Story & Lore

Welcome, resistance fighter, to the comprehensive guide on the narrative backbone of Wolfenstein: The New Order. Understanding the story and delving into the lore isn't just for immersion; it often provides crucial context for objectives, character motivations, and even hidden collectibles. This section will guide you through key plot points, introduce you to the world's alternate history, and highlight important lore documents to seek out.

The World of 1960: A Nazi Victory

Unlike our own history, the Second World War in Wolfenstein: The New Order ended with a decisive Nazi victory. The game begins in 1946, during the final Allied push against General Deathshead's compound. After a catastrophic event, our protagonist, Captain B.J. Blazkowicz, falls into a coma, only to awaken in 1960. The world he knew is gone, replaced by a totalitarian regime that has conquered the globe with advanced technology. Expect to encounter:

Advanced Nazi Technology: From the towering London Monitor to the ubiquitous Super Soldiers and robotic Panzerhunds, the Nazis' technological superiority is a constant threat and a key element of the lore.
Propaganda and Control: The Nazi regime maintains absolute control through pervasive propaganda, surveillance, and brutal suppression. Pay attention to posters, radio broadcasts, and news reports for insights into their ideology and global reach.
The Resistance: Despite overwhelming odds, pockets of resistance fighters continue their struggle. Blazkowicz's journey is intrinsically linked to these brave individuals, and understanding their history and motivations is vital.

Key Lore Documents & Collectibles

Throughout your journey, you'll discover various documents and items that flesh out the game's rich lore. These aren't just flavor text; they often provide hints, reveal character backstories, or explain the origins of Nazi technology. Prioritize collecting these whenever possible:

Enigma Codes

These fragmented codes are crucial for unlocking bonus game modes and understanding the deeper machinations of the Nazi regime. Each set of codes (e.g., Enigma Code 1, Enigma Code 2) is typically found within a specific chapter. Decoding them at the Resistance HQ's Enigma Machine reveals hidden messages and unlocks new challenges.

Strategy: Always check side rooms, lockers, and desks. Commanders often carry code pieces, so prioritize stealth takedowns or quick kills to prevent them from calling for reinforcements and potentially losing the code.
Location Hint: In Chapter 1, during the initial assault on Deathshead's compound, an Enigma Code piece can be found on a desk in the communications room after you disable the anti-aircraft guns.

Gold Items

While not directly tied to the narrative, collecting Gold Items (e.g., Gold Eagle, Gold Goblet) often leads you to less-traveled areas, which can sometimes contain other lore documents or provide unique environmental storytelling. They represent the spoils of war for the Nazis and provide a glimpse into their opulent, yet brutal, aesthetic.

Strategy: Explore every nook and cranny. Look behind crates, under stairwells, and in seemingly inaccessible areas. Many Gold Items are cleverly hidden.
Location Hint: In Chapter 2, during your escape from the asylum, a Gold Item (often a Gold Watch) can be found in a patient's room on the second floor, accessible after you acquire the Pipe and break through a weakened wall.

Letters and Diaries

These personal accounts offer intimate glimpses into the lives of both the oppressed and the oppressors. They reveal the human cost of the Nazi regime, the struggles of the resistance, and sometimes even the internal conflicts of Nazi personnel. These are invaluable for understanding the emotional depth of the game's world.

Strategy: These are often found on bodies of fallen enemies, in civilian dwellings, or within the personal quarters of high-ranking Nazi officers.
Location Hint: In Chapter 3, within the Berlin Catacombs, a "Resistance Member's Diary" can be found near a makeshift camp, detailing the hardships faced by those fighting back.

Newspaper Clippings and Propaganda Posters

These environmental details provide a broader understanding of the political climate and the Nazi's iron grip on information. They showcase the regime's triumphs (often fabricated) and their demonization of any opposition.

Strategy: Take a moment to read any visible text on walls, bulletin boards, and kiosks. They often tell a story without requiring interaction.
Location Hint: Throughout the game, especially in urban environments like Berlin, you'll find numerous propaganda posters depicting General Deathshead as a heroic figure.

Understanding the Choices: Fergus or Wyatt

Early in the game, you'll be forced to make a pivotal choice: save Fergus Reid or Private Wyatt. This decision has significant ramifications for the rest of the story, impacting:

Companion Dialogue: Your chosen companion will be a constant presence, offering unique dialogue, perspectives, and even different side quests.
Perk Unlocks: Each companion unlocks a different set of perks. Fergus's path often leads to more explosive and heavy weapon perks, while Wyatt's path favors stealth and precision.
Story Nuances: While the core narrative remains the same, specific interactions and minor plot points will differ based on who you saved. For example, Fergus might offer more cynical commentary, while Wyatt might be more idealistic.

There is no "right" choice here; both paths offer a compelling experience. Consider your preferred playstyle and the type of narrative you wish to experience.