10 Crucial Choices to Rescue Every Crew Member in Directive 8020

Embarking on the interstellar horror of Directive 8020 means navigating split-second decisions that determine who lives and who dies. This listicle distills essential strategies from a full playthrough, focusing on the key moments that can lead to everyone surviving. Remember: some deaths are scripted into the story, but with careful planning, you can maximize your crew’s chances. Whether you’re playing in Explorer or Survivor mode, these tips will help you make the most of the Turning Point feature. Warning: Major spoilers ahead.

1. Understand the Character Roster and Limitations

Before diving in, know that Directive 8020 features both playable and non-playable characters (NPCs). The playable crew includes Stafford, Young, Eisele, Cernan, and Cooper, while Mitchell, Anders, and Williams are NPCs whose fates often hinge on your actions. In the introductory chapter, Carter is playable and Simms is an NPC. However, certain deaths are inevitable—they’re part of the core narrative. Acknowledging this upfront saves frustration. Pay close attention to each character’s role: some decisions you make early will have ripple effects much later, especially when using the Turning Point menu to rewind.

2. Make the Right Call with the Oracle AI (Episode 1 – Little Star)

Early in the game, while controlling Carter, you’ll have the chance to meet the Oracle AI and authorize a systems reboot. This decision is critical. If you decline, you’ll face a grueling button-mash QTE later just to access the Crew Monitoring area. To keep everyone alive, always authorize the reboot. This simple act removes a dangerous obstacle and ensures you have full control during the upcoming spacewalk sequence. The Oracle AI may seem ominous, but cooperation here is your first step toward survival.

3. Master the Spacewalk QTE (Episode 1 – Little Star)

As Carter and Simms venture outside the ship for a spacewalk, you’ll encounter a quick-time event (QTE) sequence. Your goal is to catch Simms before she drifts away. Missing the prompt results in an immediate death for Simms, so stay alert. The timing is tight, but the button prompts are clearly displayed. Practice calm focus; panicking leads to failure. Once you secure her, you’ll have a brief respite—but the danger is far from over.

4. Evade Simms’ Pursuit (Episode 1 – Little Star)

After the spacewalk, Simms becomes a hostile pursuer. You must ensure that she does not catch Carter. This is a stealth section where staying hidden and moving quietly is vital. Use the environment to break line of sight, and avoid direct confrontation. If Simms captures Carter, it’s game over for him. Successfully evading her leads to the next episode. Remember: Simms is relentless, but patience and careful timing will see you through.

5. Choose the Correct Terminal Action in Power Games (Episode 2 – Best Laid Plans)

In the Power Games section, you’ll face a terminal with two options: deactivate the Landing Computer or deactivate the Fire Control System. Your choice directly affects the fate of two characters. Deactivating the Landing Computer helps save Stafford later, while deactivating the Fire Control System influences Mitchell’s survival. To maximize the number of survivors, we recommend disabling the Landing Computer. This decision sets up a favorable outcome for Stafford, who is a playable character and whose survival is more critical for the overall narrative.

6. Use the Right Dialogue Options with Stafford (Episode 2 – Best Laid Plans)

Later in Episode 2, Eisele engages Stafford in conversation. To build trust and secure a useful piece of advice, choose the dialogue options “Accuse” and then “Contemplate.” This combination prompts Stafford to share a warning that can help Eisele in a later encounter. The game’s dialogue tree matters: a misstep here could cut off that lifeline. So listen carefully, and don’t be afraid to probe Stafford’s motives—the payoff is worth it.

7. Survive the Stealth and Decompression Sequence (Episode 2 – Best Laid Plans)

This episode features two back-to-back stealth sections: Pursuit and Decompression. Your task is to avoid Simms, who is now more aggressive. When you reach the airlock, choose the “Plead” option when confronting her. This de-escalation tactic, combined with a successful escape, ensures you remain unharmed. Remember, running blindly leads to detection. Use cover, listen for audio cues, and time your movements carefully. The “Plead” option is non-negotiable—any aggression triggers a fatal confrontation.

8. Reach the Control Room as Cernan (Episode 3 – The Sample, Part 1)

In Episode 3, you control Cernan, whose objective is to reach the Control Room. This segment is a gauntlet of environmental hazards and enemy AI. Stick to the shadows, avoid alarms, and prioritize reaching the room without triggering a chase. If you are caught, Cernan will die. Patience is paramount: wait for patrols to pass, and use the map to plan your route. Once inside the Control Room, you’ll gain crucial information that aids the rest of the crew.

9. Utilize the Turning Point Feature Wisely

The Turning Point feature is your safety net—it lets you rewind to previous scenes, including those with critical decisions. In Explorer Mode, you can access this menu anytime; in Survivor Mode, it unlocks only after beating the game. To save everyone, treat Turning Point as a tool for experimentation. If a character dies, rewind and try a different choice. This system is reminiscent of The Casting of Frank Stone’s Cutting Room Floor. Don’t hesitate to use it; perfection takes iteration.

10. Know That Not Everyone Can Be Saved (Unavoidable Deaths)

Despite your best efforts, Directive 8020 includes unavoidable deaths that serve the story. For example, certain NPCs—like Simms—may be doomed regardless of your choices. Recognize that the narrative demands sacrifices, and no amount of clever gameplay can reverse some fates. Accepting this early allows you to focus on the characters who can be saved. Your goal is to minimize casualties, not achieve a perfect score. Every survival you secure is a victory.

By following these ten strategies—from authorizing the Oracle reboot to mastering stealth sequences—you’ll give your crew the highest chance of making it through the void. Remember to use the Turning Point feature freely, and don’t let unavoidable losses discourage you. The true test of a captain is not avoiding tragedy, but navigating through it. Good luck, and may your star endure.