What does the ending of Dark Souls 2 mean?

The ending of Dark Souls 2 is intentionally ambiguous, leaving players to interpret the fate of the Bearer of the Curse, who can choose to either link the flame and continue the cycle of the world or allow the flame to fade and become the Dark Lord, with the outcome known only to the player. The ending is a culmination of the player’s journey, where they must decide the fate of the world, choosing between sacrificing themselves to maintain the First Flame or embracing the darkness and becoming the new ruler of the land.

Understanding the Ending

To fully comprehend the ending of Dark Souls 2, it’s essential to consider the game’s lore and the player’s role as the Bearer of the Curse. The game’s world is plagued by a curse that causes undead characters to lose their memories and humanity, and the player must navigate this world to uncover the truth about the curse and their place in it.

The Cycle of the World

The cycle of the world in Dark Souls 2 refers to the ongoing pattern of fire and darkness, where the First Flame is linked to maintain the balance of the world, but ultimately leads to its downfall. The player’s choice at the end of the game determines whether this cycle continues or is broken, with significant consequences for the world and its inhabitants.

FAQs

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about the ending of Dark Souls 2 and related topics:

1. What happens if you link the flame in Dark Souls 2?: If you choose to link the flame, you will sacrifice yourself to maintain the First Flame and continue the cycle of the world.
2. What is the True Monarch in Dark Souls 2?: The True Monarch refers to the player character, who becomes the ruler of the world after defeating Nashandra and choosing their fate.
3. Can you continue playing Dark Souls 2 after beating it?: Yes, you can continue playing Dark Souls 2 after beating it by selecting the NG+ option at the Majula bonfire.
4. What is the goal of the Bearer of the Curse in Dark Souls 2?: The goal of the Bearer of the Curse is to break the curse by obtaining four Great Souls from powerful Old Ones and uncovering the truth about the world.
5. Who is the final boss of Dark Souls 2?: The final boss of Dark Souls 2 is Nashandra, the evil queen of Drangleic.
6. What happens if you die in Dark Souls 2?: If you die in Dark Souls 2, you will lose your souls and humanity, and your character will become increasingly hollow.
7. Can you keep playing as a hollow in Dark Souls 2?: Yes, you can continue playing as a hollow in Dark Souls 2, but you will not be able to reverse the effects of hollowing.
8. What is the happiest ending in Dark Souls?: The happiest ending in Dark Souls is often subjective, but it is generally considered to be the ending where the player links the flame and sacrifices themselves to maintain the balance of the world.
9. Is there a canon ending in Dark Souls 2?: There is no canon ending in Dark Souls 2, as the game’s story is intentionally ambiguous and open to interpretation.
10. What is the secret final boss in Dark Souls 2?: The secret final boss in Dark Souls 2 is Aldia, who can be fought after completing specific requirements.
11. Can you play Dark Souls 2 without knowing the lore?: Yes, you can play Dark Souls 2 without knowing the lore, but understanding the game’s story and world can enhance your experience and appreciation of the game.
12. Is Dark Souls 2 connected to other games in the series?: Dark Souls 2 is part of the Dark Souls series, but its connection to other games in the series is not explicitly stated, leaving room for interpretation.
13. What is the difference between Dark Souls and Dark Souls 2?: Dark Souls and Dark Souls 2 have distinct differences in their stories, gameplay, and worlds, with Dark Souls 2 offering a more accessible and replayable experience.
14. Can you customize your character in Dark Souls 2?: Yes, you can customize your character in Dark Souls 2 by allocating points to different attributes and choosing from a variety of weapons and armors.
15. Is Dark Souls 2 a difficult game?: Dark Souls 2 is considered a challenging game, with tough enemies and bosses, but its difficulty is also part of its appeal and charm, making it a rewarding experience for players who persevere and overcome its challenges.

By understanding the ending of Dark Souls 2 and exploring the game’s lore and mechanics, players can appreciate the depth and complexity of the Dark Souls series and the rich world that it offers. Whether you choose to link the flame or allow it to fade, the ending of Dark Souls 2 is a thought-provoking conclusion to a journey that will leave you pondering the fate of the world and its inhabitants long after the credits roll.