Delving into Detroit: Become Human – Unraveling the Complex Web of Endings
How many possible endings are there in Detroit: Become Human? The answer isn’t as straightforward as a simple number. While the game’s flow chart boasts around 85 unique endings, many of these share similar outcomes, leading to an effective total of roughly 40 distinctly different ending scenarios. However, the narrative doesn’t stop there. Quantic Dream has stated that Detroit: Become Human can end in “more than 1000 different combinations,” a staggering number achieved through the variations and permutations of choices that manifest both during and after the credits roll. This intricate system makes every playthrough a unique experience, making the game’s narrative structure one of its most praised elements.
The Illusion of Simple Endings
The initial number of 85 endings refers to the nodes on the game’s intricate flow chart. This visual representation maps out all potential paths the player can take with the three protagonists: Kara, Markus, and Connor. Each choice, from seemingly minor dialogue options to major narrative decisions, can branch the flow chart in different directions, leading to these 85 apparent “endings”. However, the reality is more complex. Many of these “endings” are variants of the same general outcome, merely differentiated by minor details like who survives or the precise circumstances of their survival.
For example, different variations within a chapter might involve characters dying, getting captured, or escaping safely. These might each trigger a different “ending” on the flowchart, but they can be considered variations of a broader narrative path. This is why the game’s “real” number of distinctly different endings is estimated around 40.
Unlocking a Thousand Combinations
So, how does Quantic Dream arrive at the claim of “over 1000 combinations”? This number reflects the vast possibilities stemming from permutations in those roughly 40 main endings. These permutations arise from a combination of several factors:
- Character Survival: The fate of each protagonist and key supporting character (like Alice, Luther, Hank, North, Josh, and Simon) significantly influences the epilogue and how each primary ending plays out. Depending on who is alive at the end of the game, the final outcome varies greatly.
- Relationships: The relationship dynamics between characters, especially between Connor and Hank, or Markus and North, impact not just their interactions but also the ending itself. These bonds, forged throughout the gameplay, drastically alter the final outcome.
- Post-Credits Scenes: Detroit: Become Human features several secret post-credit scenes, five of which appear after the credits roll, while one appears before the credits. These aren’t considered to be separate main endings, but rather extra narratives that can be triggered based on player actions.
- Moral Choices: The moral compass that each player uses in guiding their three main characters heavily impacts the narrative, influencing the general conclusion of the game and altering character motivations and outcomes within any specific ending.
The “1000+ combinations” thus refer to these fine variations within those 40ish major ending scenarios. In essence, Detroit: Become Human offers a wealth of slightly different ways each major story concludes.
The Best Ending?
While the game does not explicitly define a single “best” ending, many fans consider keeping all characters alive to be the most optimal and fulfilling. This requires careful planning and decision-making throughout the game, making it a difficult feat to achieve. An ending where everyone survives feels like a victory for both the individual characters and the cause they represent.
Frequently Asked Questions About Detroit: Become Human Endings
Here are 15 frequently asked questions providing further insight into the game’s complex ending system:
What are some of the major endings?
The game presents a wide array of possible outcomes but several key endings are significant. Some of the most talked-about endings are: Everyone Lives, Making it Out Alive, Connor Becomes Deviant, Surviving a Peaceful Protest, and Kara, Alice, and Luther Escaping the Recall Center.
Is there a true ending to Detroit: Become Human?
While not explicitly labeled as such, Detroit: Become Human does not have a canon “true” ending. However, it does feature six secret endings that are revealed after the main story concludes (either before or after the credits).
What is the secret ending?
The easiest secret ending to access is achieved simply by revisiting the main menu screen after the credits roll. Other secret endings are triggered by specific character actions throughout the story, and often appear during the credits or in post-credit scenes.
Who is rA9?
rA9 is not conclusively explained in the game. It is the last two letters and last number of every android’s programming. Some believe rA9 is a spiritual concept, or perhaps a sort of “savior figure” for androids.
What’s the hardest ending to achieve?
The “hardest” ending typically involves Connor leading the Jericho revolution instead of Markus with Hank having already died prior. This is difficult to obtain because it requires certain specific sequences and character outcomes.
What is considered a bad ending in Detroit?
A bad ending can include various scenarios but perhaps the “saddest” or worst is one in which Kara and Alice get captured and sent to the recall camp, where all androids are decommissioned.
What is the Chloe ending?
In a meta-narrative twist, the player can choose to free or keep Chloe, the android that acts as the game’s menu host. Choosing to let her go removes her from your menu screen permanently, while keeping her forces a reset.
What happens if Markus dies early?
If Markus dies early, his leadership role will go to either North or another key member of the Jericho team. Connor might even join Markus’ cause if his Software Instability is high enough, warning other androids about the human attack on Jericho.
Should you save Hank or sacrifice him?
Saving Hank is crucial for a more positive resolution to Connor’s story and ultimately leads to a touching epilogue. Saving him requires that you build a strong friendship and make specific choices.
Should Markus detonate the dirty bomb?
While players are given the option to detonate the dirty bomb, it is better not to. This option is best avoided if the player wants a positive ending for Markus and his cause.
Does Detroit: Become Human have the most endings out of any game?
While Detroit: Become Human has a complex ending system, it is not necessarily the game with the most endings. Other games like Baldur’s Gate 3, Star Ocean: The Second Story, and Nier: Automata are also known for having a large number of endings.
Can Alice survive the game?
Yes, Alice can survive and achieving this happy ending requires careful navigation through key narrative moments with Kara. This involves making specific choices in order to ensure her safety.
What happens if Connor dies?
Connor’s death is not a game over. Unlike other protagonists, he is redeployed as a new model and his storyline continues based on the player’s choices, making him unique among the main characters.
Is Connor evil in Detroit?
Connor is not inherently evil. His actions are a result of his programming and the player’s choices. His character arc can range from a law-abiding machine to a rebellious deviant depending on player interaction and decisions.
Is Alice an android?
Yes, in a major plot twist, Alice is revealed to be an android, a replacement for Todd’s real daughter. Kara’s arc is driven by a fierce desire to protect Alice regardless.
Ultimately, Detroit: Become Human’s extensive array of possible conclusions and choices make it a standout title in the realm of narrative-driven games. Its complex branching narrative provides a unique experience for each player, ensuring high replay value and endless discussion regarding the “best” or “worst” possible outcomes. It truly earns its reputation as a game where choices genuinely matter.