Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl's "In the Name of Science" Side Quest: A Complete Guide
After aiding Dr. Shcherba in Stalker 2, players embark on the "In the Name of Science" side quest, a multi-part mission involving mutant electronic collars and crucial choices. This guide details the quest's progression and optimal choices.
Locating the Electronic Collars
The initial phase requires finding five electronic collars from various locations:
| Region | Collar Location | Mutant Type |
|---|---|---|
| Garbage | The Brood | Snork |
| Wild Island | Boathouse | Psy Bayun |
| Zaton | Hydrodynamics Lab | Controller |
| Malachite | Brain Scorcher Area | Brain Scorcher |
| Red Forest | Containers | Pseudogiant |
Return the collars to Shcherba at the Roofed Warehouse in the Chemical Plant. If you've previously collected collars, use the console command "XEndQuestNodeBySID E08_SQ01_S2_SetJournal_WaitForSherbaCall_Finish_Pin_0" to bypass any issues.
Jammer Decision: Disable or Recalibrate?
Upon delivering the collars, Shcherba reveals a jamming signal. Players must locate the source (Storage on the Hill) and choose:
-
Destroy/Disable the Jammer (Recommended): This advances the quest, yielding coupons and leading to a bloodsucker encounter and a further choice.
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Recalibrate the Jammer: This concludes the quest with coupons from Dvupalov.
The Final Confrontation: Kill or Spare Shcherba?
Disabling the jammer triggers a call from Shcherba, followed by a visit to his lab. You'll receive Magic Vodka from Dvupalov. A confrontation ensues, presenting the final choice:
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Kill Shcherba: Leads to the same rewards as sparing him.
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Spare Shcherba (Recommended): Maintains positive relations with scientists and Dvupalov.
Regardless of your choice, you'll receive a Gauss Gun from Dvupalov and unlock the "On a Leash" trophy. Remember, using the console command "XStartQuestNodeBySID E08_SQ01_S3_Technical_SherbaInvitedToLab" can bypass delays in Shcherba's call.
