The main quest Black Steel in the Hour of Chaos in Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty places players in a high-stakes ambush mission against elite MaxTac forces. Triggered by siding with Solomon Reed during the Firestarter quest, this operation requires precise preparation, strategic choices, and intense combat tactics. Understanding how to select the right netrunner and set up the ambush location will drastically improve your chances of surviving this brutal showdown.
Selecting the Right Netrunner for the Job
Your first major decision in this mission involves recruiting a skilled netrunner to decrypt the MaxTac convoy route. Depending on your progress in previous side quests, options include contacting known allies such as Nix, Sandra Dorsett, Carol Emeka, or Chang Hoon Nam. Alternatively, you can enlist the aid of Mr. Hands, who connects you with Yoko in Kabuki for an additional fee.
Choosing a familiar contact allows you to save money and leverage personal relationships built throughout Night City. Working with Yoko opens up an optional side agreement that offers extra financial incentives upon completing the operation. Evaluating your available connections helps tailor both the narrative outcome and the practical rewards of the job.
Setting Up the Tactical Ambush
Once you acquire the necessary transport data, you must coordinate with Solomon Reed to prepare the ambush zone in Dogtown. Players can either allow the tactical soldier to set up defenses automatically or manually place traps such as mines and automated turrets. Manually configuring the battlefield gives you greater control over crowd management before the convoy arrives.
Positioning yourself effectively before the assault begins is crucial for maintaining a tactical advantage. High ground options, such as nearby balconies, offer excellent sightlines for long-range engagements while providing cover from incoming fire. Selecting defensive positions that complement your specific character build ensures a smoother transition into the ensuing firefight.
Defeating the MaxTac Squad
The arrival of the convoy initiates a fierce battle against heavily armed MaxTac operatives who utilize distinct combat styles. Coordinating your attacks with Reed's sniper fire allows you to focus target fire on individual enemies and break their defenses quickly. It is essential to interrupt the enemy netrunner whenever they attempt to upload cyberware hacks against V.
Maintaining continuous movement prevents close-quarters combatants from trapping you in tight spaces. Utilizing tactical cover and prioritizing targets based on threat levels will help neutralize the squad efficiently. Once the area is clear, you can proceed to the transport vehicle to secure Songbird and finish the mission objectives.
