In *Atomfall*, mastering the art of exploration and survival is crucial, and having the right tools at your disposal can significantly enhance your gameplay. One essential tool you'll want to acquire early on is the Metal Detector. This invaluable device will help you uncover hidden metal caches filled with items that can be used or traded. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to obtain a free Metal Detector early in your *Atomfall* journey.
How Metal Detector Works in Atomfall
Screenshot by The Escapist
The Metal Detector is a must-have tool in *Atomfall*, and you'll soon realize its worth as you navigate the game’s expansive world. When equipped in your inventory, it alerts you to nearby metal caches, which are treasure troves of valuable items. As you wander, keep an eye on the bottom left corner of your screen for the tool icon that indicates a nearby cache.
When the Metal Detector pings, use the designated hotkey to activate it. The device features a row of lights that guide you towards the cache. If the lights sway to the left, steer left; if they sway to the right, turn right. Your goal is to follow the center light until the dial reaches its peak frequency at 10.
Screenshot by The Escapist
When all the lights blink simultaneously, you've pinpointed the cache's location. Use the 'Dig' option to unearth it, then 'Search' to claim the items inside.
Where to Find Free Metal Detector Early in Atomfall
Screenshot by The Escapist
Early in your *Atomfall* adventure, you'll encounter various trader NPCs who offer items for barter. One such trader, Reg Stansfield, located in the Slate Mine Caves of Slatten Dale, has a Metal Detector in his inventory from the get-go. However, the price might be too steep for your early-game resources.
Instead, head east from Slatten Dale, hugging the mountainside and bypassing the 'Water Wheels' compound teeming with Outlaws. Minimizing combat at this stage will help you progress more smoothly.
Screenshot by The Escapist
Continue your journey eastward and then south until you reach a large, shallow pond at the coordinates **(29.1E, 73.9N)**. In the center of this pond, on a rocky outcrop, you'll find an Outlaw corpse. Be cautious of the carnivorous leeches in the water; they can be a nuisance if you stay too long.
Approach the corpse and 'Search' it to claim your prize: a working Metal Detector, yours for free. This early acquisition will not only grant you the **‘Detectorist’ trophy/achievement** but also give you a significant edge in collecting essential items like healing supplies, ammo, and other loot for bartering.
Moreover, having the Metal Detector early on can assist in unlocking other achievements, such as **‘Where there’s much there’s brass’** (Find 10 metal detector caches) and **‘Packed lunch’** (Find 5 buried lunchboxes).
With this guide, you now know how to secure a free Metal Detector early in *Atomfall*, setting you up for success in your exploration and survival endeavors.
