Should You Let Alex Out in Cyberpunk 2077? A Deep Dive into the Choices and Consequences
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The question of whether to let Alex Pushkin out of the trunk in Cyberpunk 2077 during the gig “Olive Branch” is a classic example of the game’s morally gray choices. It’s a decision that might seem straightforward, but as with most things in Night City, the consequences are layered and not always what you expect. So, should you let Alex out? The short answer is, absolutely, yes, you should let Alex out. Here’s why, along with a comprehensive look at the ramifications of this decision.
The Immediate Ramifications
Letting Alex go free triggers the immediate end of the gig. Instead of delivering him to the Tyger Claws, you’ll let him walk away, a free man. The most immediate shock, for many, is the financial reward. Instead of receiving a meager 1,860 Eurodollars for handing him over, you’ll be rewarded with a significantly larger sum of 3,700 Eurodollars. This unexpected financial gain for the “nicer” option often catches players off guard.
The Moral Dimension
Beyond the credits, there’s the obvious moral consideration. Alex is clearly terrified and desperate to avoid his fate at the hands of the Tyger Claws. He’s essentially a pawn in a larger conflict, and freeing him is, by many players’ reckoning, the morally correct action. You are directly choosing to save him from a potentially gruesome end.
The Reaction of Sergei
Of course, there are repercussions to this action. Sergei, the client for this gig, is not pleased. He’ll call you, incensed that you let his target escape. However, this is a fleeting reaction, and aside from the angry phone call, there are no further negative consequences from a narrative perspective. There’s no tangible impact on your reputation or subsequent missions.
The Alternative: Delivering Alex to the Tyger Claws
The alternative, which is delivering Alex to the Tyger Claws, is a far less rewarding path. You will receive less money, and more importantly, you would be complicit in delivering someone to a likely torturous fate. There’s a strong sense of “selling out” the individual, for very little gain. This path might appeal to players aiming for a more “ruthless” style, but it comes at the cost of a substantial in-game reward and your own sense of moral compass.
The Fate of Sergei
Interestingly, if you choose to free Alex, you’ll discover a grim postscript. Sergei’s body can be found in an alley in Vista del Rey, near the Delamain HQ, specifically behind Dicky Twister. This isn’t explicitly stated to be a direct consequence of your decision, but the timing and location strongly imply that his death is tied to Alex’s escape. This subtle detail adds another layer to the decision, highlighting the often unexpected ripples of choices made in Night City. To get the additional dialogue that confirms this, you need to speak to the hotel clerk during the Gig: Guinea Pigs.
Why Freeing Alex is Generally Considered the Better Option
Here’s a recap of why letting Alex go free is generally considered the better option for most players:
- Higher Financial Reward: You receive significantly more money (3,700 Eurodollars) than if you deliver him (1,860 Eurodollars).
- Moral Alignment: You save Alex from a potentially horrific fate, aligning with a more compassionate or “good” approach to the game.
- Limited Negative Consequences: Beyond a single angry phone call, there are no meaningful repercussions for letting Alex go.
- Unlocks More Lore: Discovering Sergei’s fate in the alley after freeing Alex is an added lore reward.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions related to the “Olive Branch” gig and the decision of whether to let Alex out, to give you a more comprehensive understanding.
1. How do I keep Alex alive in Cyberpunk 2077?
Technically, Alex’s survival depends on whether you let him go from the trunk. If you deliver him to the Tyger Claws, his fate is sealed. The only way to “keep him alive” is to let him out of the trunk. This is different from other quests that require specific gameplay choices to save a character.
2. What happens if I side with Songbird and Alex?
The decision of whether to let Alex go free in the “Olive Branch” gig is separate from your choices regarding Songbird in the Phantom Liberty DLC. The fate of Alex is determined by your action with him, unrelated to larger narrative choices.
3. How many gigs does Wakako have in Cyberpunk 2077?
Wakako Okada has a total of eight gigs available throughout Night City. Completing all her gigs will eventually lead to the “Professional Widow” quest and a special reward.
4. What do I get for completing all of Wakako’s gigs?
Once you’ve completed all of Wakako’s eight gigs, she will contact you and give you the “Professional Widow” quest. This quest rewards you with the Byakko katana, a powerful melee weapon you can find in your stash.
5. How long does it take to beat Cyberpunk 2077?
The main story of Cyberpunk 2077 typically takes around 25 to 30 hours to complete on average. Completionists looking to do everything, including side quests, will clock closer to 100 hours.
6. Should I always dismantle junk in Cyberpunk 2077?
Yes, you should almost always dismantle junk. Obtaining the Scrapper perk in the Crafting tree makes this automatic, providing you with valuable crafting components for better items.
7. Is there a “good” ending in Cyberpunk 2077?
While there is no one ending that could be considered entirely “happy,” some are more positive than others. There is an ending with Judy that allows you to continue your relationship with her. Additionally, being on Johnny Silverhand’s good side will allow access to the “hidden” ending, often considered the best for player agency.
8. What is the max level in Cyberpunk 2077?
The maximum level in Cyberpunk 2077 is 60, increased from the original cap of 50. Each level up awards an additional 10 attribute points to help create a more refined character.
9. How long is Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty?
The main story of Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty can take around 15 to 20 hours to complete if you focus solely on the critical path. Expect to spend much more time if you explore all its content.
10. Can you get Johnny Silverhand’s arm in Cyberpunk 2077?
Yes, you can obtain Johnny Silverhand’s arm after completing the “Chippin’ In” quest. It will appear as a common item in your inventory and does not function as a prosthetic.
11. What happens if you tell Jefferson the truth in Cyberpunk 2077?
Telling Jefferson the truth about being brainwashed leads to a dark ending in the credits. He will be driven mad by the revelation, ruining his relationship with his wife and making the message of the quest darker.
12. Is MaxTac composed entirely of cyberpsychos?
Yes, all MaxTac members were previously cyberpsychos themselves. They are rehabilitated individuals who are now tasked with policing other cyberpsychos.
13. Are there new romance options in Phantom Liberty?
No, Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty does not add any new romance options. However, all previously romanceable characters have new dialogue and cutscenes.
14. Should I give Judy a cigarette in Cyberpunk 2077?
Yes, giving Judy a cigarette during the roof scene reveals that the cigarette case belonged to Evelyn. It’s a great moment for supporting her in her grief.
15. Should I betray Dex in Cyberpunk 2077?
The decision to betray Dex is ultimately inconsequential to the long term storyline. You do not get paid and he has no long term impact.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, letting Alex out of the trunk is the more beneficial choice in Cyberpunk 2077. It not only rewards you with more money but aligns with a more morally considerate path, and there are no real consequences except an angry phone call. The discovery of Sergei’s fate is an additional lore point that adds depth to this small but meaningful decision in the game’s vast, complex world. Choose freedom for Alex and embrace the consequences, or lack thereof, that come with it.