Tips for Effortlessly Rescuing Dr. Garrow in Atomfall

Atomfall really stands out, primarily because of its diverse endings and decision-based gameplay mechanics. My time with the game was spent not only pondering the choices I was making but also strategizing what actions to take next.

A pivotal storyline in Atomfall revolves around Dr. Garrow, a scientist intricately tied to the technology within the zone. You’ll probably first hear about Dr. Garrow through the Captain in Wyndham Village, simply because he’s the one who has detained her. She’s held in Skethermoor Prison, and if you’re aiming for one of the game’s endings, releasing her is a must.

However, like many choices in Atomfall, freeing Dr. Garrow has its repercussions. Not only does it influence the path you’re on toward a particular ending, but it also impacts the immediate challenges you’ll face.

With that in mind, here’s what I suggest doing and why.

—

### What Happens if You Release Dr. Garrow Right Away?

The game sets a stage complicating straightforward decisions. If you let Dr. Garrow out of that cell on a whim, the consequences are immediate. Not only will she be free, but every other prisoner too, and trust me, that changes everything for you.

I don’t want to delve too deep into plot spoilers, but if you’ve figured out that Dr. Garrow is in Skethermoor Prison, you’re already on the trail that nudges you to help her escape.

Following this path comes with perks. One major incentive is acquiring a Signal Redirector, an essential tool you’ll need throughout the game. I’d advise you to first get in good terms with the Captain.

Tackling specific tasks, such as solving a murder mystery at the Church, could earn you a pass. This pass ensures a safer passage through the prison, provided you agree to interrogate Dr. Garrow. If you attempt to navigate the prison without it, prepare to dodge or confront numerous Protocol Soldiers. This brings us to the question of what ensues when you liberate Dr. Garrow.

Set her free, and regardless of having the pass, you’re immediately considered an intruder. Those Protocol Soldiers won’t hesitate to shoot on sight.

Her cell is tucked away deep in the prison, and depending on how you’ve progressed, the nearby interchange door might still be locked. You’re in for a trek to escape.

Admitting to the Captain that you freed her? That’s a dead end; he turns hostile. Or, free her, then lie about it, assuming you navigate your way out alive.

—

### The Best Way to Release Dr. Garrow Without Risk

The smoothest route to liberating Dr. Garrow is simply to keep on with the Captain’s missions.

After I faced the failure of a quick release, a thoughtful reload later had me back at Wyndham with a Signal Redirector, chatting up the Captain. With Dr. Garrow still imprisoned, we’re good.

The trick lies in running his missions up to the point where the Interchange and Oberon come into play. This journey earns you trust with the Protocol.

This newfound trust not only simplifies entry into the Skethermoor Interchange but also lets you free Dr. Garrow without triggering any hostility.

—

Once you flip that switch, soldiers will react, but you’ll notice—no red trespassing alerts pop up, and you can stroll out unbothered.

Back to the Captain, and he’ll acknowledge Garrow’s disappearance, but intriguingly, doesn’t even suspect your role.

—

### What Follows Dr. Garrow’s Release?

Dr. Garrow has her narrative, and once free, she beelines for the nearby Interchange door.

If you’ve pre-opened it, she’ll pause on her side, awaiting a conversation with you. If not, she’ll head through, leaving the door shut for you.

No worries, she’ll end up in the Interchange. Your entrance strategy varies based on what doors you’ve unlocked. Ultimately, find her at the Central Processor.

Access between Skethermoor Prison and the Interchange requires being inside the latter. Power the lower area, tackle the lead to activate the crane controls.

With crane access, move a storage container for clear passage to the Detention Quarter. Unlock the door, and you’ll end up at Garrow’s cell.

This method also offers an alternative if you’d prefer less interaction with the Captain. Although, braving the swarm of Protocol Soldiers in this Interchange section still makes befriending the Captain a more appealing choice for convenient navigation.