Among the many intriguing elements in Evil West, one of the most satisfying for completionists and explorers alike is the hunt for collectibles. In Chapter 4, titled The Questionable Cargo, players are introduced to a level filled with atmospheric storytelling, intense combat, and hidden items. The collectibles in this chapter aren’t just filler content they offer insight into the lore, environment, and deeper narrative of the game. For players aiming to unlock achievements or simply enjoy everything Evil West has to offer, gathering every collectible in The Questionable Cargo is an engaging challenge that rewards curiosity and attention to detail.
Understanding Collectibles in Evil West
Why Collectibles Matter
Collectibles in Evil West serve multiple purposes. They provide lore for players who enjoy piecing together the game’s backstory and universe. Some unlock achievements, while others grant experience or are required for 100% completion. In The Questionable Cargo, players can expect a mix of lore documents, cash pickups, and hidden chests that contribute to Jesse Rentier’s progression and deepen immersion in the game’s gothic-western world.
Types of Collectibles
The main types of collectibles in this level include:
- Lore Documents: These offer context to the events, characters, and history of the Evil West universe.
- Cash Pickups: Used to purchase upgrades and gear improvements.
- Hidden Chests: Contain valuable items or large sums of currency.
- Perks or Gear Components: Sometimes found in secret areas or off-path locations.
Where to Find All Collectibles in The Questionable Cargo
1. Lore Document: Agent Bloom’s Note
Shortly after entering the starting area and dealing with your first enemy encounter, head toward the large broken crate near the railway tracks. You’ll find a small piece of paper resting on a crate. This is Agent Bloom’s Note, offering insight into the mysterious shipment at the heart of the mission.
2. Cash Pickup: Abandoned Tent
Near the campsite to the right of the bridge, there’s an abandoned tent. Inside, next to a bedroll and a flickering lantern, you’ll find a small bag of cash. These small cash collectibles add up quickly and can be easy to miss if you’re rushing through the environment.
3. Hidden Chest: Cracked Wall in Warehouse
Inside the warehouse, after defeating a wave of enemies, search for a cracked wooden wall near a pile of crates. Punch through it to reveal a hidden room. Inside is a locked chest containing both cash and a gear upgrade. This one’s tucked away, so check every corner before proceeding.
4. Lore Document: Cargo Manifest
In the central cargo yard, look for an overturned crate labeled Confidential. Next to it lies the Cargo Manifest, a document revealing disturbing hints about the content and origin of the shipment. This document ties in directly with the chapter’s title, giving players clues about the ethical questions behind the mission.
5. Cash Pickup: Rooftop of the Watchtower
Use your grappling hook to reach the top of the wooden watchtower near the yard entrance. A satchel of cash sits next to a rusted rifle and binoculars. Climbing up here also gives a panoramic view of the area, making it a good vantage point to plan your next move.
6. Hidden Chest: Behind Explosive Barrel Wall
In one section of the yard, you’ll see a wooden barricade with red barrels placed nearby. Shoot the barrels to reveal a hidden passage. At the end of this narrow path is another chest, containing rare crafting materials. This reward is especially useful for upgrading your tools and weapons later in the game.
7. Lore Document: Correspondence from Rentier Institute
Inside a dimly lit office space on the second floor of the loading facility, find a letter left on the desk. This correspondence hints at internal tensions within the Rentier Institute and reveals more about the organization’s secret dealings. Documents like this help flesh out the world’s political and moral landscape.
8. Cash Pickup: Near the Water Tower Base
As you progress toward the final combat area of the level, check behind the water tower base for another cash pouch tucked in the grass. It’s easy to miss if you’re focusing on enemy positions rather than exploration.
Tips for Collecting Everything
Be Thorough and Patient
The collectibles in The Questionable Cargo are cleverly hidden, and missing one can require a replay of the chapter. Explore every room, check behind every crate, and use elevation to your advantage. Hidden platforms or ledges often lead to secret areas with valuable items.
Use Environmental Cues
Many collectibles are placed near distinctive objects like lanterns, broken furniture, or bloodstains. These small visual hints can guide observant players toward hidden items or secret paths. If you see something that looks out of place, investigate it might lead you to your next find.
Listen for Audio Clues
Some collectibles, particularly hidden chests, emit faint sounds such as creaking or whispering. Equip your headphones and stay alert to audio changes, especially in quiet segments of the level. These cues are subtle but helpful when hunting for well-concealed treasures.
Double-Back After Combat
It’s tempting to keep moving after a major fight, but many collectibles are placed near combat arenas. Once the enemies are cleared, take time to inspect the environment calmly. Rushing ahead may result in missing items that can’t be easily revisited without restarting the chapter.
The Value of Completion
Unlocking Achievements and Enhancing Gameplay
Completing all collectibles in this level not only brings satisfaction but can also help unlock achievements such as ‘Collector’ or ‘Archivist.’ These achievements contribute to your overall progression and provide bragging rights for thorough players. Additionally, collecting cash and gear components enables faster upgrades, making you more formidable in future chapters.
Appreciating the Narrative Depth
One of the strengths of Evil West lies in its world-building. Through letters, logs, and scattered notes, players learn about the world’s history, science, and secret conflicts. These aren’t just decorations they’re pieces of a larger puzzle that elevate the narrative experience. The Questionable Cargo exemplifies this approach by offering documents that tie directly into the moral ambiguity and conspiracy elements of the main plotline.
For players invested in uncovering every detail of Evil West, The Questionable Cargo offers a rich environment filled with hidden gems. The collectibles enhance both gameplay and storytelling, making each discovery feel purposeful. Whether you’re after lore, upgrades, or simply enjoy exploring every inch of the game’s world, this chapter provides a rewarding journey through darkness, mystery, and action. Take your time, observe closely, and don’t let a single clue go unnoticed because every item collected tells a story worth hearing.