Launching a nuke in Fallout 76 is a complex and challenging process that requires careful planning and execution. This guide will walk you through the steps necessary to unleash nuclear devastation upon the world of Appalachia.
Step 1: Joining the Enclave
To begin your journey to launching a nuke, you must first join The Enclave. This faction provides crucial information and resources necessary for the nuclear launch process. You can gain access to the Enclave by completing specific quests, such as "Back to Basic" and "Officer on Deck," which will lead you to the Whitespring Bunker.
Step 2: Acquiring a Nuclear Keycard
Nuclear keycards are essential for accessing the launch systems. You can obtain these keycards by:
Completing Seek and Destroy Missions: Use the Surveillance System Terminal in the Whitespring Bunker to locate a SAC Cargobot carrying a nuclear keycard. Defeat the Cargobot and retrieve the keycard from the dropped container.
Trading with Players: You can also acquire keycards through trading with other players.
Limited-Time Rewards: Occasionally, keycards may be awarded as part of limited-time challenges or season rewards.
Step 3: Gathering Nuclear Launch Codes
To launch a nuke, you need eight specific launch codes. These codes change weekly and can be obtained by:
Hunting Scorched Officers: These officers drop code pieces when killed. You'll need to unscramble the codes using your Pip-Boy.
Checking Online Resources: Due to the time-consuming nature of hunting Scorched Officers, many players opt to find the current codes online.
Step 4: Decoding Launch Codes
Once you have all eight code pieces, you'll need to decode them. The Enclave provides tools and information to help with this process, including a keyword cipher.
In the vast world of Fallout 76, launching a nuke is not only a complex task but also an expensive one. While it doesn't require a direct expenditure of Fallout 76 caps for the launch itself, acquiring necessary items like nuclear keycards and other resources often involves trading with other players or purchasing items from vendors using caps. Additionally, traveling across Appalachia and engaging in combat to obtain these resources can lead to repairs and equipment replacement, further draining your cap reserves. Therefore, maintaining a sizable stash of caps is essential for smoothly navigating the challenges of becoming a nuclear commander in Appalachia.
Step 5: Preparing the Silo
There are three nuclear silos in Fallout 76: Site Alpha, Site Beta, and Site Charlie. Each silo requires a specific launch code. To prepare the silo:
Access the Silo: Choose a silo and head to its location. Use the elevator to descend into the silo.
Fabricate a Biometric ID Card: Find an old biometric ID card, erase it, and fabricate a new one using the Biometrics System Terminal.
Repair Mainframe Cores: Replace or repair broken mainframe cores to unlock the control room door.
Step 6: Launching the Nuke
Insert the Nuclear Keycard: Use the Nuclear Keycard Receptacle to insert your keycard.
Enter the Launch Code: Input the decoded launch code via the Launch Code Entry Panel.
Target the Location: Use the Targeting Computer to select where you want to launch the nuke.
Defend the Section Chiefs: Protect the robots preparing the launch sequence until the preparation bar is filled.
Confirm Launch: Once ready, confirm the launch, and a three-minute countdown will begin.
Launching a nuke in Fallout 76 is a significant achievement that requires dedication and perseverance. By following these steps and staying informed about the latest launch codes, you can experience the thrill of unleashing nuclear power in Appalachia. Always be prepared for the challenges that come with exploring this post-apocalyptic world.