Unraveling the Mystery: Why Does Kris Rip Out Their Soul in Deltarune?
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The act of Kris ripping out their soul in Toby Fox’s Deltarune is arguably one of the most perplexing and debated aspects of the game. It’s a recurring motif, happening at the end of both Chapter 1 and Chapter 2, and each instance leaves players with more questions than answers. The simple answer is this: Kris removes their soul to exert control and disrupt the player’s influence over them. This rebellion stems from a complex interplay of factors, including a desire for autonomy, a reaction to being controlled, and potentially, a darker, underlying motive.
The player, represented by the heart-shaped SOUL, effectively commandeers Kris, dictating their actions throughout the majority of the game. However, this control is not total. Kris expresses subtle resistance in various ways, from their actions in battles to their quiet interactions with other characters. The removal of the SOUL is, therefore, a dramatic act of self-assertion. Kris seems to be saying, “I am not your puppet,” and momentarily reclaims their agency.
Furthermore, the act may be tied to the inevitable violence that seems to plague the relationship between Humans and Monsters in the Undertale universe. By ripping out their SOUL, Kris may be trying to manipulate this conflict. In the game, they are very clearly against being controlled. The pie eating scene at the beginning is an example of them trying to exert their own sense of control after feeling they are not in control of their own actions. This act also seems to perpetuate the cycle of violence, creating a sense of tension and anticipation for what might happen next.
The specific circumstances surrounding each soul removal further illuminate Kris’s motives. In Chapter 1, the removal is followed by Kris pulling out a knife, sporting a red glint in their eye. The red eye is usually only seen in dark areas of the game. In Chapter 2, they slash Toriel’s tires to ensure that Susie will remain at the house. In both cases, it’s an act of agency that throws the established narrative into chaos. These actions suggest that Kris’ motivations are not simply about breaking free from player control, but also about shaping their own path, even if it’s a dark and unpredictable one. It seems that the removal of the SOUL is a temporary measure to achieve short-term objectives.
The Significance of the SOUL
Understanding the context of a SOUL within Deltarune and the wider lore of the Undertale universe is key to grasping the implications of Kris’s actions. The SOUL represents a character’s essence, their being, and in some cases, their very will. In Deltarune, the SOUL acts as the player’s conduit to the game world. By removing it, Kris severs this connection, giving them a moment of freedom.
However, this freedom appears to be short-lived. Kris cannot function indefinitely without their SOUL. They must eventually return it, and the player resumes control. This cycle seems to reinforce the game’s themes of free will versus determinism, questioning how much control players truly have over characters they inhabit.
Deeper Interpretations and Theories
Beyond the immediate reasons, several theories attempt to explain Kris’s soul-ripping behavior. Some players believe that it’s a manifestation of trauma and a deep-seated need to assert their individuality after feeling controlled. Others suggest that Kris is a fallen human with a strong connection to the “void” and this act is a byproduct of that connection. Another theory proposes that Kris is experiencing a form of dissociative identity disorder, with the soul removal signifying a shift between different personalities or states of being. While it remains speculation, the repeated and deliberate nature of this act signifies its importance within the overarching story of Deltarune.
The Red Eyes and Their Implications
The red glint in Kris’s eyes is another element that sparks discussion. This detail, only visible when Kris is without their SOUL and in the dark, often associated with evil, suggests that there’s more to Kris’s actions than a simple desire for autonomy. This detail might point to a hidden nature or dark potential, making Kris’s motivations and actions more complex and ambiguous.
Control, Chaos, and the Future
Ultimately, the question of why Kris rips out their SOUL is central to the enigma of Deltarune. It challenges players to reconsider their role, to question their perceptions of free will, and to ponder the deeper mysteries of this intricate and engaging story. Whether Kris is a hero, a villain, or something else entirely, their actions are clearly meant to stir up chaos and force a response from the world around them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Kris the villain of Deltarune?
Kris Dreemurr is the main protagonist and one of the three heroes in the prophecy, but their motivations and actions are complex and often ambiguous. While not explicitly evil, they do display destructive behavior. Therefore, their role as a “villain” is debatable.
2. Who is controlling Kris in Deltarune?
The player controls Kris for most of the game, through their SOUL. However, Kris does have moments of autonomy, and these are most often seen when they remove their soul.
3. Why does Kris look like Frisk from Undertale?
Kris seems to be the Deltarune counterpart of both Frisk and Chara. All three are the only human in a world inhabited by monsters and adopted by the Dreemur family. They share a similar appearance and role within their respective narratives. Deltarune is not a sequel to Undertale and the characters are completely separate.
4. Is Kris a boy or a girl?
Kris is a gender-neutral name and is referred to with they/them pronouns throughout the game. Their gender is not explicitly defined, allowing players to interpret it as they see fit.
5. Is Chara possessing Kris in Deltarune?
No, Kris does not appear to be possessed. Rather, the act of removing their soul is about them ceasing to be controlled.
6. Why does Kris remove their soul after defeating King?
After defeating King, Kris uses their SOUL to seal the Eastern Fountain. Afterwards, this act is an independent action by Kris in a bid for autonomy and is likely tied to the control they experience throughout the game.
7. What happens if you call yourself Kris in Deltarune?
If the name is set to “KRIS,” “SUSIE,” or “NOELLE,” the voice says “
8. Why does Kris tear out their soul in Chapter 2?
In Chapter 2, Kris removes their soul after slashing Toriel’s tires in a bid to keep Susie at the house and to open a dark fountain. They are making decisions and trying to make events happen the way they want.
9. Does killing matter in Deltarune?
While you can fight or spare enemies, it doesn’t drastically alter the plot. Enemies flee when defeated, and the game avoids the direct killing seen in Undertale.
10. Is Frisk in Deltarune?
Frisk does not exist in Deltarune. The game is a separate entity, with new characters and a different story.
11. Is Kris mute?
Kris’s speech patterns indicate they are selectively mute, often only speaking when prompted and sometimes freezing up when under stress.
12. What color are Kris’ eyes?
Kris’ eyes are red when they do not have their SOUL in their body and they are usually in dark areas during this time.
13. Is Asriel alive in Deltarune?
Yes, Asriel exists in Deltarune and is Kris’s brother who is away at university.
14. Why did Toby Fox create Deltarune?
The idea for Deltarune came from a dream Toby Fox had in 2011. It was an idea he wanted to make into a game for years.
15. Who is Kris’ crush in Deltarune?
While not explicitly stated, there is evidence to suggest that Susie is Kris’ absolute favorite person throughout the events of Deltarune.