Fallout: New Vegas, the critically acclaimed post-apocalyptic RPG, is known for its immersive gameplay, engaging storyline, and intricate character customization. However, one aspect of the game that often leaves players perplexed is the handling of severed heads. Yes, you read that right – severed heads. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Fallout: New Vegas and explore the various options available for dealing with these decapitated craniums.
Understanding the Context
In Fallout: New Vegas, players often encounter situations where they need to dispose of enemies, and sometimes, this involves beheading them. The game’s V.A.T.S. (Vault-Tec Assisted Targeting System) allows for precise targeting, making it possible to aim for specific body parts, including the head. When an enemy’s head is severed, it can be picked up and added to the player’s inventory.
Why Collect Heads?
So, why would anyone want to collect severed heads in the first place? There are a few reasons:
- Trophies: Some players enjoy collecting heads as trophies, serving as a grim reminder of their conquests.
- Quests: Certain quests in the game require players to collect specific heads, often as proof of completion or to progress through the storyline.
- Trading: Heads can be traded with certain NPCs (non-player characters) for caps, the game’s currency, or other items.
What to Do with Collected Heads
Now that we’ve established why players might collect heads, let’s explore the various options for dealing with them:
Selling Heads
Players can sell collected heads to certain NPCs, such as traders or collectors. The value of each head varies depending on the NPC and the head’s rarity. Some heads, like those of legendary creatures or notable characters, can fetch a handsome sum.
| Head Type | Value (Caps) |
|---|---|
| Common Enemy Head | 10-20 |
| Rare Enemy Head | 50-100 |
| Legendary Creature Head | 200-500 |
Using Heads for Quests
As mentioned earlier, some quests require players to collect specific heads. These heads can be used to progress through the storyline or to complete side quests. For example, the quest “That Lucky Old Sun” requires players to collect the head of a specific character to progress.
Displaying Heads
Players can display collected heads in their homes or settlements, serving as a morbid decoration. This option is purely cosmetic and doesn’t provide any tangible benefits.
Alternative Uses for Heads
While the above options are the most common uses for heads in Fallout: New Vegas, there are a few alternative uses worth mentioning:
Crafting
In the game’s crafting system, players can use heads to create certain items, such as taxidermy trophies or decorative items. These items can be used to decorate the player’s home or sold to NPCs.
Science Experiments
Players can use heads to conduct science experiments, which can provide valuable insights into the game’s world and its inhabitants. These experiments can be conducted using the game’s science skill.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dealing with severed heads in Fallout: New Vegas can be a complex and nuanced aspect of the game. While some players might view it as a gruesome novelty, others can use heads to progress through quests, trade with NPCs, or even conduct science experiments. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting your journey in the Mojave Wasteland, understanding the various options for dealing with heads can enhance your overall gaming experience.
By exploring the world of Fallout: New Vegas and its many intricacies, players can uncover a rich and immersive gaming experience that goes beyond the surface level. So, the next time you find yourself facing a decapitated enemy, remember that there’s more to their head than just a gruesome trophy – it’s a key to unlocking the game’s many secrets and possibilities.
What happens when you decapitate an enemy in Fallout: New Vegas?
When you decapitate an enemy in Fallout: New Vegas, their head will be removed from their body and can be found on the ground. This can be a result of using certain types of ammunition or explosives that cause massive damage to the enemy’s head. Decapitating an enemy can also be a result of using certain perks or skills that increase the chance of dismembering enemies.
It’s worth noting that decapitating an enemy does not affect the loot that can be obtained from their body. The enemy’s inventory will still be accessible, and you can still take their items and equipment. However, the head itself can sometimes be used for certain quests or tasks, so it’s worth picking it up if you think it might be useful.
Can I use decapitated heads for anything in Fallout: New Vegas?
Yes, decapitated heads can be used for certain quests or tasks in Fallout: New Vegas. For example, some quests may require you to bring a specific character’s head to a certain location or person. In these cases, decapitating the character and bringing their head to the required location can be a way to complete the quest.
Additionally, some characters in the game may have a use for decapitated heads, such as a certain trader who buys unusual items. In these cases, collecting decapitated heads can be a way to make some extra caps or obtain rare items.
How do I store decapitated heads in Fallout: New Vegas?
Decapitated heads can be stored in your inventory like any other item in Fallout: New Vegas. However, they do take up space in your inventory, so you may need to manage your inventory carefully if you plan on collecting a lot of heads. You can also store decapitated heads in containers or on shelves in your home or other safe locations.
It’s worth noting that decapitated heads are considered “junk” items in the game, so they can be sold to traders or used to repair other items. However, if you think a head might be useful for a quest or task, it’s best to hold onto it until you’re sure you don’t need it.
Can I display decapitated heads in Fallout: New Vegas?
Yes, you can display decapitated heads in Fallout: New Vegas. If you have a home or other safe location, you can place decapitated heads on shelves or in containers to display them. This can be a way to show off your accomplishments or add some decoration to your home.
However, it’s worth noting that displaying decapitated heads may not be to everyone’s taste. Some characters in the game may be put off or even hostile if they see decapitated heads on display. So, it’s worth considering who might see your displays before deciding to show off your collection.
Are there any perks or skills that affect decapitation in Fallout: New Vegas?
Yes, there are several perks and skills that can affect decapitation in Fallout: New Vegas. For example, the “Ghoul Slayer” perk increases the chance of dismembering ghouls, which can result in decapitation. The “Demolitions Expert” perk also increases the chance of dismembering enemies with explosives.
Additionally, certain skills like “Melee” or “Guns” can affect the chance of decapitating enemies. For example, using a high-damage melee attack or a powerful gun can increase the chance of decapitating an enemy.
Can I decapitate companions in Fallout: New Vegas?
No, you cannot decapitate companions in Fallout: New Vegas. Companions are protected from dismemberment and decapitation, even if you use perks or skills that would normally cause these effects. This is likely to prevent players from accidentally killing or dismembering their companions.
However, it’s worth noting that companions can still be killed or injured in other ways. For example, if a companion’s health is reduced to zero, they will die and can no longer be used. So, it’s still important to protect your companions and keep them alive.
Are there any mods that affect decapitation in Fallout: New Vegas?
Yes, there are several mods that can affect decapitation in Fallout: New Vegas. For example, some mods can increase the chance of decapitation or add new animations for decapitating enemies. Other mods can add new uses for decapitated heads, such as using them to craft new items or complete quests.
Additionally, some mods can affect the way decapitated heads are displayed or stored in the game. For example, some mods can add new containers or shelves for displaying decapitated heads, or change the way they are stored in your inventory.