Days Gone Guide: How to Beat the Carlos Boss Fight and Sabotage the Ripper Dam

In the unforgiving wilderness of post-apocalyptic Oregon, few threats are as terrifying as the Rippers. These cultists, who self-mutilate and worship the Freakers, serve as some of the most persistent antagonists in Days Gone. The mission 'I’m Good With That' represents a massive turning point in the story, where Deacon St. John and his brother-in-arms Boozer finally take the fight to the heart of Ripper territory.

This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough of this high-stakes mission, from the tactical sniper overwatch at the Rogue Tunnel dam to the brutal, one-on-one melee showdown with the cult leader, Carlos. Whether you're struggling with the boss mechanics or looking for the best way to protect Boozer, here is everything you need to know.

Phase 1: Clearing the Ripper Tunnel

The mission begins with a high-tension combat encounter in a Ripper-infested tunnel [0:00:00]. Unlike Freakers, Rippers use firearms and tactical positioning, making them a significant threat at range.

Strategy Tip: Use the tight corridors of the tunnel to your advantage. Throwables like pipe bombs or flashbangs are incredibly effective here. Keep an eye out for 'Breakers' or heavily armored Rippers who may attempt to rush your position. Once the tunnel is clear, you’ll transition into a travel segment [0:02:03] where Deacon and Boozer ride toward their ultimate goal: the Rogue Tunnel dam.

Phase 2: Sniper Overwatch – Protecting Boozer

One of the most mechanically unique segments of this mission starts at [0:05:32]. While Boozer moves down to the base of the dam to plant demolition charges, Deacon must provide sniper overwatch from a high vantage point.

How to Succeed at the Dam Overwatch:

Prioritize Immediate Threats: Focus on Rippers who are actively shooting at Boozer or those closest to his position.
Manage Your Focus: If you have upgraded Deacon’s 'Focus' ability, use it liberally. This slows down time, allowing you to land headshots on moving targets and explosive barrels.
Listen to Dialogue Cues: Boozer will often shout when he is pinned down. Use these audio cues to locate enemies you might have missed.
Explosive Barrels: Look for red barrels scattered around the dam's scaffolding. One well-placed shot can take out a group of enemies, saving you ammo and time.

Phase 3: The Destruction of the Dam

After successfully protecting Boozer, a cinematic sequence triggers at [0:10:34]. The resulting explosion is one of the most visually impressive moments in Days Gone. The destruction of the dam isn't just a spectacle; it’s a strategic move designed to flood the Ripper territory, cutting off their reinforcements and drowning their lower encampments. This environmental shift sets the stage for the final assault on the Ripper compound.

Phase 4: Assaulting the Ripper Lodge

Under the cover of darkness [0:11:39], Deacon and Boozer move toward the main lodge. The gameplay shifts from long-range support to close-quarters infiltration [0:13:13].

Tactical Advice:

Stay Stealthy Initially: You can thin out the Ripper numbers using stealth takedowns or a suppressed weapon before the alarm is raised.
Watch the Flanks: The lodge has multiple entry points. Rippers will often try to circle around behind you. Stay mobile and use your survival vision to track enemy movements through walls.

Phase 5: Boss Fight – Deacon vs. Carlos (Jesse)

The climax of the mission is the long-awaited confrontation between Deacon and Carlos (formerly known as Jesse) at [0:17:19]. This is a unique boss encounter because it strips away your firearms. It is a pure, melee-focused duel in a ring of fire.

Strategies to Defeat Carlos:

Master the Dodge Roll: Carlos is fast and hits hard. Do not try to tank his hits. Wait for him to swing, dodge toward his side, and then counter-attack.
Watch Your Stamina: Since you are constantly dodging and swinging a blade, your stamina bar will deplete quickly. Don't get greedy with your hits; two or three swings are usually enough before you need to back off.
The Counter-Melee System: This fight relies heavily on the game's melee mechanics. If you have the 'Field Repairs' or 'Hard Hitter' skills from the Melee tree, they will significantly help, though the fight provides you with the necessary tools regardless of your build.

The fight ends with a dramatic finishing move, signaling the end of Carlos's reign of terror over the Oregon wastes.

Phase 6: Aftermath and Moral Survival

Once the dust settles and the mission rewards screen clears [0:19:38], the narrative takes a more somber tone. Deacon returns to the Lost Lake camp for a deep dialogue with Iron Mike [0:22:05].

This sequence explores the 'Moral Grey' of the world. While the Rippers were monsters, the act of blowing a dam and killing hundreds is a heavy burden. This conversation is crucial for players who follow the story, as it highlights the shifting philosophy of Deacon St. John—from a man simply looking for his wife to a leader concerned with the future of humanity.

Key Takeaways for Players

Preparation is Key: Before starting 'I’m Good With That,' ensure your sniper rifle is fully stocked and your melee weapons are repaired.
Skill Synergy: Investing in the Ranged and Survival skill trees makes the dam overwatch significantly easier.
Story Importance: This mission effectively ends the Ripper threat as a major faction, allowing the story to pivot toward the southern regions of the map and the Militia storyline.

Conclusion

'I'm Good With That' is a masterclass in mission design, blending stealth, high-octane sniping, and a personal boss fight. By mastering the dodge mechanics and staying vigilant during the overwatch phase, you can navigate this gauntlet with ease.

What was your favorite part of the Ripper storyline? Let us know in the comments below, and don't forget to check out our other Days Gone guides for more survival tips!