Cayde-6’s Last Words: More Than Just a Quote

Cayde-6’s final words, delivered with a mix of acceptance and defiance, were: “Tell Zavala and Ikora: The Vanguard is the best bet I ever lost.” This seemingly simple statement is layered with meaning, reflecting Cayde’s complex relationship with his role as the Hunter Vanguard, his loyalty to his friends, and his characteristic blend of humor and seriousness, even in the face of death. These words encapsulate the essence of a beloved character whose sacrifice resonated deeply with the Destiny community.

The Significance of “The Best Bet I Ever Lost”

Cayde-6 was famously forced into the position of Hunter Vanguard due to a bet, the Vanguard Dare. After the death of his friend and predecessor, Andal Brask, Cayde took on the Dare: if Andal were killed, Cayde would inherit the Vanguard position. As fate would have it, Andal met his end, binding Cayde to a role he often claimed to despise.

However, his final quote reveals a deeper truth. While he joked about the frustrations of being a Vanguard, his time serving alongside Zavala and Ikora, fighting for the Traveler and the Last City, ultimately held a profound value. “The best bet I ever lost” acknowledges both the unwanted circumstances of his appointment and the unexpected fulfillment he found in the role. It’s a testament to his growth and his unwavering commitment to his comrades, even if he expressed it through his signature sarcasm.

The quote also serves as a message to Zavala and Ikora, emphasizing the importance of the Vanguard and urging them to continue their work. It’s a reassurance that, despite his occasional complaints, he believed in their leadership and the cause they were fighting for. It is a fond farewell to his friends, a final acknowledgement of the weight of the burden they carry.

Why Cayde-6’s Death Resonated So Deeply

The death of Cayde-6 was a pivotal moment in Destiny 2, marking a significant shift in the game’s narrative. It wasn’t merely the loss of a character, but the loss of a friend, a source of levity, and a symbol of hope in a often grim world. Bungie’s decision to kill off such a popular character was a bold move, one that sparked both outrage and respect. It injected a new level of emotional depth into the game, demonstrating that the stakes were real and that even beloved heroes were not immune to death.

The impact of Cayde’s death was amplified by Nathan Fillion’s performance, which brought a unique charm and charisma to the character. Fillion’s portrayal made Cayde more than just a set of lines; he was a fully realized personality, flawed but ultimately heroic. This connection with the player base made his demise all the more painful. Some have speculated that Fillion’s departure was due to financial reasons but whatever the cause, the consequences were felt throughout the Destiny community.

Moreover, Cayde’s death served as a catalyst for the events of the Forsaken expansion, driving the Guardian’s quest for vengeance and exploring darker themes than previous Destiny storylines. It showcased a willingness to take risks and challenge player expectations, ultimately enriching the overall narrative experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cayde-6

Here are some frequently asked questions related to Cayde-6’s history and his final moments:

1. Why does Cayde have “6” in his name? The number in Cayde’s name indicates that he has been an Exo (a human mind transferred into a robotic body) six times. Each reboot can result in memory loss and personality shifts.
2. Was Cayde a human before becoming an Exo? Yes, Cayde was once human and worked at Clovis Bray on Mars before undergoing the Exo transformation.
3. Did Cayde have a son? Yes, Cayde had a son named Ace, whom he struggled to remember fully due to the memory loss associated with being an Exo.
4. What was the name of Cayde-6’s hand cannon? Cayde’s signature weapon was the Ace of Spades, which he named after his son.
5. What was the Vanguard Dare? The Vanguard Dare was a rule among the Hunter Vanguards that if the current Vanguard died, the person who killed them would have to take their place.
6. Who was Hunter Vanguard before Cayde? The Hunter Vanguard before Cayde-6 was Andal Brask, who was killed by Taniks, the Scarred.
7. What was the name of Cayde-6’s Ghost? Cayde’s Ghost was named Sundance. She was killed by Pirrha, the Rifleman, during the Prison of Elders breakout.
8. Why couldn’t Cayde-6 be revived? Guardians can only be revived by their own Ghost. With Sundance destroyed, Cayde-6 could not be resurrected.
9. Who killed Cayde-6? Uldren Sov, manipulated by the Taken Ahamkara Riven, killed Cayde-6.
10. What was the point of killing Cayde-6? Cayde-6’s death served as a catalyst for the Forsaken expansion, driving the narrative and introducing darker themes to the game.
11. Who carried Cayde-6’s body back to the Tower? The player Guardian (the character you control) carried Cayde-6’s body back to the Tower.
12. What animal did Cayde-6 have as a companion? Cayde-6 had a chicken named Colonel.
13. Can Cayde-6 ever come back to life? Given that Sundance, his Ghost, was permanently destroyed, it is highly unlikely that Cayde-6 will ever be revived in the Destiny universe. Ghosts can only have a connection with one person at a time.
14. How old is Saint 14? Saint 14 is at least 200 years old and possibly older considering his time in the Infinite Forest.
15. Where can I learn more about the narrative and design choices in games like Destiny? Resources like the Games Learning Society offer insight into the educational and social aspects of gaming. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org for more information.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Wit and Sacrifice

Cayde-6’s final words are a poignant reminder of his character’s complexity and his ultimate dedication to the Vanguard and the Guardians he fought alongside. His death may have been a controversial decision, but it undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the Destiny community, cementing his place as one of the most beloved and memorable characters in the game’s history. He was the best bet we ever had.