Should I Meet With Militech Agent Cyberpunk 2077 Choice Guide
Early in Cyberpunk 2077, during the pivotal main quest titled The Pickup, players face an optional objective to call and meet with Militech agent Meredith Stout. Deciding whether to reach out to this corporate operative significantly changes how your encounter with the Maelstrom gang unfolds inside the All Foods facility. Understanding the benefits, risks, and narrative consequences helps you tailor the story to match your preferred playstyle.
What Happens When You Contact Meredith Stout
Calling Meredith Stout sets up a tense meeting beneath an overpass in Watson before you proceed to the Maelstrom hideout. During this confrontation, her bodyguards will restrain V while she demands answers about the stolen Flathead bot. Agreeing to cooperate results in Stout handing you an infected Militech credit chip meant to track or pay the gang.
You are under no obligation to follow her exact plan even after taking the corporate payment shard. Players can choose to clean the virus using Netrunner skills or present the infected chip directly to Royce. This initial meeting simply opens up strategic branching choices rather than locking you into a single path.
Siding with Militech Versus the Maelstrom Gang
Aligning with Meredith Stout generally requires using her infected credit chip or eliminating Royce and his lieutenants during negotiations. Doing so triggers an intense firefight against Maelstrom forces as you blast your way out of the factory. Siding with Militech ensures Meredith retains her corporate standing and survives her internal company audit.
Alternatively, warning Royce about the virus on the chip or paying for the Flathead out of pocket causes Militech to assault the building. In this branch, V teams up with Maelstrom to battle corporate soldiers and heavy combat mechs. However, betraying Stout leads to her off-screen death, replacing her with rival agent Anthony Gilchrist.
Unlocking Exclusive Rewards and Story Outcomes
Choosing to meet and assist Meredith Stout provides access to unique gameplay rewards later in Night City. Successfully ensuring her survival triggers the secret side quest Venus in Furs, leading to a unique encounter at the No-Tell Motel. This meeting rewards players with Sir John Phallustiff, an iconic non-lethal blunt weapon.
On the other hand, supporting Maelstrom allows key characters like Dum Dum or Royce to reappear in future side quests. Saving former leader Brick inside the facility also establishes a peaceful resolution option during later gang encounters. Evaluating which factions or characters you want as future allies is crucial before deciding.
Making the Best Decision for Your V's Journey
Meeting with the Militech agent is highly recommended for players who want maximum tactical control over the mission. The extra dialogue provides deep corporate lore while expanding your options for dealing with Maelstrom. Even if you plan to betray Militech, obtaining the credit chip offers free money if decrypted properly.
Ultimately, players interested in iconic weapons and corporate storylines should definitely arrange the meeting with Stout. Those who prefer a smoother relationship with Maelstrom can skip her call entirely or double-cross her at the warehouse. Both paths deliver compelling gameplay outcomes tailored to different roleplaying preferences.