The best endings in video games

15 days ago, by Enzo

Some video game endings do more than simply wrap up an adventure: they transcend it. They move us, challenge us, reward us, or leave a lasting impression long after the credits roll. From unforgettable tragedies to mind-bending twists, from philosophical conclusions to emotionally devastating resolutions, certain games have elevated the art of the finale to the level of a masterpiece. Today, we present an initial selection of the best video game endings, all dancing around any potential spoilers.

Let’s start with endings that can be described as tragic or emotionally devastating. Few series master tragedy as well as Red Dead Redemption. The first installment offers an ending that has become legendary for its brutality and narrative coherence. The second, a prequel, further enriches this dramatic scope with a deeply human conclusion.

Of course, how can we discuss storytelling and impactful conclusions without mentioning The Last of Us - Part I and The Last of Us - Part II? The strength of these games lies in their morally complex endings, which go beyond comfort or simple answers. Each one divides opinion, precisely because it dares to do so. The Walking Dead, released in 2012, features a first season that remains one of the most moving in the medium to this day. The bond between the characters makes the ending heartbreaking. Although simple, it is above all human and perfectly executed.

Let’s now move on to endings with a twists or striking revelations. We’ll start with Bioshock and its iconic twist. A twist woven into the gameplay itself, coupled with a brilliant exploration of free will. In short, it manages to reframe the entire adventure. We venture a bit further into the shadows to discuss Silent Hill 2, famous in particular for its multiple endings, but above all for the symbolic power of its conclusions. For its part, Alan Wake 2 takes the concept of a labyrinthine, meta-narrative, and unsettling ending to a fascinating level. It features a bold narrative structure, accompanied by an ending that plays with perception and levels of reality.

Now let’s turn to endings that are a bit more philosophical, exemplified notably by Nier: Automata. They converge into a true masterpiece, a perfect fusion of storytelling, gameplay, and theme. Beneath its modest exterior, Undertale offers several endings whose impact depends directly on the player. The game turns morality into a gameplay system, and each ending serves as a commentary on how we play.

For something more contemplative, look no further than Shadow of the Colossus, a legendary title whose ending elevates all its mystery. Unexpected yet present in this selection, Portal 2 proves that a great ending can also be brilliant, surprising, and perfectly satisfying: a crescendo of genius in level design, and a conclusion that is both spectacular and elegant, offering a rare sense of total accomplishment.

The best video game endings aren’t simply those that surprise or move us. They are the ones that give new meaning to everything that came before. They transform a great adventure into a memorable work, sometimes making it unforgettable, and demonstrate that video games can rival the greatest forms of storytelling. And you, which ones have left a lasting impression on you? Do you have any suggestions for a new selection of this kind?