STALKER 2 Walkthrough: “Just Like the Good Old Days” Walkthrough – Finding Source of the Monolith Signal

Sunaina2 weeks ago

Key Takeaways:

The mission requires rescuing Prof. Lodochka, battling mercenaries, and locating the Monolith signal source in the Wild Island area.
Players can choose to complete an optional objective of restoring power and activating the ventilation system.
Completing this quest marks the beginning of the next mission, “An Invisible Threat.”

“Just Like the Good Old Days” is one of the many engaging main story missions in STALKER 2, where players take on a mix of combat, exploration, and puzzle-solving. This mission becomes available after completing the “To the Last Drop of Blood” or “Law and Order” mission and provides an exciting foray into the mysterious Wild Island region. Here’s a detailed walkthrough of the mission, including optional objectives, combat tips, and a guide to finding the Monolith signal source.

Starting the “Just Like the Good Old Days” Mission

After escaping the SIRCAA in the previous mission, head to Wild Island and locate Quiet’s Camp. This is where the mission begins. Your objective is to rescue Prof. Lodochka, who is being held captive by mercenaries.

Rescuing Prof. Lodochka

Upon arriving at Quiet’s Camp, head straight inside the building. The professor and his captors are conveniently located on the first floor, so no extensive searching is required.
Prepare for combat mercenaries patrol the hallway where Lodochka is held. Use stealth or go in guns blazing, depending on your playstyle.
Once you neutralize the enemies, interact with Prof. Lodochka. He will provide key information about Noontide and direct you to locate the source of the Monolith signal inside a nearby shelter.

Finding the Source of the Monolith Signal

Once you’ve spoken to Prof. Lodochka, your primary objective is to head north to the marked location near the river. Here, you’ll enter a mining cave that leads to the source of the signal.

Navigating the Mining Cave

Enter the cave and proceed along the path until you encounter railway tracks.
At the tracks, take a right turn. Follow the path carefully, as anomalies will appear along the way.
To avoid taking damage from anomalies, move cautiously, use detectors, or toss bolts to safely scout the area ahead.

Locating the Emitter

Continue through the cave, squeezing through narrow openings as needed, until you reach a room filled with mechanical equipment.
The Emitter, your objective, is located in the center of the room. Be warned—standing near it exposes you to Psi-damage, so act quickly.
Grab the Emitter and exit the room as fast as possible to minimize damage. Successfully picking up the Emitter completes the “Just Like the Good Old Days” mission and unlocks the next quest, “An Invisible Threat.”

Optional Objective: Restoring Power and Activating the Ventilation System

For players who enjoy exploring every nook and cranny, the mission includes an optional task to restore power and activate the ventilation system. While not mandatory, completing this objective adds depth to the mission and provides a satisfying side challenge.

Step 1: Find the Fuse

After freeing Lodochka, head downstairs in the same building. The High-Voltage Fuse is located in the last room on your left, resting on top of wooden crates.
Pick up the fuse and proceed to the next step.

Step 2: Enter the Shelter

Your next destination is the Shelter, located north of Quiet’s Camp. Enter the Shelter and head to the engineering room.
On your way, be prepared to fight a Bloodsucker, a deadly enemy that thrives in close combat. Make sure your weapons are loaded and ready before entering this area.

Step 3: Activate the Circuit Breaker

Once in the engineering room, locate the circuit breaker. To reach it, you’ll need to navigate past broken pipes:
- Climb onto the first large pipe and jump to the adjacent one.
- Follow the path until you reach the circuit breaker.
Install the High-Voltage Fuse into the circuit breaker to restore power and activate the ventilation system.
With power restored, return to Prof. Lodochka for a final conversation to complete this optional task.

Key Tips for Success

Combat Strategy for Mercenaries and Bloodsucker

When fighting mercenaries in Quiet’s Camp, use cover effectively to avoid taking unnecessary damage. Grenades can be particularly useful for clearing out clustered enemies.
The Bloodsucker in the Shelter is a stealthy predator. Keep an eye out for its telltale shimmer and attack quickly when it appears. Aim for its head to maximize damage.

Navigating Anomalies

Anomalies are scattered throughout the mission, especially in the mining cave. Use your detector or toss bolts to reveal their locations.
Slow and careful movement is your best defense against these environmental hazards.

Managing Psi-Damage

When approaching the Emitter, your screen will distort as Psi-damage builds up. Time is of the essence grab the Emitter and leave the room quickly.
Keep a supply of anti-radiation medication or psi-blockers on hand, just in case.

What’s Next?

After completing the “Just Like the Good Old Days” mission, you’ll automatically progress to the next main quest, “An Invisible Threat.” This mission continues your journey into the Zone’s mysteries, introducing even more challenges and unravelling deeper layers of the story.

FAQs

Q: Is it mandatory to complete the optional task of restoring power and activating the ventilation system?
A: No, it’s entirely optional. However, completing it provides a more immersive experience and fleshes out the story.

Q: How do I deal with anomalies in the cave?
A: Use your anomaly detector or throw bolts to reveal safe paths through the area. Always move slowly and be cautious.

Q: Can I avoid fighting the Bloodsucker in the Shelter?
A: No, the Bloodsucker must be defeated to progress through the optional task of restoring power.

Q: What happens if I stay too long near the Emitter?
A: Prolonged exposure to Psi-damage can be fatal. Grab the Emitter quickly and exit the room immediately to minimize damage.

Q: Where is Prof. Lodochka located?
A: You can find Prof. Lodochka on the first floor of Quiet’s Camp, held captive by mercenaries.