Most video games encourage players to persevere through challenges, viewing failure as a stepping stone. However, Rebel Wolves' upcoming title, The Blood of Dawnwalker, published by Bandai Namco, introduces an unconventional ending where players can opt to abandon the campaign.
This unique conclusion is accessible shortly after completing the game's prologue. Players who wish to exit the narrative early can travel from Laslea Glen towards the western edge of the game world. Beyond the woods of Briar Sloughs, a location named the Coward's Path houses a shrine. Following the path from this shrine leads to a side quest called The Cursed Chasm, which features a broken bridge spanning a ravine. The road continues on the opposite side, leading to a large, unblockaded gate.
To achieve this "give up" ending, players must cross the ravine and reach the gate. The process requires specific timing and character abilities. It is necessary for the in-game time to be nighttime, which transforms the character Coen into a vampire. Players must then carefully jump across the chasm, utilizing the Shadowstep ability to attach to a rock on the far side. Subsequent use of Planeshift and Shadowstep mechanics will allow players to ascend the other side of the ravine.
Upon reaching the gate, players will be presented with the option to "Leave the valley forever." This choice leads to a unique conclusion where Coen accepts that he must find a new life and abandon his mission to rescue his family, leaving the region to the vampire boyars. The game will then proceed to the credits, followed by a brief epilogue that hints at a potential sequel. This specific ending also grants players an achievement titled "A Hero They Deserve."
This "nope out" ending is not entirely unprecedented in gaming, drawing comparisons to the optional escape route in Far Cry 6, where players could avoid conflict by sailing away. The Blood of Dawnwalker, however, offers this as a distinct narrative conclusion, contrasting with the more traditional challenge of confronting the vampire lord Brencis in his citadel.