Do You Need All Evidence to Decrypt the Floppy Disk in Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War?
Yes, you absolutely need all three pieces of evidence to successfully decrypt the floppy disk in the Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War campaign. This is a crucial step for unlocking the best possible outcome for the Operation Chaos side mission. Without all three pieces, you will not be able to obtain the correct code and passphrase needed to access the floppy disk’s contents. The game is specifically designed to require these elements to solve the puzzle and progress with the optimal ending.
Understanding the Importance of Evidence in Operation Chaos
Operation Chaos is an optional side mission within the Cold War campaign, but it’s not something you can just jump into. Before you can even consider launching this covert operation, you must gather specific pieces of evidence scattered throughout the main storyline missions. These aren’t just randomly placed collectibles; they are integral to the narrative and decryption puzzle that unlocks the operation’s full potential.
The game clearly states that you’ll need three pieces of evidence: The Coded Message To Qasim, the Numbers Station Broadcast, and the Frontpage of the Observer Newspaper. Each of these items holds critical clues that, when combined, allow you to decipher the floppy disk. The game doesn’t provide the code and passphrase directly; they are derived from the information in these pieces of evidence. Trying to decrypt the disk without these elements is akin to solving a complex equation with missing variables – it simply cannot be done accurately.
The Evidence Locations and Decryption Process
- The Coded Message To Qasim: This piece of evidence is often found within one of the main missions, depending on the player choices and actions.
- The Numbers Station Broadcast: Again, the location of the Numbers Station Broadcast changes. This involves a bit of active sleuthing within one of the main missions.
- The Frontpage of the Observer Newspaper: This item is typically tucked away in a notable location and can be gathered at a certain point in the storyline.
Once you’ve acquired all three pieces of evidence, you must return to the safe house and access the Evidence board. There, you’ll analyze each element, piecing together the clues to arrive at the correct 4-digit code and a specific city name (passphrase). Only then will you be able to back out of the Evidence menu and select “Decrypt Floppy Disk.” You will input the code as the first prompt and the city name as the second.
Why Is Evidence Crucial?
The game design for Operation Chaos intentionally demands thorough investigation. Simply playing through the campaign missions isn’t enough; you must actively seek out and analyze these specific elements. This adds a layer of intrigue and challenge to the gameplay experience.
Attempting Operation Chaos without the decrypted floppy disk will lead to a less optimal outcome. While you can technically still play the mission, it means you lack crucial information about the enemy’s plans and may not be able to achieve the desired results. The best ending for Operation Chaos is locked behind the decryption process, which underscores the importance of gathering all three pieces of evidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many pieces of evidence do I need for Operation Chaos?
You need three pieces of evidence to properly break into the floppy disk and get the best ending possible for the Operation Chaos mission. They are: The Coded Message To Qasim, the Numbers Station Broadcast, and the Frontpage of the Observer Newspaper.
2. Can I play Operation Chaos without decrypting the floppy disk?
Yes, you can play Operation Chaos without decrypting the floppy disk, but you will not receive the desired ending or fully understand the mission’s scope and objectives. The full story and best outcome are only accessible with the decrypted information.
3. Is it possible to decrypt the floppy disk without the key?
In the real world, it is possible to attempt decryption without the proper key, however, this requires significant computational power and skills. In the game, you need the correct code and passphrase (derived from the evidence) to decrypt it effectively and progress.
4. What happens if I skip Operation Chaos?
Operation Chaos is an optional side quest. Skipping it won’t prevent you from completing the main storyline but it does mean you’ll miss a significant part of the game’s narrative and challenges.
5. Is the floppy disk evidence the same for everyone?
The locations of the evidence can vary based on choices made during main storyline missions. However, the type of evidence is always the same (coded message, broadcast, newspaper).
6. Where can I find the floppy disk evidence in “Redlight, Greenlight”?
The floppy disk evidence (a photograph) can be found during the “Redlight, Greenlight” mission. It’s a map on a wall in one of the buildings in the replica U.S.A. street fight.
7. Does decrypting the floppy disk affect other missions?
No, decrypting the floppy disk is specific to unlocking the full potential of Operation Chaos. It doesn’t directly impact other missions in the game’s narrative, but indirectly allows you to take a more informed and effective approach to the story as a whole.
8. Is the floppy disk puzzle particularly difficult?
The floppy disk puzzle isn’t inherently difficult but it does require the player to carefully analyze the information provided in the three pieces of evidence. It involves paying close attention to details, a small amount of puzzle solving and applying them correctly.
9. Can you guess the code and passphrase?
While you could potentially attempt to randomly guess the code and passphrase, it is extremely unlikely to succeed. It’s designed so that the only effective method is to analyze the evidence.
10. When should I collect the Operation Chaos evidence?
You can collect the evidence throughout your progression through the campaign. It is best to do so before attempting the Operation Chaos mission. You should make sure to gather it before tackling Operation Red Circus.
11. Is Operation Chaos a worthwhile side-quest?
Yes, Operation Chaos is considered a very worthwhile side-quest. It adds depth to the game’s lore, provides a challenging puzzle to solve, and offers the best ending attainable for the mission.
12. Are there any in-game hints to find the evidence?
While the game doesn’t provide direct pointers to the evidence locations, the dialogue and narrative often give clues to where to look in each main mission. Pay attention to your surroundings and what your team is saying.
13. Do I need all evidence for Operation Red Circus?
Yes, there are also three pieces of evidence you’ll need to collect before you have enough information to correctly identify the right person in Operation Red Circus. These are different from the pieces needed for Operation Chaos.
14. What is the best psychological profile in Cold War?
There isn’t a single “best” profile; it depends on your play style. Violent Tendencies (increased damage) and Survivor (increased health) are popular choices. Others like Calm Under Pressure (reduced flinch) can be beneficial too.
15. Who are the suspects in Operation Red Circus?
The suspects in Operation Red Circus are: Alex Superty, Eliana Miller, Leslie Sinclair, Aaron Lee, Harvey Spray, Claire Coberstein, Calvin Dunn, and Jim Kreeger. You will need evidence to find the right ones.