact of player choices. While there are six primary endings, the permutations create a variety of outcomes that reward multiple playthroughs. Whether you’re aiming for the “November Reigns” ending, siding with Angela Deth, or exploring the path of chaos, Wasteland 3 delivers a unique and personalized experience with every choice you make. Therefore, understanding the range of endings in Wasteland 3 is crucial to fully appreciate the depth and complexity of this excellent post-apocalyptic RPG.