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Should I Do Lonesome Road Last in Fallout: New Vegas? A Definitive Guide

Yes, unequivocally, Lonesome Road should be the last DLC you experience in Fallout: New Vegas, before tackling the final quest, The Battle of Hoover Dam. Treat it as the narrative culmination, the climax that ties together many loose ends and provides crucial context for the events of the main storyline. Playing it last maximizes its impact and allows for the most rewarding gameplay experience.

Why Lonesome Road Should Be Your Grand Finale

Lonesome Road isn’t just another DLC; it’s a deeply personal and significant chapter in the Courier’s journey. It’s designed to be played after you’ve explored the Mojave Wasteland, completed other DLCs like Honest Hearts, Old World Blues, and Dead Money, and formed alliances (or rivalries) with the various factions vying for control. Here’s why making it your last stop is so vital:

Narrative Climax: The DLC delves into the Courier’s past, revealing the circumstances surrounding the package delivery that set the entire game in motion. It introduces Ulysses, a complex and philosophical character who offers unique perspectives on the player’s actions and the fate of the Mojave. This story is far more impactful when you understand the broader context of the New Vegas world.
Dialogue and Choice Impact: While the text states that dialogue has slight differences depending on who you’re siding with, it still makes sense to complete all the main and side quests beforehand to get the full picture. Playing earlier will lock off various options for your main character.
Level Scaling and Challenge: Lonesome Road is intended for higher-level characters (level 28 or higher). The enemies are tough, the environments are unforgiving, and the combat encounters require strategic thinking and well-equipped characters. Tackling it before you’re properly prepared will lead to frustration.
Loot and Rewards: The rewards from Lonesome Road, including powerful weapons and armor, are best utilized when applied to the final battle at Hoover Dam or subsequent exploration of the Mojave. Obtaining them early diminishes their value and can disrupt the game’s balance.
Emotional Resonance: Facing Ulysses and making the ultimate decision regarding the Divide’s fate carries far more weight when you’ve spent countless hours shaping the Mojave Wasteland. The emotional payoff is significantly greater when Lonesome Road serves as the conclusion to your personal story.
Tying Up Loose Ends: All the DLCs in New Vegas add to the storyline. Lonesome Road is the tying factor that closes out all the plots and subplots. It explains the Courier’s history and how everything led to where it is now.

What to Expect From the Divide

The Divide is not a welcoming place. Expect to face:

Tough enemies: Marked Men, Tunnelers, and other dangers lurk around every corner.
Harsh environments: Radioactive storms and crumbling infrastructure pose constant threats.
Moral dilemmas: The choices you make in Lonesome Road have lasting consequences.
Intense combat: Prepare for challenging firefights and strategic encounters.
Thought-provoking dialogue: Ulysses’s monologues and philosophical discussions are a core element of the experience.

Mastering the Lonesome Road

To make the most of this experience, remember these tips:

Level Up: Reach at least level 28 before venturing into the Divide.
Gear Up: Equip yourself with your best weapons, armor, and supplies.
Choose Your Companion Wisely: ED-E is a valuable asset, but understand the consequences of bringing him.
Explore Thoroughly: The Divide holds many secrets and valuable rewards for those who dare to explore.
Prepare for Hardship: Lonesome Road is designed to be challenging, so don’t expect an easy ride.

FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered About Lonesome Road

Here are some frequently asked questions that’ll help you navigate the treacherous terrain of Lonesome Road:

1. Can I return to the Mojave Wasteland after starting Lonesome Road?

Yes, you can fast travel back to the Mojave Wasteland at any time before completing the DLC. This allows you to stock up on supplies, repair your gear, or tackle other quests before returning to the Divide.

2. What level should I be before starting Lonesome Road?

The recommended level is 28 or higher. While it’s technically possible to enter the Divide at a lower level, you’ll face considerable challenges and may find the experience frustrating.

3. Does Lonesome Road affect the main quest or the Battle of Hoover Dam?

Lonesome Road is designed to take place before the Battle of Hoover Dam. The choices you make within the DLC can have minor dialogue consequences in the final stages of the main quest, but they won’t significantly alter the outcome of the battle.

4. Can I bring ED-E as a companion to Lonesome Road?

Yes, you can, but be warned. Re-entering the Divide, possibly after an extended period, causes you to lose ED-E as a companion permanently. However, the game will still recognize ED-E as a “companion” and the player still receives the “Enhanced Sensors” perk.

5. What is the best ending for Lonesome Road?

The “best” ending is subjective and depends on your character’s alignment and goals. You can choose to nuke either the NCR, the Legion, or both, or prevent the launch altogether. Each choice has consequences for the Mojave Wasteland. The text suggests that “you double your reward by nuking both areas, as opposed to “stopping the launch”.

6. Can I return to the Divide after completing Lonesome Road?

Yes, you can return to the Divide after completing Lonesome Road. This allows you to explore any areas you may have missed, collect remaining loot, or simply revisit the locations.

7. What happens if I nuke the NCR or the Legion in Lonesome Road?

Nuking the NCR or the Legion will damage their infrastructure and weaken their forces, but it won’t completely cripple them. It will also affect your reputation with the affected faction.

8. Is Lonesome Road the hardest DLC in Fallout: New Vegas?

Lonesome Road is generally considered one of the more challenging DLCs, due to the tough enemies, harsh environments, and strategic combat encounters. However, Dead Money can also be considered very difficult, especially in Hardcore mode.

9. What are the best weapons and armor to bring to Lonesome Road?

Bring weapons and armor that suit your playstyle. Some popular choices include:

Weapons: Anti-Materiel Rifle, Medicine Stick, Riot Shotgun, and the DLC-specific weapons like the Red Glare or the Elijah LAER.
Armor: Elite Riot Gear, T-51b Power Armor, or any other high-quality armor that provides good protection.

10. Is Lonesome Road worth playing?

Absolutely! Lonesome Road is considered one of the best DLCs in Fallout: New Vegas, offering a compelling story, challenging gameplay, and memorable characters.

11. What is the story of Lonesome Road about?

The DLC centers on the Courier’s past and their connection to Ulysses, a former Courier who blames the player for the destruction of his home, the Divide. The DLC explores themes of destiny, responsibility, and the consequences of choice.

12. How do I start Lonesome Road?

Once you’ve installed the DLC, you’ll receive a radio message prompting you to investigate a location on the eastern edge of the map, near Primm. This will trigger the start of the Lonesome Road questline.

13. Can I play Lonesome Road at any time during the main quest?

While you can technically start Lonesome Road at any time after reaching the appropriate level, it is highly recommended to save it for last. This allows you to fully appreciate the narrative impact and enjoy the best possible gameplay experience.

14. What happens if I side with Ulysses?

You cannot truly “side” with Ulysses. You can choose to engage with his philosophy and understand his motivations, but ultimately, you must make your own decisions regarding the fate of the Divide and the Mojave Wasteland.

15. Where can I learn more about the design and impact of games like Fallout: New Vegas?

The Games Learning Society provides resources and research on the educational and societal impact of video games. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to explore the latest research and insights into the world of game-based learning.

Conclusion: Make Lonesome Road Your Crowning Achievement

Lonesome Road is more than just a DLC; it’s a culmination of your entire Fallout: New Vegas journey. By saving it for last, you’ll unlock its full potential and experience the game’s most rewarding and impactful ending. So, venture forth into the Divide, face Ulysses, and make your mark on the Mojave Wasteland. Just remember to do it after you’ve explored every other corner of the map and forged your legend in the Mojave. Happy trails, Courier.

Should I do Lonesome Road last?