Hey guys! Let's dive deep into one of the most fascinating alternate timelines in the Re:Zero universe: the "Greed If." This scenario explores what would happen if Natsuki Subaru, our protagonist, chose a different path, one driven by his own desires and a relentless pursuit of power. Buckle up, because this is going to be a wild ride!

What is the "Greed If"?

The "Greed If" is one of several "what if" scenarios explored by the author of Re:Zero, Tappei Nagatsuki. These scenarios, often referred to as IF stories, delve into the potential consequences of Subaru making different choices at crucial moments in the main storyline. The "Greed If," specifically, focuses on what would happen if Subaru fully embraced the Witch Factor of Greed. In the main story, Subaru acquires the Authority of Greed from Regulus Corneas, but he largely rejects its influence, fearing its corrupting nature. However, in the "Greed If," Subaru decides to use the Authority to its fullest extent, aiming to become powerful enough to protect everyone he cares about, no matter the cost.

The core concept revolves around Subaru's desire to save Emilia and overcome the seemingly insurmountable challenges he faces. In the primary narrative, Subaru often relies on his Return by Death ability and the support of his allies. However, the IF stories ask the question: what if Subaru, instead of trusting others or relying on his own limited abilities, sought absolute power? In the "Greed If," this manifests as a ruthless ambition fueled by the Authority of Greed. He becomes increasingly manipulative, calculating, and willing to sacrifice anything – including his own morality – to achieve his goals. This darker path showcases a Subaru who is far removed from the initially clumsy and good-hearted character we meet at the start of Re:Zero. The transformation is gradual but chilling, demonstrating the corrupting influence of unchecked power and the seductive nature of shortcuts when faced with overwhelming odds. The "Greed If" serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the importance of genuine connections, trust, and ethical boundaries in the face of adversity. It’s a fascinating exploration of character and consequence, forcing us to consider what truly makes a hero.

The Authority of Greed: A Double-Edged Sword

Okay, so what exactly is the Authority of Greed? In the world of Re:Zero, Witch Factors grant their wielders unique and often terrifying abilities. The Authority of Greed, originally belonging to the Witch of Greed, Echidna, allows Subaru to steal the capabilities and talents of others. Think of it like this: Subaru can see someone who's amazing at swordsmanship and, through the Authority of Greed, temporarily make their skills his own. Sounds pretty awesome, right? But here's the catch: using the Authority comes at a significant cost. Every time Subaru steals someone's abilities, it chips away at his own sense of self and morality. He becomes increasingly detached from his emotions and more focused on acquiring power.

The Authority of Greed's most potent ability is its capacity to store stolen abilities and knowledge. This accumulation allows Subaru to become incredibly versatile, capable of adapting to almost any situation. However, this power comes with a heavy psychological burden. The voices of those whose abilities he has stolen constantly plague his mind, creating a cacophony of thoughts and emotions that threaten to overwhelm him. Furthermore, the more he uses the Authority, the more his personality shifts. He becomes colder, more calculating, and less empathetic. He starts to view people as tools to be used, rather than individuals to be cherished. This gradual erosion of his humanity is one of the most disturbing aspects of the "Greed If." The story explores how easily good intentions can be twisted when coupled with unchecked power and a willingness to compromise one's own values. The allure of quick solutions and the seductive promise of absolute control ultimately lead Subaru down a dark and treacherous path, highlighting the dangers of sacrificing one's integrity in the pursuit of personal gain. The IF scenario vividly portrays how the means can corrupt the end, transforming a hero into something far more sinister.

Subaru's Transformation: From Hero to Anti-Hero

In the main storyline, Subaru is, for the most part, a pretty decent guy. Sure, he makes mistakes, but he always tries to do the right thing. In the "Greed If," however, that all changes. The Authority of Greed amplifies his insecurities and his desire to protect Emilia, twisting them into an insatiable hunger for power. He starts making increasingly questionable decisions, manipulating those around him to achieve his goals. He becomes paranoid, distrustful, and willing to cross lines he would never have considered in the main timeline.

Subaru's descent into anti-heroism is a slow burn, meticulously crafted to showcase the corrupting influence of the Authority of Greed. Initially, his intentions remain noble – he genuinely wants to safeguard Emilia and his friends. However, as he relies more and more on the stolen abilities and knowledge, his perspective begins to warp. He starts viewing relationships as transactional, seeing people as assets to be managed rather than individuals to be valued. The IF story masterfully depicts this gradual transformation, highlighting the subtle compromises and justifications that pave the way for moral decay. Subaru's willingness to sacrifice others for the greater good becomes increasingly disturbing, blurring the lines between hero and villain. His paranoia grows, fueled by the constant voices in his head and the fear of losing control. He isolates himself from those who genuinely care about him, pushing them away in the name of protection. This isolation further exacerbates his descent, as he loses the moral compass provided by his friends and allies. The "Greed If" serves as a stark warning against the dangers of unchecked ambition and the seductive allure of power. It demonstrates how easily good intentions can be twisted and distorted when pursued through unethical means, ultimately leading to the erosion of one's own humanity.

Key Differences from the Main Story

The "Greed If" diverges significantly from the main Re:Zero narrative in several key aspects. First and foremost, Subaru's relationship with Emilia is drastically altered. In the main story, their bond is built on mutual trust, respect, and genuine affection. In the "Greed If," however, Subaru's obsession with protecting Emilia becomes possessive and controlling. He views her as a prize to be won, rather than a partner to be cherished. He manipulates events to keep her close, stifling her independence and agency. This possessiveness creates a significant rift between them, ultimately undermining the very relationship he sought to preserve.

Another crucial difference lies in Subaru's interactions with other characters. In the main storyline, he gradually forges strong bonds with people like Rem, Ram, Beatrice, and Otto, relying on their support and friendship. In the "Greed If," these relationships are either strained or outright severed. Subaru's manipulative tactics and his growing paranoia drive a wedge between him and his allies. He uses them as pawns in his schemes, sacrificing their well-being for his own personal gain. Rem, in particular, suffers greatly in this timeline, as Subaru's actions lead to tragic consequences for her. The absence of genuine connection and the prevalence of mistrust create a bleak and isolating atmosphere throughout the "Greed If." Furthermore, Subaru's approach to problem-solving is fundamentally different. In the main story, he often relies on his wit, his determination, and the help of his friends to overcome obstacles. In the "Greed If," he solely relies on the Authority of Greed, seeking to exploit every situation to his advantage. This reliance on power stunts his personal growth and prevents him from developing the critical thinking skills and emotional intelligence that are essential for true leadership. The "Greed If" presents a stark contrast to the main narrative, highlighting the importance of genuine relationships, ethical decision-making, and personal growth in the face of adversity.

Why is the "Greed If" so Compelling?

So, why do fans find the "Greed If" so captivating? Well, for starters, it offers a dark and twisted take on a beloved character. It's always fascinating to see what happens when a hero goes down a different path, especially when that path leads to moral decay. It forces us to confront the question of what we would do in a similar situation. How far would we go to protect those we love? What lines would we be willing to cross?

The "Greed If" also provides a compelling exploration of the themes of power, corruption, and sacrifice. It examines the seductive allure of absolute control and the devastating consequences of unchecked ambition. It reminds us that even the noblest intentions can be twisted and distorted when pursued through unethical means. Furthermore, the IF story delves into the complexities of human nature, revealing the hidden depths of Subaru's character and challenging our assumptions about heroism. It forces us to consider the importance of moral boundaries and the dangers of compromising one's own values. The narrative's dark and gritty tone, coupled with its intricate plot twists and compelling character development, makes it a truly unforgettable experience. It's a story that stays with you long after you've finished reading it, prompting reflection on the nature of good and evil, the price of power, and the importance of staying true to oneself. The "Greed If" is a testament to the author's storytelling prowess and his ability to create complex and morally ambiguous characters that resonate with readers on a deep and emotional level.

Final Thoughts

The "Greed If" is a chilling reminder that the road to hell is often paved with good intentions. It's a dark and disturbing exploration of what happens when a hero loses his way, sacrificing his morality in the pursuit of power. While it's certainly not a feel-good story, it's a fascinating and thought-provoking addition to the Re:Zero universe that’s definitely worth checking out if you're a fan of the series. It makes you think about what really matters and what price you're willing to pay to get what you want. What do you guys think about the Greed If? Let me know in the comments below!