The Natick Police Department in Fallout 4 offers players a unique exploration opportunity within the western reaches of the Commonwealth. Partially submerged and heavily damaged by local environmental shifts, this abandoned precinct hides valuable pre-war history and key quest items. Navigating its ruins requires preparation, as dangerous creatures frequent the surrounding Natick Banks region.
Locating the Natick Police Department Building
Finding the precinct involves traveling to the far western side of the Commonwealth map, just north of the Glowing Sea border. The station sits adjacent to Lake Cochituate within the Natick Banks area. Players can easily spot the structure due to its sunken profile and collapsed exterior walls.
Surrounding the precinct are several high-level hazards that players must carefully avoid or engage. Deathclaws regularly patrol the streets around Natick Banks, making stealth a recommended approach for under-leveled survivors. Approaching the site from the northern hills offers better visibility and tactical advantage before entering the building.
Associated Quests and Key Holotapes
The primary reason players visit this building is to collect Eddie Winter Holotape 4 for Nick Valentine's companion quest, Long Time Coming. This specific holotape sits inside a locker located on the ground floor within the sunken portion of the structure. Acquiring all holotapes allows players to uncover the story behind the famous pre-war mobster.
Beyond companion objectives, exploring the precinct provides interesting background lore regarding local law enforcement actions right before the Great War. Terminals inside reveal crime logs and public records recorded during the final days of the old world. These story elements enhance the immersive atmosphere that makes searching old police stations rewarding.
Loot Opportunities and Environmental Hazards
Despite its ruined state, the interior of the station holds several useful crafting materials and tactical supplies. Players can salvage valuable junk components, including lead, rubber, and rare chemicals from intact containers. Ammo boxes and safes scattered through the offices also contain extra ammunition for tough encounters.
Careful movement is required when navigating the interior due to collapsed floors and murky water. Radiation hazards exist near the flooded sections of the building, making RadAway or a Hazmat Suit useful. Thoroughly checking every desk ensures you do not miss hidden collectibles or rare items tucked away in dark corners.
Tips for Surviving the Surrounding Area
The Natick region is notorious for intense combat scenarios involving multiple apex predators. Super Mutant Behemoths and territorial Deathclaws frequently battle each other near the nearby power station. Players can often draw these hostile forces into fighting one another to conserve ammunition.
Having heavy weaponry or high-damage rifles ready will greatly improve your chances of survival during extraction. Fast traveling away immediately after securing the holotape is a safe strategy if enemies swarm the exterior. Overall, visiting this precinct remains a memorable adventure for completionists exploring the Commonwealth.
