The Path of Least Resistance: Unlocking Prey’s Easiest Ending
So, you’ve found yourself aboard the Talos I, a space station overrun by the terrifying Typhon, and you’re wondering what the quickest way out is. Let’s cut to the chase: the easiest ending in Prey is undoubtedly the “Sacrifice” ending, also known as the “Perdition” ending. All you need to do is follow the instructions given to you by January, the Operator who guides you. January tells you to sacrifice yourself to spare Earth. Simply take a seat in Alex Yu’s office, listen to January’s final words, and watch the credits roll. No epic battles, no moral quandaries, just a swift conclusion.
Understanding the Appeal of the Sacrifice Ending
Why is this ending considered the easiest? Well, it boils down to a few key factors:
- Minimal Effort: It requires almost no combat or puzzle-solving. You literally just sit down.
- No Moral Dilemmas: Unlike other endings that force you to make tough choices about who lives and dies, this path is clear-cut. You’re told what to do, and you do it.
- Speed: It’s the fastest route to the credits, making it perfect for players who want to see the game’s conclusion without investing a huge amount of time.
- Accessibility: This option is available relatively early in the game. It’s not locked behind complex questlines or specific skill investments.
While it might not be the most satisfying ending for everyone, it’s undeniably the simplest way to “beat” Prey. Some players might find it anticlimactic or even disappointing, but if you’re looking for the path of least resistance, this is it.
But is “Easy” Always “Good”?
It’s important to consider what you’re losing by choosing the Sacrifice ending. You bypass a large portion of the gameplay, narrative development, and character interactions that make Prey so compelling. You won’t experience the thrill of mastering different weapon combinations, the satisfaction of solving intricate environmental puzzles, or the emotional weight of making difficult choices. It is important to remember that your choices matter. As the Games Learning Society has highlighted, games can provide valuable learning experiences through player agency and consequence. More information can be found at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.
Ultimately, the “best” ending is subjective and depends on your personal preferences. But if you are simply curious and want a fast end to the game, then the Sacrifice ending is the way to go.
FAQs About Prey Endings
Here are some frequently asked questions about the different endings in Prey:
What are the main types of endings in Prey?
There are primarily three main ending types, each with variations based on your choices throughout the game:
- Sacrifice/Perdition: As described above, this is the easiest path where you follow January’s instructions and allow the Typhon to reach Earth.
- Moral Endings: These endings focus on your choices regarding the survivors on Talos I and whether you choose to empathize with or eradicate the Typhon. The decisions that you make within the game matter.
- Destruction Endings: These involve either destroying the Talos I station to eliminate the Typhon threat or using the Nullwave Device to neutralize them, with consequences that vary based on your moral choices.
The fourth ending involves an early escape by using the shuttle during the “Who’s December” quest. This will lead to the “Sacrifice/Perdition” ending as well.
How do my choices affect the ending?
Significantly. Your treatment of survivors, your use of Neuromods, and your ultimate decision about the Typhon all play a role in determining the specifics of your ending. For example, killing survivors leads to a “bad” ending, while saving them and demonstrating empathy towards the Typhon can lead to a more “positive” outcome.
What constitutes a “bad” ending in Prey?
“Bad” endings typically involve scenarios where you kill survivors, attempt to self-destruct the station and escape alone, or hoard Neuromods while abandoning other survivors. These endings often portray Morgan Yu as a selfish or destructive force.
What is considered the “good” ending in Prey?
The “A Mind Without Limits” ending, where you demonstrate empathy towards the Typhon and choose to work with Alex Yu to find a peaceful solution, is generally considered the “good” ending. However, even within this ending, you can choose to kill Alex, leading to a darker variation.
Can I save everyone in Prey?
Yes, it is possible to save all the named survivors in Prey. This requires careful planning, completing side quests, and making strategic decisions throughout the game. However, saving everyone doesn’t necessarily guarantee a “good” ending, as your choices regarding the Typhon also matter.
What happens if I kill Alex Yu?
Killing Alex will earn you the achievement “Push the Fat Guy” and will change the dialogue and ending cutscene. Even if you are working towards one of the “good” moral endings, you can choose to kill Alex right at the end.
What is the Nullwave Device ending?
The Nullwave Device ending involves using a device created by Alex Yu to neutralize the Typhon. This eliminates the immediate threat but can have unforeseen consequences for the Typhon’s collective consciousness and the potential for future research.
Is there a secret ending in Prey?
While there isn’t a completely hidden, separate ending, the early escape via shuttle during the “Who’s December” quest can be considered a secret, albeit abrupt, conclusion. It essentially leads to the same “Sacrifice” outcome as the January route.
Does the number of Neuromods I install affect the ending?
Yes, the extent to which you embrace Typhon abilities through Neuromods is a factor. Heavily relying on Typhon abilities, especially while neglecting your humanity, can lead to more negative ending variations.
What is the significance of shaking Alex’s hand at the end?
Whether or not you shake Alex’s hand in the moral endings represents your willingness to cooperate with humanity and accept their flaws. Choosing not to shake his hand can indicate a rejection of humanity and a preference for the Typhon.
Does completing side quests matter?
Yes, completing side quests often influences the availability of certain options and the outcomes of the main endings. Side quests frequently involve helping survivors, uncovering secrets about the Typhon, and gathering resources that can impact your final choices.
What is the best weapon to use in Prey?
There’s no single “best” weapon, as different weapons are effective against different enemies and in different situations. However, the GLOO Cannon is generally considered incredibly versatile for immobilizing enemies and creating pathways. Weapons like the Tactical Combat Shotgun and Q-Beam Emitter are powerful for dealing damage, while the Recycler Charge can turn enemies and objects into valuable resources.
Does Prey have New Game Plus?
Yes, Prey features a New Game Plus mode that allows you to start a new playthrough with your previously acquired Neuromods and equipment. This can make the game significantly easier, especially in the early stages.
What is the hidden treasure code in Prey?
The hidden treasure code is found by uncovering the numbers 1, 3, 5, and 6. You must head back to Abby’s computer in her cabin in Crew Quarters and enter the digits into the utility tab in the correct order to unlock the hidden treasure.
Why was Prey 2 cancelled?
Prey 2 was cancelled because Bethesda, the parent company of Arkane Studios, felt that the game never reached the required level of quality and didn’t see a clear path to success if it was finished.
Conclusion: Choosing Your Own Path
Ultimately, the “easiest” ending is just one of many possibilities in Prey. While the “Sacrifice” route offers a quick and relatively painless conclusion, the game truly shines when you explore its depths, make meaningful choices, and grapple with the moral complexities of its narrative. The beauty of Prey lies in its player agency, allowing you to shape your own destiny and experience a unique ending tailored to your actions. So, while the “Sacrifice” ending might be the easiest, don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and discover the full potential of this captivating game.