Surviving Water Hazards: How to Avoid Drowning in STALKER 2

In STALKER 2, players encounter a range of choices throughout their main and side quests, often presenting morally ambiguous scenarios. One notable instance is the discovery of the unique Drowned Assault Rifle, where the decision made can significantly impact gameplay.

Locating the Drowned Assault Rifle in STALKER 2

To track down the Drowned, head towards the Slag Heap in the Garbage area as part of the main questline. Entering through the main entrance, you will find a character named Boo, who requests your assistance in retrieving his lost weapon from a nearby ditch.

Dive into the ditch to claim the Drowned Assault Rifle; however, exercise caution as radiation levels are present in the area. It’s advisable not to attempt this if your health points are critically low. Upon acquiring the weapon, you will notice it is in a deteriorated state, posing a choice: keep the gun for yourself or return it to Boo.

STALKER 2 SLAG HEAP LOCATION FOR DROWNED — Location of the Drowned Weapon – Image Credit: Twinfinite

Should You Retain the Drowned or Return It to Boo?

From a strategic standpoint, keeping the Drowned is the optimal choice, as Boo offers nothing substantial in return, merely a brief expression of gratitude for your effort. While the Drowned will initially appear damaged, repairing it transforms this weapon into one of the most dependable firearms available early in the game.

This assault rifle is not only versatile, thanks to its ability to switch between Single and Full Auto firing modes, but it also comes pre-equipped with various interesting modifications, including a mod slot designed for a Grenade Launcher. Thus, it proves invaluable for navigating quests within the Garbage region.

STALKER 2 DROWNED GUN CHOICE — The Drowned Assault Rifle – Image Credit: Twinfinite

The Drowned is essentially a modified AKM-74S, featuring a magazine capacity of 30 and utilizing 5.45×39 ammunition. When fully repaired, its market value sits at an impressive 28,660 Coupons.

Although it represents an act of theft, retaining the Drowned is, pragmatically speaking, the wisest action. While Boo will certainly lament the loss of his weapon, one could argue that if he had attached such significance to it, he would have retrieved it on his own.

This concludes our guide on the unique Drowned weapon within STALKER 2. For further exploration of the game, consider tutorials on locating the Whirlwind Artifact, effective item storage strategies, and methods for quickly earning Coupons.

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