Unlocking the personal quest for Arcade Gannon in Fallout: New Vegas requires a blend of companion trust and main storyline progression. Known as "For Auld Lang Syne," this companion quest allows players to reunite the remnants of the Enclave to influence the final outcome of the Battle of Hoover Dam. Understanding how to gain Arcade's approval and meeting the necessary story thresholds ensures you will not miss out on this unique storyline.
Recruiting Arcade Gannon as a Companion
Before you can trigger his quest, you must first recruit Arcade Gannon at the Old Mormon Fort in Freeside. You can convince him to join your journey by passing a Speech check of 75 or by utilizing the Confirmed Bachelor perk. Alternatively, gaining a high reputation with the Followers of the Apocalypse will also persuade him to travel with you.
Keep in mind that Arcade is extremely skeptical of Caesar's Legion. Working directly for the Legion can prevent him from remaining your companion unless specific faction disguises or quest paths are carefully managed.
Earning Arcade Trust Points
Arcade's quest operates on an internal trust tracking system where you must earn several trust points. You can gain these points by visiting specific locations across the Mojave Wasteland while Arcade is currently in your party. Key locations include the crashed vertibird near Camp Searchlight, the Silver Rush in Freeside, and the REPCONN headquarters.
Engaging in key dialogue choices during side quests also earns his respect. For instance, showing concern for the Followers during discussions with Thomas Hildern at Camp McCarran or choosing helpful outcomes during "That Lucky Old Sun" will reward you with trust points.
Main Storyline Prerequisites
Earning trust alone is not sufficient, as Arcade will only initiate the quest once you reach the late stages of the main campaign. You must advance far enough along the NCR, Mr. House, or Yes Man pathways. For example, progressing to the point of deciding the fate of the Brotherhood of Steel or dealing with Mr. House typically opens the quest availability.
If you choose the independent route with Yes Man, the requirements become slightly more forgiving, allowing the quest to trigger more easily near the end of the game. Once both trust and story milestones are met, Arcade will approach you directly to start "For Auld Lang Syne".
Completing For Auld Lang Syne
When Arcade speaks to you, he will ask for your assistance in gathering five former Enclave members scattered across the region. You will need to travel around the wasteland to convince each veteran to reunite at the Remnants Bunker.
After convincing the veterans, you will decide whether they support the NCR or Caesar's Legion in the upcoming battle. Finishing this mission rewards you with powerful Remnants power armor or the unique Gannon family Tesla armor.
