Resident Evil 2 (1998)
Resident Evil 2 (1998)

Game Endings

Understand the multiple game endings in Resident Evil 2. Learn how character choice and Scenario A or B paths influence the final outcomes and cinematics.

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Game Endings

Resident Evil 2 features multiple endings, primarily determined by which character you choose for your initial playthrough (Leon S. Kennedy or Claire Redfield) and then which "Scenario" you play through (A or B). This creates four distinct main story paths, each with its own unique ending cinematic and slight variations in the narrative and character interactions.

To experience all the story content and unlock bonus features, you'll need to complete all four primary scenarios. The game is designed for you to play through one character's A scenario, and then the other character's B scenario, which directly follows the events of the first. For example, completing Leon A unlocks Claire B, and completing Claire A unlocks Leon B.

Scenario A Endings

These endings conclude the first playthrough for either character. While the general outcome is similar – escape from Raccoon City – the specific details and who escapes with whom will differ.

Leon A Ending

After defeating the final form of William Birkin and the Tyrant (Mr. X) in the Laboratory's P4 Incinerator Room, Leon will rendezvous with Claire and Sherry Birkin. The group will escape the exploding facility via the underground train. The ending cinematic shows them emerging from the wreckage, with Leon promising to protect Sherry and Claire. Ada Wong's fate is left ambiguous, though her final actions suggest her survival.

  • Key Actions:
    • Defeat the G-Virus mutated William Birkin (final form) in the P4 Incinerator Room.
    • Defeat the Super Tyrant (Mr. X) on the train platform.
    • Activate the self-destruct sequence in the Main Shaft.
    • Board the escape train with Claire and Sherry.
  • Outcome: Leon, Claire, and Sherry escape Raccoon City.

Claire A Ending

Similar to Leon A, Claire's A scenario also culminates in an escape from the collapsing Umbrella Laboratory. After dealing with the final G-Virus mutation of William Birkin and the Tyrant, Claire will meet up with Leon and Sherry. The trio escapes on the train. The ending focuses on Claire's determination to find her brother, Chris Redfield, and her bond with Sherry.

  • Key Actions:
    • Defeat the G-Virus mutated William Birkin (final form) in the P4 Incinerator Room.
    • Defeat the Super Tyrant (Mr. X) on the train platform.
    • Activate the self-destruct sequence in the Main Shaft.
    • Board the escape train with Leon and Sherry.
  • Outcome: Claire, Leon, and Sherry escape Raccoon City.

Scenario B Endings (The "True" Endings)

The B scenarios are considered the canonical continuation of the story. They feature more intense boss battles, additional story elements, and a more definitive conclusion for the characters involved. These endings are unlocked after completing an A scenario.

Leon B Ending (After Claire A)

This ending provides a more complete picture of the events. After Claire's A scenario, Leon B sees him facing off against a more powerful Tyrant and the final, monstrous form of William Birkin. The ending cinematic shows Leon, Claire, and Sherry escaping together, with a stronger emphasis on their collective survival and the immediate aftermath of the Raccoon City incident. Ada Wong's fate is more explicitly addressed, and her final act of sacrifice is shown.

  • Key Actions:
    • Defeat the Super Tyrant (Mr. X) in the Laboratory's P4 Incinerator Room (this battle is more challenging than in A scenarios).
    • Defeat the final, most grotesque form of William Birkin on the escape train.
    • Ensure Ada Wong's survival until her sacrifice in the P4 Incinerator Room.
    • Escape on the train with Claire and Sherry.
  • Outcome: Leon, Claire, and Sherry escape. Ada's sacrifice is confirmed.

Claire B Ending (After Leon A)

Following Leon's A scenario, Claire's B scenario presents the most challenging and definitive conclusion for her story. She faces the most formidable versions of the game's bosses. The ending solidifies her role as a protector of Sherry and reinforces her quest to find Chris. The escape is harrowing, and the final cinematic leaves a lasting impression of their struggle and the bond formed.

  • Key Actions:
    • Defeat the Super Tyrant (Mr. X) in the Laboratory's P4 Incinerator Room (this battle is more challenging than in A scenarios).
    • Defeat the final, most grotesque form of William Birkin on the escape train.
    • Escape on the train with Leon and Sherry.
  • Outcome: Claire, Leon, and Sherry escape. Claire's determination to find Chris is highlighted.

Unlocking Bonus Content

Completing all four main scenarios (Leon A, Claire B, Claire A, Leon B) is crucial for unlocking the game's bonus content, most notably the "The 4th Survivor" and "Tofu Survivor" mini-games. These challenging modes offer unique perspectives and additional gameplay opportunities, making the pursuit of all endings well worth the effort.

  • The 4th Survivor: Unlocked by completing both Leon A and Claire B, or Claire A and Leon B.
  • Tofu Survivor: Unlocked by completing "The 4th Survivor" with an A ranking, or by completing all six main scenarios (Leon A, Leon B, Claire A, Claire B, and then playing through the A and B scenarios again for the opposite character).