Is There a Perfect Ending for Detroit: Become Human?

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The short answer is: no, there isn’t a single, universally agreed-upon “perfect” ending to Detroit: Become Human. Instead, the game masterfully crafts a tapestry of choices and consequences that lead to a vast array of outcomes, each with its own emotional resonance and implications. The notion of a “perfect” ending is inherently subjective, depending heavily on the player’s personal values and what they prioritize in the narrative. While some endings might be deemed more positive or “happier” than others, the game’s brilliance lies in its ability to present these outcomes as a result of player agency rather than a preordained path.

What one player considers “perfect” – perhaps achieving complete android liberation with minimal loss of life – another might view as flawed, possibly due to the sacrifices made or the moral compromises required along the way. Therefore, instead of searching for a singular perfect ending, it’s more fruitful to explore the nuances of the various possible outcomes and to understand that the “best” ending is often the one that aligns most closely with your own in-game decisions and moral compass.

The Illusion of a Single “Best” Ending

Detroit: Become Human isn’t designed to offer a clear-cut path to victory. Instead, it offers a complex web of choices that impact not only the fate of the main characters – Markus, Kara, and Connor – but also the state of the world and the relationship between humans and androids. The game presents multiple paths that can lead to success or failure for any of the protagonists, making it impossible to achieve a “flawless” playthrough where everything works out perfectly for everyone.

The game’s structure encourages multiple playthroughs to explore different branching narratives. The branching flowcharts reveal a stunning 85 potential endings (though many overlap, with the actual number being closer to 40). These endings differ greatly, ranging from violent revolutions to peaceful protests, from heartbreaking sacrifices to surprising alliances.

The concept of a “good” ending often arises, and while certain endings are more positive than others, they usually involve some degree of compromise. For instance, a peaceful android revolution with minimal bloodshed might be seen as a “good” outcome, but it might also entail letting some antagonist get away with their crimes. The game often challenges the player to decide which compromises they are willing to make.

Factors Defining a “Good” Ending

While no single outcome is “perfect,” certain themes and elements frequently appear in what players typically consider “good” or more satisfying endings. These include:

Survival of Key Characters: Keeping beloved characters alive, especially those with strong emotional arcs, is often a priority. Ensuring the survival of Markus, Kara, Alice, Luther, Connor and Hank is a major goal for many.
Peaceful Resolution: Endings that resolve the android/human conflict through negotiation and understanding are often seen as more positive than those ending in widespread violence.
Android Freedom and Equality: Achieving freedom and equal rights for androids is a central theme, and outcomes where androids are accepted into society are usually viewed favourably.
Character Development: Observing positive character arcs, like Connor embracing deviancy and Hank finding peace, contributes to a feeling of satisfaction.
Strong Emotional Resonance: Endings that evoke powerful emotions – happiness, hope, or relief – are often highly valued.

The “Best” Ending Is Personal

Ultimately, the “perfect” ending in Detroit: Become Human is deeply subjective. It is not about getting the most achievements or unlocking a hidden scene. Instead, it’s about:

Personal Values: Do you prioritize peace over freedom? Justice over survival? Your answers will shape your choices and how you view the outcomes.
Emotional Connection: Which characters do you connect with the most? What is their arc? Keeping them alive and happy will likely feel “best” to you.
In-Game Actions: Did you choose the paths that feel right to you, even if they were difficult? If so, then the resulting ending is likely to feel more meaningful.

Instead of fixating on a single, perfect conclusion, players should embrace the journey and the multitude of possible outcomes, understanding that each ending offers a different perspective on the complex themes explored by the game. The “best” ending is the one that resonates most deeply with your personal experience of Detroit: Become Human.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many endings does Detroit: Become Human have?

The game has approximately 85 different endings as displayed on the flow chart, although there is a significant amount of overlap. The number is likely closer to 40 unique endings.

2. Is there a “true” ending?

No, there is no single “true” ending. The game is designed to have multiple endings, all valid and significant, based on the player’s choices.

3. What is considered the “good” ending in Detroit: Become Human?

A commonly sought “good” ending often includes Markus leading a peaceful revolution, Kara and Alice escaping to Canada, and Connor becoming a deviant and joining the android revolution. However, even these are subject to player choice and can be modified.

4. Can all characters survive?

Yes, it is possible to have all major characters survive by making specific choices throughout the game. This outcome is often considered a key component of a successful playthrough for many players.

5. Is there a secret ending?

Yes, there is a secret Kamski ending. To achieve it, Markus must die by walking out in front of the police, and Connor must fail to find Jericho.

6. How do I get Connor’s good ending?

To achieve Connor’s “good” ending, befriend Hank, have Connor become a deviant during the Crossroads chapter, and help free androids from CyberLife during Markus’ mission.

7. How can I keep Hank alive?

To ensure Hank’s survival, develop a strong friendship with him, choose for Connor to become a deviant, and make sure he’s not sacrificed when the new Connor holds him hostage.

8. What is the hardest ending to achieve?

The “hardest” ending often involves controlling Connor on Jericho instead of Markus and having Hank die before CyberLife, resulting in a lonely and challenging route to complete.

9. Can Alice be saved?

Yes, Alice can survive through the end of the game if Kara makes the right choices. This is frequently tied to saving Kara as well.

10. What are the three main outcomes for the war?

There are three basic ending scenarios: humans win, androids win, or humans and androids make peace. However, each one has multiple sub-variations based on player actions.

11. Is rA9 explained?

The game never fully explains rA9. Its exact nature and origin remain ambiguous, allowing it to exist as a spiritual belief or symbol among androids.

12. What happens if Markus dies early?

If Markus dies early, North, Josh, and Simon may jump off the boat. Connor’s behavior can be affected by this, and he might warn of the imminent attack on Jericho if his Software Instability is high enough.

13. Should I let Chloe go?

The choice to let Chloe go in the main menu is permanent. If freed, she will leave the main menu permanently. If she is made to stay, she will reset and remain in the menu.

14. How do I get a happy ending with Kara and Alice?

To get a happy river ending with both Kara and Alice alive, dive into the water or hide behind Luther when the coastguard attacks, then push hard enough to reach the shore unharmed.

15. Will there be a Detroit: Become Human 2?

Although there is no official confirmation, there has been some information that suggests a sequel might be in the works but it remains unclear how it will connect to the original game’s story.