Atomfall truly stands out, thanks to its dynamic decision-making and multiple possible endings. My journey through this game has largely been about navigating the consequences of the choices I’ve made, some wise, others not so much.
A pivotal element of Atomfall’s storyline revolves around Dr. Garrow, a scientist integral to the zone’s technology. You’ll first hear about her likely in the Wyndham Village, where the Captain mentions her imprisonment in Skethermoor Prison. To progress toward one of the game’s endings, you’ll need to consider setting her free.
Letting Dr. Garrow go isn’t a simple decision. It has significant repercussions, impacting which ending you’ll achieve and potentially complicating your immediate situation. Here’s a strategy on how to handle this and why you might choose one path over another.
### What happens if you release Dr. Garrow right away?
Following this lead is crucial as it rewards you with a Signal Redirector, an item you’ll find indispensable throughout the game. To keep things smooth, start by establishing some rapport with the Captain.
Completing a task for him—like solving the murder mystery at the Church—earns you a pass granting safe passage through the prison, provided you agree to interrogate Dr. Garrow. Without this pass, you’ll face a gauntlet of Protocol Soldiers standing between you and the scientist.
If you decide to act impulsively by freeing Dr. Garrow without the Captain’s consent, be ready for the Protocol Soldiers to fire on sight, as your pass becomes void. Dr. Garrow’s cell is tucked away at the prison’s farthest end, which means escaping after freeing her won’t be easy, especially if nearby doors are still locked.
Should you choose to inform the Captain of Dr. Garrow’s liberation, it effectively concludes his storyline, and you become a target. Alternatively, you can release her, keep your involvement a secret, and avoid his wrath—as long as you survive the escape.
### How to release Dr. Garrow with ease
Move along his questline until you learn about the Interchange and Oberon. Doing so develops trust with the Protocol, granting smoother access to key areas, including the Skethermoor Interchange entrance.
Once you’ve earned the Protocol’s trust, you can release Dr. Garrow without raising suspicions or hostilities. Should you choose to pull the release lever at this point, the Protocol Soldiers will react, yet they’ll refrain from attacking, allowing a peaceful exit.
If you report back to the Captain, he’ll merely note Garrow’s escape and express his intention to eliminate her—without suspecting your involvement in her release.
### The aftermath of freeing Dr. Garrow
To locate her again, venture to the Central Processor. You can open this door from the Interchange side by powering up the area and handling the crane controls needed to clear path obstructions.
Once you’re inside, you can access the Detention Quarter and reach Garrow’s cell. This is a strategic route if you’d rather not get involved with Captain Sims. However, it’s a complex path compared to simply earning his trust and entering the prison without fuss.
In this captivating adventure of decisions and their consequences, aligning with the Captain for convenience remains the safest and simplest option amidst the dangers lurking within Atomfall.
