Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 is a first-person shooter video game developed by Treyarch and published by Activision. The game was released on November 13, 2012, for Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360. The game is the ninth installment in the Call of Duty series and the sequel to Call of Duty: Black Ops. Black Ops 2 is set in 2025 and follows the story of David Mason, the son of Alex Mason from the previous game. The game features a branching storyline with multiple endings, depending on the player’s choices throughout the game.
Of the three possible endings, the “best” ending is the one in which David Mason is able to prevent the launch of the nuclear missiles and save the world from a nuclear war. This ending is achieved by making the correct choices during the game, such as choosing to side with the good guys and completing the side missions that are necessary to unlock the good ending. The best ending is a satisfying conclusion to the game, as it allows the player to feel like they have made a positive impact on the world. However, it is also a challenging ending to achieve, as it requires the player to make all of the right choices throughout the game.
The other two endings in Black Ops 2 are both considered to be “bad” endings. In one ending, David Mason is unable to prevent the launch of the nuclear missiles, and the world is destroyed in a nuclear war. In the other ending, David Mason is killed, and the player is left to wonder what would have happened if he had survived. Both of these endings are unsatisfying, as they leave the player feeling like they have failed to save the world. However, they are also more realistic, as they show that not all conflicts can be resolved peacefully.
The Ultimate End: Redemption
In the aftermath of the devastating events that unfolded during the campaign of Call of Duty: Black Ops 2, the world stands on the brink of a cataclysmic nuclear war. However, amidst the chaos and destruction, a glimmer of hope emerges in the form of an unlikely alliance. David Mason, the son of legendary soldier Alex Mason, joins forces with Raul Menendez, the enigmatic and ruthless leader of the terrorist organization Cordis Die. Together, they embark on a perilous mission to prevent the impending nuclear holocaust and secure a future for humanity.
As they navigate treacherous landscapes and face formidable adversaries, David and Menendez gradually come to understand each other’s motivations and the complexities of the conflict that has torn their world apart. David, driven by a desire for vengeance, seeks redemption for his father’s death and the countless lives lost in the war. Menendez, on the other hand, harbors a deep-seated hatred for the United States and its oppressive global dominance. Yet, despite their differences, they recognize the shared responsibility they bear to prevent further bloodshed.
In a climactic showdown that unfolds across multiple locations, David and Menendez confront the true mastermind behind the nuclear threat. They uncover a sinister plot orchestrated by a clandestine organization known as the “Shadow Company,” whose sole purpose is to profit from the chaos and destruction of war. With the fate of the world hanging in the balance, David and Menendez put aside their personal grievances and work together to expose the Shadow Company and its corrupt leaders.
| Protagonist | Motivation |
|---|---|
| David Mason | Redemption for his father’s death |
| Raul Menendez | Hatred for US dominance |
Closure and Resolution
BO2’s epilogue offers a sense of closure for the story’s main characters, with several returning from the original Black Ops. David Mason, now a seasoned soldier, reconciles with his father, Alex, and confronts his own inner demons. Frank Woods, a timeless operator, finds solace in the camaraderie of his fellow soldiers and the satisfaction of completing their mission.
Resolution through Sacrifice and Redemption
The final mission, “Karma,” forces players to confront the consequences of their choices. The raid on Raul Menendez’s headquarters culminates in a moral dilemma: execute Menendez or spare him in exchange for crucial intelligence. This decision profoundly impacts the story’s outcome and the characters’ emotional journeys.
| Outcome | Impact on Characters |
|---|---|
| Menendez executed | Mason and Woods find closure but grapple with the weight of their actions. The United States gains a strategic victory, but the cost in human lives remains. |
| Menendez spared | Mason’s morality is tested, and he struggles with the consequences of his decision. Woods remains steadfast in his belief that justice must be served. The United States sacrifices valuable intelligence to uphold its principles. |
Regardless of the choice made, “Karma” delivers a powerful resolution that highlights the complexities of warfare and the sacrifices required to achieve victory.
Redefining the Hero’s Journey
Call of Duty: Black Ops 2’s ending presents a nuanced and thought-provoking departure from traditional hero narratives. The player character, David Mason, faces a pivotal choice that profoundly impacts the game’s trajectory and the player’s perception of heroism.
The Illusion of Choice
Despite the illusion of player agency, both endings ultimately lead to a predetermined outcome. This subverts the classic Hero’s Journey, where the hero’s free will and actions shape their destiny. However, this choice forces players to confront the limits of their own influence and the complexities of moral decision-making.
The table below summarizes the two main endings and their consequences:
| Ending | Consequences |
|---|---|
| Supporting Menendez | – Menendez escapes and triggers a global conflict. – David Mason becomes an accomplice to mass destruction. |
| Stopping Menendez | – Menendez is killed, preventing the conflict. – David Mason is seen as a hero, but at the cost of his own freedom |
Impact on the Franchise
Call of Duty: Black Ops 2’s best ending, “Aftermath,” had a profound impact on the franchise:
Legacy of Characters
The ending introduced memorable characters, including David Mason and Frank Woods, who became iconic figures within the Black Ops saga. Their enduring appeal contributed to the franchise’s continued success.
Narrative Depth
The ending’s exploration of moral complexity and the consequences of war added a new dimension to Call of Duty’s storytelling. It challenged players to reflect on the repercussions of their actions, enhancing the franchise’s narrative depth.
Setting the Stage for Future Games
The aftermath of “Aftermath” set the stage for future Black Ops games. The ending’s resolution created a new status quo for the characters and the world they inhabited, opening up possibilities for further exploration in subsequent installments.
| Character | Significance |
|---|---|
| David Mason | Protagonist of Black Ops 2, son of Alex Mason |
| Frank Woods | Veteran CIA operative, mentor to David Mason |
| Menendez | Antagonist of Black Ops 2, leader of Cordis Die |
The Moral Compass
In Call of Duty: Black Ops II, players are presented with a series of moral choices that can shape the outcome of the campaign. These choices often pit the player’s desire to win against their sense of right and wrong. One of the most difficult moral choices in the game comes at the end of the “Karma” mission.
The Fate of Menendez
At the end of the “Karma” mission, the player is given the choice of whether to kill or spare Menendez, the game’s main antagonist. Killing Menendez will end the war and prevent him from causing further harm, but it will also deny him the opportunity to face justice for his crimes. Sparing Menendez will allow him to be captured and put on trial, but it will also give him the chance to escape and continue his reign of terror.
The Consequences of the Choice
The player’s choice has a significant impact on the game’s ending. If the player kills Menendez, the game ends with a message that reads, “The world is a safer place without Menendez.” If the player spares Menendez, the game ends with a message that reads, “The war is over, but the fight for justice continues.”
The Moral Implications
The decision of whether to kill or spare Menendez is a moral one. There is no easy answer, and both choices have their own consequences. The player must weigh the risks and benefits of each choice and decide what is the right thing to do.
Ultimately, the player’s choice is a reflection of their own moral compass. The choice they make will say something about their character and their beliefs.
Subverting Expectations
The Unexpected Finale
Unlike its predecessors, Black Ops 2 culminates in a highly unexpected twist. The player is initially led to believe that the primary antagonist, Raul Menendez, has been successfully thwarted. However, in a shocking turn of events, he emerges victorious, leaving the world in chaos and the player’s efforts seemingly futile.
Challenging Conventional Narratives
This unconventional ending directly subverts the typical “good triumphs over evil” narrative found in many first-person shooters. It leaves players with a sense of unease and uncertainty, challenging their expectations and forcing them to reflect on the complexities of real-world conflicts.
Ambiguous Morality
The twist ending also blurs the lines between good and evil. Menendez, despite his ruthless actions, is depicted as a charismatic and sympathetic figure. His victory raises questions about the nature of morality and the consequences of resorting to extreme measures in the pursuit of justice.
Realistic Consequences
The consequences of Menendez’s victory are portrayed in a gritty and realistic manner. The world is plunged into chaos, and the player is left to witness the devastating impact of his actions. This emphasizes the far-reaching consequences of choices made in the heat of conflict and the difficulty of finding clean solutions.
Questioning Player Agency
The unexpected ending also challenges the player’s sense of agency. Throughout the game, players are led to believe that their actions hold significant weight. However, the twist ending suggests that the player’s choices may ultimately have little impact on the larger course of events.
A Haunting Legacy
The ending of Black Ops 2 lingers in the player’s mind long after the credits roll. It serves as a haunting reminder of the complexities and ambiguities of warfare, the fragility of peace, and the potential for even the best-intentioned actions to have unintended and devastating consequences.
A Deeper Understanding of Menendez
Raul Menendez is one of the most iconic villains in the Call of Duty franchise, and his character is particularly well-developed in Black Ops 2. Here’s a deeper look into his motivations, backstory, and personality:
Motives: Revenge and Power
Menendez’s primary motive is revenge against those he believes have wronged him, particularly the United States government. He believes that the US orchestrated the death of his sister, Josefina, and he is determined to make them pay for their crimes. Additionally, Menendez seeks power and control, desiring to create a new world order where he holds absolute authority.
Backstory: A Tortured Past
Menendez’s past is marked by tragedy and suffering. He was born in Nicaragua during a time of political turmoil and violence. His sister, Josefina, was killed during a US-backed military operation, an event that left Menendez deeply traumatized and vengeful. His subsequent imprisonment and torture further fueled his anger and resentment towards the US.
Personality: Charismatic and Ruthless
Menendez is a complex character who combines charisma with ruthlessness. He is able to inspire loyalty and devotion in his followers while simultaneously committing horrific acts of violence. His speeches are powerful and persuasive, often appealing to the fears and frustrations of those who feel oppressed or marginalized.
Manipulative and Cunning
Menendez is a highly manipulative and cunning individual. He uses deception, intimidation, and violence to achieve his goals. He is able to exploit weaknesses in others and turn them against each other. His ability to control and manipulate people makes him a formidable enemy.
Strategic Genius
Despite his volatile nature, Menendez is also a brilliant strategist. He possesses a deep understanding of international politics and military tactics. He is able to anticipate the moves of his opponents and outmaneuver them with ease. His strategic prowess makes him a dangerous threat to both his enemies and his allies alike.
Ambiguous Legacy
Menendez’s legacy is complex and ambiguous. While he is undoubtedly a villain responsible for countless deaths and suffering, his motives and actions can also be seen as a reflection of the injustices and inequalities that exist in the world. His story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked power and the consequences of revenge.
The Power of Choice and Consequences
The Choices at the Crossroads
In the culminating mission of Call of Duty: Black Ops 2, players are faced with a pivotal choice that shapes the game’s outcome: To launch the nuclear strike or not.
The Nuclear Option
Launching the nuclear strike eradicates Menendez’s forces, but at the cost of lives in billions. The world is thrown into chaos, and the US government is held accountable for the devastating consequences.
The Diplomatic Path
Choosing the diplomatic path involves negotiating with Menendez and infiltrating his stronghold. This option allows players to spare countless lives, but it also grants Menendez a strategic advantage, leaving the potential for future threats.
The Aftermath
The choice made at the crossroads has profound consequences for the characters and the world. The nuclear strike results in widespread destruction and a fractured global community. The diplomatic path, while preserving lives, creates an uncertain future with a potential resurgence of Menendez.
The Good Ending
The “good ending” of Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 is the diplomatic path. While not without its own complications, this choice minimizes casualties and sets the stage for a potentially stable future.
The Bad Ending
The “bad ending” is triggered by launching the nuclear strike. The catastrophic consequences outweigh the initial success in defeating Menendez, leading to a dire and uncertain future.
The Neutral Ending
There is no clear “neutral ending” in Call of Duty: Black Ops 2. Both choices have significant consequences, making it a matter of perspective and interpretation which outcome is more or less favorable.
The Complexity of Morality
The choices presented in Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 highlight the complexity of morality in decision-making. There are no easy answers, and the consequences of one’s actions can have far-reaching effects.
| Option | Consequences |
|---|---|
| Nuclear Strike | Mass casualties, global chaos, US government accountability |
| Diplomatic Path | Preservation of lives, potential resurgence of Menendez |
A Lasting Impression
The Power of Choice
Black Ops 2’s ending is not a binary decision; it offers a nuanced spectrum of outcomes that depend on the player’s choices throughout the campaign. This level of freedom empowers players to shape the narrative and explore the consequences of their actions.
Consequences and Impact
The game’s non-linear branching paths lead to diverse endings that significantly impact the game world. Each choice carries weight, influencing the fate of characters, global events, and even future installments in the series.
Opening Up New Possibilities
The open-ended nature of the ending leaves room for future expansions and spin-offs. By not committing to a single resolution, Activision created a fertile ground for expanding the Black Ops universe and exploring new storylines.
Engaging Storytelling
The ending of Black Ops 2 is not merely a conclusion but an integral part of the storytelling experience. It reinforces the narrative’s themes of morality, consequence, and the complexities of warfare.
A Reflection of Real-World Dilemmas
The game’s ending poses questions that mirror real-world conflicts. The player is forced to confront difficult choices, weigh the consequences, and make decisions that reflect their own values and beliefs.
Multiple Endings, Multiple Perspectives
The game’s branching paths offer a variety of endings, each providing a unique perspective on the events that transpired. This allows players to experience different outcomes and witness the impact of their choices from multiple angles.
Central Character Choices
Throughout the campaign, players make crucial choices that affect the ending. Key characters, such as Woods, Mason, and Menendez, play pivotal roles in shaping the ultimate outcome.
Moral Ambiguity
The game does not shy away from moral ambiguity. Players are presented with scenarios where there is no clear right or wrong answer, forcing them to grapple with the ethical implications of their decisions.
Replayability and Discovery
The multiple endings encourage replayability, as players can revisit the campaign and explore different choices to witness their consequences. This adds depth and longevity to the overall experience.
Influence on Future Games
The ending of Black Ops 2 influenced the direction of subsequent installments in the series. The game’s branching paths and impact on the narrative established a precedent for future Call of Duty campaigns.
| Ending | Results |
|---|---|
| Good | Mason and Woods defeat Menendez; Menendez’s followers are scattered. |
| Bad | Menendez executes Mason; Woods becomes disillusioned and disappears. |
| Neutral | Mason and Menendez die; Woods carries on the fight against Menendez’s followers. |
A Tie-in to the Real World
Codename: Black Ops
Call of Duty: Black Ops II is a first-person shooter video game developed by Treyarch and published by Activision. The game was released worldwide on November 12, 2012 for Microsoft Windows, Xbox 360, and PlayStation 3. It is the ninth installment in the Call of Duty series and the sequel to the 2010 game Call of Duty: Black Ops.
Setting
The story takes place in 2025 and follows the actions of David Mason, the son of Alex Mason, the protagonist of the first Black Ops game. The game’s story is based on the real-world conflict in Afghanistan and the United States’ involvement in the war against terrorism.
Gameplay
Black Ops II features a variety of gameplay modes, including single-player, multiplayer, and zombies. The single-player campaign follows David Mason as he fights his way through Afghanistan and other locations around the world. The multiplayer mode allows players to compete against each other online in a variety of game modes, including team deathmatch, capture the flag, and domination.
Reception
Call of Duty: Black Ops II received positive reviews from critics. The game was praised for its story, gameplay, and graphics. It was also a commercial success, selling over 24 million copies worldwide.
A Tie-in to the Real World
Call of Duty: Black Ops II is notable for its realistic portrayal of the war in Afghanistan. The game’s developers worked closely with military advisors to ensure that the game accurately depicted the conflict. The game also features a number of real-world locations, including Kabul and Kandahar.
Miley Cyrus’ “Wrecking Ball”
One of the most memorable moments in Call of Duty: Black Ops II is the use of Miley Cyrus’s song “Wrecking Ball” in the game’s opening sequence. The song’s lyrics and imagery are used to create a powerful and emotional statement about the war in Afghanistan.
Cod Black Ops 2 Best Ending
Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 has multiple endings depending on the player’s choices throughout the campaign. The best ending is widely considered to be the “Good” ending, which can be achieved by making the following choices:
- In “Karma,” choose to save Woods.
- In “Old Wounds,” choose to trust Menendez.
- In “Time and Fate,” choose to kill Menendez.
This ending results in the defeat of Menendez and the prevention of his plans to start a global war. It also leaves the door open for a possible sequel, as Mason and Woods are still alive and working together.
People also ask
What is the worst ending in Cod Black Ops 2?
The worst ending in Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 is the “Bad” ending, which can be achieved by making the following choices:
- In “Karma,” choose to kill Woods.
- In “Old Wounds,” choose to betray Menendez.
- In “Time and Fate,” choose to spare Menendez.
This ending results in the victory of Menendez and the start of a global war. It also leaves Mason and Woods dead.
What are the other endings in Cod Black Ops 2?
There are a total of four endings in Call of Duty: Black Ops 2:
- Good ending: Menendez is defeated and a global war is prevented.
- Bad ending: Menendez is victorious and a global war starts.
- Neutral ending: Menendez is killed but a global war still starts.
- Secret ending: The player character is revealed to be a clone of Mason.
How do I get the secret ending in Cod Black Ops 2?
To get the secret ending in Call of Duty: Black Ops 2, you must first complete the campaign on any difficulty. Then, you must start a new game on Veteran difficulty. In the mission “Time and Fate,” when you reach the point where you can choose to kill Menendez, choose to spare him. After the credits roll, you will see the secret ending.
