Hi everyone! Towards the end of this month there will be an update introducing some new features and new Guild Hall upgrades (with various new perks ranging from being able to bribe factions to… expanding glory hole options, if you’re into that sort of thing).
But what I’m really excited about is the expansion of freeroam content (and fixing the bugs so freeroam is more stable).
Specifically, I’m excited about Faction-specific Contracts, which are unlocked once you do a mission or two in that faction’s quest chain.
Let’s focus on one type in particular: Heists.
Heists are offered by the Iron Cartel, who are open to expendable, outside talent.
When you undertake a heist, you are given some information: what you’re stealing, where you’re stealing it from, and who’s guarding it. After that, you’re on your own.
Planning Phase
Unlike most other Contracts, Faction-specific ones come with different phases. During the planning phase, you’ll be able to prepare for the heist with options such as buying disposable tools, calling in favors, casing a location, rehearsing a heist, etc. All of these options will cost a resource (money, Esteem, faction reputation, SP), but will improve your chances of successfully pulling off the heist.
Execution Phase
During the execution phase, you’ll be able to choose how to carry out the heist. Different tactics work better depending on the type of enemy you’ll be facing.
You could go in the traditional way, going in through an unguarded door, staying away from patrols and retrieve the package undetected. This will be most effective against syndicate enforcers, who are well-trained and armed, but lacking the caution and discipline of corporate or military units.
Before you get too excited, I should add that most of this is in text, at least until the...
Encounter Roll
When you are ready to go forward with the Heist, all the bonuses you’ve selected so far, in addition to your preferred tactic, will be calculated in a simple skill check to determine the result of the missions.
If everything goes well, you may just retrieve the package and leave completely unnoticed.
If you are noticed by guards or the security system, you might have to fight your way out. Be aware, combat in Faction-specific Contracts will be significantly harder than other contracts you may have taken so far.
If things get too rough, there is always the option to cancel the contract.