Outer Worlds Kept Secret but Not Forgotten: Quest Guide and Walkthrough

8 September 2026 | 4

The quest Kept Secret but Not Forgotten in The Outer Worlds is a crucial main story mission that brings players closer to the dramatic climax of the Halcyon colony narrative. Depending on the path you choose, this objective involves navigating the Hope starship to alter the future of thousands of frozen colonists. Understanding how to handle security, terminal interactions, and ship navigation is essential for completing this assignment smoothly.

Starting the Mission and Reaching the Hope

To initiate this quest, players must communicate with Phineas Welles or the Halcyon Board at SubLight or Byzantium depending on their current allegiances. Once unlocked, set your destination to the Hope via the navigation terminal aboard the Unreliable. Ensure your party is fully equipped, as you will encounter automated defense systems and restricted security zones.

Upon docking with the Hope, you will face immediate security checkpoints that require high skill checks or proper disguise items. Utilizing a Holographic Shroud with the appropriate UDL cartridge allows your team to move past patrols without triggering alarm systems. Staying alert and avoiding fast movement helps maintain your cover during the initial entry phases.

Navigating Security and Reaching the Bridge

Moving through the central corridors requires careful pathfinding past hostile mechanical sentries and vigilant guards. You can either hack security terminals to disable defensive turrets or rely on stealth to slip through side maintenance shafts. Players with high Lockpick and Hacking skills will find shortcut routes that bypass the heavily guarded main halls.

When you reach the bridge area, you must interact with the main computer terminal to initiate the skip drive sequence. The system requires accurate coordinates to align the Hope with either Terra 2 or the Tartarus system. Taking time to inspect surrounding log terminals provides valuable background lore regarding the fate of the original crew.

Executing the Skip Sequence and Deciding the Colony's Fate

At the central console, you are presented with the critical choice of where to guide the massive colony vessel. Redirecting the ship to Terra 2 aligns with Doctor Welles' plan to revive the scientists, while skipping to Tartarus hands control directly to the Board. You can choose to calculate the jump parameters yourself or let ADA handle the complex calculations for maximum safety.

If you possess high Science attributes, you can attempt to execute the skip manually, though errors can lead to unexpected outcome sequences. Allowing ADA to manage the jump guarantees a smooth transition without risking system failure or vessel damage. Once the jump sequence executes, a cinematic sequence confirms the arrival of the Hope at its new orbital location.

Completing the Quest and Preparing for the Endgame

After the skip is complete, return to your ship to report your progress and review the widespread impact of your decision. Your choice permanently alters faction relationships across the Halcyon system and sets the stage for the final confrontation. Make sure to stock up on consumables and upgrade key equipment before advancing into the concluding missions.

Navigating this pivotal storyline moment showcases the rich role-playing choices that define obsidian entertainment titles. Completing this objective grants significant experience points and unlocks the final storyline chapter. Prepare your crew carefully, as the ultimate fate of the entire Halcyon colony now rests in your hands.