Is There a Bad Ending in Code Vein? A Comprehensive Guide
Yes, there is what many players consider a “bad ending” in Code Vein. This ending, often called the “Dweller in the Dark” ending, occurs when you fail to restore all of the successors before defeating the Queen’s successor within the Cathedral of the Sacred Blood. The exact consequences and the overall impact on the world are what differentiate it from the other, more positive outcomes.
Understanding Code Vein’s Ending System
Code Vein features a branching narrative with multiple endings, each determined by your actions throughout the game. The key to influencing which ending you receive lies in your interactions with the Successors, characters trapped in crystalline cocoons, and your ability to restore their memories. These memories are crucial to understanding their suffering and ultimately offering them salvation. Failing to do so will lead to the aforementioned less desirable conclusion.
The game tracks how many Successors you’ve saved. To get the best endings, you need to completely restore the memories of Io, Aurora, Nicola, Emily, and Silva. You do this by revisiting their locations after defeating them and interacting with the vestiges that appear.
The “Dweller in the Dark” Ending: Consequences and Details
The “Dweller in the Dark” ending is triggered when you defeat the Queen’s successor without having restored the memories of all the Successors. In this ending:
- The protagonist absorbs the Relics: Instead of being freed from their burden, the relics of the Queen are absorbed by the player character.
- The protagonist becomes the new Queen: The protagonist then begins to slowly transform into a new, uncontrollable Queen, destined to bring destruction and further suffering to the land of Vein.
- The world remains trapped: The cycle of Revenants feeding on blood beads and the dangers of the Lost continue unabated, offering no hope for salvation or change.
- A sense of failure: The overall feeling is one of despair and failure, knowing that you have perpetuated the cycle of suffering you were trying to break.
This outcome is widely considered the “bad ending” because it signifies the continuation of the oppressive system and the inevitable demise of the Revenants. It represents a failure to understand and alleviate the suffering of those who came before, ultimately leading to the protagonist becoming the very thing they fought against.
Why Avoid the “Dweller in the Dark” Ending?
The primary reason to avoid this ending is the lack of closure and the bleak outlook it presents. It undermines the efforts made throughout the game and leaves a lasting impression of hopelessness. Furthermore, it deprives you of experiencing the more rewarding and meaningful conclusions that Code Vein has to offer, each providing a sense of accomplishment and resolution to the central conflict. Opting for this ending closes the chapter on your journey with an unsatisfying tone.
Aiming for the Better Endings
To avoid the “Dweller in the Dark” ending and unlock the more positive conclusions, prioritize the following:
- Explore thoroughly: Search every area for vestiges related to the Successors.
- Restore all memories: Interact with the vestiges after defeating each Successor to restore their memories fully. Don’t skip them!
- Watch the cutscenes: Pay close attention to the cutscenes after restoring the memories, as they provide crucial insights into the story and motivations of the characters.
- Make informed decisions: Your choices throughout the game can influence the final outcome, so consider the consequences of your actions.
- Save often: Create multiple save files to allow yourself to revisit key moments and make different choices if needed.
By diligently restoring the memories of the Successors, you will pave the way for a more hopeful ending, showcasing the protagonist’s ability to break the cycle of suffering and offer a brighter future for the Revenants of Vein.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Code Vein Endings
1. How many endings are there in Code Vein?
Code Vein has three distinct endings. They are: Dweller in the Dark, Heirs, and To Eternity.
2. What determines which ending I get?
The ending you receive depends entirely on how many Successors you have restored before defeating the Queen’s successor in the Cathedral of the Sacred Blood.
3. What happens in the “Heirs” ending?
In the “Heirs” ending, you restore the memories of some, but not all, of the Successors. The player character, along with those whose memories were restored, choose to bear the relics and become the new pillars protecting Vein. It’s generally considered a bittersweet, middle-ground ending.
4. What is the “To Eternity” ending?
The “To Eternity” ending requires restoring the memories of all Successors. This leads to the destruction of the bloodsprings and a path towards a brighter future, where the Revenants can exist without the constant need for blood.
5. Can I go back and restore memories after defeating a Successor?
Yes, you absolutely can and should! After defeating a Successor, return to their location to find vestiges you can interact with to restore their memories.
6. Are there any missable vestiges that can prevent me from getting the best ending?
Yes, there are several missable vestiges. Thorough exploration and backtracking are crucial to ensure you find them all. Consult a guide if needed!
7. Does difficulty level affect which ending I get?
No, the difficulty level has no impact on the ending you receive. It’s solely determined by your interaction with the Successors.
8. Is there a new game plus in Code Vein?
Yes, Code Vein has a New Game Plus mode, which allows you to replay the game with your character’s level, equipment, and skills carried over. This can make it easier to collect any missed vestiges.
9. Can I unlock all endings in a single playthrough?
No, you can only achieve one ending per playthrough. You need to play the game multiple times using New Game Plus to experience all endings.
10. Is the “Dweller in the Dark” ending canon?
There is no definitive answer as to which ending is considered canon. The interpretation is left to the player’s discretion. However, given the narrative’s emphasis on hope and overcoming adversity, the “To Eternity” ending is often seen as the most narratively satisfying and arguably the “best” ending.
11. Does restoring a Successor’s memories make the final boss easier?
No, restoring memories does not directly affect the difficulty of the final boss. However, understanding the story and the motivations of the characters can provide a greater sense of purpose and determination during the fight.
12. Can I see the different endings on YouTube without replaying the game?
Yes, you can find videos of all the Code Vein endings on YouTube and other video-sharing platforms. However, experiencing the endings firsthand through gameplay provides a more immersive and rewarding experience.
13. Are there any other factors besides Successor memories that affect the endings?
While the restoration of Successor memories is the primary factor, some minor dialogue choices might influence the overall tone and nuance of the ending cutscenes. However, they do not change the core outcome.
14. What happens to the companions in each ending?
The fate of your companions varies depending on the ending you achieve. In the “Dweller in the Dark” ending, their futures are uncertain as the protagonist succumbs to becoming the new Queen. The “Heirs” and “To Eternity” endings offer more hopeful outcomes for the companions, with opportunities for them to rebuild and move forward.
15. Is Code Vein 2 in development?
As of late 2024, there has been no official announcement of Code Vein 2. However, given the game’s popularity and positive reception, a sequel remains a possibility in the future. Bandai Namco has not confirmed nor denied it, but the fanbase is active and hoping!