Video games have brought countlessimmersive and captivating narratives. As players progress through these interactive adventures, they often anticipate a satisfying conclusion that ties up loose ends and rewards them for their efforts. However, some endings go above and beyond, deliveringjaw-dropping revelationsthat leave players stunned and questioning everything they thought they knew about the game’s universe.
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From mind-bending plot twists to unexpected character revelations, these endings have redefined how players perceive video game storytelling. Delving into the moments forever left an indelible mark on players' minds.WARNING! Major video game spoilers ahead.
10Final Fantasy 10 – Tidus Is Just A Dream
InFinal Fantasy 10near the end of the game, it is revealed that Tidus, the main protagonist, is not a real person but merely a dream or a projection of the fayth. These spirits summon the powerful creature known as Sin. Players follow Tidus’s journey throughout the game and become emotionally invested in his relationships, struggles, and growth. As the story unfolds, Tidus connects with other characters,especially Yuna, the female lead.
The impact of this revelation is profound as players grapple with the idea that the protagonist they have guided and empathized with may not exist in the same way as other characters. It introduces existential and philosophical themes, exploring the concepts of existence, identity, and consciousness within the game’s narrative. The twist leaves players contemplating the blurred lines between reality and illusion, adding complexity and depth to the storytelling and making it one of the most memorable moments in theFinal Fantasyseries.
9inFAMOUS – Kessler Is Cole In The Future
The surprising revelation in inFAMOUS happens during the final boss fights against Kessler, the intimidating leader of the First Sons responsible for Trish’s murder. In a twist, Kessler implants a vision into Cole’s head, revealing that he is Cole from the future. This future version of Cole allowed the world to be destroyed by the Beast to save his family.
After losing his family despite his actions, he used his powers to travel back in time, taking control of the First Sons and manipulating Cole’s journey. Kessler forces Cole to become the man he never was, all to ensure the defeat of the true villain, the Beast. This revelation completely changes players' perceptions of Kessler and Cole, creating an emotionally charged narrative that challenges the notions of heroism and sacrifice.
8Silent Hill 2 – James Killed Mary
The player uncovers a revelation inSilent Hill 2toward the game’s end when the mental block that James Sunderland had placed on himself is lifted, revealing the truth about his wife, Mary. Players learn that Mary is suffering from a terminal illness, leading James to make the horrifying decision of smothering her to end her suffering and his torment.
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This revelation of Mary’s murder subverts players' expectations and prompts them to confront the moral complexities of the narrative. The emotional impact of this revelation evokes horror, empathy, and moral contemplation, makingSilent Hill 2a deeply unsettling and unforgettable gaming experience. Players will have a chance of reliving this twist sometime in the future,as a remake is in the works.
At the end ofCall of Duty: Black Ops, players uncover a chilling truth that challenges the reality they thought they knew. The twist comes when players learn the truth from the perspectives of Mason’s fellow soldiers, Hudson and Weaver. They reveal that Resnov, who had been helping Mason throughout the game, had died early on and was never there.
Additionally, they explain that Mason had been brainwashed, leading him to hallucinate Reznov and assume his persona. This revelation turns the narrative on its head, blurring the lines between reality and hallucination. Players are left in disbelief, realizing they witnessed the story through Mason’s eyes by experiencing his fractured psyche. The shocking twist not only adds depth to the character of Alex Mason but also challenges players to question the reliability of their own experiences.
6BioShock Infinite – Booker Is Comstock
At the end ofBioshock Infinite, the game delivers a mind-bending conclusion that unravels a fine web of alternate realities and timelines. The shock comes when it is revealed that Booker and Comstock, who seemed so different and disconnected, are alternate versions of the same person from different realities. The game introduces the concept of infinite universes and parallel timelines, where every decision creates a new branching path, resulting in different versions of the protagonist.
The revelation forces players to rethink everything they thought they knew about the characters and the narrative. It’s even more heartbreaking giventhe bond that players forge with Elizabethduring the course of the game.
5Metroid – The Protagonist Is A Woman
At the end ofMetroid, players were met with a surprise. Throughout the gameplay, the brave space marine protagonist goes on to defeat space pirates and the monstrous Mother Brain. All along, players assumed that this character was a male. However, as the game climaxes, the marine removes their helmet and, to everyone’s surprise,reveals that she is a woman named Samus Aran.
This twist was unprecedented in gaming. Samus Aran’s reveal as a female protagonist was a groundbreaking moment for gender stereotypes in video game history. She soon became one of the most widely recognized and celebrated female video game heroes, paving the way for greater representation and diversity in the gaming industry.
Throughout the game, Isaac has been on a harrowing mission to rescue his girlfriend, Nicole, a crew member working on the spaceship Ishimura. However, in a gut-wrenching plot twist, it is revealed that Nicole has been dead all along. The hallucinations induced by the Marker have played tricks on Isaac’s mind, making him believe that Nicole is still alive and leading him deeper into his delusions. The truth is that she died long before Isaac arrived at the Ishimura.
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The ending ofDead Spaceis a bold and memorable narrative choice that lingers in players' minds long after the game ends. It showcases the game’s commitment to delivering a gripping and emotionally charged experience, making ita standout and unforgettable entry in the survival horror genre.
3Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood – Desmond Kills Lucy
At the end ofAssassin’s Creed: Brotherhood, an unexpected turn of events takes place when Desmond reaches the Apple within the vault. Aware of Lucy’s true allegiance, Juno seizes control of Desmond’s body. This unexpected betrayal by Lucy, who was previously believed to be an ally, catches players off guard.
Desmond is compelled to take drastic action in a forced state—he stabs Lucy in the stomach with his Hidden Blade, resulting in her death. Desmond’s distress and the consequences of his actions add depth to the story and impact players on an emotional level. Lucy’s betrayal and her tragic fate not only bring an unexpected plot development but also leaves players questioning the true motivations and intentions of other characters in the game.
2Call Of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 – Shepherd Betrays Roach And Ghost
InCall of Duty: Modern Warfare 2, General Shepherd’s betrayal isan unforeseen twist near the end of the story. Throughout the game, he is depicted as a respected military leader whom players trust and follow. He serves as a mentor and a figure of authority, which makes the betrayal hit even harder. When he turns against the player and the team, it shatters the trust built towards him.
The betrayal comes unexpectedly and abruptly, catching players off guard with the sudden change in Shepherd’s character. General Shepherd fatally shoots Roach and Ghost at point-blank range, a scene that’s heartbreaking to even the most hardened fans.
1Heavy Rain – Ethan Mars Kills Himself
In one of the sad endings ofHeavy Rain, Ethan, one of the main characters, cannot rescue his son Shaun. Ethan and Madison both stand at Shaun’s grave, their faces heavy with grief. As Madison turns to leave, Ethan’s trembling voice halts her steps. Filled with despair, he reveals a gun. Before Madison can react, a single shot rings out as he takes his own life.
Madison’s heartfelt plea to start anew and create a new family with Ethan is met with a tragedy as Ethan’s profound sorrow becomes unbearable. The suddenness of the gunshot and Ethan’s lifeless body collapsing leaves a lasting mark on Madison and the player.
