Introduction
A Glimpse of the Past
Arcade Gannon. The name itself carries weight, a whisper of a pre-War world clinging to the ruins of the Mojave Wasteland. He’s not just another face in a sea of desperate survivors; Arcade is a man haunted by the past, driven by a hidden agenda, and a powerful companion whose presence can significantly alter your journey through Fallout: New Vegas. He represents a piece of the broken dream of the Enclave, a relic of a government that envisioned a perfect, pristine America. But beneath the surface of his polite demeanor and medical expertise lies a far more complex story.
The Purpose of the Guide
This article serves as your comprehensive guide to navigating Arcade Gannon’s companion quest, “For Auld Lang Syne.” We’ll delve into the specifics of recruiting this enigmatic character, how to build your relationship, the precise steps to initiate his personal quest, and how to make choices that shape both your adventure and Arcade’s ultimate fate. Completing this quest unlocks unique companion perks, potentially alters the narrative, and grants insights into one of New Vegas’s most fascinating characters. So, grab your combat armor, load your favorite weapon, and prepare to unravel the secrets surrounding Arcade Gannon. This guide on **how to do Arcade Gannon’s quest** will equip you with everything you need.
Meeting the Doctor: Early Interactions
Finding Arcade
The Wasteland is a harsh place, but even in its brutality, hope and unexpected alliances can bloom. Finding Arcade Gannon is relatively straightforward, though it requires a little exploration.
First, you need to head into Freeside, a dilapidated district adjacent to New Vegas. Navigate the crowded streets, avoid the thugs and various unsavory characters, and make your way to the Old Mormon Fort. This historical landmark is a hub of activity and a safe haven within Freeside.
You’ll find Arcade at the Old Mormon Fort, usually in the clinic or wandering around the premises. He stands out: he has a distinct white coat, a knowing look, and a quiet intensity. Approaching him will initiate conversation. There aren’t specific skill checks needed to find him, but you will have to use your dialogue skills to convince him to join you.
Building the Bond
Building your relationship with Arcade is essential. The companion affinity system is critical in Fallout: New Vegas, and it is no different for Arcade. He’s not one to be easily swayed, but he appreciates kindness, compassion, and a willingness to help those in need. Actions speak louder than words. Be considerate in your interactions.
Actions that will improve his affinity
Helping those in need, choosing compassionate dialogue options, and supporting the downtrodden are all things that will improve his affinity. He’s especially fond of characters who stand up for the underdog and are against any form of prejudice.
What to avoid
Being cruel, making selfish decisions, or harming innocent people will quickly earn his disapproval.
Igniting the Past: Initiating the Companion’s Path
The Key to the Quest
The key to starting “For Auld Lang Syne” lies in cultivating a strong bond with Arcade. This takes time and careful attention to his responses and your choices. Once you’ve built a good rapport with Arcade Gannon, the quest will reveal itself, and you’ll know exactly **how to do Arcade Gannon’s quest**.
The Trigger
The trigger for the quest itself is building enough affinity with Arcade. It’s more than just conversation; it’s the culmination of your actions throughout the game. You need to demonstrate that you are a person he can trust, a person he believes in, a person who might offer redemption to his past.
The Revelation
As your relationship progresses, he will eventually reveal his secret. At that point, he’ll initiate the conversation, and the real journey begins. His true identity is revealed and you are tasked with finding the Enclave remnants.
Initiation Dialogue
The dialogue that starts the quest is memorable. Listen carefully to what he says. He’ll reveal his past and the burdens he carries. He’ll confide in you, and, in turn, offer you a chance to help him confront his past. Accept his request, and you will officially begin “For Auld Lang Syne.”
Tracing the Shadows: The Hunt for Remnants
The Initial Task
Now, the quest truly begins. You must search for the scattered remnants of a fallen empire. Each remnant is a puzzle piece, and collecting them will reveal the truth behind Arcade’s past and the dangers that still linger in the Mojave.
The First Encounter
Your initial task is to locate the first of his former comrades. The game will provide you with a map marker, making navigation easier, but it’s still your job to reach the location and begin the quest. Head to the location to find the first individual. When you find the first remnant, be prepared for dialogue options and make your choices accordingly.
Continuing the Search
After finding the first, you’ll receive the location of the second. Each encounter involves making choices, learning more about Arcade’s history and the Enclave’s ideals.
Unveiling Secrets
Continue your hunt for the remaining remnants. Each survivor you find brings new information, and more complexities, that will inform your choices in the future.
The Final Encounter
Finding the last remnant, which is the final step, has the potential to make or break Arcade’s journey.
The Final Choice: Confronting the Past
The Weight of Decisions
After successfully locating all the remaining Enclave members, you’ll be presented with a difficult choice. Arcade will have to confront the remnants of the Enclave, and your choices during this pivotal moment will define the path for all.
Supporting the Enclave
If you choose to support the Enclave, you’ll have to make the call to side with a military force that was once thought to be destroyed. Doing so could bring significant repercussions, as Arcade could feel betrayed and the moral implications could change the entire dynamic of the game.
Fighting Against the Enclave
This choice directly opposes the Enclave. It will lead to a fight, and the consequences will drastically change the story. You must choose which path will lead to success.
Alternative Paths
There may be other choices depending on your own character build and the choices you made in the past. These could range from convincing some to join your cause or possibly to finding another solution.
Consequences
Your decisions shape not only Arcade’s fate but also influence the game’s ending and the overall tone of the narrative. Choose wisely.
Rewards of Companionship
Beyond the Prize
The rewards for completing “For Auld Lang Syne” are more than just tangible prizes; they represent the bond you’ve forged with Arcade, and the impact of your choices.
The Companion Perk
Completing the quest grants Arcade’s unique companion perk. This perk is an advantage, especially in a harsh and unforgiving world.
Material Gains
You’ll receive a few tangible rewards. These are not the main reason to do the quest, but they do offer some welcome boosts to your resources and arsenal.
Factions and Reputation
The choices you make will affect your reputation with various factions. Aligning with, or opposing, the remnants of the Enclave will influence how other groups in the Wasteland view you.
Shaping the Narrative
The implications of your choices extend far beyond the immediate rewards. Your decisions will influence the game’s ending, and the state of the Wasteland. Arcade’s role in the final confrontation will be determined by the choices you make.
Strategies for Success
Preparation is Key
Navigating “For Auld Lang Syne” requires strategic choices. Here’s how to increase your chances of a positive outcome:
Character Builds
It’s best to embark on this quest after you’ve achieved a moderate level. Having the ability to handle some of the encounters during the quest is vital.
The Right Words
Pay close attention to your dialogue options. Choosing options that align with Arcade’s values and that show compassion and understanding can bolster your relationship.
Combat Readiness
Some encounters may require combat. Be prepared for those situations by upgrading your skills and gear.
Avoiding Mistakes
It’s important to be consistent. Your actions in the game, both before and during the quest, will directly impact Arcade’s reactions and your ability to finish the quest.
Conclusion
Recap of the Quest
Arcade Gannon’s quest is an essential part of the Fallout: New Vegas experience. “For Auld Lang Syne” is more than just a task; it’s a journey of self-discovery, friendship, and the lingering echoes of a shattered past. By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to understanding the inner workings of **how to do Arcade Gannon’s quest** and unlocking his valuable companion perks.
The Value of Companionship
Arcade Gannon is not just a companion; he’s a complex character with a deeply layered story to share. Completing his quest allows you to help determine his fate, and in doing so, you will have a deeper connection to the world of New Vegas. Take the time to experience his story. The rewards are well worth the effort.
Your Journey
In the end, the Mojave Wasteland is defined by choices. The choices you make in Arcade Gannon’s quest will resonate far beyond its completion. So go forth, and make choices that create your legacy.
