An Intriguing Side Quest for Riches: Discovering Sultan's Briefcase in Stalker 2

In the vast expanse of Stalker 2, side quests offer some of the most lucrative ways to earn much-needed income. These missions are liberally sprinkled across the map, promising enriching adventures for savvy players. Among these, one that particularly stands out is the Mysterious Case mission.

Accepting this mission means you'll be tracking down an enigmatic briefcase for Sultan, a prominent figure within the precarious Bandit faction reigning in the Zone. Though working for a Bandit bigwig might seem perilous, the tangible benefits make it a calculated risk worth taking.

Your quest takes you to the Lviv area, located at the eastern periphery of the Zaton region. Within this desolate landscape, a massive cargo ship near the docks holds the coveted briefcase. However, your journey towards this ship is fraught with challenges: a winding maze of cargo containers, sinister anomalies known as Whirligigs, and the occasional encounter with vicious mutant dogs.

Begin your approach by clearing the pier of any potential threats. Once it's secure, set your sights on the illusions created by the Whirligigs. Arm yourself with trusty bolts to disrupt these anomalies, creating brief windows of opportunity to sprint past them unharmed. At the edge of the pier, you'll find a storage container that conveniently doubles as a bridge, leading you aboard the imposing cargo ship.

Conquering the Vessel: The Search for the Briefcase

Once you are aboard the ship, ascend the labyrinth of ladders to reach the roof of the research bunker. Follow the guidance of the quest marker, directing you to a hatch that grants you access to the bunker's interior. Descend into the depths and find yourself in a dimly lit room. Here, tucked away in a corner on a humble table, lies Sultan's Briefcase.

With this pivotal item in hand, take a moment to explore the bunker. Scour the surroundings for loose treasures and items, potentially augmenting your haul.

After acquiring Sultan's Briefcase, exit the bunker through the front door, activated via a button near the entrance. As you emerge into the open air, steel yourself for an unexpected encounter.

A Choice of Conscience: Keep or Relinquish the Briefcase

Upon exiting, you are confronted by a band of Stalkers led by an individual named Ensign. They demand that you surrender the briefcase to them, thrusting you into a moral crossroads: do you hand over the briefcase or choose to retain possession?

Maintaining possession of the briefcase prompts an altercation with Ensign and his crew. Though they may not be formidable opponents, the risk posed by such a confrontation should not be underestimated.

Retreat strategically into the bunker, making use of grenades if available, and employ cautious peeking tactics to dispatch your adversaries while guarding against retaliatory grenades. Although you gain nothing additional from this skirmish, looting the Stalkers' remains offers potential rewards to bolster your inventory.

Alternatively, opting to concede the briefcase to the Ensign results in little change, as they perceive deception regardless. A confrontation ensues, favoring a return to the Sultan's base with the briefcase in tow. Upon completion, collect your monetary reward and the spoils gathered from the ship, solidifying your earnings. Engaging with the bartender in Sultan's establishment unlocks further opportunities for adventure.

Treasures Amidst the Chaos: The Stalker Stash

Before departing the cargo ship, be sure to explore the helm situated on the ship's opposite side. Concealed within this area lies a Stalker Stash, promising a valuable reward: a complimentary suit of armor. Whether to bolster your defense or augment your finances through resale, the choice enhances your strategic repertoire.

In conclusion, the Mysterious Case mission in Stalker 2 presents a compelling blend of exploration, decision-making, and anticipation. Whether confronting adversaries or amassing wealth, the mission accentuates the meaning of peril and profit intertwined, painting a vivid tableau of the Zone's intricate tapestry.