Tired of the Legion and NCR’s endless squabbling? Do you crave a destiny forged in the heart of the Mojave, free from outside control? An Independent New Vegas run is the ultimate power play, a chance to shape the future of the wasteland in your image. But even the strongest Courier can’t do it alone. To truly succeed, you’ll need allies, and those allies are your companions. This guide will walk you through the intricate process of influencing your followers to champion your vision of a truly free New Vegas.
The Independent New Vegas ending is arguably the most challenging but potentially most rewarding path through Fallout: New Vegas. It involves navigating complex political landscapes, making difficult choices, and ultimately defying the established powers vying for control of the Mojave. While your personal skills and weaponry are essential, having your companions wholeheartedly support your vision significantly enhances your chances of success and influences the narrative of the ending. This article serves as a comprehensive guide on how to sway your companions to endorse this ending. The alignment of your companions, deeply intertwined with their individual values and beliefs, directly impacts whether they will stand by you as you carve out an Independent Vegas.
Understanding Companion Alignment and Influence
The key to swaying your companions lies in understanding the mechanics of companion affinity. In Fallout: New Vegas, your actions and dialogue directly affect your companions’ opinions of you. This manifests as a hidden approval or disapproval rating. Performing actions that align with a companion’s personal values will increase their approval, leading to deeper loyalty and support. Conversely, actions that contradict their beliefs will diminish their approval, potentially leading them to leave your service entirely.
Companion quests also play a crucial role in shaping their worldview. These quests often involve complex moral dilemmas and personal conflicts. Your guidance and support during these quests can profoundly influence their perspectives on the NCR, the Legion, and the possibility of an independent Vegas. By understanding what motivates each companion, you can tailor your actions and dialogue to resonate with their beliefs and win their unwavering loyalty.
Some companions are inherently more predisposed toward the idea of an Independent Vegas, while others might need more convincing due to pre-existing loyalties or concerns. Boone, driven by his burning hatred of the Legion, is naturally inclined to oppose any faction that threatens the Mojave. Veronica, increasingly disillusioned with the Brotherhood of Steel’s stagnant ways, yearns for a more progressive future. Raul, weathered by decades of hardship and witnessing the rise and fall of empires, has a cynical outlook on large factions and centralized power. Understanding these pre-existing biases is critical for tailoring your approach.
On the other hand, characters like Cass, with her deep-rooted connections to the NCR and the Crimson Caravan, might require more persuasion. Arcade, a former Enclave member, prioritizes stability and might be hesitant to embrace the uncertainty of an independent Vegas. Lily, whose fragmented mental state makes her easily influenced, requires careful guidance and protection. These companions present unique challenges that require careful consideration.
Key Companions and How to Sway Them
Let’s delve into the specific steps you can take to influence each companion towards supporting an Independent New Vegas.
Veronica Santangelo
Veronica, a scribe for the Brotherhood of Steel, harbors deep reservations about the Brotherhood’s isolationist policies and technological hoarding. To gain her support, you must first trigger her companion quest, “I Could Make You Care.” During this quest, she asks you to show her different sources of technology or ideas that may help the brotherhood change for the better. Make sure to show her things that can help or advance the Brotherhood rather than outdated items. Most importantly you have to complete this quest, there is no option to leave the quest unfinished.
During “I Could Make You Care,” it is crucial to present her with evidence that challenges the Brotherhood’s rigid ideology. When given the option, encourage her to break from the Brotherhood. This is the most important part of swaying her to your side. Showing her the dangers of the Brotherhood will solidify her commitment to a truly free Vegas, independent of any external influence. This quest is a cornerstone for building a strong connection and ensuring she champions your cause.
Boone
Boone, a former NCR sniper, is consumed by his hatred of the Legion and the injustice they represent. To secure his support, focus on actions that combat Legion influence and uphold the values of justice and freedom. Supporting the citizens of vulnerable towns like Novac and Boulder City will resonate with his desire to protect the innocent. In dialogue, emphasize the NCR’s flaws and its inability to effectively safeguard the Mojave from external threats. Highlight the benefits of a strong, independent Vegas capable of defending itself without relying on the NCR’s bureaucracy. Leverage his loyalty and commitment to protecting the innocent, convincing him that an independent Vegas is the best path forward.
Raul Tejada
Raul, an old ghoul mechanic, has witnessed the rise and fall of countless factions. His experiences have instilled in him a deep cynicism towards large organizations and authority. To sway Raul, appeal to his pragmatic outlook and demonstrate your ability to lead and protect those who rely on you. When you ask him if he wants to turn back to the gunslinger ways, tell him that he is free to choose. Highlight the Courier’s competence and unwavering commitment to protecting the Mojave from external threats. Show him you can make the right choices and keep people safe.
Cass
Cass, the hard-drinking caravan owner, maintains strong ties to the NCR and the Crimson Caravan. Convincing her to support an Independent Vegas requires a delicate approach. First, acknowledge her loyalty to the NCR but present evidence of corruption and mismanagement within the organization. Highlight instances where the NCR’s policies have harmed the Mojave’s residents. Emphasize the potential for a truly free Vegas to foster economic prosperity and protect the interests of its people without being subject to the NCR’s control. Appealing to her entrepreneurial spirit and desire for a stable, thriving Mojave will help her see the potential of an independent Vegas.
Arcade Gannon
Arcade, a former Enclave scientist, prioritizes stability and security. He may be hesitant to embrace the uncertainty that comes with an Independent Vegas. The most important part of swaying him is to do his quest for his support, “For Auld Lang Syne.” During the quest, ensure you choose the dialogue option that encourages him to trust in your leadership and vision for a free Vegas. Completing his quest and assuring him that an Independent Vegas can be secure and prosperous. With this quest, he will believe that the Courier can keep New Vegas safe.
Lily Bowen
Lily, a nightkin struggling with her sanity, presents a unique challenge. Her fragmented mental state and reliance on medicine make her easily influenced. Ensure she doesn’t revert to her dangerous Grandmama persona. Lily can be a strong ally, but you must keep her safe and make sure she has her medicine.
General Strategies for Securing Companion Support
Remember, dialogue choices are paramount. Look for specific phrases and keywords that resonate with each companion’s values and beliefs. Consider how your overall karma affects their perception of you. Positive karma often makes it easier to gain their trust and approval. Select quests and side quests that allow you to showcase leadership, compassion, and a commitment to protecting the Mojave’s people.
Consequences of Failing to Secure Support
Failing to secure companion support can have serious consequences. Dissatisfied companions may choose to leave your service, depriving you of their unique skills and abilities. They might refuse to help you in certain quests, hindering your progress. Furthermore, their negative opinions can impact the ending slideshow, potentially painting a bleak picture of your leadership.
Conclusion
Building strong relationships with your companions is essential for securing an Independent New Vegas. By understanding their motivations, tailoring your actions and dialogue to resonate with their beliefs, and completing their companion quests, you can build a loyal crew that will stand by you as you carve out a new future for the Mojave. The journey may be challenging, but the reward of seeing your vision realized with the unwavering support of your companions is well worth the effort. An Independent Vegas is more than just a power play; it’s a chance to shape a better future for the wasteland, and having the right allies by your side makes all the difference.
