Did Menendez Know Farid Was a Traitor? Unpacking the Complexities of Black Ops 2
Yes, the evidence strongly suggests that Raul Menendez knew Farid was a mole, and he likely knew this well before the events that unfold in the game, Call of Duty: Black Ops 2. While the game doesn’t explicitly spell it out, it provides multiple clues, most notably through dialogue and plot events, indicating that Menendez was aware of Farid’s betrayal. Menendez uses this knowledge to his advantage, manipulating situations to maximize chaos and create further conflict, even within his own ranks. This awareness is crucial to understanding Menendez’s calculated and manipulative nature.
The Evidence: Why Menendez Suspected Farid
Several pieces of evidence suggest that Menendez was aware of Farid’s true allegiance:
- Deduction and Observation: Menendez is portrayed as an exceptionally intelligent and observant individual. He is aware of the bonds between his inner circle. The fact that Farid had a close relationship with Mike Harper, whom Menendez considers an enemy, would likely raise suspicion.
- Information from Salazar: It’s heavily implied that Javier Salazar, who himself is a traitor, either directly or indirectly informed Menendez of Farid’s role as an infiltrator. Salazar’s own access to intel and his close proximity to Harper’s team makes him a credible source of information. Menendez’s ability to manipulate Salazar suggests they were working together and that Salazar was a significant source of intel.
- Exploitation of Farid’s Loyalty: Menendez’s most significant act of manipulation involves his direct order to Farid to kill Harper. He forces Farid into a position where he must either betray the man he served or betray the trust Menendez placed in him (a false trust, as he was already considered a traitor). This is likely a test of loyalty from Menendez to solidify his doubts and to make an example of Farid, furthering the divide within the team.
The Ramifications of Menendez’s Knowledge
Menendez knowing Farid was a mole significantly impacts the narrative in several ways:
- Planned Chaos: Menendez uses the double-agent situation to generate chaos within the special forces team, pitting teammates against each other and creating doubt and mistrust. This allows him to further his own agenda.
- Strategic Positioning: Knowing Farid is a double agent allows Menendez to predict Harper’s movements to a certain extent. This awareness helps him when he attacks the USS Barack Obama.
- Manipulating Emotional Bonds: Menendez is not just after victory; he is after the emotional destruction of his enemies. Farid’s relationship with Harper makes him an effective tool of emotional devastation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 FAQs to further explore the intricacies of the relationships and plot surrounding Menendez, Farid, and the consequences of their actions:
1. What Happens If Farid Dies?
If Farid dies, the outcome varies. If you kill DeFalco at the club and then have Farid killed, Salazar shoots Karma (Chloe). If you kill Farid instead of Harper, and DeFalco is alive, he will slit Karma’s throat. This highlights the interconnected consequences of player choices.
2. Is it Better to Shoot Harper or Menendez?
It’s strategically better to capture Menendez rather than kill him, in order to achieve the best ending. You can achieve the best ending by not having Menendez killed. Shooting Harper has a different set of consequences, as it allows Farid to die in a manner where he ultimately sacrifices himself for Karma.
3. What Happens If You Kill Harper?
Killing Harper means Farid will survive to take a bullet for Karma during the USS Barack Obama mission, effectively saving her life. While Farid dies either way, killing Harper means his death is for a better cause.
4. What Happens If You Don’t Shoot Harper?
If Harper lives, Farid will die, and he won’t be present on the USS Obama. Either Salazar or DeFalco will shoot Chloe (Karma) on the bridge. The death of Chloe is prevented when you shoot Harper.
5. Who Betrayed You in Black Ops 2?
Javier Salazar is a key betrayer in Black Ops 2. He serves as a mole who is close to Harper’s team, thus allowing him to relay information. He is not, however, the ultimate antagonist.
6. How Did Raul Menendez’s Sister Die?
Raul Menendez’s sister died in a fire at a young age, which was caused by an American drone strike gone wrong. This tragedy fuels much of his hatred towards the United States and becomes a significant motivator for his actions throughout the game.
7. Who is the Bad Guy in Black Ops 2?
The main antagonist in Black Ops 2 is Raul Menendez. He is a charismatic and manipulative leader seeking to unleash chaos and punish those he believes wronged him.
8. How Many Endings Does Black Ops 2 Have?
Black Ops 2 has multiple endings, which result from player choices throughout the game. There are at least 8 known possible endings, reflecting the game’s branching narrative.
9. What is the Best Ending in Black Ops 2?
The best ending in Black Ops 2 involves capturing Menendez, not killing him. This ensures his plans are ultimately foiled and results in less global conflict.
10. Can You Prevent Harper From Getting Burned?
Yes, you can prevent Harper from getting burned by sticking to the right side of the map as you approach the burning pipe during the mission. It is important to take care when approaching the building with the burning pipe in order to prevent his facial disfigurement.
11. Did Harper Want Farid to Shoot Him?
Yes, when Menendez orders Farid to kill Harper, Harper urges Farid to do it, calling him “Egghead.” This suggests that Harper recognized the manipulation and may have wanted Farid to survive.
12. Can Farid Survive in Black Ops 2?
While Farid can survive the mission where he is told to kill Harper, he ultimately dies later in the game. Whether he is killed by DeFalco, Salazar or takes a bullet for Karma is dependent on choices made by the player throughout the game.
13. Can You Capture DeFalco?
Yes, you can capture DeFalco at the exit of the hangar if you are quick enough. If you don’t, you will watch him escape. Once you catch him, you are tasked with eliminating him and his squad.
14. Should You Shoot Menendez or Capture Him?
You should capture Menendez, not kill him. Capturing him leads to a more positive outcome and prevents his ideology from becoming a rallying cry for his followers.
15. Who is Karma in Black Ops 2?
Karma, also known as Chloe Lynch, is a character in Black Ops 2. She plays a vital role as a tech expert. She works with Harper’s team to take down Menendez.
In conclusion, the complex relationships and strategic betrayals are cornerstones of the Black Ops 2 narrative. Menendez’s awareness of Farid’s treachery is essential in understanding his character and his calculated approach to achieving his goals. The game’s many different outcomes further highlight how player decisions influence the fates of all characters.