One For My Baby is one of the most iconic early-game quests in Fallout: New Vegas, introducing players to the grieving sniper Craig Boone in the town of Novac. Navigating this quest requires keen investigation skills, moral choices, and an understanding of how local politics shape the Mojave Wasteland. Completing the mission successfully not only grants valuable rewards but also unlocks Boone as a loyal companion for your journey.
Meeting Craig Boone in Novac
Upon arriving in the settlement of Novac, players can find Craig Boone standing guard inside the mouth of the giant dinosaur statue during his nighttime shift. Speaking with him reveals a heartbreaking story about his missing wife, Carla, who was taken by Caesar's Legion. Boone believes someone in town sold her into slavery and asks for your help in uncovering the traitor's identity.
To proceed, Boone gives you his beret and instructs you to bring the culprit in front of the dinosaur statue while he is on duty. Put on the beret to signal him when the suspect is standing in the designated target zone. This setup sets the stage for a dramatic confrontation that will decide the fate of the guilty party.
Investigating the Town for Evidence
Rather than guessing who sold Carla, players should search Novac to gather definitive proof before making an accusation. Talk to local residents to gain context about Carla's personality and her relationships with the townspeople. Most locals mention that she was unhappy in Novac, but few suspect the true betrayer hiding among them.
The key piece of evidence is hidden inside the lobby of the Dino Bite Motel. Head behind the front desk and inspect the safe inside the office, which can be unlocked using a key retrieved from the floor or by hacking the terminal. Inside, you will find a Bill of Sale confirming that Jeanie May Crawford sold Carla to Legion slave traders.
Executing the Plan and Making Choices
Once you have discovered the Bill of Sale, speak to Jeanie May Crawford during nighttime hours and convince her to follow you outside to the front of the dinosaur. Once she is standing near the target area, put on Boone's beret to signal the sniper. Boone will take a decisive shot, eliminating Jeanie May instantly and ending her secret betrayal.
Alternatively, players have the choice to accuse the wrong person or lead an innocent resident to the dinosaur statue. Doing so results in Boone shooting the wrong target, which will anger him when he asks for proof afterward. If you fail to produce the Bill of Sale or admit to lying, Boone will become hostile toward you.
Recruiting Boone and Quest Rewards
After Jeanie May is dealt with, return to the top of the dinosaur statue to speak with Boone and present the Bill of Sale as proof. Satisfied that justice was served for his wife, Boone thanks you for uncovering the truth and resolves his immediate turmoil. This outcome opens the path to invite him to join your travels across the Mojave.
Recruiting Boone grants you the valuable Spotter perk, which highlights enemies in red whenever you aim down sights. Additionally, you receive Boone's beret, which boosts your critical hit chance and perception stats. Completing this quest cleanly provides a powerful companion setup early in your playthrough.
