Nestled within the post-apocalyptic world of Days Gone, the old sawmill at Nero Checkpoint stands as a testament to the game's intricate attention to detail and immersive storytelling. This once-thriving hub of industry now lies in ruins, overrun by the relentless horde of Freakers. But for players, it serves as a rich seam of lore, challenging encounters, and strategic value. Let's delve into the history, gameplay elements, and tactical significance of this iconic location.

The old sawmill at Nero Checkpoint was once a vital part of the region's logging industry, fueling the economic growth of the nearby town. However, the outbreak of the Freaker virus brought this to a grinding halt, leaving the mill to decay and become a haven for the infected. Today, it's a hotspot for both human survivors and Freaker hordes, making it a crucial point of interest in the game.

The Sawmill's Role in Gameplay
The sawmill plays a significant role in the game's narrative, serving as a key location in several missions. It's here that players encounter the brutal NERO checkpoint, a desperate attempt by the government to contain the outbreak. The sawmill also hosts some of the game's most intense and strategically challenging encounters, testing players' combat skills and resource management.

Moreover, the sawmill is a treasure trove of valuable resources. From crafting materials to weapons and ammunition, players can scavenge or loot a wealth of supplies to aid their survival. The mill's layout, with its maze of conveyor belts, machinery, and catwalks, also provides ample opportunities for stealth, exploration, and creative problem-solving.
Navigating the Sawmill's Layout

Understanding the sawmill's layout is crucial for survival. The mill is a sprawling complex, comprising multiple levels connected by staircases, ladders, and elevators. The ground floor houses the main processing area, filled with dangerous machinery and hordes of Freakers. Above, the catwalks offer a bird's-eye view but are exposed to enemy fire. Meanwhile, the basement hides secrets and supplies but is prone to ambushes.
Mastering the sawmill's layout allows players to control the flow of combat, set up ambushes, and escape when things get heated. It's a testament to the game's design that such a complex environment can be so rewarding to explore and understand.
Encounters and Challenges

The sawmill is home to some of Days Gone's most memorable and challenging encounters. From the brutal NERO checkpoint battle to the tense stealth missions against the Marauders, each encounter pushes players to their limits. The mill's layout and the varied types of Freakers present (from the fast-moving Runners to the tank-like Breakers) demand adaptability and strategic thinking.
Moreover, the sawmill's dynamic weather system and day/night cycle can significantly impact gameplay. Rain and fog can hinder visibility, while nighttime brings out more dangerous Freakers. Understanding and adapting to these environmental factors is key to surviving the sawmill's challenges.
Lore and Storytelling
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Beyond its gameplay value, the old sawmill at Nero Checkpoint is a rich vein of lore in Days Gone's post-apocalyptic world. The remnants of its former glory - the faded signs, the rusted machinery, the scattered personal effects - paint a vivid picture of the life that once thrived here. The mill's walls echo with the stories of its former workers, their families, and the community it supported.
The sawmill also plays a crucial role in the game's narrative. It's here that protagonist Deacon St. John grapples with the consequences of his actions and the moral ambiguity of survival in a post-apocalyptic world. The mill's history and the fates of its former inhabitants serve as a poignant reminder of the human cost of the Freaker outbreak.




















The NERO Checkpoint Tragedy
One of the sawmill's most compelling storylines revolves around the NERO checkpoint. Established to contain the Freaker outbreak, the checkpoint ultimately failed, leading to a catastrophic loss of life. The remnants of the checkpoint - the barricades, the abandoned vehicles, the scattered bodies - serve as a grim testament to humanity's struggle against the virus.
Exploring the sawmill's NERO checkpoint reveals a deeper truth about the outbreak and the government's response. It's a powerful narrative thread that adds depth to the game's world and challenges players to question their own actions and the systems they support.
The Marauders' Presence
Another intriguing aspect of the sawmill's lore is the presence of the Marauders, a ruthless gang who have taken control of the mill's upper levels. Their story is one of desperation and survival, but also of exploitation and cruelty. The Marauders' actions at the sawmill highlight the moral complexities of survival in a post-apocalyptic world and challenge players to make difficult choices.
The Marauders' presence also adds a layer of tension to the sawmill's gameplay. Their patrols and ambushes force players to adapt their strategies, while their interactions with Deacon provide insight into the game's broader narrative and themes.
In the end, the old sawmill at Nero Checkpoint stands as a testament to Days Gone's commitment to immersive storytelling and engaging gameplay. From its rich lore to its challenging encounters, the sawmill is more than just a location - it's a character in its own right, shaping the game's narrative and providing a unique playground for players to explore and survive.