In Disco Elysium, players navigate a complex web of moral dilemmas and narrative-shaping decisions in the city of Martinaise. One of the most infamous choices revolves around Cuno, the aggressive youth encountered early in the investigation. The side quest involving Cuno's request for drugs presents a major ethical dilemma with distinct gameplay implications.
Starting the Quest and Locating the Drugs
To initiate the quest titled "Split a Kilo with Cuno," you must first build a degree of rapport with Cuno. Once he trusts you enough, he will ask you to retrieve speed from his father's apartment. Players must head to apartment 12 in the Capeside Apartments and use chain cutters to break inside.
After passing an Interfacing check and entering the apartment, you can grab the drug vial from the table. Interacting with Cuno's father also provides additional insights into Cuno's background and real name. Returning to Cuno with the drugs triggers the crucial decision-making moment.
Outcomes of Giving Cuno the Drugs
Handing over the drugs to Cuno satisfies his request and grants you 70 XP upon task completion. However, doing so in front of Kim Kitsuragi will result in severe disapproval from your partner. Despite the moral gray area, this action cements your bond with Cuno for the remainder of the narrative.
The primary advantage of giving him the drugs becomes evident during late-game events. If Kim is hospitalized during the Mercenary Tribunal, Cuno becomes eligible to join you as a temporary partner. This path opens up unique dialogue and unlocks the achievement "Recruit Detective Kuuno de Ruyter".
Refusing to Share the Narcotics
If you decide against giving Cuno the drugs, the quest still completes and yields the same XP reward. Cuno will react negatively to being denied, which damages your immediate relationship. Choosing this path prevents you from securing Cuno as a substitute partner if Kim ends up injured later.
Despite Cuno's frustration, refusing to give substances to a child maintains your standing with Kim Kitsuragi. It keeps your moral conscience clear while adhering to standard law enforcement conduct. Players must weigh short-term ethics against long-term party flexibility.
Final Impact on the Narrative
The decision to split the drugs ultimately serves as a pivotal character bridge rather than a hard game-blocker. Both choices allow you to finish the main case, but they alter the emotional tone of the final chapters. Understanding these consequences helps players tailor Harry's journey to match their preferred roleplaying style.
