Atomfall truly stands out, not just for its multiple endings but for its decision-driven gameplay. My experience with the game has involved making some questionable decisions, along with figuring out my next steps.
A key character in Atomfall is Dr. Garrow, a pivotal figure in the zone’s technology. Players are introduced to her through the Captain in Wyndham Village, who’s got her locked up. She’s held at Skethermoor Prison, and unlocking one of the game’s endings involves freeing her.
But remember, in Atomfall, every decision has its consequences—not only affecting the ending you’re headed for but also impacting the immediate gameplay experience.
Here’s what I suggest and why:
What Happens If You Release Dr. Garrow Right Away?
Imagine stepping into Skethermoor Prison and deciding to free Dr. Garrow immediately. Doing so unleashes not just her but all the prisoners—a decision that certainly doesn’t go unnoticed.
Without diving too deep into spoilers, if you’re aware of Dr. Garrow’s predicament at Skethermoor Prison, you’re already on a path that involves her release.
Following this path is a smart move, as it nets you a valuable Signal Redirector, crucial throughout the game. First, I suggest getting on good terms with the Captain.
By lending a hand in tasks, maybe solving that murder at the Church, you earn a pass for safe movement in the prison, on the condition that you’ll interrogate Dr. Garrow. Without this pass, you’re in for a challenging encounter with Protocol Soldiers. Now, what if you go ahead and release Dr. Garrow?
If you reach Garrow directly, acquire the Signal Redirector, and then release her, your pass becomes irrelevant. Instantly, all bets are off—you’re now a trespasser, and every Protocol Soldier is poised to take you down.
Since Garrow’s cell is deep within the prison, and given that the nearest exit is probably locked (if your game progress mirrors mine), escaping won’t be a walk in the park.
Reporting back to the Captain afterward and admitting to freeing her ends his support—and turns him and his men against you. However, you could release her and mislead him about it—if you manage to escape unscathed.
How to Free Dr. Garrow Without a Hitch
A safer and smoother way to liberate Dr. Garrow is by continuing the mission chain with the Captain.
After a frustrating experience of being taken down for freeing Garrow, I revisited the Captain with my trusty Signal Redirector in hand and took on more tasks. By following his mission chain approaching Interchange and Oberon, you gain the trust needed with the Protocol.
This trust allows seamless entry into Skethermoor Interchange, letting you free Dr. Garrow without any hostility from guards.
Once you reach this stage, flipping the release switch to unleash prisoners will prompt a reaction but won’t lead to any charges of trespassing or immediate pursuit.
When you report back to the Captain afterward, he’ll mention her escape and list her for termination, but suspicious glances won’t be thrown your way.
What Follows After Dr. Garrow is Freed
Following her escape, Dr. Garrow has her storyline that ties into one of the game’s endings. Freed from captivity, she heads straight for the Interchange door nearby.
Should you have unlocked this entrance previously, she’ll remain and wait at the prison’s side for a chat. Otherwise, if the passage isn’t unlocked, she’ll proceed through, leaving it locked for you.
Regardless, her destination is within the Interchange. Depending on the routes you’ve unlocked, the journey to her requires heading towards the Central Processor.
To grant access between Skethermoor Prison and the Interchange itself, you need to operate from within the latter. After powering up the lower area, follow instructions to the crane controls.
Operating these controls clears the blockade to the Detention Quarter, which leads to unlocking the door right beside Garrow’s cell.
This is also a tactic for approaching Dr. Garrow without aligning too closely with the Captain. However, this method demands more effort than simply doing a few tasks and waltzing into the prison.
Consider this route as an alternative if you prefer not to get involved with the Captain, but know it involves scaling obstacles with soldiers potentially lurking along the way. Forming an alliance with the Captain often simplifies and enhances your experience.
