"The Hammer Falls" mission in Starfield offers players a moral dilemma. Players will uncover a conspiracy that places Ron Hope at its center, leading to a significant crossroads: should they spare or kill him? The choice is not just about one character but speaks to larger themes of justice, morality, and the greater good.
Who is Ron Hope?
Ron Hope is the CEO of HopeTech and he stands as a powerful figure within the Freestar Collective, a beloved entity by its citizens for the job opportunities he provides. His position on the Council of Governors further solidifies his influence. However, as the game progresses, players discover that this influential figure might not be as benevolent as he seems.
What Did Ron Hope Do?
The "The Hammer Falls" mission, marking the climax of the Freestar Rangers' questline, reveals the dark side of Ron Hope. He is found guilty of poisoning farmers' land, making it rich in minerals. This act was not out of kindness but a calculated move to later claim those minerals for his industrial empire, HopeTech. To ensure his plan's success, he hires a group of mercenaries known as "The First" to drive the farmers away from their land.
What to Do with Ron Hope?
It is recommended not to keep Ron Hope's secret or accept his bribe. While you can make your own decision based on your moral compass, most players lean towards holding Ron Hope accountable by killing him when faced with resistance or confrontation.
1. Accept Ron Hope's Bribe
Recognizing the gravity of his actions and the evidence against him, Ron Hope offers players a substantial bribe to keep silent. Players can either accept his initial offer of 20,000 credits or use the Negotiation skill to increase the bribe to a whopping 50,000 credits.
Consequence: If you decide to spare Ron Hope, it's likely that your companions will not agree with your decision given his negative reputation. In return for sparing him, Ron Hope will offer you a payment of 20,000 credits. If you possess the Negotiation skill, this amount can be raised to 50,000 credits. However, depending on the dialogue choices you make, it's possible to spare him without receiving any payment.
If you choose to accept the offer, you'll get the credits. However, this means giving up Hull's Slate and all proof against Ron Hope. Even if you decide not to accept the money but promise to protect Hope, he will still obtain the slate.
2. Keep Ron Hope's Secret
Understanding the potential political chaos and the collapse of a business supporting thousands, players might choose to spare Ron Hope without accepting any bribe. This choice reflects a decision to prioritize the greater good over personal justice.
Consequence: Keeping Ron Hope's secret might maintain political stability and protect jobs, but it also means turning a blind eye to his heinous actions.
After making your decision, you'll need to meet Daniel in Akila City. During this meeting, you'll have to be untruthful. You have the option to inform Daniel that Paxton Hull never revealed his secrets or that the group known as the First effectively hid any evidence, leaving you without any significant information.
3. Kill Ron Hope
For players seeking justice and retribution, they can choose to confront Ron Hope, leading to a violent showdown. This choice is seen as dispensing frontier justice, ensuring that Ron Hope pays for his crimes.
Consequence:
Killing Ron Hope brings him to justice, and the environment within the factory becomes hostile. Ron Hope is protected by guards who hold a strategic advantage due to their elevated position, making the confrontation challenging. After neutralizing Hope's security, your next objective is to communicate with the floor manager, Birgit. She might initially try to escape due to the chaos, but she will eventually halt, allowing for a conversation.
Birgit will express her deep distress over the situation. However, she will also mention that Hope Town's deputy leader is competent, suggesting that the town will remain prosperous even in Hope's absence.
You will then travel back to Akila City to discuss the events with Daniel. Upon learning that Ron Hope was the mastermind, Daniel will express his astonishment. In contrast, Emma will indicate that she had suspicions, noting Hope's known ambitions. With this revelation, you can proceed to the subsequent phase of your mission. While you might be financially disadvantaged from this choice, your commitment to justice remains unshaken.
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