Stalker 2: How to Rescue Vova Amalgam and Get the Rat King Artifact

Key Takeaways

1. Vova Amalgam’s Rescue: Save this NPC trapped in an electrical field for a valuable reward.
2. Rat King Artifact: This artifact provides resistance to bleeding and electrical damage with minimal radiation side effects.
3. Using Bolts Effectively: Master the use of bolts to disable anomalies and navigate dangerous zones.

The post-apocalyptic world of Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl is as brutal as it is rewarding. This open-world survival game drops you into the heart of the Zone, where danger lurks behind every anomaly, and even simple side quests can test your mettle. One of the most memorable tasks involves rescuing Vova Amalgam, a Stalker trapped in an electrified field of anomalies. While optional, this mission is well worth your time for the intriguing story and the powerful Rat King artifact it offers as a reward.

Finding Vova Amalgam

Vova Amalgam is located in the Garbage Region, north of the Detention Center. He’s stranded on a few wooden pallets in the middle of an electrical field, calling out for help. As you approach, you’ll hear his pleas, guiding you to his exact location.

Pro Tip: Save Your Progress

Before interacting with Vova, manually save your game. The mission has no retries, and a wrong step could lead to failure or worse, Vova’s demise.

Rescuing Vova: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Equip Your Bolts
   Bolts are essential for navigating anomalies. They temporarily disable electrical fields, giving you a clear path to Vova. Open your radial menu (default key: Tab), select the bolts, and prepare to use them.
2. Clear a Path
   • Aim for the edge of the electrical anomalies and throw a bolt to disable the field briefly.
   • Advance cautiously, clearing anomalies as you go.
3. Approach Vova
   Once the path is safe, talk to Vova. He’ll ask for your help to escape the field. Accept the task.
4. Escort Vova Out
   • Lead him through the safest path out of the anomaly field.
   • Use bolts to clear any remaining dangers, ensuring his safety.
   • Be patient Vova is vulnerable and can die from a single shock.

Securing the Rat King Artifact

After escorting Vova to safety, he’ll thank you and begin to walk away. Don’t let him leave just yet!

1. Engage in Conversation Again
   • Approach Vova and strike up another conversation.
   • Select the “The Artifact” dialogue option to request your reward.
2. Claim Your Reward
   • Vova will hand over the Rat King Artifact, a valuable early-game item.
   • Exhaust the conversation and let Vova go on his way.

Why the Rat King Artifact Is Worth It

The Rat King is a versatile artifact that offers:

• Resistance to Bleeding: Useful for combat scenarios.
• Electrical Damage Resistance: Helps against electro-based anomalies.
• Minimal Radiation Effects: Unlike many artifacts, it has negligible side effects, making it ideal for early-game exploration.

Equipping this artifact can significantly improve your survivability in the treacherous Zone.

Tips for Navigating Anomalies

• Endless Bolts: You have an infinite supply of bolts, so don’t hesitate to use them generously.
• Safe Zones: Always identify areas free of anomalies before moving.
• Quick Saves: Save frequently in hazardous areas to avoid losing progress.

Stalker 2: Surviving Emissions

Emissions are deadly in Stalker 2. Here’s how to survive them:

1. Find Shelter Immediately
   • Emissions kill instantly if you’re caught outside.
   • Look for buildings, caves, or other protective structures when you sense one coming.
2. Use the Map
   • Mark shelters in advance to reduce panic during an emission.
3. Watch for Warning Signs
   • Pay attention to environmental cues like sudden weather changes or glowing skies.

The side quests in Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl offer more than just rewards—they immerse you deeper into the Zone’s rich lore and its harrowing dangers. Rescuing Vova Amalgam isn’t just a chance to collect a powerful artifact like the Rat King; it’s an opportunity to engage with the game’s memorable characters and unique storytelling.

Whether you’re a seasoned Stalker or a newcomer to the Zone, always be prepared. Equip yourself with bolts, save your progress often, and embrace the unpredictable nature of this post-apocalyptic masterpiece.

FAQ

1. Where is Vova Amalgam located in Stalker 2?
Vova can be found in the Garbage Region, north of the Detention Center, standing on wooden pallets in the middle of an electrical field.

2. How do I disable anomalies in Stalker 2?
Use bolts to temporarily disable anomalies. Aim for their edges and throw a bolt to clear a safe path.

3. What are the benefits of the Rat King Artifact?
The Rat King provides resistance to bleeding and electrical damage with minimal radiation side effects, making it an excellent early-game artifact.

4. Can I retry Vova’s quest if I fail?
No. The mission has no retries, so it’s crucial to save your game before attempting it.

5. How do I survive emissions in Stalker 2?
Seek immediate shelter in a building, cave, or other safe location. Plan your routes to include nearby shelters.