Video games have become an immersive form of entertainment, allowing players to embark on thrilling adventures and become part of captivating narratives. One crucial aspect of a memorable gaming experience is the ending.
A well-crafted ending can leave players satisfied, emotionally moved, or even questioning their own choices throughout the game—in other words, it provides some form of closure. In this article, we will explore 10 video games with the best endings, where the concluding moments of the story truly shine.
From epic plot twists to emotionally resonant conclusions, these games have left a lasting impact on players worldwide and will be engraved in our minds eternally.
Also before we move on, we would like to put out a disclaimer that there will be spoilers! With that done, let’s start!
1. The Last of Us
Heading into the apocalypse, players assume the role of Joel, a smuggler, and Ellie, a young girl immune to the virus ravaging humanity. The Last of Us delivers a gut-wrenching finale that challenges players' moral compass.
Having to choose between sacrifice and love, the game truly sets us up for a rollercoaster of emotions. During these closing moments, The Last of Us truly cements itself as a masterpiece. It leaves a lasting taste with players pondering the nature of humanity long after the credits roll.
2. Mass Effect 2
As Commander Shepard, players must assemble a team to save the galaxy from an impending threat. The conclusion of Mass Effect 2 offers an intense final mission where the choices made throughout the game directly impact the fate of your crew.
In the finale of the game, the climax uses the race against time formula, creating a nail-biting experience that culminates in a thrilling and impactful ending. Trust us, after going through it, you’ll see yourself sweating bullets and you will need a break after all that. It is also ideal for the game in setting the stage for the highly anticipated sequel.
3. Bioshock Infinite
In this mind-bending journey through the floating city of Columbia, players control Booker DeWitt, a man with a dark past. The ending of Bioshock Infinite pulls back the curtain on the intricate narrative, leaving players stunned and questioning the boundaries of reality.
As complex as the ending might be, it is gelled extremely well together due to its brilliant storytelling and thought-provoking premise. Usually, the sci-fi genre is seen to have oversaturated cliches but Bioshock Infinite does it perfectly. When you finish the game, you’ll have a feeling you are not just ending a game, but finishing an awesome tale.
4. Red Dead Redemption 2
Set in the dying Wild West, players take on the role of Arthur Morgan, an outlaw struggling to find redemption. The ending of Red Dead Redemption 2 is a deeply emotional and powerful moment that concludes Arthur's personal journey with grace and poignancy.
The ending essentially holds up a mirror and leaves players reflecting on the choices they made. It is a lesson that teaches us, actions have consequences and with it, the impact they had on the lives of the characters they encountered throughout the game. This self-reflective element is not new to video games, but we truly did not see it coming in RDR2.
5. Portal 2
Portal 2 combines mind-bending puzzles with witty humour, making it a beloved entry in the puzzle-platformer genre. The game's ending takes players on a wild ride, delivering a satisfying conclusion to the story while introducing unexpected twists.
Arguably one of the best story writing and dialogues created in video games’ history, Portal 2’s ending is just the cherry on top. Ultimately, the ending is a testament to the creativity and innovation of video game storytelling.
Though we do recommend you play the entire game at least once. It’s a game that you’ll need the full experience to understand the nuances. Once you have that, the ending just becomes that much better.
6. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
In this sprawling open-world RPG, players assume the role of Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter on a quest to find his adopted daughter. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt offers multiple endings that depend on the choices made throughout the game.
In other words, we can assume that players will get differing endings and we’re here to say that all of the endings are brilliant in their own right. This is because each ending feels deeply personal and impactful. The writers know what they are doing when manage to ensure that players feel the weight of their decisions.
All in all, it is a well-crafted ending that wraps up what is a truly unforgettable experience.
7. Journey
Journey is a unique and mesmerizing game that takes players on an emotional odyssey through a beautiful and mysterious world. The ending of Journey is a truly awe-inspiring moment that brings a sense of closure and fulfilment to the player's journey.
Without spoiling the details, it is safe to say that the ending is a poignant and melancholy reflection on life, connection, and the power of companionship. Sure, it might not have any plot twists or jaw-dropping moments near the end, but the writers took the emotional route with this.
It is a gorgeous game that stayed true to its theme right until the very end. We’re glad that they didn’t try too hard, which if they did, could rob the game’s emotional piece.
8. Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater
Snake Eater serves as a prequel to the previous Metal Gear Solid games and delves into the backstory of the iconic character, Solid Snake. The ending of Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater is a poignant and heart-wrenching conclusion that explores many powerful themes
Concepts of loyalty, sacrifice, and the true cost of war are all questioned. It is a bittersweet and heart-wrenching ending that is capable of leaving players emotionally invested in the characters involved. Again, as with Portal 2, this is a game that you will need to play the game as a whole to appreciate the ending. Do not attempt to watch YouTube videos about it. Play it and you’ll understand what we mean.
9. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Breath of the Wild revitalized the beloved Legend of Zelda franchise, offering a vast and immersive open world for players to explore. The game's ending beautifully ties together the threads of the narrative, providing players with a sense of accomplishment.
Towards the end, we also get a glimpse into the future of Hyrule. It is a step back after a long and arduous journey where the game rewards players for their dedication and commitment. Aside from all its wonder and satisfaction, we have to admit, reaching the end and watching the end is a little sad because we know, our playtime in this magnificent place is coming to an end.
10. Final Fantasy VII (1997)
Final Fantasy VII is hailed as one of the greatest video games of all time, and its ending is a major reason why. This epic role-playing game takes players on a journey filled with memorable characters, intense battles, and a sprawling storyline.
The conclusion of Final Fantasy VII is a breathtaking and emotional climax that has resonated with players for decades. It blends themes of love, loss, and hope, leaving players with a profound sense of fulfilment.
Final Thoughts
In the vast realm of video games, endings hold a special place in shaping our overall experience. The 10 games discussed above have showcased the power of a well-crafted conclusion, leaving players emotionally moved, questioning their choices, or simply in awe.
As gaming continues to evolve, we eagerly anticipate the next wave of unforgettable endings that will redefine storytelling in this captivating medium. In the meantime, if you want to pick up these games or require any video game needs like cheap top-ups and codes, be sure to visit OffGamers here!
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