Surviving The Callisto Protocol is no easy feat. As Jacob Lee, a seemingly ordinary pilot, you must navigate the horrors of Black Iron Prison, where grotesque creatures lurk around every corner. The game provides some tutorials, but it doesn’t hold your hand, making survival a matter of strategy and smart decision-making. Here are the essential tips to help you endure the nightmare.

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1. Play Defensively in Combat

Unlike traditional action games, The Callisto Protocol punishes overly aggressive play. Jacob is not a superhero; he tires quickly when attacking in rapid succession, leaving him vulnerable.

• Prioritize dodging—anticipate enemy attacks and evade before counter-striking.
• Time your melee attacks carefully—wildly swinging leaves you open.
• Look for openings—let enemies attack first, then retaliate when they’re exposed.

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2. Manage Your Inventory Wisely

Inventory space is extremely limited, and most items don’t stack. This means careful management is necessary to keep essential supplies.

• Regularly check and organize your inventory to avoid clutter.
• Drop less critical items when needed—sometimes, letting go of minor loot is necessary.
• Plan ahead—if you anticipate combat, keep space for health injectors and ammo.

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3. Spend Callisto Credits on Upgrades First

Callisto Credits serve as in-game currency, usable at Reforge stations to buy upgrades, ammo, and healing items. However, they are scarce.

• Prioritize upgrading weapons and gear over buying consumables.
• Only purchase supplies in emergencies—most healing and ammo can be found while exploring.
• The right upgrades make survival much easier—enhanced melee and firearm efficiency pay off in the long run.

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4. Explore Side Paths for Extra Loot

Though The Callisto Protocol is a linear survival horror game, hidden paths and small side areas exist, often containing valuable items.

• Look for unmarked doors or vents—these often lead to useful loot.
• Dark environments can hide secrets—use your flashlight and listen for subtle audio cues.
• Collectibles and rare supplies are frequently found in these areas, making exploration worthwhile.

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5. Use Stealth When Possible

Jacob is not a combat expert, meaning direct confrontations are often dangerous. Stealth offers a safer alternative in certain situations.

• Use sneaky takedowns to eliminate enemies without using ammo.
• Avoid unnecessary fights—not every encounter needs to end in combat.
• Stay aware of noise levels—moving carefully helps you avoid drawing unwanted attention.

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6. Don’t Hoard Too Much Ammo

Ammunition is scarce, but hoarding it can clog your inventory, preventing you from carrying other essential items.

• Use bullets strategically—take out weaker enemies to free up space.
• Balance ammo usage—don’t rely too much on firearms, but don’t neglect them either.
• Prioritize carrying just enough—leave room for energy converters, health injectors, and batteries.

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7. Stomp Every Downed Enemy

Much like Dead Space, stomping on corpses is more than just a finishing move—it’s an essential survival tactic.

• Enemies drop valuable loot when stomped after death.
• Prevent reanimated threats—some enemies will rise again if not finished properly.
• Make corpse-stomping a habit—it ensures you get the most out of each battle.

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Final Thoughts

Surviving The Callisto Protocol requires patience, strategic inventory management, and smart combat choices. By playing defensively, prioritizing upgrades, exploring thoroughly, and using stealth when possible, you can drastically improve your odds of making it out alive. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll have a much better chance at enduring the horrors of Black Iron Prison.