Unmasking the Submarine Ending Killer in 999: Nine Hours, Nine Persons, Nine Doors

The answer to who the killer is in the Submarine Ending of 999: Nine Hours, Nine Persons, Nine Doors is quite straightforward: it’s Santa. In this particular ending, Santa murders Lotus. This revelation is a key plot point and provides crucial insight into his motivations and connections to the overarching narrative of the game. This ending is one of the earliest endings players are likely to achieve and sets the stage for unravelling the complex web of relationships and secrets that define the Nonary Game.

Delving Deeper: Understanding the Submarine Ending

The Submarine Ending is triggered by specific choices made during the gameplay. The route involves going through Doors 4, 2, and 3. This path leads to the discovery of Lotus’s dead body in the engine room of the submarine, revealing Santa as the culprit. The motives behind the murder are not fully explored in this ending, but it provides a crucial clue to unravel Santa’s greater role.

The Significance of Santa’s Actions

Santa’s role as the killer is often overshadowed by the broader mysteries surrounding the Nonary Game, Akane’s situation, and Ace’s involvement. However, the Submarine Ending forces players to confront the immediate danger and moral ambiguity that characterizes the game’s world. It highlights that no character is entirely trustworthy and that even seemingly innocuous figures can be capable of violence. Further playthroughs are necessary to understand why Santa commits this act and how it fits into the grand scheme of things.

Connecting the Dots: A Pathway to the True Ending

While initially appearing as a closed-off conclusion, the Submarine Ending actually serves as a crucial stepping stone toward understanding the true nature of the Nonary Game. It underscores the need to explore alternative routes and uncover the deeper layers of the story. By experiencing this ending, players are motivated to replay the game and make different choices, eventually leading them to the more revealing Safe and True Endings. The Games Learning Society (GamesLearningSociety.org) emphasizes how interactive storytelling and multiple endings enhance learning and critical thinking skills.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about the endings, characters, and mysteries surrounding 999: Nine Hours, Nine Persons, Nine Doors:

1. What exactly happens in the Submarine Ending? Junpei, along with the other participants, follows the numbered doors 4, 2, and 3. He discovers Lotus’s dead body in the submarine’s engine room. Before he can fully process what’s happened, Santa reveals himself as the killer. The ending then abruptly concludes, leaving many questions unanswered.

2. Why does Santa kill Lotus in the Submarine Ending? The specific reason for Santa killing Lotus in this ending isn’t explicitly stated. However, it is implied that it is due to their connection as siblings and the secrets they share regarding the first Nonary Game and Cradle Pharmaceutical.

3. Is the Submarine Ending considered a “bad” ending? Yes, the Submarine Ending is generally considered a “bad” or incomplete ending. It provides limited information about the overarching plot and leaves many questions unanswered. It’s more of a stepping stone to understanding the larger narrative.

4. How many endings are there in 999? There are a total of six endings in 999: Axe Ending, Coffin Ending, Knife Ending, Submarine Ending, Safe Ending, and True Ending. Each ending reveals different aspects of the story.

5. Which ending should I aim for first? The most common recommendation is to experience the Axe, Knife, and Submarine Endings first. These endings introduce the core mysteries and character relationships, setting the stage for the more revealing Safe and True Endings.

6. How do I unlock the True Ending? To unlock the True Ending, you need to first achieve the Safe Ending. Then, during your next playthrough, you need to go through Door 4, then Door 7, then Door 1. You must also find the 4-leaf clover, discuss Ice-9, and give the 4-leaf clover to Clover.

7. What is the significance of the numbered doors? The numbered doors are a core mechanic of the Nonary Game. Each participant has a bracelet with a number, and the sum of the digital root of the numbers on the bracelets of participants entering a door must match the door’s number. The digital root of a number is calculated by adding all its digits together, and if the result has more than one digit, repeating the process until you get a single-digit number (e.g., the digital root of 16 is 1+6 = 7).

8. Who is Zero in 999? Zero is a person or persons who orchestrates the Nonary Game. Throughout most of the game, the true identity of Zero remains a mystery, but they are eventually revealed to be connected to Akane. It turns out that Akane is Zero.

9. What is the role of Cradle Pharmaceutical in 999? Cradle Pharmaceutical is a company led by Ace and implicated in the first Nonary Game. They are a central element behind the events that have taken place. Ace is found to be the mastermind behind the tragedy.

10. What is Ice-9? Ice-9 is a fictional substance mentioned in the game, inspired by Kurt Vonnegut’s novel Cat’s Cradle. In 999, Ice-9 plays a significant role in the backstory, particularly concerning the events of the first Nonary Game and the motives of some characters.

11. How does Akane’s ability to see the future work? Akane’s ability is due to the morphogenetic field. This field allows her to receive information from the future, specifically from Junpei’s experiences in the second Nonary Game. This connection enables her to survive the first Nonary Game and set the events of 999 in motion.

12. What is the digital root in 999? The digital root is a vital component for opening the numbered doors. The bracelets each player has must equal the door number that they choose to open to go through. This becomes key to getting through the rooms successfully.

13. Is the 999 game scary? 999 is more of a suspenseful and psychologically thrilling game than outright scary. It contains elements of horror, such as death and disturbing discoveries, but its primary focus is on mystery, character relationships, and plot twists.

14. How important are the dialogue choices in 999? The dialogue choices are extremely important, as they determine the path you take and the ending you receive. Careful consideration of your responses is necessary to unlock the True Ending and fully understand the game’s narrative.

15. What is the morphogenetic field in the Zero Escape Universe? The morphogenetic field is a pseudo-scientific concept within the Zero Escape universe that allows for the transmission of information across time and space. It plays a critical role in explaining Akane’s ability to see the future and communicate with Junpei.

The Submarine Ending, while unsettling, is an integral part of the overall 999 experience. It showcases the game’s willingness to explore darker themes and sets the stage for the revelations that follow. By understanding its significance, players can appreciate the intricate design of the narrative and continue their journey towards uncovering the true nature of the Nonary Game.