The Walking Dead: Destinies reimagines the franchise, allowing players to make choices that have a profound effect on the game's events. In this third-person action-stealth game, one example of this is the option to spare Shane's life instead of having him killed by Rick Grimes. These choices also impact gameplay by unlocking different skills depending on which characters are kept or lost. With over 150+ possible variations and three different bosses in the ending, each player's experience is unique. However, it is important to clarify that there are not 150+ distinct endings. According to Game Director Paulo Luis Santos of Flux Games, the game's narrative closely follows the story of the first four seasons, but the range of choices still showcases the significant impact players can have.
The "What If" scenarios in The Walking Dead: Destinies offer multiple endings, but these endings are only slightly changed by a character's choices. While the variations in the endings are not significant, they do depend on which characters the players bring to the conclusion of the game. In total, there are over 150 combinations of characters that can affect the ending, but this does not mean that there are 150 completely unique ending cutscenes. Instead, players will see very similar cutscenes with different characters in them during the final moments of the game.
With an array of diverse characters, the storyline of The Walking Dead remains anchored to the first four seasons. While the potential endings may have similarities, the experience of navigating through it all promises to be an exhilarating ride. Moreover, players are in for some satisfying rewards. As Santos explains, "Upon reaching the final level, a captivating cutscene showcases your character roster. It reveals the survivors, those whose fate was decided by your choices." This powerful moment evokes deep emotions and even sent shivers down Santos' spine, vividly illustrating the consequences of each decision players have made thus far. Additionally, players will confront one of three distinct final adversaries, depending on the choices they have made throughout the game. The nature of these choices and the identities of these formidable bosses remain shrouded in mystery, but avid followers of the show might be able to make some educated guesses.
"...A noteworthy aspect is the inclusion of three distinct ultimate bosses in the game, which vary based on the decisions made during the playthrough!"
In essence, offering an entertaining experience for fans of the franchise, it allows them to personalize their choices and safeguard their beloved characters. For enthusiasts of Shane in The Walking Dead, it presents an opportunity to explore an alternative storyline, depicting what might have occurred if he had survived and reached the conclusion of season 4."
The Walking Dead: Destinies is set to release on November 14 for PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.