Now That's Entertainment (Side Mission)
This side mission is a fantastic opportunity to earn some extra Components and Ethanol, crucial for upgrading Prosperity and crafting better weapons. It also introduces you to a unique character and some explosive fun!
Mission Giver and Location
You'll pick up "Now That's Entertainment" from Sharky Boshaw, a pyromaniac with a heart of gold (and a love for explosions). You can find Sharky at his home, the Boshaw Residence, located in the northern part of Hope County, specifically northeast of Rye & Sons' Aviation. Look for a heavily fortified, somewhat ramshackle compound with plenty of explosive barrels around – you can't miss it!
Walkthrough
Phase 1: The Audition
Upon speaking with Sharky, he'll explain his desire to put on a "show" and needs your help with some pyrotechnics. Your first task is to prove your explosive prowess.
- Objective: Destroy the Scarecrows. Sharky has set up several scarecrows around his property. He wants you to destroy them using explosives.
- Strategy:
- Explosive Options: You'll likely have Dynamite or Molotovs at this point in the game. If you have the "Throwing Arm" perk, it will make aiming easier.
- Scarecrow Locations: There are typically 3-4 scarecrows scattered within the immediate vicinity of Sharky's house. They are usually visible from his porch or the surrounding yard. Keep an eye out for their distinctive straw and clothing.
- Conservation: Don't waste all your explosives here. You'll need more later. Aim for direct hits or place explosives strategically to catch multiple scarecrows in a single blast if they are close together.
- Alternative: If you're low on crafted explosives, look for red explosive barrels near the scarecrows. Shooting these will cause a chain reaction, often destroying nearby targets.
Phase 2: Gathering the Goods
Impressed by your destructive capabilities, Sharky will send you to gather more "ingredients" for his grand spectacle.
- Objective: Retrieve the Fireworks. Sharky needs a special kind of "firework" from a nearby Highwaymen outpost.
- Location: The target outpost is usually a smaller, unnamed Highwaymen checkpoint or a derelict gas station a short distance from the Boshaw Residence. The exact location will be marked on your map.
- Approach:
- Stealth Recommended: While you can go in guns blazing, a stealthy approach will conserve health and ammo. Use your binoculars to tag enemies and identify patrol routes.
- Enemy Types: Expect standard Highwaymen grunts and possibly a Charger or two. Be wary of snipers if the outpost has elevated positions.
- Finding the Fireworks: The "fireworks" are actually a crate of Explosive Charges. They are typically found inside a small shack or a storage container within the outpost. Look for a large, distinctively marked crate.
- Extraction: Once you have the Explosive Charges, clear out any remaining Highwaymen or simply make a tactical retreat.
Phase 3: The Grand Finale
With the Explosive Charges in hand, it's time to put on the show!
- Objective: Place the Charges and Detonate. Return to Sharky at the Boshaw Residence. He'll direct you to specific locations around his property to plant the Explosive Charges.
- Placement: Follow the on-screen markers. You'll typically be placing charges near old vehicles, dilapidated structures, and other scenic points that Sharky deems worthy of explosion. There are usually 3-5 designated spots.
- Detonation: After placing all the charges, return to Sharky. He'll give you a Detonator. Find a safe vantage point (usually on his porch or a nearby hill) and trigger the explosions. Enjoy the fireworks!
Rewards
Completing "Now That's Entertainment" will net you:
- A significant amount of Ethanol (Tier 1 or 2, depending on your progress).
- A good quantity of Components.
- XP for your character.
- Most importantly, Sharky Boshaw will become available as a Gun for Hire! His unique ability, "Heavy Fire", allows him to throw Molotovs and use a flamethrower, making him an excellent choice for clearing out groups of enemies or dealing with armored targets.
This mission is a blast (pun intended!) and a great way to bolster your resources and recruit a powerful ally early in your journey through Hope County.