Resident Evil 2 Chess Puzzle 2nd Run: A Guide to Unlocking the Secret Ending

Deep beneath the cursed streets of Raccoon City, in the labyrinthine depths of the R.P.D. Police Station, lies a hidden secret that has baffled players of Resident Evil 2 for decades. The chess puzzle, encountered during the game's second run, holds the key to unlocking the game's true ending, revealing a harrowing tale of sacrifice, betrayal, and the indomitable spirit of survival.

Understanding the Chess Puzzle

The chess puzzle is a challenging encounter that requires a combination of sharp observation, logical reasoning, and a keen understanding of the game of chess. Located in the Chief's Office, the puzzle presents a chessboard with several pieces arranged in seemingly random positions. Solving the puzzle involves manipulating these pieces to achieve a specific goal, which will vary depending on whether you are playing as Leon Kennedy or Claire Redfield.

For Leon, the objective is to move the black queen to the square corresponding to the location of the S.T.A.R.S. badge on the opposite side of the room. For Claire, the task is to move the white bishop to the square corresponding to the location of the Umbrella pendant.

Solving the Puzzle: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Observe the Chessboard: Carefully examine the arrangement of the pieces on the chessboard. Note the positions of the black queen (for Leon) or white bishop (for Claire), as well as any obstructions that may hinder their movement.
2. Identify the Goal Square: Determine the specific square to which you need to move the piece. This square will be marked with either the S.T.A.R.S. badge or the Umbrella pendant.
3. Consider the Rules of Chess: Understand the basic rules of chess moves to effectively manipulate the pieces. Remember that different pieces have different movement patterns, such as the queen moving in any direction and the bishop moving diagonally.
4. Plan Your Strategy: Formulate a step-by-step strategy to move the piece to the goal square while avoiding obstacles. Consider using other pieces on the board to assist in blocking or capturing enemy pieces.
5. Execute Your Moves: Carefully execute your planned moves, one step at a time. Be patient and precise, as a single wrong move could jeopardize your progress.

Tips for Success

• Think Ahead: Anticipate the potential consequences of your moves and plan several steps in advance.
• Use Obstacles to Your Advantage: Obstacles such as pawns and knights can be used to block enemy pieces or create pathways for your own piece.
• Don't Be Afraid to Experiment: If a particular strategy doesn't work, don't be afraid to try different approaches.
• Take Your Time: The chess puzzle is a complex challenge that requires time and patience. Don't rush through the process and risk making mistakes.

Solving the Puzzle in Detail

Leon Kennedy

Starting Position:

• Black Queen: c2
• White Pawn: d3
• Black Pawn: d5
• White Knight: f6

Goal Square:

• S.T.A.R.S. Badge: h8

Moves:

1. Pawn d3 to e4
2. Knight f6 to e4
3. Knight e4 to g5
4. Queen c2 to g2
5. Queen g2 to h8

Claire Redfield

Starting Position:

• White Bishop: f1
• Black Pawn: e2
• Black Pawn: g2
• White Knight: h3

Goal Square:

• Umbrella Pendant: b8

Moves:

1. Bishop f1 to g2
2. Bishop g2 to h3
3. Pawn h3 to g4
4. Pawn g4 to f5
5. Bishop h3 to b8

Beyond the Puzzle: The True Ending

Once you have successfully solved the chess puzzle, you will trigger a series of events that lead to the true ending of Resident Evil 2. This ending reveals the fate of Ada Wong, the mysterious spy who has been aiding Leon and Claire throughout their journey.

In the true ending, Ada sacrifices herself to detonate a self-destruct mechanism within the Umbrella facility, giving Leon and Claire time to escape. The explosion destroys the facility and prevents the spread of the T-virus, but it also claims the life of Ada, leaving behind a legacy of courage and sacrifice.

Conclusion

The chess puzzle in Resident Evil 2 is a testament to the game's enduring appeal and its ability to captivate players with its complex puzzles and immersive storytelling. By unlocking the true ending, players gain a deeper understanding of the characters, their motivations, and the ultimate triumph of hope over despair amidst the chaos and horror of Raccoon City.