Unraveling the Enigma: The Optimal Ending Order in 999: Nine Hours, Nine Persons, Nine Doors
So, you’ve picked up 999: Nine Hours, Nine Persons, Nine Doors, a masterpiece of narrative and suspense, and are wondering about the best order to experience its multiple endings? You’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive in and map out your journey through this twisting, turning visual novel.
The key to maximizing your enjoyment and understanding of 999 lies in strategically approaching its branching narrative. The optimal ending order is:
- Submarine Ending: Door 5, Door 3, Door 2. This is a decent starting point.
- Knife Ending: Door 4, Door 7, Door 6.
- Axe Ending: Door 4, Door 8, Door 1.
- Coffin Ending: Door 4, Door 7, Door 1. This ending contains elements required for understanding the plot.
- Zero Lost Ending (Safe Ending): Door 5, Door 8, Door 6. Crucial for unlocking the true ending and understanding the deeper mysteries.
- True Ending: This ending requires specific steps and choices, primarily having previously acquired the Safe Ending.
Why this order? It’s designed to progressively reveal information, building suspense and ensuring that the final revelation (the True Ending) has maximum impact. Missing an earlier ending can lock the True Ending. You can learn more about games and education by visiting the Games Learning Society.
Unlocking the Secrets: A Deeper Dive
The initial endings, like the Submarine, Knife, and Axe Endings, provide fragmented pieces of the puzzle, introducing characters and hinting at the underlying mystery. They offer valuable context, but lack the broader perspective needed to truly grasp the situation.
The Coffin Ending begins to shed light on some of the connections between the characters, revealing subtle hints about their pasts and the true nature of the Nonary Game. While the Coffin Ending is missable, it isn’t essential for the true ending. However, it does contribute to a more complete narrative experience.
The Zero Lost Ending (Safe Ending) is the game-changer. This ending uncovers a significant secret about the origins of the Nonary Game and provides the crucial information needed to access the True Ending. This is non-negotiable; you MUST achieve the Safe Ending to see everything 999 has to offer.
Finally, the True Ending ties everything together, revealing the mastermind behind the game, the full scope of their plan, and the fate of the characters. It provides closure and context, making all of the previous playthroughs worthwhile.
Navigating the Flowchart
A flowchart is your best friend in 999. It allows you to jump to specific points in the story, making subsequent playthroughs much faster and easier. Use it to your advantage to quickly revisit decision points and explore different paths.
The iOS version includes a built-in flowchart. For the original Nintendo DS version, you may need to consult online resources or create your own diagram to track your progress.
Remember, 999 encourages experimentation. Don’t be afraid to deviate from this recommended order if you’re feeling adventurous. However, for the most satisfying and complete experience, sticking to this structure will ensure you’re well-prepared for the final reveal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about 999 Endings
How many endings does 999 actually have?
- 999 has six endings: Submarine, Knife, Axe, Coffin, Zero Lost (Safe), and True.
Do choices really matter in 999?
- Absolutely! The doors you choose and the order in which you choose them are critical. Different paths lead to different endings, so every decision has consequences.
Is the Coffin Ending missable?
- Yes, the Coffin Ending is missable. While it doesn’t award an achievement, it provides additional story context.
How do I get the True Ending in 999?
- The True Ending requires obtaining the Zero Lost Ending (Safe Ending) first. Once you’ve seen the Safe Ending, revisit the relevant decision points and make the choices that lead you down the True Ending path.
What’s the best way to skip text I’ve already read?
- On most versions, you can fast-forward through text by pressing a specific button (usually the right directional button). This is essential for efficient replays.
How long does it take to beat 999?
- A single playthrough can take around 9-10 hours. Achieving all endings and 100% completion can take 20+ hours.
Can I play Virtue’s Last Reward without playing 999 first?
- While Virtue’s Last Reward provides some backstory, it’s highly recommended to play 999 first for the best experience.
Who killed Junpei in 999?
- Junpei was killed by Mira, Zero’s accomplice.
What is the Coffin Ending exactly?
- The Coffin Ending is a shorter version of the True Ending path if you don’t achieve the Safe Ending first. It provides some key story elements but lacks the full context.
Who is the villain in 999?
- The main antagonist is Gentarou Hongou, also known as Ace.
What’s the code for the briefcase in 999?
- The code for the briefcase is 7485.
How does the flowchart work in 999?
- The flowchart allows you to jump to specific decision points in the story, saving time on subsequent playthroughs. It maps out all the possible paths and endings.
Is The Nonary Games the same as 999?
- The Nonary Games is a compilation that includes a remastered version of 999 along with Virtue’s Last Reward.
Is 999 a horror game?
- 999 is more of a suspenseful mystery with some horror elements. It’s atmospheric and occasionally disturbing, but not a traditional jump-scare horror game.
Is 999 fully voiced?
- The remastered versions of 999 (found in The Nonary Games) include full Japanese and English voice acting.
By following this guide and exploring all the possible paths, you’ll be well on your way to unraveling the intricate mysteries of 999 and experiencing its full narrative power. Enjoy the journey! Also, don’t forget to check out GamesLearningSociety.org for more about the intersection of games and learning.