Navigating the vast expanse of Bethesda's space exploration RPG often leads players to subtle narrative gems hidden away in major settlements. In New Atlantis, a side mission titled A Light in the Darkness challenges players to step into the role of an investigative journalist by working alongside Tommy Marlin at the SSNN broadcasting building. Successfully completing this task not only provides useful experience points but also offers an engaging look into how news travels across the Settled Systems.
Initiating the Mission in New Atlantis
To begin this narrative journey, you must first travel to the MAST District located on the planet Jemison. Head directly to the Spaceport or take the transit system to locate the iconic office building of the Settled Systems News Network. Once inside, look for an anchor named Tommy Marlin who is currently seeking assistance with fresh broadcast stories.
Speaking with Tommy reveals his desperation for genuine field reports from active explorers across the galaxy. He will officially commission you to secure reliable data and eye-witness accounts regarding recent planetary events. This interaction populates your mission log with clear objectives that send you searching for major news scoops.
Gathering Field Interviews and Vital Data
The core objective requires players to travel to specific coordinates where major historical events recently unfolded. You will need to speak with localized settlement leaders and gather audio logs that detail recent faction skirmishes. Ensuring that you maintain an objective perspective during these interviews will yield the most comprehensive data packages.
While exploring different star systems for these leads, you can occasionally check your active logs for precise target destinations. Players can also utilize the galaxy map to plot efficient gravitational jumps toward these remote colony hubs. Collecting every necessary piece of evidence guarantees that your final broadcast report is incredibly accurate.
Delivering the Truth to SSNN Headquarters
Once you have compiled the necessary interviews and planetary data, return immediately to the MAST District on Jemison. Enter the broadcasting station once again and present your findings directly to your media contact. Tommy will carefully evaluate the files before choosing how to present the story to the public.
Your choices during the final debriefing determine the overall tone of the upcoming radio broadcast. Players can choose to highlight corporate corruption or focus entirely on the heroic efforts of local security forces. Each choice provides a unique dialogue outcome that plays across local communication channels later in your playthrough.
Completing Objectives and Earning Rewards
Completing this assignment rewards your character with standard experience points to help unlock valuable spacefaring skills. Additionally, Tommy provides a substantial sum of credits to compensate you for your extensive travel expenses. This mission serves as an excellent way to fund your early exploration goals while learning about galactic politics.
Mastering these simple objectives allows players to build a strong professional relationship with the major news outlet. Returning to the office later in the campaign may unlock additional reporting assignments across dangerous territories. Keeping an eye out for these unique world activities greatly enhances your overall roleplaying experience.
