Dark Souls 2 The Future After The Ending Lore And Sequel Theories
Dark Souls 2, a game celebrated and debated within the Dark Souls trilogy, leaves players with numerous questions about the future of its world and characters. This article delves into the lore implications, fan theories, and potential directions a sequel could take, while providing a comprehensive analysis of the game's ending and its significance within the larger narrative. For those who haven't finished the game, beware of spoilers ahead!
The Lingering Questions of Dark Souls 2
The Dark Souls universe is known for its intricate lore, cryptic storytelling, and ambiguous endings. Dark Souls 2 is no exception. It presents a world steeped in cyclical tragedies, where the curse of the Undead perpetually ensnares individuals, leading them on a desperate quest to link the First Flame and stave off the Age of Dark. However, Dark Souls 2 deviates from the narrative of the first game, introducing new kingdoms, characters, and perspectives on the nature of the curse and the cycle of fire and dark. The game's conclusion, while seemingly offering a glimmer of hope, leaves many questions unanswered. What truly becomes of the protagonist, the Bearer of the Curse? What is the ultimate fate of Drangleic and its inhabitants? And how does this all connect to the larger tapestry of the Dark Souls universe?
These are the questions we will explore as we delve into the various aspects of the game's ending and the possibilities it opens up for future installments or narratives within the Dark Souls framework. Understanding these questions is crucial for appreciating the depth and complexity of Dark Souls 2 and its impact on the series as a whole.
The Ending of Dark Souls 2: A New Perspective on the Cycle
The ending of Dark Souls 2 presents a unique departure from the conclusions of the other Dark Souls games. After defeating Nashandra, the final boss, the player is faced with a choice: to claim the throne and perpetuate the cycle of fire, or to step away and potentially usher in an Age of Dark. However, the game's narrative subtly suggests a third option – a path beyond the binary choice of fire and dark, a path towards true independence from the cycle itself. This nuanced perspective on the cyclical nature of the world is a key element in understanding the potential future of the Dark Souls narrative.
Unlike the first Dark Souls, where linking the fire feels like a necessary but ultimately futile act, or Dark Souls 3, where the protagonist can choose to either link the fire or let it fade completely, Dark Souls 2 emphasizes the importance of self-determination. The player character, the Bearer of the Curse, has journeyed through a fallen kingdom, confronted powerful adversaries, and ultimately gained the strength to choose their own destiny. This choice is not explicitly defined, leaving room for interpretation and speculation. Does the Bearer of the Curse seek a new path altogether? Do they attempt to break the cycle in a way that hasn't been seen before? The ambiguity is deliberate, inviting players to ponder the true meaning of their actions and the potential consequences for the world.
The game's final cutscene reinforces this ambiguity. The Bearer of the Curse is seen walking away from the throne, disappearing into the darkness. This could symbolize a descent into the Age of Dark, but it could also represent a rejection of the throne and the cycle it represents. This open-ended conclusion is a significant departure from the more definitive endings of the other Dark Souls games and fuels speculation about what might come next.
Lore Implications and Fan Theories
The ending of Dark Souls 2 and its broader narrative implications have sparked countless fan theories and discussions within the Dark Souls community. One of the most prevalent theories revolves around the idea of the Bearer of the Curse achieving a level of transcendence, breaking free from the cycle of fire and dark altogether. This theory is supported by the game's emphasis on self-discovery and the player character's unique journey.
Another popular theory suggests that the Bearer of the Curse becomes a figure akin to the Soul of Cinder from Dark Souls 3, a convergence of powerful souls capable of shaping the world's destiny. This theory highlights the immense power the player character accumulates throughout the game and the potential for that power to be used for good or ill. Some fans speculate that the events of Dark Souls 2 could have influenced the state of the world in Dark Souls 3, particularly the convergence of lands seen in Lothric. The fragmented nature of Drangleic and the themes of memory and forgotten history resonate with the later game's setting.
Furthermore, the figure of Aldia, a key character in the Crown of the Sunken King DLC, adds another layer of complexity to the lore. Aldia's experiments with the nature of life and death, his pursuit of true immortality, and his philosophical pronouncements about the nature of the world align with the game's themes of challenging the established order. His dialogue suggests a desire to understand the true nature of the curse and the cycle, hinting at a potential solution that goes beyond the simple linking of the fire or embracing the dark. Aldia's role in the narrative and his ultimate fate are left ambiguous, leaving room for speculation about his potential influence on future events in the Dark Souls universe.
Exploring these fan theories is essential for understanding the depth and complexity of the Dark Souls 2 narrative. They demonstrate the game's lasting impact on the community and its ability to spark engaging discussions about the lore and the potential future of the series.
Potential Sequels: What Could Come Next?
Given the ambiguous ending of Dark Souls 2 and the rich lore it establishes, there are numerous possibilities for a potential sequel or a continuation of the narrative within the Dark Souls framework. A direct sequel could explore the consequences of the Bearer of the Curse's actions, delving into the state of Drangleic or other kingdoms affected by their choices. It could also focus on the long-term implications of breaking or altering the cycle of fire and dark.
One compelling direction for a sequel would be to explore the fate of other lands and cultures within the Dark Souls universe. Dark Souls 2 introduced elements of different mythologies and cultures, such as the Mirrah Knights and the Lucatiel questline, hinting at a world far larger and more diverse than what has been shown in the previous games. A sequel could delve deeper into these cultures, introducing new environments, characters, and enemies inspired by different mythologies and folklore.
Another possibility would be to focus on the figure of Aldia and his experiments. A sequel could explore the consequences of his pursuit of immortality and his research into the nature of the curse. This could lead to the introduction of new forms of undead or other supernatural beings, further expanding the lore and the challenges players face. The ethical implications of Aldia's work, the pursuit of knowledge at any cost, could also be a central theme.
Furthermore, a sequel could explore the potential for a world free from the cycle of fire and dark. This could involve the introduction of new mechanics and gameplay elements, such as the ability to build and maintain communities or the exploration of a world where the undead curse no longer holds sway. The challenges of such a world, the potential for new conflicts and power struggles, could provide a compelling narrative framework.
The possibilities for a sequel to Dark Souls 2 are vast and varied. The game's ambiguous ending and rich lore provide a solid foundation for future narratives within the Dark Souls universe. Whether the next installment takes the form of a direct sequel, a spin-off, or a game set in a new world entirely, the legacy of Dark Souls 2 will undoubtedly continue to influence the series.
The Impact of Dark Souls 2 on the Series and the Soulslike Genre
Dark Souls 2, despite being a divisive entry in the Dark Souls series, has had a significant impact on the franchise and the wider Soulslike genre. The game introduced several new mechanics and gameplay elements that have become staples of the genre, such as the ability to power stance weapons, the use of lifegems for healing, and the inclusion of a bonfire ascetic system that allows players to replay areas at a higher difficulty.
The game's focus on player agency and choice, as seen in the ambiguous ending and the emphasis on self-determination, has also influenced subsequent Soulslike games. Many games in the genre now offer players more meaningful choices and branching narratives, allowing them to shape the world and the story in more significant ways.
Dark Souls 2 also expanded the lore and the world of the Dark Souls universe in significant ways. The introduction of new kingdoms, characters, and cultures added depth and complexity to the narrative. The game's themes of memory, loss, and the cyclical nature of history have resonated with players and critics alike.
While some fans have criticized Dark Souls 2 for its perceived differences from the other games in the series, its unique perspective and its contributions to the Soulslike genre cannot be denied. The game's legacy continues to be felt in the games that have followed, and its impact on the Dark Souls series is undeniable.
Conclusion: The Enduring Mystery of Dark Souls 2
Dark Souls 2 remains a fascinating and enigmatic entry in the Dark Souls series. Its ambiguous ending, rich lore, and thought-provoking themes have sparked countless discussions and theories within the community. The game's legacy extends beyond its gameplay mechanics and narrative, influencing the wider Soulslike genre and inspiring developers to create their own unique and challenging experiences.
The future after Dark Souls 2 remains uncertain, but the possibilities are vast. Whether the series continues with a direct sequel, a spin-off, or a game set in a new world entirely, the enduring mystery of Dark Souls 2 will undoubtedly continue to captivate players for years to come. The game's questions about the nature of the curse, the cycle of fire and dark, and the importance of self-determination will continue to resonate with players as they explore the dark and challenging worlds of the Dark Souls universe.
