Navigating the major faction decisions on Monarch in The Outer Worlds presents one of the game's most pivotal choices during the Canid's Cradle quest. Players must decide who gets the targeting module recovered from the crashed UDL gunship. Giving this valuable asset to either Sanjar Nandi or Graham Bryant will permanently shift the balance of power on the planet.
Siding with Sanjar and Monarch Stellar Industries
Choosing to hand the targeting module over to Sanjar secures the position of Monarch Stellar Industries. Sanjar seeks to reform corporate rule from within, using legal bureaucracy and corporate backing to maintain order. Giving him the module gives MSI air superiority, resulting in the elimination of the Iconoclasts.
This option appeals to players who value stability, structured governance, and corporate efficiency over radical ideology. However, supporting Sanjar directly means wiping out the Iconoclast movement entirely. You will gain high reputation with MSI while cementing corporate dominance over Monarch.
Supporting Graham and the Iconoclasts
Handing the module to Graham Bryant empowers the Iconoclast faction, which preaches radical philosophy and independence from corporate control. Graham intends to use the module's targeting capabilities to launch an all-out assault on Stellar Bay. Choosing his side leads to the destruction of Sanjar's forces and the fall of corporate rule on the planet.
While Graham offers a vision of freedom from corporate tyranny, his zealotry and questionable past decisions make him a flawed leader. Supporting him satisfies players who want to tear down the corporate hierarchy on Monarch. However, this choice results in heavy casualties for the citizens of Stellar Bay.
Brokering Peace Between the Factions
For players seeking a better outcome, there is an alternative that avoids taking a definitive side between the two original leaders. By completing side quests for Zora Blackwood, players can discover Graham's dark past and convince Zora to challenge his leadership. After replacing Graham, Zora can be persuaded to negotiate a peace treaty with Sanjar.
Brokering a truce requires high diplomatic skill checks and specific quest conditions, but it results in a unified Monarch. Under a joint leadership agreement between MSI and Zora's Iconoclasts, both factions combine their strengths for a more stable future. This path offers the most beneficial narrative ending for the citizens of Monarch.
Making the Right Final Decision
Your choice ultimately depends on your character's morality, playstyle, and long-term vision for the Halcyon colony. Siding with Sanjar favours corporate order, while siding with Graham embraces ideological revolution. Negotiating peace provides the most harmonious resolution if you have met the necessary quest requirements.
Before making your choice, ensure you have completed all optional side quests in Amber Heights and Stellar Bay. Finalizing your decision will close off certain questlines and permanently alter your reputation with both factions across Monarch.
