The end of 2 seems to imply that Michael burned down an empire with his paranoia. Then in 3 he's a benevolent rich guy trying to buy his way into heaven. So, I suppose it depends on which storyline you choose. This is why so many people hated 3. It doesn't even seem like it's Michael Corleone. I believe Michael was loosely based on both Bonanno and Genovese.
I don’t think he burned down an empire. I think he burned bridges between him and people that he loved which is why he looks so broken at the end. But he realizes that this is the price he is paying to become even more rich and powerful than he already is. That’s my take. The whole movie it’s almost like he’s chasing the ghost of his father. He really just wants to be as respected as Vito once was.
