Why Isn’t the Secret Ending Triggering in Dead Space Remake? A Deep Dive
So, you’ve braved the horrors of the USG Ishimura, sliced through Necromorphs like a hot knife through butter, and meticulously scoured every nook and cranny… but the alternate ending in the Dead Space remake remains stubbornly locked. Frustrating, isn’t it? The primary reason the secret ending isn’t triggering is almost always related to failing to collect all 12 Marker Fragments during your New Game Plus (NG+) playthrough. It’s a seemingly simple requirement, but each fragment must be secured within a single NG+ run; any left behind will prevent the unlocking of the ending. Let’s dissect this further.
Common Pitfalls: Missed Fragments and Incorrect Procedures
The secret to witnessing the alternate ending isn’t about difficulty levels or skill; it’s about methodical collection and understanding the specific parameters set by the developers. Several common mistakes can hinder your progress:
- Not Playing on New Game Plus: You absolutely must be playing on New Game Plus to find the Marker Fragments. A fresh playthrough, no matter how thorough, will not work.
- Missing Fragments: This is the most prevalent issue. The 12 Marker Fragments are cleverly hidden throughout the Ishimura. A single missed fragment will lock you out of the secret ending. Utilize guides, checklists, and videos to ensure you’ve grabbed them all.
- Not Collecting All Fragments in a Single NG+ Run: You can’t collect some fragments in one NG+ playthrough and then collect the rest in another. All 12 Marker Fragments must be obtained within the same New Game Plus save file.
- Glitches and Bugs (Rare): While less common, glitches can occasionally prevent a fragment from spawning or registering correctly. Restarting the chapter or reloading an earlier save can sometimes resolve this.
- Incorrect Expectations: The alternate ending doesn’t automatically play after the final boss. You must complete the game as usual, and the new scene will then play.
Troubleshooting Your Hunt for Marker Fragments
If you’re certain you’ve collected all 12 Marker Fragments, double-check these points before resorting to another playthrough:
- Verify Your Inventory: Access your inventory and confirm that all 12 Marker Fragments are present. They have a distinct icon, so they should be easily identifiable.
- Consult a Comprehensive Guide: Even if you’ve used a guide previously, revisit it and meticulously compare your progress. There’s a chance you misidentified a location or mistakenly assumed you collected a fragment.
- Check Known Glitch Locations: Research if any of the Marker Fragment locations are known to be bugged. Community forums and online guides often document such issues.
Why the Alternate Ending Matters
The inclusion of a secret ending in the Dead Space remake is more than just a fun bonus; it’s a narrative bridge connecting the remake to the wider Dead Space universe, specifically Dead Space 2. It subtly recontextualizes Isaac Clarke’s mental state and potentially foreshadows his role in the events that transpire on The Sprawl. This ending has added to discussions about the narrative canon of the series. Games Learning Society often highlights the role of narrative complexity in gaming experiences, and this is a prime example. The added depth in the ending really enhances the quality of the story of the game.
Mastering the New Game Plus Experience
Embarking on a New Game Plus playthrough isn’t just about collecting Marker Fragments. It’s an opportunity to fully leverage the upgrades and equipment you acquired in your initial run. Consider these strategies:
- Upgrade Your Gear: Maximize your weapon and RIG upgrades to make short work of the Necromorph hordes.
- Optimize Your Inventory: Carefully manage your inventory to carry the essentials: ammo, health packs, and key items.
- Experiment with Weapons: NG+ is the perfect time to experiment with weapons you might have overlooked in your first playthrough.
- Utilize Stasis and Kinesis: Mastering these abilities can drastically improve your combat effectiveness.
FAQs: Unlocking the Alternate Ending in Dead Space Remake
1. Do I have to play on a specific difficulty to unlock the secret ending?
No, the difficulty level doesn’t matter. You can unlock the alternate ending on any difficulty setting in New Game Plus.
2. Can I collect the Marker Fragments across multiple New Game Plus playthroughs?
No, you must collect all 12 Marker Fragments within a single New Game Plus playthrough.
3. Are the Marker Fragments missable?
Yes, the Marker Fragments are missable. If you progress too far in the story without collecting a fragment, you may need to reload an earlier save or restart your NG+ run.
4. Where are the Marker Fragments located?
The Marker Fragments are hidden throughout the Ishimura. Consult a comprehensive guide or video walkthrough for specific locations.
5. What happens if I miss a Marker Fragment?
If you miss a Marker Fragment, you will not be able to unlock the secret ending. You’ll need to start another New Game Plus playthrough.
6. Does the secret ending change the main story?
No, the secret ending is an additional scene that plays after the credits roll. It doesn’t alter the core narrative of the game.
7. Is the Level 6 Suit required to get the secret ending?
No, the Level 6 Suit is not required to unlock the alternate ending. It’s a separate unlockable item available in NG+.
8. Can I use a guide to find the Marker Fragments?
Absolutely! Using a guide is highly recommended to ensure you don’t miss any Marker Fragments.
9. Does the secret ending have any impact on future Dead Space games?
The secret ending subtly hints at Isaac Clarke’s potential role in future events, particularly those depicted in Dead Space 2. It adds a layer of intrigue to the narrative.
10. Is the secret ending worth the effort?
For dedicated Dead Space fans, the secret ending is definitely worth the effort. It provides a deeper understanding of Isaac Clarke’s character and his connection to the Markers.
11. Do I need to complete any side missions to unlock the secret ending?
No, completing side missions is not required to unlock the alternate ending. The only requirement is collecting all 12 Marker Fragments in NG+.
12. Is there a way to track how many Marker Fragments I’ve collected?
Yes, the Marker Fragments are visible in your inventory once collected. This allows you to keep track of your progress.
13. Are the Marker Fragments in the same locations as in the original Dead Space?
No, the Marker Fragments are new additions to the Dead Space remake and were not present in the original game.
14. If I collect the Level 6 suit on a New Game Plus, can I keep it if I start another New Game Plus?
Yes, any items you collect in New Game Plus, including the Level 6 suit and any weapon upgrades, are carried over to subsequent New Game Plus playthroughs.
15. What is the best weapon to use for a New Game Plus playthrough focused on collecting Marker Fragments?
The Plasma Cutter remains a versatile and reliable choice due to its effectiveness against a wide range of Necromorphs. However, experiment with other weapons you’ve upgraded to maximize your combat efficiency.
Unlocking the secret ending in the Dead Space remake is a rewarding experience that adds a layer of depth to an already compelling story. By understanding the requirements, avoiding common pitfalls, and utilizing the right strategies, you can ensure that you witness the full scope of Isaac Clarke’s harrowing journey. Remember, the key is patience, a keen eye, and a willingness to delve back into the heart of the Ishimura.