Post-Game Activities
So, you've saved the world (again) and sent Sloan packing to the digital afterlife. But the neon-drenched, blood-soaked island of Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon still holds plenty of cybernetic mayhem and secrets to uncover. Don't power down your Mark IV Cyber Commando just yet! Here's a comprehensive guide to maximizing your post-campaign experience.
I. Achieving 100% Completion
For the true completionist, reaching 100% involves more than just finishing the main story. You'll need to tackle every side objective and collectible. Your in-game map and progress tracker are your best friends here.
A. Garrison Liberations
If you haven't already, ensure all 13 Garrisons are liberated. Each liberated Garrison acts as a fast-travel point and unlocks new side quests. Revisit any Garrisons marked red on your map.
- Strategy: Approach Garrisons stealthily to disable alarms first. Use your Bow to silently take out snipers and heavy enemies. Once alarms are down, you can go loud with your Fazertron or Kobracon. Remember to loot all enemies and supply crates for cash and attachments.
B. Predator's Path Quests
These side missions, unlocked by liberating Garrisons, involve hunting specific cybernetic beasts. There are 13 in total. Check the mission boards at liberated Garrisons for available hunts. Completing these often rewards unique weapon attachments or significant cash bonuses.
- Examples:
- "The Hunt: Cyber-Panther" (unlocked at Garrison 1): Requires tracking and eliminating a souped-up Cyber-Panther. Use bait (Cyber-Hearts) to lure it out.
- "The Hunt: Blood Dragon Alpha" (unlocked at Garrison 13): A challenging hunt for a powerful Blood Dragon variant. Pack your most potent weapons like the Killstar and Flamethrower. Aim for the glowing weak points.
C. Hostage Situations
Scattered across the island are 13 Hostage Situations. These involve rescuing scientists from Omega Force patrols. They appear as blue shield icons on your map. Successfully rescuing them grants cash and experience.
- Strategy: These encounters are often dynamic. You can either engage the patrol head-on or try to stealthily eliminate the guards and free the hostage. Be mindful of enemy reinforcements if you trigger an alarm.
D. Collectibles
There are three types of collectibles to track down:
- TVs (30 total): These old-school cathode-ray tubes often play humorous, retro-futuristic clips. They are usually found indoors, within Garrisons, or abandoned structures.
- VHS Tapes (32 total): Hidden throughout the island, these tapes contain more lore and comedic content. They are often found in bunkers, caves, or dilapidated buildings.
- Doctor's Notes (10 total): These provide backstory and insights into the island's experiments. They are typically found in more secluded or story-relevant locations.
- Strategy: Utilize your map to pinpoint general areas. Listen for a distinct electronic hum when you are close to a collectible. Some collectibles are in hard-to-reach places, requiring careful platforming or a keen eye.
II. Weapon Customization and Upgrades
Even after the credits roll, you can continue to fine-tune your arsenal. Use your accumulated cash to purchase all available weapon attachments and upgrades from the Weapon Locker at any liberated Garrison.
- Recommended Upgrades:
- Kobracom: Extended Magazine, Optical Scope, Suppressor. Essential for stealth and long-range engagements.
- Fazertron: Extended Magazine, Laser Sight. Increases its effectiveness in close-quarters combat.
- Killstar: Explosive Rounds. Turns this already powerful minigun into a devastating area-of-effect weapon.
- Flamethrower: Increased Fuel Capacity. More fire, more fun.
III. Exploring the Open World
The island itself is a character, and there are still plenty of hidden nooks and crannies to discover. Take your time to explore areas you might have rushed through during the main campaign.
- Hidden Areas: Look for caves, abandoned bunkers, and underwater passages that might contain extra cash, weapon crates, or even unique environmental storytelling.
- Random Encounters: The world remains dynamic. You'll still encounter Omega Force patrols, Blood Dragon skirmishes, and wildlife. These provide opportunities for more combat, experience, and loot.
IV. Replaying Missions (If Desired)
While Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon doesn't feature a dedicated "New Game+" mode, you can always start a new save file to experience the story again with your newfound knowledge and skills. This can be particularly enjoyable if you want to try different combat approaches or focus on specific achievements from the outset.
By following these steps, you'll ensure you've squeezed every last drop of neon-infused, 80s-inspired action out of Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon, cementing your legacy as the ultimate Mark IV Cyber Commando.