Is There a Third Ending in ‘A Way Out’? Exploring the Game’s Multiple Outcomes

The burning question on many players’ minds after completing the cooperative masterpiece ‘A Way Out’ is whether there’s a hidden third ending. The game, known for its emotional narrative and compelling choices, culminates in a dramatic showdown between its two protagonists, Vincent and Leo. But does this showdown offer a secret resolution where both survive? Let’s dive into the specifics.

The Definitive Answer: No Third Ending

The short answer is no, there is no third ending in ‘A Way Out’ where both Vincent and Leo survive. The game’s narrative is intentionally designed to force players into a difficult choice, leading to one of two distinct outcomes. This is a deliberate decision by the game’s director, Josef Fares, who has confirmed that the narrative is built around the theme of sacrifice and consequence. The core mechanic of co-op play is directly tied to this inevitable choice, making it all the more poignant.

Understanding the Two Endings

‘A Way Out’ features two possible endings, each determined by which character reaches the final gun first.

• Vincent’s Survival: If Vincent gets to the gun, he shoots and kills Leo. This ending shows Vincent having to carry the burden of his actions, delivering the tragic news to Leo’s loved ones and attempting to reconcile with his own family, burdened by his past and decisions.
• Leo’s Survival: Conversely, if Leo reaches the gun first, he shoots and kills Vincent. In this ending, Leo is left to deal with his pain and loss, leaving a farewell note for Vincent’s wife, Carol, highlighting the impact of their friendship and betrayal.

The core of the game’s narrative is this difficult choice. The game’s ending is less about a clear victory and more about the complex interplay of loyalty, betrayal, and the heavy price of both. It’s a narrative that deliberately avoids a simplistic happy resolution, instead opting for a more realistic and emotional climax. The game’s core question of “Exactly what the game tells me to do” or “Whatever the hell I want” is exemplified in this final encounter, where the player’s choices come to a head.

Why No Third Ending?

The absence of a third ending is by design. Director Josef Fares aimed to create a narrative with real emotional weight and impact. Providing a scenario where both characters survive would dilute the dramatic tension and the significant consequences inherent in their story. The ending is meant to make players grapple with the harsh realities of their characters’ choices, showcasing the price of violence and deception.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

To further clarify the game’s ending and related details, here are 15 frequently asked questions about ‘A Way Out’:

1. How Many Endings Does ‘A Way Out’ Actually Have?

‘A Way Out’ has two distinct endings, determined by which character takes the final shot on the rooftop: either Vincent kills Leo, or Leo kills Vincent.

2. Can Both Vincent and Leo Survive in ‘A Way Out’?

No, there is no way for both Vincent and Leo to survive. The narrative is built around the premise that one of them will inevitably die in the final confrontation.

3. What Happens If Leo Dies in ‘A Way Out’?

If Leo dies, Vincent will inform Leo’s wife, Linda, of his passing. Vincent will then attempt to return to his family, and Leo’s funeral, attended only by Linda and Alex, is shown.

4. What Happens If Vincent Dies in ‘A Way Out’?

If Vincent dies, Leo will leave a note at Vincent’s home for his wife, Carol. This ending shows the lasting impact of Vincent’s sacrifice on his family.

5. Who Shoots Leo at the End of the Game?

In the narrative, if Leo dies, he is shot by Vincent during their confrontation. However, in a twist later revealed in a separate story, it’s Brad, the son of a man Leo had put in jail that is ultimately revealed as the one who killed Leo.

6. Can You Save Both Vincent and Leo in the Final Encounter?

No, you cannot save both Vincent and Leo in the final confrontation. One of them must die.

7. Who Killed Leo Pap in Kaleidoscope?

In the “Pink” episode of the Netflix show ‘Kaleidoscope,’ which is a separate story, Leo Pap is killed by Brad Salas, Roger’s son. This reveals a hidden background connection to Leo’s past that is separate from the primary narrative of ‘A Way Out’ but can be confusing to viewers.

8. Was Vincent a Cop in ‘A Way Out’?

Yes, it is revealed that Vincent is an undercover cop. This twist significantly alters the player’s perception of Vincent and his motives.

9. When Is ‘A Way Out’ Set?

‘A Way Out’ is set in the year 1972.

10. How Long Is ‘A Way Out’ to Complete?

The average playtime for ‘A Way Out’ is between 6 to 8 hours.

11. Is There Going to Be A ‘Way Out 2’?

While there won’t be a direct sequel called ‘A Way Out 2,’, the developers are working on another story-driven game that will bear similarities to ‘Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons’ and ‘A Way Out.’

12. Why is Leo in Jail in ‘A Way Out’?

Leo is in jail for grand theft, assault, and armed robbery. He was incarcerated six months prior to Vincent’s arrival in prison.

13. Why Does Leo Hate Harvey?

Leo hates Harvey because Harvey betrayed him by stealing their share of a valuable diamond after a heist.

14. Is Brad the One Who Kills Leo at the End of the Game?

No. In the narrative of ‘A Way Out’, if Leo dies, he is shot by Vincent. Brad Salas, the son of Roger is the one who killed Leo in the Netflix show ‘Kaleidoscope’ and not ‘A Way Out’. The games and the show are related but different stories, so there is some confusion regarding the two and their characters.

15. What is the Canon Ending to ‘A Way Out’?

There isn’t a single “canon” ending in the sense that both endings are valid outcomes of the game’s narrative. However, some players interpret Vincent’s ending, where he survives and then revisits his family after Leo’s death, as the more frequently chosen ending and therefore the closest to a “canon” ending.

Conclusion

While the hope for a third ending where both Vincent and Leo survive is understandable, ‘A Way Out’ is designed to deliver a specific narrative experience. The two distinct endings, each with significant emotional weight, solidify the game’s core message about the consequences of choices and the bonds of loyalty and betrayal. The absence of a happy ending for both protagonists is part of what makes the game so compelling and memorable.