Nothing’s worse than facing an army of killer robots unprepared. Mundfish’s Atomic Heart throws players into a dystopian world filled with relentless machines, and without a proper strategy, even the simplest enemies can feel insurmountable. Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your approach, this guide covers everything we wish we knew sooner.
Understanding Weaknesses and Resistances
One of the most common misconceptions about Atomic Heart is that its enemies are just bullet sponges. In reality, every enemy has specific weaknesses and resistances that you can identify by scanning them. This tactical feature is invaluable—knowing what kind of damage an enemy is vulnerable to can save both time and resources.
For example, the Elite Natasha Bot is impervious to small arms fire and electric attacks. However, crafting a Fat Boy can turn this daunting foe into scrap metal in moments. Similarly, laborer enemies can be dispatched efficiently with a shotgun. The lesson here is simple: if an enemy feels too tough, take a moment to scan them and adjust your strategy.
The Power of Cartridges
In Atomic Heart, you can only equip two abilities at a time, which leaves gaps in how you exploit enemy weaknesses. This is where cartridges come into play. These enhancements allow you to infuse weapons with specific elemental properties like fire, ice, or electricity, providing a versatile edge in combat.
To use cartridges, tap the middle mouse button to access the radial menu and switch between the canisters in your inventory. If you don’t see the option to add a cartridge, return to the NORA bot to upgrade your weapon. This simple preparation can turn difficult encounters into manageable skirmishes.
Combat Combinations: Mastering the Flow
Mundfish’s implementation of combat combinations adds layers of depth to battles. Abilities like Frostbite not only freeze enemies but also increase the damage they take from melee attacks. Reaching a certain damage threshold can cause them to shatter, instantly eliminating the threat.
Mass Telekinesis, on the other hand, can halt the rotors of flying enemies, making them crash to the ground. When upgraded, this ability can also slam enemies down, turning even the toughest foes into easy targets.
Polymer Jet is another powerful tool that, when used correctly, amplifies elemental attacks. By coating enemies or areas with polymer, you can significantly boost the damage dealt by abilities and canisters. It’s a setup that requires forethought but pays off massively in terms of efficiency.
Respec and Resource Management
One of the most player-friendly features in Atomic Heart is the ability to refund spent polymer without penalty. If you’ve invested in skills that don’t fit your playstyle, simply head to the skill menu and select ‘Return’ to get back all your spent polymer.
Additionally, scrap any unused gear for resources. These materials can be used to craft new items or upgrades, preventing valuable assets from sitting idle in your inventory.
Must-Have Upgrades
Two essential upgrades from the Character Tree are the Neuro-Compression Tactical Backpack slots, which expand your inventory by 10 slots each. More inventory space means carrying extra ammo, weapons, and canisters—critical for extended missions.
In the Energy Management tree, maxing out your upgrades allows you to switch seamlessly between melee and energy weapons, effectively giving you infinite ammo. This becomes particularly useful against repair bots that can otherwise drag out battles.
Hawk Relays: Gaining Control of the Battlefield
Hawk Relays serve as vital control points in Atomic Heart. By hacking cameras connected to these relays, you can either land the Hawk to use as a makeshift elevator or overload it to disable all cameras and robots in the area temporarily. This strategy is invaluable for exploring freely or setting up ambushes.
Testing Grounds: A Treasure Trove of Upgrades
Testing Grounds, or Polygons, are optional dungeons scattered throughout the world. These locations are packed with upgrade materials, puzzles, and sometimes even bosses. Completing these dungeons rewards players with valuable upgrades for both weapons and abilities.
To access these areas, you’ll often need to hack camera systems or locate keys. It’s a bit of extra work, but the rewards are well worth the effort.
Weapons You Should Prioritize
While any weapon can be viable in Atomic Heart, two stand out: a fully upgraded melee weapon and the Electro. The melee weapon is indispensable due to numerous enemies’ resistance to firearms. Meanwhile, the Electro, when upgraded at Polygon 12, can siphon health from enemies, turning it into a lifeline during intense fights.
Conclusion
Surviving in Atomic Heart isn’t just about firepower—it’s about preparation and adaptability. By mastering enemy weaknesses, optimizing your loadout, and utilizing the game’s unique combat systems, you’ll transform even the most brutal encounters into manageable skirmishes. Equip yourself wisely, and you’ll find that no enemy is truly invincible.
With these tips, you’re now ready to tackle the challenges of Atomic Heart head-on. Play smart, adapt quickly, and above all—survive.
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