The Cornerstone of Independence: Why Followers Matter
The Mojave Desert is a harsh landscape, but its greatest challenge is not the radscorpions or the Cazadores. It’s navigating the complex web of factions vying for control of the jewel of the desert: New Vegas. While the New California Republic promises order and security and Caesar’s Legion offers a brutal but efficient alternative, the allure of an Independent Vegas, free from the shackles of outside influence, is a powerful draw for many players. Achieving this ending, however, is no easy feat. It requires careful planning, strategic alliances, and, crucially, the unwavering support of your companions. Successfully achieving an Independent Vegas ending relies on the strategic use of followers and their individual quests. This guide will help you maximize their support, transform them into staunch allies, and ultimately secure a future for New Vegas that is truly its own.
In the vast, unforgiving world of Fallout: New Vegas, companions are more than just extra guns in a firefight. They are your lifeline, your moral compass, and your key to unlocking hidden potential within the Mojave. Beyond providing invaluable combat support, carrying precious loot, and occasionally cracking wise, followers in New Vegas possess unique abilities and perspectives that can significantly impact your journey.
But the true power of followers lies in their influence over the story itself. Their opinions matter. Their approval or disapproval of your actions can open or close doors, unlock unique quests, and ultimately sway the fate of New Vegas. Some followers possess quests that, when completed successfully, can unlock vital assets for your Independent Vegas campaign. Perhaps one can secure the much-needed support of a forgotten community or broker peace between warring factions. Conversely, ignoring their concerns or acting against their ideals can lead to resentment and ultimately, their departure, weakening your position and diminishing your chances of success.
Not all followers are created equal, and not all are suitable for championing an Independent Vegas. Some are staunch supporters of the NCR, while others are loyal to Caesar’s Legion. Aligning yourself with such individuals is like trying to build a house on shifting sands. Therefore, careful selection and cultivation of your companions are paramount to achieving your desired ending.
Finding Your Allies: Followers Aligned with the Independent Spirit
Choosing the right companions is the first crucial step toward building an Independent Vegas. Several characters in the game are naturally inclined toward a free and self-governing New Vegas, while others require some persuasion. Let’s examine some potential candidates:
- Veronica Santangelo: A former Brotherhood of Steel scribe, Veronica is practically tailor-made for an Independent Vegas run. Disenchanted with the Brotherhood’s rigid adherence to tradition and increasingly isolated from the outside world, she seeks a better path for herself and for the future of technology. Her unique perspective and desire for progress make her a valuable asset.
- Cassidy Rose: A hardened caravan owner with a sharp wit and a troubled past, Cass harbors resentment towards the NCR for their role in the downfall of her business and the death of her father. This makes her more receptive to an Independent Vegas, especially if you help her seek justice for her losses.
- Arcade Gannon: A former Enclave medic with a pacifistic streak, Arcade is deeply concerned about the well-being of the Mojave Wasteland and its inhabitants. He is wary of both the NCR and the Legion, viewing them as destructive forces. An Independent Vegas, where the needs of the people are prioritized, aligns perfectly with his ideals.
- Raul Tejada: A ghoul mechanic and former gunslinger, Raul is jaded and cynical after witnessing the rise and fall of countless empires. However, his detachment makes him relatively flexible. He cares little for factional allegiance, so long as he can continue tinkering with machines and dispensing his world-weary wisdom.
- Lily Bowen: A kind-hearted but volatile Super Mutant Nightkin suffering from split personalities and dementia, Lily is a wildcard. While her loyalty can be won, her unpredictable nature and the lingering influence of her Nightkin instincts require careful management. Supporting her desire for peace and stability can guide her toward supporting an Independent Vegas.
- Boone: The former NCR sniper might be harder to sway, given his strong allegiance to the New California Republic, his loyalty is difficult to earn if your support for the NCR is minimal.
- Rex: The cybernetic dog cannot be influenced in this way, but he is a good companion to have.
- ED-E: Like Rex, ED-E cannot be influenced in this way, but he can detect enemies and has good support in combat.
Before embarking on this journey, understand that recruiting followers is generally straightforward, often involving completing a simple quest or meeting certain requirements. Veronica can be found at the 188 Trading Post. Cass resides at the Mojave Outpost. Arcade is located at the Old Mormon Fort in Freeside. Raul resides in Black Mountain in the prison area and Lily can be found in Jacobstown. Each has something to offer, but remember that aligning with the Independent Vegas philosophy is key.
The Dance of Diplomacy: Mastering the Approval System
Once you’ve chosen your companions, the real work begins: building trust and fostering loyalty. The approval system in Fallout: New Vegas governs your relationship with each follower. Your actions, choices, and dialogue options all influence their opinion of you. Pay attention to their reactions and learn what resonates with them.
Generally, certain actions contribute positively to approval. Doing what is right, helping people in need, and showing compassion are strong choices. When dealing with Raiders, doing what is necessary is appreciated by nearly all followers. The other side of that coin is that negative actions can have the opposite effect. Engaging in theft, murder, or acts of cruelty will earn their disdain and potentially drive them away.
However, the key to maximizing follower approval lies in consistency. If you are striving for an Independent Vegas, consistently uphold that ideal. Support those who are struggling for self-determination, reject the authority of the NCR and the Legion, and prioritize the needs of the people of New Vegas. Demonstrate that your vision for the future aligns with their own hopes and dreams.
Furthermore, be mindful of dialogue options that involve skill checks. These moments often present opportunities to sway a follower’s opinion by showcasing your intelligence, charisma, or other skills. Successfully navigating these conversations can solidify their trust and deepen their commitment to your cause.
It is important to remember that each follower has their own unique companion perk that can aid your game. Using them is a great way to ensure your team is strong enough to succeed.
The Quests That Bind: Securing Loyalty Through Action
While general goodwill is essential, certain follower quests offer the most direct path to securing their unwavering support for an Independent Vegas. These quests provide opportunities to address their personal struggles, resolve their internal conflicts, and demonstrate your shared values.
Veronica Santangelo: I Could Make You Care
This quest is crucial for securing Veronica’s allegiance. It involves helping her find a new purpose and identity after leaving the Brotherhood of Steel. Guide her towards embracing a more progressive and outward-looking philosophy, one that values innovation and connection with the outside world. Ultimately, you must convince her that the Brotherhood is a dying institution and that the future lies in forging new alliances and adapting to the changing landscape of the Mojave.
Arcade Gannon: For Auld Lang Syne
This quest presents a unique opportunity to bolster your forces for the final battle. By convincing Arcade to reconnect with his former comrades from the Enclave Remnants, you can gain access to their advanced weaponry and strategic expertise. While the Enclave has a dark history, their skills and resources can prove invaluable in defending an Independent Vegas. This quest helps strengthen your team.
Cassidy Rose: Heartache by the Number
Cass’s quest revolves around uncovering the truth behind the Crimson Caravan Company’s treachery and avenging her father’s death. Helping her bring the guilty parties to justice will not only provide her with closure but also solidify her loyalty to you. Show her that you are willing to fight for what is right, even when it means challenging powerful interests.
Completing these quests successfully will transform these followers into unwavering allies, willing to fight alongside you to the bitter end.
Navigating the Moral Maze: Managing Ideological Conflicts
Inevitably, you will encounter situations where your followers’ ideologies clash. Veronica, for example, might disapprove of actions that harm the NCR, even if those actions are necessary for achieving an Independent Vegas. Similarly, Cass might react negatively to decisions that benefit the Legion.
To mitigate these conflicts, adopt a strategic approach. Rotate your followers based on mission objectives. If you are planning to sabotage an NCR outpost, leave Veronica behind. If you are negotiating with the Legion, leave Cass at home.
Furthermore, be mindful of your dialogue choices. Use subtle language to avoid triggering strong reactions. Emphasize the long-term benefits of an Independent Vegas and downplay any potential drawbacks.
In extreme cases, you may have to dismiss a follower who is actively hindering your progress. While it may be difficult to part ways with a trusted companion, sometimes it is necessary for the greater good.
Take advantage of the wait command when needed to get your character out of dicey situations.
The Final Stand: Preparing for Hoover Dam
As the final battle for Hoover Dam approaches, ensure that your followers are adequately equipped and prepared. Provide them with powerful weapons, sturdy armor, and plenty of ammunition. Assign them roles that leverage their unique skills and abilities.
During the battle, use your followers strategically. Veronica can provide valuable support with her plasma rifle, while Cass can use her shotgun to clear out close-quarters threats. Position your followers carefully and coordinate their movements to maximize their effectiveness.
The outcome of the battle, and the choices you make in its aftermath, will have a lasting impact on your followers. Some may experience significant character growth, while others may question their allegiances.
Forging Your Own Destiny: The Path to Independence
Securing the support of your followers is not simply about manipulating them to achieve your own ends. It’s about forging genuine bonds of friendship and loyalty, based on shared values and a common vision for the future. It is about working as a team.
By carefully selecting your companions, nurturing your relationships, and completing their quests, you can assemble a formidable force that will stand by your side as you fight for an Independent Vegas. It is about forging genuine bonds of friendship and loyalty.
Embrace the challenge, experiment with different follower combinations, and forge your own path to an Independent Vegas, secure in the knowledge that you are not alone in your fight for freedom.
