Boston Underground
The Boston Underground is a sprawling network of tunnels and passages beneath the city, serving as a vital fast-travel system and a haven from Templar patrols. Unlocking these entrances is crucial for efficient traversal and completing certain missions. This guide will walk you through locating and activating each entrance, along with strategies for navigating the subterranean labyrinth.
Unlocking Entrances
Each entrance to the Boston Underground is initially locked and requires a specific action to open. Once opened, it becomes a fast-travel point on your map. There are several types of entrances:
- Grates: These are typically found at street level and require you to interact with them to open.
- Tunnels: Often disguised as natural caves or old cellars, these entrances usually involve a short traversal puzzle or a quick interaction.
- Taverns/Buildings: Some entrances are hidden within existing structures, requiring you to find a specific door or passage inside.
General Strategy: When approaching a suspected entrance, look for the distinctive "Underground" icon on your mini-map. If it's greyed out, it's locked. Interact with the entrance, and Connor will typically perform a quick animation to open it. Be prepared for potential guards near some entrances, especially in more heavily patrolled areas.
Key Boston Underground Entrances & Walkthrough
Here's a detailed breakdown of how to find and activate some of the most important entrances:
North Boston
- North Market Entrance:
- Location: Directly south of the North Market, near the waterfront. Look for a small alleyway.
- Activation: Interact with the grate on the ground.
- Notes: This entrance is often a good starting point for exploring the northern sections of the underground.
- Old North Church Entrance:
- Location: East of the Old North Church, near a small cluster of houses.
- Activation: Find the wooden door leading into a cellar.
- Notes: Provides quick access to the church area and surrounding districts.
Central Boston
- Green Dragon Tavern Entrance:
- Location: Inside the Green Dragon Tavern itself.
- Activation: Enter the tavern and locate the hidden door or passage in the back. It's often disguised as a storage area.
- Notes: This is a crucial hub for the underground network, connecting to several other important areas.
- Boston Common Entrance:
- Location: On the western edge of Boston Common, near a small group of trees.
- Activation: Interact with the grate on the ground.
- Notes: Useful for quickly traversing the large open area of the Common.
South Boston
- South Market Entrance:
- Location: South of the South Market, close to the docks.
- Activation: Look for a grate in a small alcove.
- Notes: Connects to the southern docks and industrial areas.
- Fort Hill Entrance:
- Location: On the lower slopes of Fort Hill, often disguised as a natural cave opening.
- Activation: Simply walk into the cave entrance.
- Notes: Provides access to the Fort Hill area without having to navigate the heavily guarded streets.
Navigating the Underground
Once inside the Boston Underground, you'll find a labyrinth of tunnels, sewers, and hidden chambers. Here are some tips for effective navigation:
- Use Your Map: The in-game map is your best friend. It clearly shows unlocked entrances and the general layout of the tunnels.
- Follow the Lanterns: Many passages are lit by lanterns, guiding you towards main routes and exits.
- Beware of Guards: While generally safer than the surface, the underground is not entirely free of enemies. British soldiers and Templar agents patrol certain sections. Use your Eagle Vision to spot them and plan your approach.
- Hidden Collectibles: The underground is a prime location for various collectibles, including Almanac Pages and Feathers. Keep an eye out for glowing items or distinctive sounds.
- Fast Travel: Once an entrance is unlocked, you can fast travel to it from anywhere on the map. Simply open your map, select the desired underground entrance, and confirm. This saves immense time, especially during pursuit missions or when needing to quickly change districts.
Underground Challenges & Missions
The Boston Underground isn't just for travel; it also plays a role in several missions and challenges:
- Boston's Most Wanted: Some of the "Boston's Most Wanted" side missions will lead you into the underground to track down targets. Be prepared for close-quarters combat in these tight spaces.
- Liberation Missions: Certain Liberation Contracts may require you to access or escape through the underground.
- Main Story Missions: Several key story sequences will utilize the underground for stealth, pursuit, or escape. Pay attention to mission objectives that hint at subterranean routes.
Mastering the Boston Underground is essential for any aspiring Assassin. Take the time to unlock all entrances, learn the layout, and utilize its strategic advantages to become a true master of the city.