How to Retrieve Your Prized Arsenal in Fallout: New Vegas
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So, you’ve just strolled into a pristine casino on the Vegas Strip, or perhaps reluctantly agreed to a meeting with the Brotherhood of Steel, only to be politely (or not so politely) relieved of your weapons. Don’t panic, Courier! Getting your precious boomsticks back in Fallout: New Vegas is usually a straightforward process. Here’s the breakdown:
The most common scenario is entering a casino. The game is designed to automatically return your weapons when you exit a casino (or any area where they were confiscated). Simply walk back out the door you came in through, and a container will typically be located near the entrance, stocked with all the items taken from you upon entry.
However, things can get a little more complicated depending on where you lost your gear and your actions within the game. Let’s delve into the specifics.
Specific Locations and Scenarios
Casinos
As mentioned, casinos (The Tops, Gomorrah, Ultra-Luxe, etc.) generally return your weapons upon exit. Look for a footlocker or container near the entrance. However, there are exceptions, particularly with The Tops depending on your dealings with Benny.
The Tops and Benny
If you’re planning on confronting Benny at The Tops, you have a couple of options. A sneaky tactic involves eliminating the receptionist and the doorman undetected (extremely difficult but possible), which allows you to keep your weapons on subsequent entries. However, a more common (and less chaotic) strategy is to simply retrieve your gear after dealing with Benny.
Caesar’s Legion
After your initial encounter with Caesar at The Fort, you’ll be separated from your weapons. Don’t worry, they’re not gone forever. As soon as you leave The Fort (usually by ferry back across the river), your items will be automatically returned to you. Even if you refuse to work for Caesar, your belongings will be waiting for you.
Brotherhood of Steel Bunker
Joining the Brotherhood of Steel presents its own challenges. After Elder McNamara fits you with that explosive collar (charming, isn’t it?), you’ll want your gear back. Head back to the entrance where you were initially stopped. Near the large crates to the right, you’ll find a weapon case containing all your confiscated items.
Sneaking Weapons In
Of course, sometimes the best defense is a good offense, and you might prefer to keep some form of armament on you at all times.
Holdout Weapons
The only weapons allowed inside casinos are holdout weapons. These are smaller, easily concealable firearms. You can buy them from various vendors throughout the Mojave Wasteland. Look for a shady character, known as “Mr. Holdout” (or someone similar, depending on your game version) hanging around outside the casinos on the Strip. Holdout weapons typically have a low weight and high concealment value.
Banned from Casinos
Once you’ve won too much at a casino, you’ll be asked to leave and banned from gambling further. Winning too much isn’t going to affect your ability to get back your weapons.
Console Commands
If you’re playing on PC and don’t mind bending the rules, you can use console commands. The “tgm” (God Mode) command makes you invincible, while “tcl” (No Clipping) allows you to walk through walls. These commands won’t get your weapons back directly, but they can help you navigate tricky situations to retrieve them. Be aware that using console commands disables achievements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What happens if I can’t find the container with my weapons after leaving a casino?
Carefully retrace your steps. The container is almost always very close to the entrance/exit point. Check behind counters, under benches, and in any dimly lit corners. If all else fails, try reloading a previous save.
2. Can I permanently lose my weapons in Fallout: New Vegas?
It’s highly unlikely. The game is designed to return your weapons to you. However, glitches can happen. Regularly saving your game is crucial.
3. Are there any specific perks that help with weapon concealment?
Yes! The “Sneering Imperialist” and “Gunslinger” perks can significantly improve your ability to conceal weapons. Certain apparel items also boost your sneak skill, aiding in concealment.
4. Does my companion’s weapon get confiscated when entering a casino?
No. Companions are exempt from weapon confiscation. They can carry their weapons freely inside casinos and other restricted areas.
5. What happens if I kill everyone in a casino?
Well, that’s one way to solve the problem! However, it will make you hated by that casino’s faction and significantly impact your reputation. Plus, you’ll still have to find the key to the weapon storage area (if there is one). Not recommended.
6. Can I use Stealth Boys to sneak past the guards?
Stealth Boys can help you sneak around, but they won’t bypass the weapon confiscation process at the entrance. You’ll still have to hand over your gear.
7. Is it possible to pickpocket my weapons back from the guards?
Yes, but it’s extremely difficult. You’ll need a very high sneak skill and a bit of luck. The risk of being caught is high, and the consequences can be severe.
8. Do energy weapons have the same concealment rules as ballistic weapons?
Yes. The concealment rules apply to all weapon types, including energy weapons, melee weapons, and explosives.
9. What is the maximum level in Fallout: New Vegas, and how does it affect my weapon skills?
The base level cap is 30. Leveling up allows you to improve your weapon skills (Guns, Melee Weapons, Energy Weapons, etc.), making you more effective in combat.
10. Do dropped items despawn in Fallout: New Vegas?
Yes. Dropped items will eventually despawn if you move to a distant cell. Don’t leave valuable weapons lying around for too long.
11. Can I repair my weapons to improve their condition?
Absolutely! Maintaining your weapons is crucial. Repairing them increases their effectiveness and prevents them from breaking. You can repair them yourself (with sufficient skill) or pay a vendor to do it.
12. Are there any unique weapons in Fallout: New Vegas that are worth seeking out?
Definitely! Fallout: New Vegas is brimming with unique and powerful weapons. The “Mysterious Magnum” and “That Gun” are just two examples. Explore the wasteland and uncover its hidden treasures.
13. Does the difficulty setting affect weapon degradation?
Yes. On higher difficulty settings, weapons degrade faster. Be prepared to repair them more frequently.
14. What are some good resources for learning more about Fallout: New Vegas?
The Fallout Wiki is an excellent resource for detailed information about the game. Also, don’t forget that communities like the Games Learning Society provide valuable insights and discussions about game mechanics and strategies. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more.
15. Can I play Fallout: New Vegas after the ending?
Unfortunately, no. Fallout: New Vegas does not allow you to continue playing after the main storyline is completed. The game ends after the final battle. If you want to keep playing, you’ll need to reload a save from before the ending.
Retrieving your weapons in Fallout: New Vegas is usually a simple task, but understanding the nuances of different locations and scenarios can save you a lot of frustration. Now get back out there and make your mark on the Mojave Wasteland!