Image source: GSC Game World
In STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl, every choice has weight, shaping alliances, story progression, and your overall experience in the Zone. One such decision arises with the Unusual PDA, a mysterious item you acquire during the main storyline. Should you reveal it to the Ward during a tense interrogation, or keep it to yourself? Here’s what each choice entails and how it can affect your journey.
The Unusual PDA Choice in STALKER 2, Explained
After reaching the Slag Heap, you’ll find the Ward soldiers occupying the area. With Diode missing, you’re directed to an interrogation with Dr. Dalin and Colonel Korshunov. This is your first opportunity to decide what to do with the Unusual PDA.
Option 1: Show the PDA to Colonel Korshunov
- Outcome:
- You receive the Ward Badge, symbolizing an alliance with the faction.
- Korshunov rewards you with a free AKM-74S Combatant gun.
- Progressing through the main quests becomes easier with Ward cooperation.
Option 2: Keep the PDA Hidden
- Outcome:
- You won’t receive the Ward Badge or the free weapon.
- The story continues normally, but Ward soldiers might not be as cooperative.
Recommendation: Showing the PDA provides tangible benefits, including a powerful gun and smoother quest progression.
Other Instances Involving the Unusual PDA
This isn’t the only time the Unusual PDA comes into play. You’ll face additional opportunities to show it, each with varying consequences:
Meeting Scar Again
- If you possess the Ward Badge, Scar reacts with hostility, throwing insults.
- Showing the PDA here has no meaningful impact—the story progresses regardless of your choice.
Encountering Strider and Noontide
- Strider, leader of the Noontide faction, requires more evidence before acting.
- Showing the PDA simplifies the dialogue, but choosing “Your men did this” leads to the same outcome.
Final Recommendation
Unless you have strong reasons to distrust the Ward, showing the PDA is the better option. The Ward Badge unlocks smoother main quest progression and comes with the added bonus of a powerful weapon. Additionally, Scar’s and Strider’s reactions to the PDA have minimal influence on the overarching narrative.
Ultimately, your choices in STALKER 2 should align with your personal goals and preferred alliances. Remember, there are no heroes in the dark and gloomy Zone—only survivors.
