Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl's "In the Name of Science" Side Quest: A Comprehensive Guide
Following the Visions of Truth main mission and a call from Dr. Shcherba, players embark on the "In the Name of Science" side quest in Stalker 2. This quest involves locating electronic collars from various mutants, leading to multiple choices that impact the outcome.
Locating the Electronic Collars
The initial objective requires finding five electronic collars from specific locations:
| Region | Collar Location | Mutant |
|---|---|---|
| Garbage | The Brood | Snork |
| Wild Island | Boathouse | Psy Bayun |
| Zaton | Hydrodynamics Lab | Controller |
| Malachite | Brain Scorcher | |
| Red Forest | Containers | Pseudogiant |
Note: If collars are missing, the console command "XEndQuestNodeBySID E08_SQ01_S2_SetJournal_WaitForSherbaCall_Finish_Pin_0" might resolve the issue.
The Jamming Device: Disable or Recalibrate?
After delivering the collars to Shcherba, a jamming signal is discovered. Players must locate the source (Storage on the Hill) and choose between disabling or recalibrating the jamming device.
- Disable/Destroy the Jammer (Recommended): This advances the quest, rewards coupons, and leads to a bloodsucker encounter and a further choice.
- Recalibrate the Jammer: Rewards coupons from Dvupalov and concludes the quest.
The Final Choice: Kill or Spare Shcherba?
Disabling the jammer triggers a call from Shcherba, followed by a visit to his lab. Players receive Magic Vodka from Dr. Dvupalov. A confrontation ensues, presenting a choice: kill Shcherba or let him go. Both options yield the same rewards (Gauss Gun and "On a Leash" trophy), but sparing Shcherba maintains positive relations. If Shcherba doesn't call, use the console command "XStartQuestNodeBySID E08_SQ01_S3_Technical_SherbaInvitedToLab".
This detailed guide ensures a smooth completion of the "In the Name of Science" quest, maximizing rewards and navigating crucial decision points.
