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=Understanding Handgun Behavior=
 
=Understanding Handgun Behavior=
 
[[Image:Rocket explosion.png|250px|right|thumb|Rocket Explosion]]
 
[[Image:Rocket explosion.png|250px|right|thumb|Rocket Explosion]]
Recall when you were at [[Ironclaw Munitions Factory]], you defended an incoming rocket. It hit the shield and exploded. The explosion also hurts unaware party member close to you. [[Handgun]] behaves similar to rocket. The bullets either hit an object or reach the maximum range, and exploded. Bullet does not deal damage, but the explosion does. Bullets normally does not destroy [[Exploration#Grass|Grass]], [[Freeze]] or [[Gun Puppy#Rocket Puppy|Puppy]]'s Rocket except either in maximum range or near wall (explode earlier). Hence, Handguns or even all weapons in Spiral Knights does Area of Effect (AoE) damage. The AoE is not necessarily big like [[Polaris]]. [[Blitz Needle]] bullets explosion is like 50 times smaller than [[Polaris]].
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Recall when you were at [[Ironclaw Munitions Factory]], you defended an incoming rocket. It hit the shield and exploded. The explosion also hurts unaware party member close to you. [[Handgun]] behaves similar to rocket. The bullets either hit an object or reach the maximum range, and exploded. Bullet does not deal damage, but the explosion does. Bullets normally does not destroy [[Exploration#Grass|Grass]], or [[Gun Puppy#Rocket Puppy|Puppy]]'s Rocket except either in maximum range or near wall (explode earlier). Hence, Handguns or even all weapons in Spiral Knights does Area of Effect (AoE) damage. The AoE is not necessarily big like [[Polaris]]. [[Blitz Needle]] bullets explosion is like 50 times smaller than [[Polaris]].
  
 
'''Benefit''': If you are capable to kill [[Zombie]] in one shot [[Blitz Needle]] charge, you are also capable to kill two or three [[Zombie]]s close to each other by aiming right in the middle of crowd ([[Options#Controls|auto target]] off). The explosion is not always at the exact position where the bullets disappear. The bullets can disappear in one side of [[Exploration#Force Fields|Force Fields]] but explode at the other side. It also bypass [[Mortafire|Gremlin Mortafire]]'s shield (not sure on other shield monsters).
 
'''Benefit''': If you are capable to kill [[Zombie]] in one shot [[Blitz Needle]] charge, you are also capable to kill two or three [[Zombie]]s close to each other by aiming right in the middle of crowd ([[Options#Controls|auto target]] off). The explosion is not always at the exact position where the bullets disappear. The bullets can disappear in one side of [[Exploration#Force Fields|Force Fields]] but explode at the other side. It also bypass [[Mortafire|Gremlin Mortafire]]'s shield (not sure on other shield monsters).
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#Basic Attack: Action → Action → Action and so forth
 
#Basic Attack: Action → Action → Action and so forth
 
#Small Steps In-Between Attack: hold Action → move a little bit → release Action right before it starts Charging
 
#Small Steps In-Between Attack: hold Action → move a little bit → release Action right before it starts Charging
#Shield Cancel Attack: Action → hold Defend → Action(give delay between Action to avoid reload)
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#Shield Cancel Attack: Action → hold Defend → Action (give delay between Action to avoid reload)
 
#Switch Attack: Action → hold Defend → Weapon 2 → Weapon 1 → release Defend → Action
 
#Switch Attack: Action → hold Defend → Weapon 2 → Weapon 1 → release Defend → Action
 
#Basic Charge: hold Action
 
#Basic Charge: hold Action
 
#Shield Charge: hold Defend → hold Action → delay → release Defend → release Action → hold Defend
 
#Shield Charge: hold Defend → hold Action → delay → release Defend → release Action → hold Defend
 
#"Running" Shield Charge: hold Defend → hold Action → immediately release Defend but still holding Action → move around freely → tap Defend → release Action → Hold Defend
 
#"Running" Shield Charge: hold Defend → hold Action → immediately release Defend but still holding Action → move around freely → tap Defend → release Action → Hold Defend
[[Shieldbearer Guide#Advanced Techniques|Animation Cancel done by Defend]] is a common trick used on action video game (ex: Zero's Saber Dash cancel in Megaman). The short Defend animation cancels out the long animation of other moves. Holding Defend could cut these following: basic attacks, charge, finishing typing invisible tablet (open/close recipe/arsenal window), reviving, standing up from /sit or other /emote (which I recommend you to exploit).
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[[Shieldbearer Guide#Advanced Techniques|Animation Cancel done by Defend]] is a common trick used on action video game (ex: Zero's Saber Dash cancel in Megaman). The short Defend animation cancels out the long animation of other moves. Holding Defend could cut these following: basic attacks, charge, taking minerals, finishing typing invisible tablet ([[User interface|open/close recipe/arsenal window]]), [[Reviving]], standing up from /sit or other /[[emote]] (which I recommend you to exploit).
  
 
"Running" Shield Charge is the best move since it gives most freedom movements, while basic attacks stop you mostly. <br />
 
"Running" Shield Charge is the best move since it gives most freedom movements, while basic attacks stop you mostly. <br />
 
The comparison on what happening on these actions:
 
The comparison on what happening on these actions:
:'''Basic Attack''' (Action → Action): Longer Stance → Shoot Bullets → Shoot Bullets → Reload<br />
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:'''Basic Attack''' (Action → Action): <span style="color:red">Longer Stance</span> <span style="color:red">Shoot Bullets</span> <span style="color:red">Shoot Bullets</span> → <span style="color:aqua">Reload</span><br />
:Movement with Penalty: Reload<br />
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:'''"Running" Shield Charge''' (above): <span style="color:aqua">Defend</span> <span style="color:green">Move Around</span> <span style="color:aqua">Instant Defend</span> <span style="color:aqua">Long, Long Charge</span> <span style="color:red">Shorter Stance</span> <span style="color:red">Longer Shoot Bullets</span> <span style="color:#ff0000">Reload</span><br />
:Stationary: Longer Stance, Shoot Bullets, Shoot Bullets<br />
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<span style="color:red">Red</span> means stop or stationary.<br />
:'''"Running" Shield Charge''' (above): Defend → Move Around → Instant Defend → Long, Long Charge → Shorter Stance → Longer Shoot Bullets → Reload<br />
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<span style="color:aqua">Blue</span> means movement with penalty (50%).<br />
:Movement without Penalty: Move Around<br />
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<span style="color:green">Green</span> means movement without penalty.<br />
:Movement with Penalty: Defend, Instant Defend, Long, long Charge<br />
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:Stationary: Shorter Stance, Longer Shoot Bullets, Reload<br />
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Note: In this video, I keep holding move right while doing action list so that you could see clearly when I could move.
 
Note: In this video, I keep holding move right while doing action list so that you could see clearly when I could move.
 
*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wLXo8LiIgTE Blitz Needle Movements]
 
*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wLXo8LiIgTE Blitz Needle Movements]
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==Charge Attack Damage equals to 5 times of Basic Attack Damage==
 
==Charge Attack Damage equals to 5 times of Basic Attack Damage==
The damage list of Blitz Needle against Wolver at Guild Training Hall tier 3: Charge Attack = 229 * 15 = 3435. Basic Attack = 6 * 110 = 660. Damage comparison = 3435 / 660 = 5.2. Duration time needed for one charge with CTR:Med (from heat level 10) is about two full combo (4 basic attack). Damage comparison = 5.2 / 4 = 1.3. CTR:Max! is about one and half combo (3 shot). Damage comparison = 5.2 / 3 = 1.7. The damage gap difference is even higher with Damage Bonus. It's even higher when using bullet explosions feature. ASI made both action faster.
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The damage list of [[Blitz Needle]] against [[Wolver]] at Guild Training Hall tier 3: Charge Attack = 229 * 15 = 3435. Basic Attack = 6 * 110 = 660. Damage comparison = 3435 / 660 = 5.2. Duration time needed for one charge with CTR:Med (from heat level 10) is about two full combo (4 basic attack). Damage comparison = 5.2 / 4 = 1.3. CTR:Max! is about one and half combo (3 shot). Damage comparison = 5.2 / 3 = 1.7. The damage gap difference is even higher with Damage Bonus. It's even higher when using [[Blitz Needle at Clockworks#Understanding Handgun Behavior|Bullet Explosion]] feature. ASI made both action faster.
 
==Don't hold Charge too long==
 
==Don't hold Charge too long==
Simply because of less dps (damage per second). You could release charge as soon as you find a safe position. Ex: you are waiting a good position to kill Trojan. You hold charge more than 10 seconds because Trojan was far away. In the other case, you could release charge and kill one - two zombies, and recharge again for Trojan within the same 10 seconds duration.
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Simply because of less dps (damage per second). You could release charge as soon as you find a safe position. Ex: you are waiting a good position to kill [[Trojan]]. You hold charge more than 10 seconds because it was far away. In the other case, you could release charge and kill one - two [[Zombie]]s, and recharge again for [[Trojan]] within the same 10 seconds duration.
 
==Bullets triggers Dodge==
 
==Bullets triggers Dodge==
Four types of monsters, Chromalisks, Gremlins, Devilites, and Wolvers, have dodge ability when bullets come near. Both Basic Attacks and Charge initiates dodge however Charge is better. Monsters have slower response on charge (I think it's) because of shorter stance before actually shooting bullets. The charge bullets can also flinch monster and stop their dodge animation.
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Few types of monsters, [[Chromalisk]], [[Thwacker]], [[Mender]], [[Demo]], [[Devilite]] and [[Wolver]], have dodge ability when bullets come near. Both Basic Attacks and Charge initiates dodge however Charge is better. Monsters have slower response on charge (I think it's) because of shorter stance before actually shooting bullets. The charge bullets can also [[Blitz Needle at Clockworks#Flinch|flinch]] monster and stop their dodge animation.
 
*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=50PrPBIIVZw Blitz Needle versus Wolvers]
 
*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=50PrPBIIVZw Blitz Needle versus Wolvers]
 
*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VFtenyQNMU8 Blitz Needle versus Devilites]
 
*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VFtenyQNMU8 Blitz Needle versus Devilites]
 
 
=General Info about Monsters=
 
=General Info about Monsters=
 
==Monster's Target Priority==
 
==Monster's Target Priority==
#'''The most damage dealer''' within monster's sight range. The non-damage type like haze bomb's status effect, and damage absorbed by shield (Trojan etc) also counts. Most of the time monsters target haze bomber until get high damage from others.
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#'''The most damage dealer''' within [[Monster]]'s sight range. The non-damage type like [[Bombing_guide#'Vaporizer' Bombs|mist bomb]]'s status effect, and damage absorbed by shield ([[Trojan]] etc) also counts. Most of the time [[Monster]]s target [[Bombing_guide#'Vaporizer' Bombs|mist bomb]]er until get high damage from others.
 
#'''The first''' damage dealer when two or more players deal the same damage.
 
#'''The first''' damage dealer when two or more players deal the same damage.
 
#'''The nearest''' when no damage applied.
 
#'''The nearest''' when no damage applied.
  
 
==Monster "special" abilities==
 
==Monster "special" abilities==
*Zombie's Lunge, Trojan's Charge, and Trojan's Sword Slam require the target (close to) stationary/stop. It does not need to be long time, but only a split second is enough. Keep moving prevents the monsters to use these attacks.
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*[[Zombie]]'s Lunge, [[Trojan]]'s Charge and Sword Slam require the target (close to) stationary/stop. It does not need to be long time, but only a split second is enough. Keep moving prevents the monsters to use these attacks.
*Most monsters can't keep track the target after they charge. They will attack in the same position the target was even though the target moved. Few monsters exception are Devilites, Mecha Knights/Phantom/Almirian Crusader, Greaver, Snarbolax's Bite, Oilers (Oilers doesn't track but it slides and makes curve-path attack).
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*Most [[Monster]]s can't keep track the target after they charge. They will attack in the same position the target was even though the target moved. Few monsters exception are [[Devilite]]s, [[Mecha Knight]]s/[[Phantom]]/[[Almirian Crusader]], [[Greaver]], [[Snarbolax]]'s Bite, [[Lichen#Oiler|Oiler]] ([[Lichen#Oiler|Oiler]] doesn't track but it slides and makes curve-path attack).
*Mecha Knights/Phantom/Almirian Crusader's Charge Attack could be cancelled by Shock or Stun Status Effect.
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*[[Mecha Knight]]/[[Phantom]]/[[Almirian Crusader]]'s Charge Attack could be cancelled by Shock or Stun Status Effect.
*All monster attacks have cool down, idle time needed to use another attack. Some attacks has longer cool down than others, Trojan/Vanaduke's Charge (not followed by Sword Slam), Vanaduke's Fire Snake, Greaver's Attack, etc.
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*All [[Monster]] attacks have cool down, idle time needed to use another attack. Some attacks has longer cool down than others, [[Trojan]]/[[Vanaduke]]'s Charge (not followed by Sword Slam), [[Vanaduke]]'s Fire Snake, [[Greaver]]'s Attack, etc.
 
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=Dealing with Monsters=
 
=Dealing with Monsters=
 
==Versus One Monster==
 
==Versus One Monster==
 
The safest way to kill monsters is either:
 
The safest way to kill monsters is either:
#Trigger monster attack (to enforce cool down), dodge, and attack back. You don't need to wait monster finishing attack. You could attack immediately when on the safe position.
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#Trigger [[Monster]] attack (to enforce cool down), dodge, and attack back. You don't need to wait monster finishing attack. You could attack immediately when on the safe position.
#Trigger monster attack, and interrupt to cancel their attack. To interrupt, you need to flinch the monster. (explanation later)
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#Trigger [[Monster]] attack, and interrupt to cancel their attack. To interrupt, you need to [[Blitz Needle at Clockworks#Flinch|flinch]] the monster. (explanation later)
 
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==Versus Multiple Monsters==
 
==Versus Multiple Monsters==
The strategy is the same as above but you need to take attention more than one monster. You probably need to trigger attack most of the monsters. Also, you should start to exploit bullets explosion feature. On zombie swarm, mostly you need to care on first 2 nearest zombies. These 2 could hurt you while the other zombies would be blocked by these 2 zombies. The safest way on monsters group is keeping your position outside the group, only approach with powerful (charge) attack and keep away. You would have hard time when the monsters comes at you on both opposites sides.
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The strategy is the same as above but you need to take attention more than one monster. You probably need to trigger attack most of the monsters. Also, you should exploit [[Blitz Needle at Clockworks#Understanding Handgun Behavior|Bullet Explosion]] feature. On zombie swarm, mostly you need to care on first 2 nearest [[Zombie]]s. These 2 could hurt you while the other [[Zombie]]s would be blocked by these 2 [[Zombie]]s. The safest way on [[Monster]]s group is keeping your position outside the group, only approach with powerful (charge) attack and keep away. You would have hard time when [[Monster]]s comes at you on both opposites sides.
 
*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=49i_2QtZc8o Blitz Needle versus Trojan]
 
*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=49i_2QtZc8o Blitz Needle versus Trojan]
 
 
=Flinch=
 
=Flinch=
Monsters could be flinched by final swing (swords) and charge attack, not first swings. Charge attack has better effect. Guns normally doesn't have final swing except pulsar's expanded bullets and magnus line. Alchemer has disadvantage since only initial charge bullet counts, not ricochets. But Blitz Needle is the most powerful because all 15 charge bullets counts. Bombs only have the charge attacks. The more members in a party and the deeper the depth, the harder it is to flinch the monster. Shadow Lair monsters is also harder. Based on depth 25+ (vanguard prestige missions and FSC exclude Shadow Lair) and 4 party member, I categorize monsters flinched by:
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[[Monster]]s could be flinched by final swing (swords) and charge attack, not first swings. Charge attack has slightly stronger effect. [[Handgun]] normally doesn't have final swing except [[Pulsar]]'s expanded bullets and [[Magnus]] line. Alchemer has disadvantage since only initial charge bullet counts, not ricochets. But [[Blitz Needle]] is the most powerful because all 15 charge bullets counts. Bombs only have the charge attacks. The more members in a party and the deeper the depth, the harder it is to flinch the monster. Shadow Lair monsters is also harder. Based on depth 25+ (vanguard prestige missions and FSC exclude Shadow Lair) and 4 party member, I categorize monsters flinched by:
 
*'''Poke''' any attacks including resistant, vial/pot throwing. <br />
 
*'''Poke''' any attacks including resistant, vial/pot throwing. <br />
 
:The category shouldn't exist but some '''monster abilities''' could be interrupted by poke such as [[Scuttlebot]]'s Bullets, [[Devilite]]'s Throw Projectiles, [[Greaver]]'s Attack, [[Lichen#Oiler|Oiler]]/[[Lichen#Quicksilver|Quicksilver]]/[[Lichen#Toxigel|Toxigel]]'s Tackle, [[Wolver]]'s Bark, [[Zombie]]'s Breath and Stunned [[Snarbolax]].
 
:The category shouldn't exist but some '''monster abilities''' could be interrupted by poke such as [[Scuttlebot]]'s Bullets, [[Devilite]]'s Throw Projectiles, [[Greaver]]'s Attack, [[Lichen#Oiler|Oiler]]/[[Lichen#Quicksilver|Quicksilver]]/[[Lichen#Toxigel|Toxigel]]'s Tackle, [[Wolver]]'s Bark, [[Zombie]]'s Breath and Stunned [[Snarbolax]].
 
:Note that [[Devilite]], [[Scuttlebot]], [[Greaver]] and [[Lichen#Oiler|Oiler]] has only this attack. One good strategy is to keep spamming attack on them.
 
:Note that [[Devilite]], [[Scuttlebot]], [[Greaver]] and [[Lichen#Oiler|Oiler]] has only this attack. One good strategy is to keep spamming attack on them.
*'''Low''' final swing or charge attack that at least non-resistant. Half normal (brandish/sealed sword) is also non-resistant (ex: Combuster vs Gremlin works).
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*'''Low''' final swing or charge attack that at least non-resistant. Half normal ([[Brandish]]/[[Sealed Sword]] line) is also non-resistant (ex: [[Combuster]] vs [[Gremlin]] works).
:'''Monster Types''': [[Chromalisk]], [[Wolver]] except Alpha, [[Gun Puppy]], [[Devilite]], [[Trojan]], [[Gremlin]], [[Jelly]] except [[Jelly#Rock Jelly Cube|Rock Jelly Cube]],  [[[Jelly#Royal Jelly|Royal Jelly]] and Tier 3 Jelly at RJP, [[Lichen]] except [[Lichen#Lichen Colony|Colony]], [[Kat]], [[Dreadnaught]].
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:'''Monster Types''': [[Chromalisk]], [[Wolver]] except [[Wolver#Alpha_Wolver|Alpha]], [[Gun Puppy|Puppy]], [[Devilite]], [[Trojan]], [[Gremlin]], [[Jelly]] except [[Jelly#Rock Jelly Cube|Rock]],  [[Jelly#Royal Jelly|Royal]] and [[Clockworks#Tier_3|Tier 3]] [[Jelly]] at [[Royal Jelly Palace|RJP]], [[Lichen]] except [[Lichen#Lichen Colony|Colony]], [[Kat]], [[Deadnaught]].
 
*'''Moderate''' full combo at medium damage bonus or final swing/charge attack at max! damage bonus, and must be the correct damage type. (ex: elemental against Zombie)
 
*'''Moderate''' full combo at medium damage bonus or final swing/charge attack at max! damage bonus, and must be the correct damage type. (ex: elemental against Zombie)
 
:Full combo is either the regular basic attacks or charge attack → first swing → final swing combo. This category is the main reason why newbie having hard times. Ex: A player wearing Vog Cub set with no damage bonus joins in 4 members party. He always finishes combo but still got hurt by Zombies that charge their attack before. Even worse, he use shield bump after finishing combo that throws Zombies while they are attacking. In this case, Zombie acquired the new move, Back-Dashing Swipe instead of plain Swipe that can hurt teammate on the path.
 
:Full combo is either the regular basic attacks or charge attack → first swing → final swing combo. This category is the main reason why newbie having hard times. Ex: A player wearing Vog Cub set with no damage bonus joins in 4 members party. He always finishes combo but still got hurt by Zombies that charge their attack before. Even worse, he use shield bump after finishing combo that throws Zombies while they are attacking. In this case, Zombie acquired the new move, Back-Dashing Swipe instead of plain Swipe that can hurt teammate on the path.
:'''Monster types''': Alpha Wolver, Lumber, Mecha Knight, Retrode, Devilite Overtimer, Rock Jelly Cube, Lichen Colony, Phantom, Zombie, Almirian Crusader, Royal Jelly.
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:'''Monster types''': [[Wolver#Alpha_Wolver|Alpha Wolver]], [[Lumber]], [[Mecha Knight]], [[Retrode]], [[Devilite]] Overtimer, [[Jelly#Rock Jelly Cube|Rock Jelly]], [[Lichen#Lichen Colony|Lichen Colony]], [[Phantom]], [[Zombie]], [[Almirian Crusader]], [[Jelly#Royal Jelly|Royal Jelly]].
*'''High''' Volcanic Pepperbox Charge since only Giant Lichen Colony fits in this category.
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*'''High''' [[Volcanic Pepperbox]] Charge since only [[Lichen#Giant_Lichen_Colony|Giant Lichen Colony]] fits in this category.
*'''Impossible''' obviously, Vanaduke.
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*'''Impossible''' obviously, [[Vanaduke]].
Note: monsters would recover from the latest flinch. This means Trojan/Dreadnaught can escape from one-shot-kill blitz charge when other player sword charge at them. On Blitz needle point of view, these categories only means different amount of charge bullets. I need about 4 - 6 charge bullets to flinch Zombie.
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Note: monsters would recover from the latest flinch. This means [[Trojan]]/[[Deadnaught]] can escape from one-shot-kill [[Blitz Needle]] charge when other player sword charge at them. On [[Blitz Needle]] point of view, these categories only means different amount of charge bullets. I need about 4 - 6 charge bullets to flinch [[Zombie]].
  
 
=Conclusion: Blitz Needle only, Proto Solo at Firestorm Citadel=
 
=Conclusion: Blitz Needle only, Proto Solo at Firestorm Citadel=
These videos are to summarize this wiki page in hope that you could do similar challenge after learning all of these. I used bullet exposion feature many times for double kill, used both dodge and interruption strategies especially to interrupt Oilers and Blast Cube (each attack make my heart skip, cries), I tried to target both 2 nearest Zombies within one charge, and I always use shield cancel. I also wanted to point out that ASI, CTR and Damage UV is not mandatory. I skipped Depth 28 since someone have uploaded better challenge and game play. You can type "proto solo" at youtube search bar to look up his video.
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These videos are to summarize this wiki page in hope that you could do similar challenge after learning all of these. I used [[Blitz Needle at Clockworks#Understanding Handgun Behavior|bullet exposion]] feature many times for double kill, used [[Blitz Needle at Clockworks#Versus One Monster|both]] dodge and interruption strategies especially to interrupt [[Lichen#Oiler|Oiler]] and [[Jelly#Ultra Blast Cube|Blast Cube]] (each attack make my heart skip, cries), I tried to [[Blitz Needle at Clockworks#Versus Multiple Monsters|target both]] 2 nearest Zombies within one charge, and I always use [[Blitz Needle at Clockworks#Action List (also works on all types of swords and guns)|shield cancel]]. I also wanted to point out that ASI, CTR and Damage UV is not mandatory. I skipped Depth 28 since someone have uploaded better challenge and game play. You can type "proto solo" at youtube search bar to look up his video.
 
*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kTMKWKl3cTQ Depth 24]
 
*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kTMKWKl3cTQ Depth 24]
 
*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZ72rw5zy48 Depth 25]
 
*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZ72rw5zy48 Depth 25]
 
*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Msvh50pGx3Y Depth 26]
 
*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Msvh50pGx3Y Depth 26]
 
*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vmBEp0LSEvc Depth 27]
 
*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vmBEp0LSEvc Depth 27]

Latest revision as of 19:54, 10 November 2013

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If you disagree, discuss your concerns on the the talk page before editing.

Understanding Handgun Behavior

Rocket Explosion

Recall when you were at Ironclaw Munitions Factory, you defended an incoming rocket. It hit the shield and exploded. The explosion also hurts unaware party member close to you. Handgun behaves similar to rocket. The bullets either hit an object or reach the maximum range, and exploded. Bullet does not deal damage, but the explosion does. Bullets normally does not destroy Grass, or Puppy's Rocket except either in maximum range or near wall (explode earlier). Hence, Handguns or even all weapons in Spiral Knights does Area of Effect (AoE) damage. The AoE is not necessarily big like Polaris. Blitz Needle bullets explosion is like 50 times smaller than Polaris.

Benefit: If you are capable to kill Zombie in one shot Blitz Needle charge, you are also capable to kill two or three Zombies close to each other by aiming right in the middle of crowd (auto target off). The explosion is not always at the exact position where the bullets disappear. The bullets can disappear in one side of Force Fields but explode at the other side. It also bypass Gremlin Mortafire's shield (not sure on other shield monsters).

Disadvantage: Sometimes the bullet explosion location is behind the location bullets disappear that they can't break blocks or deal damage. Hate Knock Back Blitz Needle AoE is too tiny that even a small knock back on targeted monster would cancel few bullets damage, then you need to re-charge again. The monster get away because of some delay between disappearing bullets and the explosion. Bullets hit the target, however the explosion could not reach monsters. In Blitz Needle case, there will be less damage numbers than it supposed to. (e.g. 6 numbers instead of the usual 15 numbers per charge)

Basic Attack vs Charge Attack

Action List (also works on all types of swords and guns)

  1. Basic Attack: Action → Action → Action and so forth
  2. Small Steps In-Between Attack: hold Action → move a little bit → release Action right before it starts Charging
  3. Shield Cancel Attack: Action → hold Defend → Action (give delay between Action to avoid reload)
  4. Switch Attack: Action → hold Defend → Weapon 2 → Weapon 1 → release Defend → Action
  5. Basic Charge: hold Action
  6. Shield Charge: hold Defend → hold Action → delay → release Defend → release Action → hold Defend
  7. "Running" Shield Charge: hold Defend → hold Action → immediately release Defend but still holding Action → move around freely → tap Defend → release Action → Hold Defend

Animation Cancel done by Defend is a common trick used on action video game (ex: Zero's Saber Dash cancel in Megaman). The short Defend animation cancels out the long animation of other moves. Holding Defend could cut these following: basic attacks, charge, taking minerals, finishing typing invisible tablet (open/close recipe/arsenal window), Reviving, standing up from /sit or other /emote (which I recommend you to exploit).

"Running" Shield Charge is the best move since it gives most freedom movements, while basic attacks stop you mostly.
The comparison on what happening on these actions:

Basic Attack (Action → Action): Longer StanceShoot BulletsShoot BulletsReload
"Running" Shield Charge (above): DefendMove AroundInstant DefendLong, Long ChargeShorter StanceLonger Shoot BulletsReload

Red means stop or stationary.
Blue means movement with penalty (50%).
Green means movement without penalty.

Note: In this video, I keep holding move right while doing action list so that you could see clearly when I could move.

Charge Attack Damage equals to 5 times of Basic Attack Damage

The damage list of Blitz Needle against Wolver at Guild Training Hall tier 3: Charge Attack = 229 * 15 = 3435. Basic Attack = 6 * 110 = 660. Damage comparison = 3435 / 660 = 5.2. Duration time needed for one charge with CTR:Med (from heat level 10) is about two full combo (4 basic attack). Damage comparison = 5.2 / 4 = 1.3. CTR:Max! is about one and half combo (3 shot). Damage comparison = 5.2 / 3 = 1.7. The damage gap difference is even higher with Damage Bonus. It's even higher when using Bullet Explosion feature. ASI made both action faster.

Don't hold Charge too long

Simply because of less dps (damage per second). You could release charge as soon as you find a safe position. Ex: you are waiting a good position to kill Trojan. You hold charge more than 10 seconds because it was far away. In the other case, you could release charge and kill one - two Zombies, and recharge again for Trojan within the same 10 seconds duration.

Bullets triggers Dodge

Few types of monsters, Chromalisk, Thwacker, Mender, Demo, Devilite and Wolver, have dodge ability when bullets come near. Both Basic Attacks and Charge initiates dodge however Charge is better. Monsters have slower response on charge (I think it's) because of shorter stance before actually shooting bullets. The charge bullets can also flinch monster and stop their dodge animation.

General Info about Monsters

Monster's Target Priority

  1. The most damage dealer within Monster's sight range. The non-damage type like mist bomb's status effect, and damage absorbed by shield (Trojan etc) also counts. Most of the time Monsters target mist bomber until get high damage from others.
  2. The first damage dealer when two or more players deal the same damage.
  3. The nearest when no damage applied.

Monster "special" abilities

  • Zombie's Lunge, Trojan's Charge and Sword Slam require the target (close to) stationary/stop. It does not need to be long time, but only a split second is enough. Keep moving prevents the monsters to use these attacks.
  • Most Monsters can't keep track the target after they charge. They will attack in the same position the target was even though the target moved. Few monsters exception are Devilites, Mecha Knights/Phantom/Almirian Crusader, Greaver, Snarbolax's Bite, Oiler (Oiler doesn't track but it slides and makes curve-path attack).
  • Mecha Knight/Phantom/Almirian Crusader's Charge Attack could be cancelled by Shock or Stun Status Effect.
  • All Monster attacks have cool down, idle time needed to use another attack. Some attacks has longer cool down than others, Trojan/Vanaduke's Charge (not followed by Sword Slam), Vanaduke's Fire Snake, Greaver's Attack, etc.

Dealing with Monsters

Versus One Monster

The safest way to kill monsters is either:

  1. Trigger Monster attack (to enforce cool down), dodge, and attack back. You don't need to wait monster finishing attack. You could attack immediately when on the safe position.
  2. Trigger Monster attack, and interrupt to cancel their attack. To interrupt, you need to flinch the monster. (explanation later)

Versus Multiple Monsters

The strategy is the same as above but you need to take attention more than one monster. You probably need to trigger attack most of the monsters. Also, you should exploit Bullet Explosion feature. On zombie swarm, mostly you need to care on first 2 nearest Zombies. These 2 could hurt you while the other Zombies would be blocked by these 2 Zombies. The safest way on Monsters group is keeping your position outside the group, only approach with powerful (charge) attack and keep away. You would have hard time when Monsters comes at you on both opposites sides.

Flinch

Monsters could be flinched by final swing (swords) and charge attack, not first swings. Charge attack has slightly stronger effect. Handgun normally doesn't have final swing except Pulsar's expanded bullets and Magnus line. Alchemer has disadvantage since only initial charge bullet counts, not ricochets. But Blitz Needle is the most powerful because all 15 charge bullets counts. Bombs only have the charge attacks. The more members in a party and the deeper the depth, the harder it is to flinch the monster. Shadow Lair monsters is also harder. Based on depth 25+ (vanguard prestige missions and FSC exclude Shadow Lair) and 4 party member, I categorize monsters flinched by:

  • Poke any attacks including resistant, vial/pot throwing.
The category shouldn't exist but some monster abilities could be interrupted by poke such as Scuttlebot's Bullets, Devilite's Throw Projectiles, Greaver's Attack, Oiler/Quicksilver/Toxigel's Tackle, Wolver's Bark, Zombie's Breath and Stunned Snarbolax.
Note that Devilite, Scuttlebot, Greaver and Oiler has only this attack. One good strategy is to keep spamming attack on them.
Monster Types: Chromalisk, Wolver except Alpha, Puppy, Devilite, Trojan, Gremlin, Jelly except Rock, Royal and Tier 3 Jelly at RJP, Lichen except Colony, Kat, Deadnaught.
  • Moderate full combo at medium damage bonus or final swing/charge attack at max! damage bonus, and must be the correct damage type. (ex: elemental against Zombie)
Full combo is either the regular basic attacks or charge attack → first swing → final swing combo. This category is the main reason why newbie having hard times. Ex: A player wearing Vog Cub set with no damage bonus joins in 4 members party. He always finishes combo but still got hurt by Zombies that charge their attack before. Even worse, he use shield bump after finishing combo that throws Zombies while they are attacking. In this case, Zombie acquired the new move, Back-Dashing Swipe instead of plain Swipe that can hurt teammate on the path.
Monster types: Alpha Wolver, Lumber, Mecha Knight, Retrode, Devilite Overtimer, Rock Jelly, Lichen Colony, Phantom, Zombie, Almirian Crusader, Royal Jelly.

Note: monsters would recover from the latest flinch. This means Trojan/Deadnaught can escape from one-shot-kill Blitz Needle charge when other player sword charge at them. On Blitz Needle point of view, these categories only means different amount of charge bullets. I need about 4 - 6 charge bullets to flinch Zombie.

Conclusion: Blitz Needle only, Proto Solo at Firestorm Citadel

These videos are to summarize this wiki page in hope that you could do similar challenge after learning all of these. I used bullet exposion feature many times for double kill, used both dodge and interruption strategies especially to interrupt Oiler and Blast Cube (each attack make my heart skip, cries), I tried to target both 2 nearest Zombies within one charge, and I always use shield cancel. I also wanted to point out that ASI, CTR and Damage UV is not mandatory. I skipped Depth 28 since someone have uploaded better challenge and game play. You can type "proto solo" at youtube search bar to look up his video.

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