Hitman 3: The Risky Game of Framing Mr. Fernsby in Dartmoor

Framing Mr. Fernsby in Hitman 3’s Dartmoor mission results in Alexa Carlisle believing you’ve solved the murder mystery, based on manufactured evidence. You present a seemingly airtight case, pointing to the loyal butler as Zachary Carlisle’s killer. Alexa, desperate for closure and impressed by your “deduction,” accepts your fabricated account. This allows you to complete the mission objective of solving the murder, but it comes with significant consequences. The most immediate effect is access to Alexa’s private meeting on the balcony, providing a unique opportunity for an “accident kill.” However, it also alters the narrative ending and has moral implications, shifting the weight of justice onto your conscience, as you knowingly condemn an innocent man.

Understanding the Consequences of a False Accusation

The Dartmoor mission in Hitman 3 offers a unique blend of stealth and detective work. While the goal is to eliminate Alexa Carlisle, the game presents the alternative objective of solving Zachary’s murder. A core decision point arises: who do you accuse? Framing Mr. Fernsby is a viable option, but not without its repercussions.

The Immediate Outcome

Upon presenting your fabricated evidence to Alexa, she is convinced of Fernsby’s guilt. This triggers a change in her behavior. She grants you access to the case file you require and subsequently, asks her guards for privacy before stepping onto the balcony, setting up the infamous “accident kill” opportunity. Effectively, framing Fernsby streamlines your primary objective of eliminating Alexa.

The Moral Implications

The most significant consequence of framing Fernsby is the ethical dilemma it presents. Agent 47, despite being a trained assassin, operates within a framework of professional boundaries. Framing an innocent man violates this code. While Fernsby may not be the most likable character, he is, in this scenario, innocent of Zachary’s murder. Condemning him to a life of imprisonment or even worse, a potential early demise due to being wrongly convicted, carries a heavy weight. It also represents a betrayal of your role as a supposed investigator, turning you into a manipulator of justice.

Long-Term Narrative Impact

The decision to frame Fernsby alters the ending narrative. Instead of uncovering the truth about Emma Carlisle’s motive and actions, you perpetuate a lie. This affects the overall narrative arc of the mission and can influence how you perceive Agent 47’s actions within the broader context of the Hitman universe. Furthermore, you lose the opportunity to truly understand the complex dynamics within the Carlisle family and bring the actual perpetrator to justice.

FAQs: Unraveling the Complexities of Dartmoor’s Murder Mystery

Here are some frequently asked questions related to the Dartmoor mission and the repercussions of various choices, including framing Mr. Fernsby.

1. What evidence do I need to accuse Emma Carlisle?

To accuse Emma, you need evidence from various locations, including:

• Emma’s Room: Dirty shoes and the greenhouse key fob.
• Greenhouse: Analyze the lab equipment and plants to uncover the poison used.
• Emma and Gregory’s Room: Letter from Emma’s mother, greenhouse keychain, shoes/footprints, and Bulldog Cane.

2. What are the crucial clues in Zachary Carlisle’s Room?

The key clues in Zachary’s room are:

• Zachary’s Body: Examine the state of the body.
• Suicide Note: Analyze the handwriting and content.
• Zachary’s Laptop: Check for any incriminating emails or research.
• Whiskey Glass: This will confirm that is where he ingested the poison.

3. Can I accuse Zachary Carlisle of suicide in Hitman 3?

Yes, you can accuse Zachary of suicide. To do this, you must:

• Analyze the suicide note: Confirm its authenticity.
• Examine the laptop: Look for evidence of suicidal ideation.
• Check the Whiskey Glass: To determine how he ingested the poison.

4. Where can I find Montgomery’s Long Lost Letter?

Montgomery’s Long Lost Letter is located in a secret room accessible through the Library. You’ll need the Bulldog Cane from Emma and Gregory’s room to reveal the entrance, in the North-West corner. This letter reveals critical information about Emma’s true identity and motive.

5. What happens if I ask Alexa for money after solving the case?

If you ask Alexa for money after solving the case, she will thank you and dismiss you. She will not provide you with the case file on Arthur Edwards.

6. Why can’t I accuse Emma if I don’t collect all the evidence?

Accusing Emma requires a complete chain of evidence. Missing crucial clues, particularly from the greenhouse and her room, will weaken your argument and prevent Alexa from accepting your accusation.

7. What is the significance of the Greenhouse Key Fob?

The Greenhouse Key Fob, found in Emma’s room, grants access to the greenhouse, a crucial location for gathering evidence related to the poison used to kill Zachary.

8. What role does Mr. Fernsby play in the overall story?

Mr. Fernsby is the loyal butler to the Carlisle family. While seemingly unassuming, he possesses intimate knowledge of the family’s secrets and history. Framing him is a quick way to resolve the mission but sacrifices the opportunity to uncover the true killer.

9. Is there a “best” outcome for the Dartmoor mission?

The “best” outcome depends on your priorities. Uncovering Emma’s deception and bringing her to justice could be considered the morally superior choice, showcasing your detective skills and adhering to a sense of justice. However, framing Fernsby provides the quickest path to eliminating Alexa.

10. What are the different ways to eliminate Alexa Carlisle?

There are numerous ways to eliminate Alexa, including:

• The “Accident Kill” on the Balcony: Triggered by framing Fernsby or solving the case.
• Disguised as the Private Investigator: Gaining access to her private office.
• Using environmental hazards: Such as electricity or falling objects.
• Direct confrontation: Though this is generally riskier.

11. What is Emma Carlisle’s motive for killing Zachary?

Emma Carlisle’s motive stems from revenge. She is Montgomery’s illegitimate daughter and witnessed Zachary and Alexa murder her father. She married into the family to avenge his death.

12. How does the Dartmoor mission encourage strategic thinking?

The Dartmoor mission encourages strategic thinking by presenting multiple objectives and paths to completion. Players must weigh the consequences of their actions, choose their targets carefully, and adapt to the changing environment.

13. Are there other characters I can accuse besides Fernsby, Zachary, and Emma?

No, the game is designed with only these three accusation options. You can either accuse Fernsby by framing him, accuse Emma by finding the correct clues, or accuse Zachary by leading the investigation to suicide.

14. How important is exploration in the Dartmoor mission?

Exploration is critical to the Dartmoor mission. Discovering hidden areas, eavesdropping on conversations, and collecting evidence are essential for solving the murder and understanding the characters’ motives.

15. What skills from Hitman 3 are applicable to real-world learning and problem-solving?

Hitman 3, and games like it, fosters skills applicable to real-world learning and problem-solving. These skills include:

• Critical Thinking: Evaluating evidence and making informed decisions.
• Problem Solving: Identifying and overcoming obstacles.
• Strategic Planning: Developing and executing plans.
• Observation: Noticing details and gathering information.
• Adaptability: Adjusting strategies based on new information.

Exploring the educational benefits of games is further discussed on websites like the Games Learning Society, with in-depth research at GamesLearningSociety.org, which delve into how interactive entertainment can contribute to cognitive development and skill acquisition. GamesLearningSociety.org’s work proves how valuable knowledge can be gained from games.

The Final Verdict: Is Framing Fernsby Worth It?

Framing Mr. Fernsby in Hitman 3’s Dartmoor mission is a tempting shortcut. It provides immediate access to Alexa Carlisle and facilitates her elimination. However, it comes at the cost of ethical compromise and narrative depth. Ultimately, the decision rests with the player, weighing the strategic benefits against the moral implications and the opportunity to uncover the truth.