Who is Hakon in Dying Light 2? Exploring the Complex Character
Hakon, a seemingly charming and quick-witted survivor in Dying Light 2 Stay Human, is far more than meets the eye. Initially introduced as a trusted companion to Aiden Caldwell, Hakon’s story quickly spirals into a complex web of loyalty, betrayal, and personal sacrifice. He is a former member of the Nightrunners, a faction renowned for helping people during the dangers of the night, which mysteriously disappeared. His past is shrouded in secrets, and his actions throughout the game constantly challenge players’ perception of him as a “good” or “bad” guy. He’s a fascinating character whose fate is intrinsically tied to the player’s choices, playing a key role in determining the game’s overall ending. Hakon isn’t simply a sidekick; he’s a narrative cornerstone, whose story arc explores themes of moral ambiguity and the often-unpredictable consequences of survival in a brutal world. He is also portrayed by motion capture and his likeness was based upon the director of parkour movements within the game.
Hakon’s Background and the Nightrunners
Hakon was once a dedicated member of the Nightrunners, a group dedicated to aiding survivors in the dark. However, this group eventually dissolved, leaving Hakon to operate in the shadows. This shared history with the Nightrunners becomes integral to understanding his motives and actions later in the game, as it ties him directly to Lawan as well, who is also a potential nightrunner. He wasn’t just a casual member; the text suggests a deeply embedded loyalty to their values. His eventual turn, therefore, carries significant weight.
Betrayal and Blackmail
Hakon’s betrayal of Frank, a leader figure within the Nightrunners, wasn’t born out of malice. He was blackmailed by Waltz, the game’s antagonist, who threatened to kill Lawan if Hakon did not comply. This forced him into a position where he had to make an impossible choice: betray his friends or watch Lawan die. This pivotal moment establishes the core of his character – someone willing to make difficult, often morally ambiguous choices, to protect those he cares about. This also shows his willingness to sacrifice his reputation and relationships for Lawan.
Hakon’s Role in the Story
Hakon’s story is not just a side plot; it’s deeply intertwined with the core narrative of Dying Light 2. He is present at critical junctures, and his fate has a direct impact on Aiden’s journey and the overall outcome of the game. His choices and actions influence the story, which are important to consider with every decision involving him. He’s not simply a character to be judged as good or evil; he embodies the complex, grey areas of morality in a post-apocalyptic world.
The Consequences of Your Choices
One of the fascinating aspects of Hakon’s character is how deeply your interactions affect his story and the game’s conclusion. Your choices determine whether he becomes an ally, a persistent threat, or a victim of the brutal world he inhabits.
Saving or Killing Hakon
Deciding whether to save or kill Hakon is one of the most impactful decisions in the game. If you choose to kill Hakon, you might be satisfying a desire for justice due to his past actions, like killing Lucas. However, this path cuts you off from the “best” ending of the game. Conversely, choosing to save him unlocks more content, including a side quest that is not available otherwise and provides opportunities to understand his motives better. Most importantly, saving Hakon is essential for obtaining the best ending.
Trust and Betrayal Revisited
Hakon’s past betrayal might understandably make players hesitant to trust him, but this narrative element enhances his character. Even after revealing that he killed Lucas, he is still trying to make right of things in his own way. His actions are driven by a complex morality rather than a straightforward lust for power or destruction. He continues to show loyalty in his own way to his friends and fellow members of the Nightrunners.
Hakon’s Influence on the Ending
Hakon’s role in securing the best ending in Dying Light 2 is significant. Saving him unlocks several narrative paths that would otherwise be inaccessible. His presence directly influences the events leading to the finale, making him a key player in the overall outcome of the game. Without his survival, the game’s ending becomes significantly less optimistic.
Hakon: A Complex Character
Hakon is not a simplistic, one-dimensional character. He embodies the moral complexities of surviving in a post-apocalyptic world. He is a former hero, a reluctant traitor, and a potential ally all rolled into one. His motivations are layered, and the choices he makes, while often difficult to accept, are presented as products of his circumstances and his personal history. This complexity makes him such an appealing character in Dying Light 2, and his presence is vital for players to experience all aspects of the narrative and get the best possible resolution. He’s a reminder that in a world ravaged by zombies, the lines between right and wrong often blur.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is the voice actor for Hakon?
While the article focuses on Hakon’s character design, it’s important to note that Jonah Scott voices him. This is distinct from the individual who was the basis for his motion capture and likeness.
2. What faction did Hakon belong to?
Hakon was a member of the Nightrunners, a faction that used to help people in the dangers of the night but eventually disappeared.
3. Why did Hakon betray Frank?
Hakon was blackmailed by Waltz. If he did not turn on Frank, Waltz would kill Lawan.
4. Is Hakon a traitor?
While he commits actions that can be interpreted as treasonous, his choices are made under duress, and he does not betray out of malice.
5. Who did Hakon kill?
Hakon killed Lucas following Waltz’s orders.
6. Can Hakon die in the game?
Yes, Hakon can die if the player chooses to fight him. However, this affects the ending.
7. What happens if you save Hakon?
If you save Hakon, you’ll get an additional side quest, “Snipers’ Alley,” and he will influence the story later on, including working for the Renegades again.
8. What happens if Hakon dies?
If you let Hakon die, you skip “Snipers’ Alley” and proceed straight to the next main story quest. It also limits the overall ending of the game.
9. Is it necessary to save Hakon?
Yes, saving Hakon is essential if you want to save Lawan and get the “best” ending of the game.
10. Does Hakon betray you later in the story?
While Hakon does rejoin the Renegades, if you were nice to him before, you can often convince him not to fight you. This is another example of how choices made early in the game can affect the story.
11. Does Hakon have romantic involvement with Lawan?
While there’s a strong bond between Hakon and Lawan, there is no romantic relationship between the two. Hakon is fiercely protective of her, but it’s more akin to a sibling bond.
12. What is “Snipers’ Alley”?
“Snipers’ Alley” is a side quest that only becomes available if you choose to save Hakon. It involves tracking down the sniper who shot at Hakon.
13. Does Hakon’s survival affect other relationships in the game?
Yes, his survival affects his relationship with Aiden and Lawan later in the game, and, consequentially, the ending you obtain.
14. How does Hakon’s story tie in with the main narrative?
Hakon’s story is intertwined with the primary plot because he was once a member of the Nightrunners, just as Lawan was. His complex history and interactions are critical to the progression of the game.
15. What is the “best” ending in Dying Light 2?
The “best” ending typically involves sparing Hakon and giving the Radio Tower to Frank. This allows Aiden and Lawan to leave Villedor together.