Solomon Reed
Solomon Reed
Solomon Reed is a key character in the Phantom Liberty expansion. A veteran NUSA operative, Reed serves as the player’s primary contact during the Dogtown storyline. Known for his unwavering loyalty, discipline, and pragmatism, he is a living embodiment of the state’s shadowy control over its agents.
Biography
Reed was born in the New United States of America after the collapse of the old United States in the mid-21st century. From a young age, he was drafted into military and intelligence services, eventually becoming a deep-cover agent (sleeper) in Night City. For years, Reed operated under false identities, conducting covert operations and monitoring hostile corporate activities.
During the events of Phantom Liberty, Reed resurfaces as the last loyal contact to President Rosalind Myers. His sense of duty has consumed his life; he has no family, no ties beyond the state, and he identifies almost completely with his role.
Role in Phantom Liberty
Reed becomes a central figure when President Myers’ plane crashes in Dogtown, a militarized district controlled by Kurt Hansen and his Barghest troops. As V, the player can choose to trust Reed or oppose him depending on their loyalty to Songbird.
- Reed seeks to capture Songbird, believing that her abilities are too dangerous to be left unchecked.
- If V sides with Reed, he oversees Songbird’s transfer to the NUSA and secures an experimental cure for V.
- His actions directly shape the so-called “Tower of Song” ending, in which V survives but is left impaired.
Personality
Reed embodies the traits of a lifelong intelligence officer: calm, professional, emotionally restrained, and fiercely loyal to his cause. While he respects V, he places the survival of the state above individual freedom. Many players interpret Reed as a tragic figure—a man who gave everything for the NUSA, losing his humanity in the process.
Themes
- **Loyalty vs. Freedom** — Reed is the opposite of Songbird; where she desires escape, he seeks obedience.
- **State Power** — He personifies the reach of the NUSA into Night City.
- **Tragedy of Duty** — Reed’s sacrifice is not of his body but of his personal life and identity.