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Schedule 1: Cartel Not Showing Up Fix Guide

Schedule 1: Cartel Not Showing Up Fix Guide

Players who’ve unlocked Westville in Schedule 1 but can’t progress due to the absence of the cartel storyline may be encountering a known bug. This issue often stems from outdated save files conflicting with newer updates. Below are actionable solutions to resolve this without restarting your game.

Resolving the Cartel Activation Issue

After unlocking Westville, you should receive an introductory text from the cartel. If this doesn’t occur, follow these steps:

  1. Verify Your Game Version
    Ensure you’re on the latest beta build. On Steam, right-click the game, select Properties > Betas, and opt into the beta branch. The cartel content is exclusive to this version.

  2. Encounter Cartel Forces Naturally
    Some players have triggered the storyline by roaming the open world and encountering cartel members or ambushes. This may prompt a follow-up payphone call within 24 in-game hours.

  3. Manually Edit Cartel.json

    • Navigate to your save folder:
      C:\Users\\AppData\LocalLow\TVGS\Schedule I\Saves\\

    • Open your active save file (e.g., SaveGame_1).

    • Locate and open Cartel.json using a text editor like Notepad.

    • Delete all contents of the file (keep the file itself).

    • Save changes, reload the game, and sleep to trigger Thomas Benzies’ message.

  4. Wait In-Game Post-Fix
    Messages may take 1–2 in-game days to arrive. Sleep repeatedly and monitor your phone for notifications.

Additional Tips

  • If Cartel.json won’t save, confirm it’s not set to Read-only (right-click > Properties).

  • Double-check that Westville is fully unlocked—the cartel storyline is area-dependent.

Key Takeaways

Most players resolve the cartel bug by switching to the beta version or editing Cartel.json. Once applied, the storyline should activate, allowing progression.

FAQ

Why isn’t the cartel appearing post-Westville?

Older save files often clash with update content. New saves typically avoid this bug.

Is a new save file required?

No—editing Cartel.json or using the beta build usually resolves the issue.

What if Cartel.json edits fail to save?

Disable Read-only in the file’s Properties menu.

How long until the cartel contacts me?

Allow 1–2 in-game days. Sleep multiple times if needed.