Secret fifth outcome

Secret fifth outcome — this guide covers endgame content in CONTRABAND. Spoiler warning applies to everything below.

What is endgame

Endgame begins after Chapter 3 and includes the Fold Resonator, the Keystone path, the four main endings, and the post-ending content available on subsequent runs. Pilots typically reach endgame at 20–30 hours of total play.

The Fold Resonator

Building the Resonator is the single most expensive project in the game. It costs 250,000 credits plus components from at least three different regions. Plan the construction over multiple chapter transitions.

The Keystone ship

The Keystone-class ship is the ultimate hull. It costs 1.2 million credits and is the only ship in the game that can survive the secret fifth outcome. Earning it is its own arc.

The four endings

Each ending is reachable from the same endgame state but requires different choices in the final chapter. Pilots aiming for all four endings typically save before the chamber decision and reload after each ending.

The secret fifth outcome

A fifth outcome exists. It requires the Keystone ship, a specific reputation state with all four factions, and a hidden item not mentioned in normal play. Most pilots find this on a New Game+ run.

New Game+ benefits

Starting a new game with the Oracle Crystal carries forward a single state flag from your previous run. This flag unlocks dialogue and content that does not appear on a first playthrough.

100% completion

True 100% requires all 35 achievements, all four main endings, the secret fifth, and the discovery of every system and port. Plan for 60+ total hours.