Mission 18: Junction City
Welcome, initiates, to Junction City. This mission marks a significant escalation in the Brotherhood's campaign, pitting you against a well-entrenched and heavily armed enemy. Preparation and tactical precision are paramount for success here. Expect heavy resistance from Super Mutants, including their elite variants, and be wary of environmental hazards.
Recommended Loadout & Squad Composition
For Junction City, a balanced squad with high damage output and robust defenses is crucial. Consider the following:
- Heavy Weapons Specialist: At least one squad member should be proficient with heavy weapons. A Browning M2 or a Vindicator Minigun loaded with AP (Armor Piercing) ammunition will be invaluable against Super Mutant Overlords and their armored brethren.
- Energy Weapons Expert: A character with high Energy Weapons skill and a Plasma Rifle or Laser Rifle can effectively strip away enemy armor and deal significant damage.
- Sniper/Marksman: A high-perception character with a Sniper Rifle or Gauss Rifle is excellent for picking off high-threat targets from a distance, especially Super Mutant Masters with their powerful ranged attacks.
- Medic/Support: Always bring a dedicated medic with a high First Aid and Doctor skill. Stock up on Super Stimpaks, Healing Powders, and Antidotes. Consider giving them a secondary, accurate weapon for self-defense.
- Explosives Expert: While not strictly necessary for every encounter, an explosives expert with Plastic Explosives or Frag Grenades can be useful for clearing out clustered enemies or destroying specific objectives.
Ensure all squad members are equipped with the best available armor, preferably Brotherhood Combat Armor or Power Armor if you have it. Don't forget plenty of ammunition for all weapon types.
Initial Approach and Eastern Sector
Upon deployment, you'll find yourself on the outskirts of Junction City. The immediate area will likely have a few Super Mutant patrols. Engage them cautiously, using cover to your advantage.
- Secure the Eastern Road: Move your squad east along the main road. You'll encounter several Super Mutants, including regular variants and possibly a Super Mutant Brute. Utilize your heavy weapons and energy weapons to quickly neutralize them.
- First Building Clearance: To your north, you'll see a dilapidated building. This often contains a small group of Super Mutants. Clear it out. Inside, you might find some Stimpaks or Ammunition in crates or lockers.
- Watch for Snipers: As you push further east, keep an eye on elevated positions and rooftops. Super Mutant Snipers with Hunting Rifles or Assault Rifles can be a nuisance. Use your own sniper to counter them.
Central Plaza and Main Resistance
The central plaza is where the bulk of the Super Mutant forces are concentrated. This area is heavily fortified and will require a methodical approach.
- Approach from Cover: Do not rush into the plaza. Utilize the surrounding buildings and debris for cover. Position your heavy weapons and snipers to provide suppressing fire.
- Eliminate Heavy Weapons: Prioritize Super Mutants wielding Miniguns or Rocket Launchers. These pose the greatest threat to your squad's survival. Focus fire on them.
- Super Mutant Overlords: Expect to encounter Super Mutant Overlords in this area. These formidable foes have high HP and powerful attacks. Concentrate all available firepower on them, using AP rounds or energy weapons to bypass their armor. Consider using Pulse Grenades if you have any, as they are effective against armored targets.
- Clear the Buildings: The buildings surrounding the plaza are often occupied. Systematically clear each one, checking for enemies and valuable loot such as Medical Supplies, Weapon Upgrades, or additional Ammunition.
Western Sector and Objective
Once the central plaza is secure, your focus shifts to the western part of the city, where the primary objective is located.
- Proceed West: Move cautiously through the western streets. You'll likely encounter more Super Mutant patrols, though generally in smaller numbers than in the central plaza.
- The Main Compound: The objective is usually located within a fortified compound or a large building in the westernmost area. This area will be heavily guarded by Super Mutant Masters and potentially more Overlords.
- Breaching the Compound:
- Option A (Direct Assault): If you have sufficient firepower and healing, a direct assault can work. Use your heavy weapons to suppress, and your energy/sniper characters to pick off key targets.
- Option B (Flanking Maneuver): Look for alternative entry points, such as side alleys or damaged walls, to bypass some of the initial heavy resistance. This can allow you to get behind enemy lines and target their weaker flanks.
- Option C (Explosives): If a specific door or wall is blocking your path, an explosives expert can use Plastic Explosives to create an opening.
- Neutralize the Leader: The mission objective will typically involve eliminating a specific Super Mutant leader or destroying a critical piece of equipment. This target will be well-guarded. Focus all your efforts on this objective once identified.
- Loot and Exit: After completing the objective, thoroughly search the compound for any high-tier loot. You might find rare weapons like a Turbo Plasma Rifle or advanced armor pieces. Once satisfied, head to the designated exit zone to complete the mission.
Remember to save frequently, especially before engaging large groups of enemies. Good luck, initiate!