Cyberpunk 2077: The Phantom Liberty DLC’s Moral Decision of Killing or Sparing Leon Rinder
In Cyberpunk 2077, the Phantom Liberty DLC presents players with tough moral decisions. One such decision arises during the gig “The Man Who Killed Jason Foreman” – whether to kill or spare Leon Rinder.
If you’re unsure about what to do with Rinder, this article will break down the gig, the decision, considerations to keep in mind, and the consequences of your choice.
The Man Who Killed Jason Foreman Gig in Cyberpunk 2077
By accepting side gigs from Mr. Hands, you’ll eventually come across Rinder.
Rinder’s gig starts with a dark, noir-esque vibe. You meet your contact, Briana, in Dogtown, where a candlelight vigil is being held for the deceased Jason Foreman. Briana reveals that Rinder is known by the community as Jason’s killer.
Rinder used to be a triggerman for a man named Hansen, who Jason worked for before his death. Briana discloses that Rinder has committed numerous killings among their community, and her anger becomes evident.
Before embarking on the mission, Briana gives you a shard with information found on Jason’s body at the crime scene. She also asks for Rinder’s dog tag as proof. You then conduct detective work, investigating the crime scene for clues and leads.
Similar to a noir film, you track down Rinder at an abandoned motel. Before encountering him, you must defeat several enemies. In the final room, you face a heavily augmented man named Yasha Ivanov. After defeating Ivanov, you finally meet Rinder, who is immobilized and wrapped in bandages.
Rinder explains that he was on his way to Dogtown to sell his cyberware. As he tells his story, it becomes clear that the situation is more complicated than initially understood.
Should You Kill or Spare Rinder in Cyberpunk 2077?
During your conversation with Rinder, it becomes evident that he is unaware of the people he has killed. He explains that he experiences blackouts and has been struggling with this problem for some time. Johnny Silverhand confirms that Rinder’s cyberware has likely caused cyberpsychosis, a condition Silverhand himself experienced.
Despite sympathizing with Rinder, he remains angry, bitter, and uncooperative. However, if you put a gun to his head, he changes his tune.
When cornered, Rinder reveals that in his current state, he might as well be dead. If you spare his life, he guides you to a stash of his weapons. Choosing this option has consequences. Rinder hands you his dog tags and reveals the location of the stash. Briana remains unaware that you didn’t complete the mission, and you receive a Legendary Shotgun as a reward.
If you choose to kill Rinder, nothing particularly interesting happens. However, you can take satisfaction in avenging Foreman’s death and bringing happiness to Briana and Jason’s mother. You can shoot Rinder at any point in the conversation, denying him the chance to explain himself or escape. Johnny Silverhand strongly encourages you to kill him, believing Rinder’s sympathy to be insincere.
There’s a third option if you choose the right dialogue options. By sympathizing with Rinder and not allowing him to strike a deal, you can discuss the possibility of him having Cyberpsychosis. Although he initially resists this notion, he eventually becomes receptive once he realizes his life is at stake. You can even contact Regina, an expert on these matters. This choice encourages Rinder to seek the mental health treatment he desperately needs. He hands you his dog tags, and no one discovers that you spared him. While this option is more morally favorable, it doesn’t provide you with any additional rewards.