Should You Blame, Ascend, or Banish Jacob and Benedict in Banishers Ghosts of New Eden?

The first Haunting Case in Banishers deals with Jacob and Benedict, the two stranded trappers. Your choice here sets the tone for the entire game, and it teaches you about sacrificing and ascending/banishing. So, should you blame, ascend, or banish Jacob and Benedict in Banishers Ghosts of New Eden?

Blame, Ascend, or Banish Jacob and Benedict Choice Guide: Which is the Best Option in Banishers Ghosts of New Eden?

Jacob and Benedict are the two trappers stranded in the wilds of New Eden. Their hunger and desperation made them turn on each other, and Jacob was the first to act, killing Benedict and eating his flesh. Solving this case leads you to the first choice in New Eden: should you sacrifice Jacob or banish/ascend Benedict?

I discovered that Jacob and Benedict would ultimately kill each other, but Jacob was the first to act. Knowing this, Benedict forgives Jacob, but it’s up to you whether this excuses Jacob’s actions of both murder and cannibalism. This sets up the first Haunting Case choice and sets the tone for the entire game.

What Happens if You Sacrifice Jacob or Ascend Him?

Sacrificing Jacob kills him here but progresses toward Antea’s resurrection. On the other hand, banishing or ascending Benedict both contribute to Antea’s ascension. Neither choice has narrative or mechanical consequences so I would recommend acting according to your oath to Antea.

That said, if you’re working toward Antea’s resurrection, this is the perfect opportunity to sacrifice a settler. This is because later Haunting Case choices, like the one with Thickskin, have greater consequences when sacrificing NPCs. So if Antea’s resurrection is your goal, I highly recommend sacrificing Jacob here. Otherwise, ascending Benedict is a great alternative choice. Lastly, I wouldn’t banish Jacob, as he’s a victim in this case. Banishment is usually for more extreme cases.

That concludes my guide on whether you should blame, ascend, or banish Jacob and Benedict in Banishers Ghosts of New Eden. For more Banishers guides, check out our best skills to get early and how to respec.