Marvel’s Midnight Suns is an intricate blend of deck-building, turn-based RPG mechanics, and a social simulator, making it one of the most unique strategy games in recent years. With so many systems at play, it can be overwhelming for newcomers to get a handle on the game’s core mechanics. This guide aims to break down everything you need to know, from managing the Abbey to perfecting your deck and dominating combat. Whether you’re new to the game or looking for advanced strategies, this guide has you covered.

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The Abbey: Your Home Base for Upgrades and Team Bonding

After each mission, you’ll return to the Abbey, the hub where you interact with squad members, upgrade abilities, and prepare for your next battle. The top left of your screen will display your primary objectives, but there are daily tasks you should prioritize to maximize your squad’s potential.

The Forge – Research and Card Acquisition

The Forge is where you’ll conduct research projects that unlock new features, abilities, and items. Always have a research project running, as they take a day to complete. These projects range from cosmetic upgrades to essential combat tools. One of the earliest and most crucial upgrades is the Combat Item Table, which allows you to craft powerful free-cast combat items that can shift the tide of battle.

Additionally, the Forge is the main source for acquiring new cards. Initially, you’ll get Gamma Coils after missions, which Tony Stark will analyze to reveal new cards. Later, through Blueprint Crafting, you can create specific cards rather than relying on RNG. This is an essential feature for refining your deck and ensuring your squad has the best abilities available.

The Yard – Upgrading Cards and Training

At the Yard, you can upgrade your cards using Essence and Credits. Upgrading cards strengthens your squad’s abilities and can even add new effects through mods.

Each day, you should spar with a hero to increase friendship and gain buffs. Choose a hero relevant to your next mission for maximum efficiency. Sparring may also yield Arcane Keys, used to unlock valuable chests around the Abbey. The Yard also increases your Training Level, which provides passive combat bonuses, so regular visits are essential.

Central – Intel Ops and Side Missions

At Central, you can assign heroes to solo Intel Ops, gaining experience and new ability cards. Intel Ops require Intel currency, which you’ll earn through missions. Sending heroes on these side operations is an excellent way to passively improve your squad while focusing on main story missions.

Daily Abbey Tasks

• Pat Charlie the Dog – Grants credits and occasional rewards.
• Read Books in the Library – Increases Arcane Knowledge, which improves chest rewards.
• Complete Hero Requests – Offers unique bonuses and relationship boosts.
• Open Arcane Chests – These refresh every few days, so use your Arcane Keys wisely on higher-tier chests.

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Understanding Currencies and How to Use Them

There are multiple currencies in Midnight Suns, each serving a specific purpose:

• Gloss – Used for cosmetics, gifts, and decorating your room.
• Credits – Needed for upgrading the Forge, Yard, and Central.
• Blueprints – Essential for crafting specific cards.
• Essence (Attack, Heroic, Skill) – Used to upgrade cards based on their type.
• Intel – Required for Hero Ops and special missions.

Monitor mission rewards and prioritize those offering the resources you need most.

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Squad Management and Friendship System

Midnight Suns features 13 playable heroes, each with a distinct playstyle. While they level alongside the Hunter, they’ll stay about four levels behind unless actively used in missions.

To maximize hero effectiveness, focus on four or five favorites and regularly use them in missions. Building friendship with heroes grants passive abilities and additional benefits. Engage in conversations, hangouts, and gift-giving to strengthen these relationships.

The Threat Room: A Power Leveling Trick

The Threat Room is an excellent tool for leveling up underutilized heroes. It’s a solo challenge that grants unlimited card plays under specific conditions, making it the fastest way to bring low-level characters up to speed.

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Mastering Combat: Building the Perfect Deck

Combat in Midnight Suns revolves around drawing and playing cards to build Heroism, which fuels powerful abilities and environmental attacks.

Best Deck Composition

Each hero has a unique set of cards, but in general, an effective deck should include:

• 2 Quick Cards – These refund a card play if they KO an enemy.
• 2 Attack Cards – Prioritize those that generate Heroism.
• 1-2 Skill Cards – Utility-focused abilities like healing or buffs.
• 2-3 Heroism Cards – Heavy-hitting attacks for massive damage.

Environmental Attacks and Movement

Objects like barrels, crates, and light poles can be used against enemies. These attacks cost Heroism but do not consume a card play. Upgrading Training Level allows for free Shove attacks, further increasing battlefield control.

Combat Items – The Secret Weapon

Crafted at the Forge, Combat Items are free to use and can turn the tide of battle. Always carry a few before heading into missions.

Difficulty Modifiers: A Double-Edged Sword

Increasing difficulty boosts enemy strength but also grants additional XP and rewards. However, raising difficulty too early can make story missions punishingly hard. Adjust based on your comfort level.

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Final Tips and Tricks

• Focus on Research – Always have a research project active at the Forge.
• Manage Squad Friendships – Choose a core team and level them up efficiently.
• Pay Attention to Mission Rewards – Choose missions that provide the resources you need most.
• Use the Threat Room – Rapidly level up underused heroes.
• Optimize Your Deck – Balance offense, utility, and Heroism cards.
• Utilize Environmental Attacks – They don’t consume card plays and can be game-changing.

With these strategies, you’ll quickly master the systems of Marvel’s Midnight Suns and become an unstoppable force in battle. Whether you’re refining your deck, optimizing hero synergies, or exploring the Abbey for hidden bonuses, there’s always more to uncover. Good luck, and enjoy your journey into the Midnight Suns!