Unraveling the Mystery: Where Exactly IS Old World Blues?

So, you’re ready to delve into the zany, cerebral world of Old World Blues (OWB), the Fallout: New Vegas DLC that’s equal parts mad science, existential pondering, and brain-jar combat? Excellent choice! But before you can start swapping witty banter with disembodied brains, you need to know where to find it.

The Old World Blues DLC takes place in the Big MT research crater, a remote and isolated location that is physically separate from the Mojave Wasteland. Think of it as a brainy, post-apocalyptic playground hidden away from the rest of Nevada (or Montana, as the lore might tease!). It’s accessible after you receive a radio transmission triggered by installing the DLC. Head to the Mojave Drive-In and wait until midnight. Once the “midnight showing” begins, a robot will appear. Interact with this robot to initiate your journey to Big MT.

Delving Deeper: Big MT and its Lore

Big MT, also known as the Big Empty, is a massive research facility that predates the Great War. It was a hub for some of the most advanced (and ethically questionable) scientific research of the Pre-War era. The scientists there, known as the Think Tank, were pioneers in robotics, cybernetics, and a host of other highly specialized fields. Their experiments were so out there that they resulted in strange creatures and even stranger landscapes.

Although some information might point to Montana’s “Big Mountain” being the inspiration, remember that in the Fallout universe, the Big MT crater is located in Nevada, specifically in the area surrounding the Mojave Wasteland.

Getting Started: How to Embark on the OWB Adventure

Accessing Old World Blues is a straightforward process.

1. Install the DLC: Make sure the DLC is properly installed on your gaming platform.

2. Wait for the Radio Signal: Once installed, the game will trigger a radio signal informing you of a transmission coming from the Mojave Drive-In.

3. Travel to the Mojave Drive-In: This location can be easily found on your map, provided you have discovered it.

4. The Midnight Showing: At the Drive-In, wait until midnight. A movie will begin playing on the screen.

5. The Robot: Keep an eye out for a robot that appears in the middle of the parking lot. Interact with it to start the DLC’s main quest.

FAQs: Your OWB Questions Answered

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify any confusion and deepen your understanding of the Old World Blues DLC:

How do I access the Honest Hearts DLC?

The Honest Hearts DLC is initiated by receiving a radio signal from Jed Masterson about the “Happy Trails Caravan” heading through Zion. Travel to the Northern Passage, north of New Vegas, and speak with Jed to join the caravan.

Can you return to Old World Blues after completion?

Yes! After completing the main questline of Old World Blues, you will receive the Big Mountain Transportalponder! This unique weapon allows you to teleport back and forth between the Mojave Wasteland and Big MT at will.

Can you leave the Old World Blues DLC area before finishing the main quest?

Initially, you can’t simply leave Big MT. Your brain is, well, missing. You must progress through the main quest to retrieve your brain and gain the ability to use the Transportalponder for unrestricted travel. Loading an older save is an option if you’re finding the DLC too difficult at your current level.

How many implants can you get in Old World Blues?

In addition to the implants you can purchase from Doctor Usanagi in New Vegas, Old World Blues provides access to four unique implants that can be installed using an Auto-Doc within Big MT. These implants offer powerful stat boosts and abilities.

Can I return to Zion after finishing Honest Hearts?

Absolutely! Just like with Big MT, you can freely return to Zion Canyon after completing the Honest Hearts DLC. This allows you to explore previously visited areas, collect missed items, or simply enjoy the scenery.

What happens if you tell Waking Cloud the truth about her husband in Honest Hearts?

Telling Waking Cloud the truth about her husband’s fate initially causes anger towards Daniel for withholding the information. However, in the long run, she forgives him and eventually remarries within the Dead Horses tribe, ensuring stability and connection for her.

What should I tell Follows-Chalk in Honest Hearts?

The best advice to give Follows-Chalk is that he should see civilization. This prompts him to explore the wider world, broadening his horizons and potentially leading to personal growth. However, be aware that this choice results in him leaving his tribe, with an uncertain future.

Do you lose your equipment upon entering Old World Blues?

No, you do not lose any of your equipped weapons or armor when you enter Old World Blues. However, it’s highly recommended to have high skills in Science and Medicine, as these will greatly aid you in navigating the challenges of Big MT.

What level should I be before starting Old World Blues?

Old World Blues is designed for characters around level 15 or higher. This provides a suitable challenge without being overwhelmingly difficult. However, you can always level up further before venturing into Big MT if you prefer.

Can you go back to the Mojave Wasteland from Old World Blues?

Yes, once you complete the main questline of the Old World Blues and obtain the Big Mountain Transportalponder!, you can freely teleport back to the Mojave Wasteland at any time.

Can you revisit Big MT after completing Old World Blues?

Yes, you can return to Big MT as often as you like after completing the DLC. However, be aware that the number and types of enemies that spawn may change due to the storyline.

What is the meaning behind the saying “Old World Blues” in the Fallout universe?

Doctor Mobius explains that “Old World Blues” refers to people who are so fixated on the past that they are unable to appreciate the present or plan for the future. It’s a commentary on the dangers of dwelling on past glories or tragedies.

Can you spare Doctor Mobius?

Yes, it is possible to spare Doctor Mobius. However, it requires specific dialogue choices and skill checks. If you fail to meet these requirements, you may be forced to eliminate him.

What happens if you spare Salt-Upon-Wounds in Honest Hearts?

If you spare Salt-Upon-Wounds, he undergoes a significant change, abandoning his ruthless methods. However, this also diminishes his legendary status among his followers, altering the history of the region.

What happens if the Sorrows flee Zion in Honest Hearts?

If you side with Daniel and evacuate the Sorrows from Zion, they escape the influence of the White Legs. However, Zion is left vulnerable and is eventually polluted by the White Legs before they, too, depart, resulting in a bittersweet ending.

Conclusion: Embrace the Big Empty!

Old World Blues offers a unique and unforgettable experience in the Fallout universe. By understanding where it takes place and how to access it, you can dive headfirst into the quirky world of Big MT and its eccentric inhabitants. Remember to gear up, level up, and prepare for a cerebral adventure unlike any other. Now get out there and save Science!

For more on how games can be used for learning and education, be sure to check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.