In addition to expansive maps for players to explore, open-world games also offer fans a satisfying degree of freedom in how they approach their titles. Character morals usually come into play in open-world games, especially RPGs. Sometimes choices even affect the ending of the main story.
Open world titles with multiple endings provide another reason to relive the game from a new perspective. However, not every game with multiple endings manages to do this function creatively. The following open world titles are by no means the only examples to offer multiple endings, though they tend to stand out.
Warning: Spoilers ahead
6 Red Dead Redemption 2
Red Dead Redemption 2 is the ultimate open-world, gunslinger western. Following on from its acclaimed predecessor, RDR 2 has a massive map filled to the brim with optional activities and side missions. Unlike the first game in the franchise, RDR 2 contains multiple endings, depending on Arthur Morgan’s morals.
There are four endings to Arthur’s story that depend on whether the player decides to go back for the money or help John Marston’s family, in addition to how honorable/dishonorable Arthur has behaved so far. The “bad” endings are suitably brutal, while the “good” endings see Arthur reach a peaceful, bittersweet death.
5 mafia 3
mafia 3 is the first game in the acclaimed franchise to feature a fully immersive open world for players to explore. The game is set in 1960s New Bordeaux, a setting heavily inspired by New Orleans. The main character, Lincoln Clay, eventually achieves the revenge he seeks against the city’s rival gangsters, although the game’s eventual ending can come in several variations.
Lincoln may decide to leave New Bordeaux altogether and put his criminal life behind him. Alternatively, he can decide to rule the city with his surviving lieutenants or trick them into ruling alone. Lincoln can be as ruthless or honorable as the player makes him, so any ending could potentially fit into the wider story.
4 Grand Theft Auto 5
Grand Theft Auto 5 is still the most recent entry in Rockstar’s incredibly popular franchise. Deviating from the usual convention of the series, GTA 5 features three playable protagonists, each with their own vastly different personalities. although Grand Theft Auto 4 also had multiple endings, which revolved around the choice of taking revenge or making a deal, the choices are a bit more compelling in GTA 5.
Towards the end of the game, Franklin is given three options regarding his former friends: he can kill Michael or Trevor… or decide to fulfill a death wish and team up with his criminal compatriots. The last ending is always the happy ending and undoubtedly represents the most popular choice when it comes time for players to decide.
3 Fallout New Vegas
unlike Forgetfulness or Skyrimthe endings of the main stories in the precipitation games can be very different depending on the player’s decisions. When it comes to ending variation, it’s hard to beat Fallout New Vegas. The protagonist, known simply as the Courier, plays a pivotal role in which the faction ultimately rules the Mojave wasteland.
Players can see the Democratic New California Republic include New Vegas and its environs under its burgeoning umbrella. If good morals don’t hinder the player, they can ensure that Caesar’s Legion emerges victorious. The enigmatic Mr. Supporting House in his quest to cement his control over the territory is another option. The most selfish ending, of course, is that players rule New Vegas themselves!
2 The Witcher 3
When it comes to epic fantasy RPGs, players don’t need to look much further than: The Witcher 3. As monster hunter extraordinaire Geralt of Rivia, fans have the opportunity to explore a highly immersive landscape bursting with charm and intrigue. In addition, Geralt’s interactions with other key characters can influence the ending of the main story.
Depending on how Geralt deals with Ciri, the latter could either perish, ascend the throne as Nilfgaard’s new Empress, or become a Witcher like her surrogate father. Moreover, the choice of Geralt’s love interest depends on who he decided to romanticize during the game, Triss, Yennefer or neither.
1 Elden Ring
Elden Ring is the latest entry from FromSoftware, allowing players to explore the deadly Lands Between in their quest to become the new Elden Lord. Of course, the new Elden Lord will be just the tip of the iceberg, as there are multiple finals available. As always, each ending is influenced by the decisions fans have made along the way.
Through their actions, players can draw six unique conclusions that have a clear impact on the Lands Between. Four of the endings involve becoming the new Elden Lord in an Age of Fracture, Order, Despair, or Duskborn. The Tarnished can also become the Lord of Frenzied Flame or bring about the Age of Stars. How’s that for multiple endings?
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