In the post-apocalyptic world of *Atomfall*, getting your hands on the right tools can make all the difference in your survival and exploration efforts. One of the most crucial tools you'll want to acquire early on is the Metal Detector, which can lead you to valuable caches filled with items perfect for use or trade. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to secure a free Metal Detector at the beginning of your journey.
How Metal Detector Works in Atomfall
Screenshot by The Escapist
The Metal Detector is an indispensable asset in *Atomfall*, and once you have it, you'll want to hold onto it tightly. This tool, when kept in your inventory, will alert you to the presence of metal caches scattered throughout the game's expansive world.
While exploring, keep an eye on the bottom left corner of your screen for a ping from the Metal Detector, indicated by a tool icon. When you get this signal and it's safe, quickly equip your Metal Detector using the designated hotkey.
The device features a row of lights that guide you toward the cache. If the lights sway to the left, you should turn left. Conversely, a rightward sway signals you to turn right.
Screenshot by The Escapist
Your goal is to follow the center light until the dial beneath the lights reaches its peak frequency of 10. When all the lights blink simultaneously, you've pinpointed the cache's location. Use the 'Dig' option to unearth it and then 'Search' to collect the items inside.
Where to Find Free Metal Detector Early in Atomfall
Screenshot by The Escapist
In the initial stages of *Atomfall*, you'll encounter various trader NPCs willing to barter. Reg Stansfield, located in the Slate Mine Caves in Slatten Dale, has a Metal Detector in his inventory right from the start. However, its price tag might be beyond your early-game budget.
A better strategy is to head east from Slatten Dale, staying close to the mountainside and bypassing the 'Water Wheels' compound, which is teeming with Outlaws. Minimizing early confrontations can be beneficial.
Screenshot by The Escapist
Keep moving east and then south until you arrive at a large, shallow pond at the coordinates **(29.1E, 73.9N)**. You'll spot an Outlaw corpse on a rocky outcrop in the middle of this pond. Be cautious, as the water is home to a swarm of carnivorous leeches that can harm you if you stay too long.
Approach the corpse and 'Search' it to find a fully functional Metal Detector, yours for free. Acquiring it this early not only earns you the **'Detectorist' trophy/achievement** but also gives you a significant edge in collecting free healing items, ammo, and other valuable loot that you can use for bartering.
Moreover, the Metal Detector aids in unlocking additional trophies/achievements, such as **'Where there's much there's brass'** (Find 10 metal detector caches) and **'Packed lunch'** (Find 5 buried lunchboxes).
This guide wraps up how to secure a free Metal Detector early in *Atomfall*, setting you up for a successful and rewarding exploration of the game's challenging environment.
