Follow the route, then run when instructed
The THRESHOLD final chase is the dark escape near the end of Episode 1. Follow the current Story route into the final encounter, then switch to movement when the game tells you to run. Watch the way forward instead of stopping to test the entity’s warning about darkness.
Follow this guide for the Story finale. Chase-mode key and password searches have their own objectives. If you are looking for maintenance keys or Scrow papers, use the guide for that objective instead.
Prepare before the dark section
Check batteries during the earlier shop opportunity and inspect your equipment before heading into the darker route. Bring useful supplies into this section so you have more options for seeing what is ahead.
Complete the sanity recovery task when the shop gives it to you, and finish the later hallucination defense. Once that phase ends, read the next objective rather than continuing to flash as if the defense were still active.
| Before the finale | Preparation check |
|---|---|
| Shop break | Batteries and equipment resources |
| Sanity recovery | Energy drink interaction completed |
| Hallucination defense ends | Current task has changed |
| Dark route begins | Follow the displayed route and interactions |
Preparation belongs before the escape pressure. Use the battery guide for the earlier supply checks rather than expecting a new shopping break during the finale.
Follow the current dark-route interaction
The Episode 1 route described here leads into a darker section with a hatch and a climb-down interaction. Use the prompt you actually reach, then continue along the current route.
Do not invent a detour for an unlisted collectible or another ending because the environment is unsettling. Follow the objective the game presents. Keep track of the route handoff after each interaction so that you know when exploration has become escape.
If you arrive expecting window arrows or circle targets, reset your attention. Those belong to earlier scenes. Read what the finale now asks you to do.
The Episode 1 walkthrough places this section after the earlier defenses and helps identify which task you are still completing.
Respond to the run prompt immediately
The encounter includes a warning about growth in darkness, followed by the need to escape. Treat the run instruction as the action cue. Continue along the route and respond to movement or jump prompts as they appear.
The warning is not a numerical growth formula or proof that light gives permanent immunity. A first-clear plan does not need to test either claim. Keep moving toward the escape instead.
| Distraction | Better priority |
|---|---|
| Turn around repeatedly to inspect the entity | Watch the route you need to follow |
| Keep testing the camera after a movement task begins | Perform the current escape action |
| Search for an unlisted alternate exit | Follow the objective and route in this scene |
| Assume an earlier defense routine still applies | Read the new prompt |
| Stop as soon as the immediate threat passes | Stay through the finish sequence |
If you lose the route, reorient toward the current escape objective. Frantic actions with no destination are less useful than recovering the direction you need.
Stay through the Episode 1 result
The escape described here leads out toward daylight and the episode’s ending sequence. Remain through that finish rather than leaving as soon as the pursuit feels over.
The official badge inventory includes Finished Episode 1 [DESPAIR]. Check your account’s actual award afterward. Use the badge name to identify the milestone. Check the result instead of assuming it lists hidden requirements or that every ending-looking moment registered completion.
Use the badge guide for the official names and award checks. Do not assume that carrying Mom successfully in the opening unlocks a different ending route here.
FAQ
Is the final chase the same as Chase Mode?
No. This page covers the dark escape at the end of Episode 1 Story. Chase Mode uses separate key and password-paper objectives.
What should I do when the run instruction appears?
Follow the escape route and respond to the movement prompts. Do not stop to test the entity’s behavior while the task is to run.
Does light make me permanently safe?
Do not use that as a guarantee. Follow the current escape objective rather than turning the darkness warning into an immunity rule.
How do I confirm Episode 1 completion?
Stay through the ending sequence, inspect the run result and check your account for the official Episode 1 [DESPAIR] badge.