What Happens If You Activate Knightfall Before 100%?
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Activating Knightfall protocol in Batman: Arkham Knight before achieving 100% game completion results in a truncated, less satisfying ending sequence. You’ll witness a specific cutscene illustrating Bruce Wayne’s fate, but it lacks the crucial extended scenes and deeper narrative closure provided by the true ending unlocked upon complete game mastery.
Knightfall: Two Endings, One Goal
Batman: Arkham Knight features two distinct endings to its core narrative: the standard Knightfall ending and the 100% Knightfall ending. While both detail the culmination of Scarecrow’s plot and Batman’s ultimate sacrifice (or lack thereof, depending on your interpretation), the nuances and impact of each are vastly different. Understanding these differences is key to appreciating the full scope of the game’s story.
The Premature Activation: A Foreshortened Finale
Activating Knightfall before 100% completion essentially allows you to trigger the first version of the ending. This involves witnessing Bruce Wayne unmasking himself on television, revealing his identity to the world. However, this ending lacks the emotional depth and narrative punch of the 100% ending. The crucial difference lies in the absence of the extended scenes that follow, detailing the fate of Gotham and the future of Batman’s legacy. This incomplete version feels rushed and doesn’t fully resolve the game’s numerous plot threads.
The True Ending: Earned Closure
Reaching 100% completion in Batman: Arkham Knight is no small feat. It requires completing all story missions, side quests, and collecting all Riddler trophies (a notorious endeavor for many players). However, the reward for this dedication is the true Knightfall ending. This ending includes the aforementioned unmasking scene, but then expands upon it with additional cutscenes showing the impact of Batman’s reveal on Gotham’s criminal underworld. These extra scenes often provide a sense of hope and closure, hinting at a future where Batman’s influence, even in his absence, continues to protect the city. This is the ending that truly concludes the Arkhamverse saga and provides the most satisfying conclusion to Batman’s journey.
Why 100% Matters: More Than Just Trophies
Achieving 100% completion isn’t just about ticking boxes or collecting trophies; it’s about fully engaging with the world Rocksteady Studios created. The side missions often delve deeper into the character’s psyche and the motivations of the villains. The Riddler trophies, while tedious for some, offer challenging puzzles that test your understanding of Batman’s gadgets and abilities. By investing the time and effort to complete these tasks, you gain a greater appreciation for the game’s intricate design and its compelling narrative.
Beyond the Main Story: Unveiling Hidden Depths
Many of the side missions in Arkham Knight are interconnected and contribute to the overall narrative in meaningful ways. For example, completing the Most Wanted missions reveals more about the state of Gotham after Scarecrow’s attack and the struggles of its citizens. They also provide closure for secondary villains who might otherwise be glossed over. Therefore, skipping these missions not only prevents you from unlocking the true ending but also deprives you of a richer and more complete gameplay experience.
Riddler’s Revenge: A Rite of Passage
While the Riddler trophies are often a point of contention among players, their presence is undeniable and a cornerstone of the Arkham series. While challenging, they push you to explore every nook and cranny of Gotham and to master Batman’s movement and combat abilities. Completing the Riddler’s challenges is not just about finding the trophies; it’s about proving your dedication to the role of Batman and showcasing your mastery of the game’s mechanics.
The Choice is Yours: But Choose Wisely
Ultimately, the decision of when to activate Knightfall is yours. You can choose to experience the truncated ending early on, or you can dedicate yourself to achieving 100% completion and unlocking the true ending. However, it’s important to understand the differences between the two endings and the benefits of fully exploring the game’s content. The 100% Knightfall ending provides a much more satisfying and complete conclusion to the Arkham Knight storyline, making the extra effort well worth the investment. Consider waiting and embracing the challenge for the richer, more complete narrative reward.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I still get the 100% ending if I already activated Knightfall before 100%?
Yes! Don’t worry; activating the “premature” Knightfall doesn’t lock you out of the true ending. You can continue playing after the credits roll and complete any remaining side missions, collect Riddler trophies, and achieve 100% game completion. Once you reach 100%, you’ll be prompted to initiate the Knightfall protocol again, this time unlocking the full ending sequence.
2. What exactly constitutes 100% completion in Batman: Arkham Knight?
100% completion requires the following: completing all main story missions, completing all side missions (Most Wanted missions), solving all Riddler’s riddles and collecting all Riddler trophies, and upgrading all of Batman’s gadgets and skills.
3. Does completing the DLC count towards the 100% needed for Knightfall?
No. The DLC content, while offering additional story and challenges, is not required to unlock the true Knightfall ending. Only the completion of content within the main game world contributes to the 100% completion statistic.
4. How can I track my progress towards 100% completion?
The game provides several ways to track your progress. The Most Wanted wheel displays your progress on each side mission. You can also view your overall completion percentage in the game’s menu, along with details on how many Riddler trophies you have collected.
5. Is there a reward for getting 240% completion (completing the story twice in New Game Plus)?
While reaching 240% is an impressive feat, it does not unlock any additional cutscenes or alter the Knightfall ending. It is primarily a bragging right and a testament to your dedication to the game. You will get a different Batsuit after completing the New Game Plus campaign.
6. Are there any missable trophies or side missions that can prevent me from getting 100%?
No. All trophies and side missions can be completed at any point after they become available. You can return to any location and complete any unfinished tasks.
7. What is the hardest part about getting to 100%?
For most players, the most challenging aspect of achieving 100% completion is collecting all 243 Riddler trophies. These trophies require solving complex puzzles, mastering Batman’s gadgets, and exploring every corner of Gotham.
8. Can I use a guide to find the Riddler trophies?
Yes, you can definitely use a guide! Many players find that using a guide or walkthrough for the Riddler trophies is necessary to avoid frustration and save time. There are many reliable online resources available.
9. Does difficulty level affect my ability to get 100%?
No. The difficulty level only affects combat. Completing the game on any difficulty will allow you to reach 100% completion.
10. Is the “Season of Infamy” DLC required for the true ending?
No, the “Season of Infamy” DLC, like other DLC content, is not required for the true ending.
11. What’s the difference between the two Knightfall endings in terms of story?
The initial ending shows Bruce unmasking himself. The 100% ending extends this scene by showcasing how Gotham’s criminals react to the revelation and includes a more ambiguous and unsettling scene that hints at Batman’s enduring legacy in a unique way.
12. Is there a New Game Plus mode after reaching 100%?
Yes! Beating the game opens New Game Plus mode. This mode allows you to replay the main story with all of your gadgets and upgrades intact. This is how you obtain the “Knightmare Batman” suit.
13. Can I continue playing after activating the Knightfall Protocol, regardless of completion percentage?
Yes, after the credits roll (both times, regardless of the version of the ending), you can return to Gotham City to complete any remaining tasks. The game saves your progress right before activating the protocol.
14. Does activating Knightfall reset my game progress?
No, activating Knightfall does not reset your game progress. You can continue playing from your last save point before activating the protocol.
15. Are there any in-game hints to help find the Riddler trophies?
Yes, Batman can interrogate Riddler informants scattered throughout Gotham. These informants reveal the locations of nearby Riddler trophies on your map. Using them strategically can make the trophy hunt less daunting.