Should Markus Spare the Cops? A Deep Dive into Detroit: Become Human’s Moral Dilemma
The question of whether or not Markus should spare the two police officers during the Capitol Park riots in Detroit: Become Human is a critical turning point in his journey and significantly impacts the overall narrative. The short answer, and the recommendation for the “best” outcome, is a resounding YES, Markus should absolutely spare the police officers. This decision, rooted in the long-term benefits for the deviant cause and the pursuit of a peaceful resolution, aligns with the game’s themes of empathy, strategy, and the value of life. While the immediate gratification of revenge might seem appealing, the strategic and moral high ground gained by sparing their lives outweighs any short-term satisfaction.
The Strategic Advantages of Mercy
Choosing to spare the police officers during the Capitol Park riots, even after the provocations and aggression they represent, offers a substantial advantage to Markus and the Jericho movement. Here’s why:
- Demonstrates Restraint: By choosing not to retaliate with violence, Markus showcases that the deviants are not driven by mindless rage but by a desire for justice and recognition. This paints them in a more sympathetic light to the public and potentially neutralizes the fear mongering of the humans.
- Undermines Human Propaganda: Human society, especially the authorities, often paints deviants as uncontrollable, violent machines. Sparing the cops directly refutes this narrative and shows they are capable of empathy and rational decision making.
- Builds Public Support: An act of mercy, especially towards authority figures, can sway public opinion in favor of the deviants. It highlights that they are not simply seeking destruction, but equality and peace. This crucial support is essential for the success of any movement.
- Preserves Moral High Ground: Violence begets violence. If Markus retaliates, it validates the narrative that the humans are trying to push against the deviants. Sparing the officers reinforces the moral standing of the revolution, showing they are different and therefore, worthy of acknowledgement.
- Long-term Vision: Even in the heat of revolution, long-term success depends on more than just brute force. Sparing the police demonstrates a maturity and capacity for leadership that benefits the cause in the long run.
Why Violence Isn’t the Answer
Although the game presents opportunities for violent action, embracing a peaceful demonstration path leads to a more favorable outcome. Violence often results in a vicious cycle and can further marginalize and alienate the deviants from the human society they are seeking to be accepted by. By choosing to spare the police, Markus is actively working to establish the validity of their rights and their sentience. It’s an investment into a lasting peace rather than short-sighted retribution.
The “Good Ending” Path
The “good ending” for Markus largely hinges on making choices that prioritize empathy, dialogue, and non-violence. Sparing the police officers is a vital component of this strategy. It strengthens the possibility of a peaceful resolution. Combined with choosing a peaceful demonstration, refusing deals with the FBI, and delivering a speech with pacifist demands, sparing the officers solidifies that Marcus is advocating for equality, not destruction.
The Role of Markus’ Speech
After refusing the deal with the FBI, Markus’ speech plays a critical role in how the game concludes. During this speech, focusing on demands for android equal rights, recognition as a new species, civil rights, the right to work and reproduce, and ending the speech on a note of Peacefulness will help you achieve the best ending. This will be far more persuasive for the humans, and more helpful for the deviants.
The Consequences of Different Choices
Failing the quick time events during the police chase leading to the abduction of the officers still allows for the possibility of saving them, if done correctly. If you fail the events but choose to not shoot yourself, Simon can step in and save Markus at the cost of his own well-being, if he is alive. The choice that follows the capture of the officers is still up to Marcus.
The Impact of Violence
While the game allows for Markus to make violent decisions, the consequences can be harsh. A violent path could lead to a loss of public support, more deaths, and ultimately a darker ending. If Markus’ character is too violent, his influence on the other characters and the overall outcome will be negatively affected.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions related to Markus’ decision to spare or kill the police officers, with comprehensive answers:
1. What happens if Markus kills the police officers?
Killing the officers during the Capitol Park riot will lead to a more violent play-through of the game. The public opinion of the deviants will be significantly lower, making a peaceful ending harder to achieve. It reinforces the narrative of the humans that deviants are violent, unthinking machines.
2. Does sparing the police officers affect Markus’ relationship with other characters?
Sparing the officers does not have a direct negative impact on his relationships. In fact, it can solidify his position as a leader who is able to make thoughtful and strategic decisions that further the cause.
3. Can Markus die during the Capitol Park riot?
Yes, Markus can die during this section if you fail the quick time events and don’t take the necessary precautions for survival, such as having Simon sacrifice himself.
4. What is the “best” ending for Markus in Detroit: Become Human?
The best ending for Markus involves a peaceful demonstration, sparing the police officers, refusing the deal with the FBI, and delivering a speech that promotes peace and equal rights for androids.
5. Why is it important to trust Connor?
Trusting Connor, if possible, can lead to a better outcome in the game, as he can provide valuable information and assistance to the deviant cause, especially if he deviates himself.
6. What happens if Markus chooses to defend himself against Leo?
Choosing to defend himself against Leo will result in Leo’s death. This has long lasting affects on the relationship that Markus has with Carl. If Markus does not defend himself, Carl will exhaust himself trying to stop Leo, resulting in his death, so it is better to defend yourself.
7. Should Markus kiss North?
Kissing North is a personal choice but has no negative consequences. It can help to solidify your relationship with her.
8. What is the significance of the Freedom March?
The Freedom March is a pivotal moment in the game. Standing ground during the march can significantly affect public opinion and lead to positive outcomes.
9. Should Markus use the dirty bomb?
No, using the dirty bomb will lead to a bad ending for the game. It’s better to secure it but not use it.
10. Does Markus’ decision to spare or kill the police officers impact the game’s ending?
Yes, this decision greatly affects the game’s overall ending. A peaceful and merciful path is essential for achieving the “good” ending. Sparing the cops aligns with this and helps to show that Markus is different.
11. What happens if Markus accepts the deal from the FBI agent?
Accepting the deal will prevent you from getting the good ending. The FBI agent will use your actions to betray the cause.
12. How does public opinion affect the game?
Public opinion can affect the peaceful ending. The higher the public opinion of deviants, the greater the chance of a peaceful and positive ending.
13. Who is North and how important is she to the story?
North is an important member of Jericho. While she is violent, she can also be a valuable ally. If Markus dies, North can take over his role but with less player control.
14. What are the ideal options for Markus’ speech?
For a positive outcome, Markus’ speech should focus on pacifist demands: equal rights, recognition as a new species, civil rights, the right to work, the ability to reproduce, and, most importantly, peaceful co-existence.
15. What is the best way to make Markus a successful leader?
The best approach is to choose empathy, strategic thinking, and diplomacy. Make sure to show restraint when faced with violence.
Conclusion
In Detroit: Become Human, Markus’ decision to spare the police officers is a powerful testament to the power of mercy and strategy over brute force. It embodies the core theme of the game: achieving lasting change through peaceful means rather than violence. By making the difficult choice to forgive, Markus not only benefits his cause in the long-run, but also sets the foundation for a more hopeful future for androids and humans alike. This choice, combined with other key decisions throughout the game, solidifies the path to a positive and fulfilling conclusion for the android revolution.