How to Conquer an Alien Invasion: A 10-Step Guide – Step 1: Establish a National Powerhouse

Welcome back, Commander! In our previous installment, we laid the groundwork for success in Terra Invicta by assembling a crack team of councilors. Now, it’s time to solidify our position on the global stage. Our next objective: seizing control of a powerful nation to fuel our war against the alien threat.

Evaluating a Nation’s Potential

Before mobilizing our forces, we need to identify a nation ripe for growth. Clicking on any nation on the map reveals its vital statistics in the left-hand pane. Let’s break down this information for optimal decision-making.

Image of Nation Information Pane

• Red Box: Your monthly rewards from controlling this nation.
• Green Box: The factors contributing to your rewards.
• Blue Boxes: How to manipulate these factors for greater gains.

The top blue box displays the nation’s monthly Investment Points (IP). These points are your lifeblood, Commander, used to fuel growth in the fields listed in the bottom blue box. Each point invested contributes to a "tick" in that field, gradually increasing its value (reflected in the green box). Higher IP translates to faster development, making it a critical factor in assessing a nation’s potential.

Consider the starting IP of powerhouses like China (25.8) or the USA (18.7). These nations can leverage their IP for rapid advancement.

Economy: The Engine of Growth

A nation’s GDP determines its IP. Investing in Economy increases GDP per capita, which in turn boosts overall GDP relative to population size. This is where populous nations like China and India truly shine. Their massive populations amplify the impact of each IP invested in Economy, leading to significantly faster growth compared to less populous nations.

While focusing on Economy is crucial, remember that change is gradual. Don’t expect overnight miracles. Consistent investment over time will yield the most dramatic results.

Image comparing India’s GDP in 2022 and 2031

This comparison highlights the long-term benefits of a steady investment in Economy. While it takes time, the payoff is undeniable.

Beyond Economy: While this guide focuses on Economy as a primary driver, remember to explore the impact of other investment fields by hovering over their descriptions in-game.

Key Takeaways: When evaluating a nation, prioritize those with high IP and large populations for maximum growth potential.

The Big Four: Global Powerhouses

Four nations stand out as ideal candidates for establishing your dominance:

1. France/European Union (EU)

Image of the European Union

Advantages:

• Scalability: Begin with France and gradually incorporate other EU nations as your Control Point (CP) cap expands.
• Research Powerhouse: Western European nations boast high starting research values. Controlling the EU grants a significant research advantage.
• Clear Expansion Path: Expand your control throughout the EU, utilizing Public Campaigns to influence and eventually unify target nations.
• Mission Control Efficiency: The EU’s numerous territories allow for extensive Earth-based Mission Control infrastructure.

Disadvantages:

• Unification Cooldown: Unifying nations takes time, leaving them vulnerable to enemy influence.
• Diplomatic Backlash: Annexing EU nations will antagonize other factions, making you a target.
• High Mission Control Investment: Maintaining control over numerous small nations requires significant councilor actions.

2. United States of America (USA)

Image of the United States

Advantages:

• Military Superiority: The USA starts with a formidable military (Miltech 4.5), offering a significant edge in early game conflicts.
• Reduced Councilor Actions: A strong military allows for direct invasion, saving valuable councilor time.
• High Research Output: Benefits from a substantial monthly research income.

Disadvantages:

• High CP Cost: Maintaining control over the USA can strain your early game CP resources.
• Limited Growth Potential: Unifying with other North American nations is a costly and lengthy process.

3. India

Image of India

Advantages:

• Massive Growth Potential: A large population and competitive IP make India a powerhouse in the making.
• High Research Output: Starts with a respectable monthly research income.
• Nuclear Deterrent: Possesses enough nuclear weapons to discourage early aggression from other major nations.
• Unique CP Bonus: India’s third CP grants a significant public opinion bonus, making it incredibly difficult for other factions to usurp control.

Disadvantages:

• Challenging Control Point Acquisition: Requires careful maneuvering and investment to secure control points within India.
• Rivalry with China: Controlling India can hinder your efforts to expand your influence in China.
• Military Weakness: Requires significant investment to bring its military on par with the USA or EU.

4. China

Image of China

Advantages:

• Exceptional Growth: Boasts the highest IP among the Big Four, allowing for rapid development.
• Secure Control: Once you control China, it’s incredibly challenging for other factions to wrestle it away.
• High Research Output: Starts with a strong research base.

Disadvantages:

• Extremely Difficult Initial Control: Securing China early game requires a combination of skill and luck.
• Numerous Rivals: China’s many rivals can hinder future expansion efforts.
• Military Weakness: Like India, China requires significant investment to bolster its military.

Don’t Overlook the Little Guys

While the Big Four offer the most potential, several smaller nations are worth your attention:

• Kazakhstan: Image of Kazakhstan Provides a fantastic early-game boost and is relatively easy to control. Prioritize Boost, Economy, Welfare, and Unity investments.

• Singapore: Image of Singapore Boasts the highest GDP per capita, making it ideal for Spoils. However, its small population limits long-term growth.

• Saudi Arabia: Image of Saudi Arabia Another prime Spoils target, Saudi Arabia also offers mid-game unification potential with the Caliphate, granting extensive claims in the Middle East and Africa.

• Argentina and Chile: Image of Argentina and Chile Solid choices for Spoils, but lack significant unification prospects until later in the game.

Nations to Approach with Caution:

• Russia: Image of Russia While tempting due to its nuclear arsenal, Russia’s weak economy and potential for attracting unwanted attention make it a risky investment.

The Power of Spoils

"Spoils" might sound unethical, but it’s a valuable tool for accelerating your progress. By investing in Spoils in nations like Singapore, you can generate significant income to fuel your other projects. Remember, every faction utilizes this tactic, so don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty!

Mastering Control: Factors and Strategies

The in-game Codex is your best friend, Commander! It provides detailed information on every mission, including Control Nation.

Image of Control Nation Codex Entry

The Codex highlights factors influencing mission success. For example, larger economies are harder to control, while having CP in neighboring nations improves your odds.

Example: Conquering India

Image of Jeevani’s Control Nation Chance in India

Jeevani, our trusty councilor from the previous guide, faces a daunting 5% chance of controlling India directly. However, by strategically securing neighboring nations…

Image of Jeevani’s Improved Control Nation Chance

…and investing Influence Points (INF)…

Image of Jeevani’s Final Control Nation Chance

…we dramatically increase our odds of success.

Tailoring National Priorities

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to managing your nations. While Economy and Knowledge are generally sound long-term investments, adapt your priorities based on your chosen nation and overall strategy.

Image of EU Investment Priorities

Image of Hungary Investment Priorities

Image of Southern Balkan States Investment Priorities

These examples demonstrate how priorities can shift based on a nation’s role within your global strategy.

A Final Word

Remember, Commander, there’s no single "right" way to play Terra Invicta. Experiment, adapt, and most importantly, learn from your experiences. The fate of humanity rests on your shoulders!

How to Conquer an Alien Invasion: A 10-Step Guide

• Step 0 – Set Yourself Up for Success
• Step 1 – Control a Strong Nation
• Step 2 – Get a Group of Dependable Allies
• Step 3 – Research the Right Technologies
• Step 4 – Start a Space Economy
• Step 5 – Defend the Earth by Land
• Step 6 – Don’t Attract Attention
• Step 7 – Attract Attention
• Step 8 – Defend the Earth by Sky
• Step 9 – Take the Fight to the Aliens
• Step 10 – Defeat the Alien Invasion

Navigating the Character Conundrum: A Genshin Impact 3.0 Pulling Guide

The release of a new Genshin Impact patch brings with it the thrill of new characters, but also the familiar dilemma: who should you spend your precious Primogems on? With only one guaranteed five-star character per limited banner cycle, making the right choice for your roster is crucial.

This guide moves beyond subjective preferences and delves into the objective strengths and weaknesses of the featured characters in the 3.0 update. Whether you prioritize raw damage, team synergy, or ease of use, this analysis will equip you to make informed pulling decisions.

Disclaimer: While this guide focuses on objective factors, personal preference remains paramount. If you resonate with a character’s design, personality, or lore, don’t hesitate to prioritize them. After all, the most important aspect of any game is your enjoyment.

Ganyu – The Cryo Archer

Official Artwork

Image of Ganyu

Pros

• Unmatched Personal Damage: Ganyu reigns supreme as one of the highest DPS characters, excelling in both Melt and Freeze compositions.
• Single-Target Dominance: Her prowess against single targets makes her a prime choice for challenging boss encounters.
• Effortless Gameplay: Ganyu boasts a straightforward playstyle centered around her Elemental Burst and charged attacks.
• Ranged Advantage: Her charged attacks offer a wide area of effect, minimizing the need for precise aiming.
• Quadratic Scaling: Ganyu’s Burst damage increases exponentially with the number of enemies grouped together.
• Flexible Team Building: Her moderate Energy Recharge requirements allow her to slot into various team compositions.

Cons

• Melt Team Investment: Optimizing Ganyu’s Melt teams often requires specific four-star characters like Bennett, Xiangling, and potentially Kazuha or Jean, which can be a significant investment for newer players.
• Charged Attack Vulnerability: While her charged attacks are powerful, the two-second charge time can leave her vulnerable without a shielder or Freeze team to immobilize enemies.
• Freeze Team Competition: Ganyu faces competition from Ayaka in Freeze teams, and while they can be used together, Shenhe offers superior single-target damage in this composition.

Rating (Rating System Explained)

• Main DPS: 5/5
  • High AoE: 5/5
  • Low AoE: 5/5
  • Single Target: 4/5
• Sub DPS: 4/5
  • High AoE: 5/5
  • Low AoE: 4/5
  • Single Target: 3/5
• Ease of Use: 4/5
• Future-Proofing: 4/5
• Flexibility: 4/5
• Defensive Support: N/A
• Offensive Support: 2/5

When to Pull?

• You need a powerful and accessible DPS character capable of carrying your teams.
• You have the resources to build either a Melt or Freeze team around her.
• You seek a flexible character who can function as both a main DPS and a sub-DPS depending on the situation.

Zhongli – The Geo Archon

Official Artwork

Image of Zhongli

Pros

• Unbreakable Shielding: Zhongli provides the strongest shields in the game, making your team nearly invincible.
• Enhanced Comfort: His shields trivialize most combat encounters, allowing for a more relaxed and forgiving playstyle.
• Universal Applicability: With a 20% Resistance Shred on his Elemental Burst, Zhongli slots seamlessly into almost any team composition.

Cons

• Limited Offensive Utility: While his shields are invaluable, Zhongli’s offensive contributions are relatively minor.
• Lengthy Burst Animation: His Elemental Burst animation can be a DPS loss in fast-paced combat scenarios.
• Potential Freeze Disruption: His pillars can shatter Frozen enemies, potentially hindering teams reliant on the Freeze reaction.

Rating (Rating System Explained)

• Main DPS: 2/5
  • High AoE: 1/5
  • Low AoE: 2/5
  • Single Target: 3/5
• Sub DPS: 3/5
  • High AoE: 4/5
  • Low AoE: 3/5
  • Single Target: 3/5
• Ease of Use: 5/5
• Future-Proofing: 4/5
• Flexibility: 5/5
• Defensive Support: 5/5
• Offensive Support: 3/5

When to Pull?

• You prioritize a comfortable and low-stress gameplay experience.
• You need a universal buffer who can slot into any team composition.
• You have fragile DPS characters who benefit greatly from his shield.

Sangonomiya Kokomi – The Divine Priestess of Watatsumi Island

Official Artwork

Image of Kokomi

Pros

• Exceptional Off-Field Hydro: Kokomi provides consistent off-field Hydro application, making her ideal for Freeze and Bloom teams.
• Reliable Healing: Her Elemental Skill and Burst offer substantial healing, ensuring your team’s survival.
• Thrilling Tales Synergy: She excels as a Thrilling Tales of Dragon Slayers user, providing significant ATK buffs to your main DPS.

Cons

• Niche Role: Kokomi’s value diminishes if you already have strong Hydro applicators like Mona or run teams that don’t require her healing.
• Limited Offensive Buffs: While she provides healing and Hydro application, she lacks significant offensive buffs compared to other supports.

Rating (Rating System Explained)

• Main DPS: 3/5
  • High AoE: 2/5
  • Low AoE: 3/5
  • Single Target: 4/5
• Sub DPS: 2/5
  • High AoE: 2/5
  • Low AoE: 3/5
  • Single Target: 2/5
• Ease of Use: 5/5
• Future-Proofing: 4/5
• Flexibility: 4/5
• Defensive Support: 5/5
• Offensive Support: 2/5

When to Pull?

• You need a consistent off-field Hydro applicator for Freeze or Bloom teams.
• You lack Mona and require a dedicated Hydro character for these team compositions.

Tighnari – The Verdant Strider

Official Artwork

Image of Tighnari

Pros

• Early Dendro Access: As one of the first Dendro characters, Tighnari offers a glimpse into the potential of the new element.
• Off-Field Electro Enabler: His Dendro application allows for powerful reactions with off-field Electro characters like Fischl and Yae Miko.
• Simple Playstyle: Tighnari’s gameplay loop is straightforward, revolving around his Elemental Burst and charged attacks.

Cons

• Single-Target Focus: His damage primarily targets single enemies, limiting his effectiveness in AoE situations.
• Eventual Standard Banner Addition: Tighnari will join the Standard Banner in a future update, making him obtainable through regular wishes.
• Limited Team Synergy: His best teams often require specific five-star characters, and his lack of off-field Dendro application restricts his team compositions.

Rating (Rating System Explained)

• Main DPS: 4/5
  • High AoE: 2/5
  • Low AoE: 4/5
  • Single Target: 5/5
• Sub DPS: 3/5
  • High AoE: 2/5
  • Low AoE: 3/5
  • Single Target: 4/5
• Ease of Use: 3/5
• Future-Proofing: 3/5
• Flexibility: 3/5
• Defensive Support: 1/5
• Offensive Support: 1/5

When to Pull?

• You’re eager to explore the Dendro element and its potential team compositions.
• You need a strong single-target DPS character and are willing to invest in his specific team requirements.

The Final Decision

Ultimately, the best character to pull depends on your individual account, playstyle, and preferences. Consider your existing roster, desired team compositions, and the content you prioritize.

If you’re still unsure, waiting for future character releases and Dendro reactions to develop further might be a wise decision.

Remember, the most important factor is your enjoyment of the game. Choose the character that resonates with you the most and embark on your Genshin Impact journey!

Credits

This guide was made possible by the contributions of the following individuals:

໓น໓¢໐๓#7817, rayn#8252, Chia#3668, Asterix#6894, rekoshayninja#5982, Xertimos#5054, Poxeli#1038, sun#4297, KangYouwei#6774, TitanPotato#6038

Artwork: All artwork is official artwork produced by Hoyoverse.

Rating: Character ratings are based on their value at Constellation 0.

The Ultimate Guide to Unlocking Your 6th Builder FAST

Introduction

Getting your 6th builder in Clash of Clans is a game-changer, significantly speeding up your progress in both the Home Village and Builder Base. While many guides exist, this guide provides a comprehensive and efficient path to unlocking your 6th builder as quickly as possible.

Why Rushing is Beneficial in the Builder Base

Let’s address a common misconception: rushing in the Builder Base is NOT a bad thing. In fact, it offers several advantages:

1. Increased Loot: Rushing grants access to more Army Camps, leading to a stronger offense and more loot from raids.
2. Faster Task Completion: Many tasks require reaching Builder Hall 9. Rushing to this level allows you to complete these tasks faster and unlock powerful upgrades sooner.

Unlocking the 6th Builder: The Quests

To unlock the 6th builder, Otto, you need to complete the following tasks:

1. Build the OTTO Hut: Requires Builder Hall 9.
2. Gear Up 3 Buildings: Requires specific upgrades in both the Home Village and Builder Base.
3. Upgrade Mega Tesla to Level 9: Requires Builder Hall 8.
4. Upgrade Cannon Carts to Level 18: Requires Builder Hall 9.
5. Upgrade Battle Machine to Level 30: Requires Builder Hall 9.

Unlocking the 6th Builder: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

1. OTTO Hut: Upgrade your Builder Hall to level 9 to unlock the OTTO Hut, costing 100,000 gold.

2. Gearing Up:

   • Builder Base: Upgrade Double Cannon to level 4, Archer Tower to level 6, and Multi-Mortar to level 8.
   • Home Village: Upgrade Cannon to level 7, Archer Tower to level 10, and Mortar to level 8.

3. Mega Tesla: Upgrade the Mega Tesla, unlocked at Builder Hall 8, to its max level (9).

4. Cannon Carts: Upgrade the Cannon Carts, unlocked at Builder Hall 5, to their max level (18) at Builder Hall 9.

5. Battle Machine: This is the most demanding task. Upgrade the Battle Machine, unlocked at Builder Hall 5, to level 30.

Essential Tips for New Builder Base Players (BH 1-5)

1. Prioritize Battle Machine Level 5: At Builder Hall 5, upgrade your Battle Machine to level 5 to unlock its ability. Don’t invest further until Builder Hall 9. Instead, focus on:

   • Cannon Carts
   • Boxer Giants
   • Star Laboratory
   • Gold Storages
   • Gold Mines
   • Gem Mine

2. Early Game Troop Focus: As a new player, prioritize upgrading your Star Laboratory, Raged Barbarians, and Boxer Giants before reaching Builder Hall 5. Don’t waste resources on other troops.

3. Efficient Boxer Giant Upgrades: Upgrade Boxer Giants to level 12 initially to conserve Builder Elixir. You can upgrade them to level 16 later.

4. Barracks Management: Stop upgrading Barracks once you unlock Cannon Carts.

Builder Hall Upgrade Priority Guide (BH 2-8)

1. Storages First: Maximize your Gold and Elixir storage capacity upon reaching a new Builder Hall level.

2. New Buildings: Prioritize new buildings, starting with Traps, followed by Army Camps and Defenses.

3. Star Laboratory and Troops: Upgrade your Star Laboratory to unlock higher-level Cannon Carts. Then, focus on upgrading your Cannon Carts and Boxer Giants.

4. Gem Mine and Clock Tower: These upgrades provide indirect benefits. The Clock Tower boosts upgrade times and loot, while the Gem Mine generates more Gems.

5. Collectors: Upgrade Collectors to increase your passive resource income.

6. Defenses: Upgrade Cannons, Archer Towers, and Multi-Mortars if you’re still upgrading Elixir Troops.

7. Builder Hall: Don’t delay upgrading your Builder Hall to unlock new content and upgrades.

Builder Hall 9: The Final Push

At Builder Hall 9, your priority shifts to obtaining the 6th builder.

1. New Buildings and Traps: Build any remaining Traps and new buildings.

2. Storage Upgrades: Maximize your resource storage capacity.

3. Sixth Builder Focus: Concentrate solely on upgrading the Battle Machine, Mega Tesla, and the buildings required for the Gear Up task.

Tips for Efficient Grinding

1. Strategic Resource Management: If you’re short on Builder Elixir, upgrade the Mega Tesla or Gear Up buildings to deplete excess Gold while accumulating Elixir.

2. Raid Medals: Utilize Raid Medals earned from the Clan Capital to purchase Builder Elixir from the Trader.

3. Strategic Book Use: Save a Book of Building to instantly complete the Mortar Gear Up in your Home Village, as it requires two weeks.

4. Maximize Battle Machine Uptime: Keep your Battle Machine down constantly to maximize its use for resource collection and Builder Elixir generation.

Utilizing Raid Medals

The Clan Capital update introduced Raid Medals, a valuable resource for speeding up your 6th builder grind.

1. Resource Purchases: Buy Builder Gold or Elixir from the Trader to keep your Battle Machine down and upgrades progressing.

2. Clock Tower Boosts: Consider purchasing Clock Tower Potions for a temporary upgrade time reduction. However, evaluate if it’s the most cost-effective option.

Gem Spending: Proceed with Caution

While not recommended, if you’re a gem spender, prioritize the following:

1. Builder Elixir Rune: 1500 Gems
2. Builder Gold Rune: 1500 Gems
3. Clock Tower Potion: 75 Gems
4. Hero Book: 500 Gems

Note: Spending gems on resources is generally not the most efficient use. Consider checking out this excellent hero upgrade guide: How to Upgrade Heroes Quicker and Be in Wars

Recommended Builder Base Army Compositions

Early Builder Halls (BH 1-4):

• 4 Camps of Raged Barbarians: Focus on overwhelming defenses quickly to secure loot and victory.

Builder Hall 5 and Beyond:

• BH 5-6: 2 Camps of Boxer Giants and 2 Camps of Cannon Carts
• BH 7: 2 Camps of Boxer Giants and 3 Camps of Cannon Carts
• BH 8-9 (Battle Machine Available): 2 Camps of Boxer Giants and 4 Camps of Cannon Carts
• BH 8-9 (Battle Machine Unavailable): 3 Camps of Boxer Giants and 3 Camps of Cannon Carts

Gemming the 6th Builder: A Cost Analysis

While not practical for most players, if you’re curious about the cost of gemming the 6th builder, Judo Sloth’s video provides a detailed breakdown: Gemming the 6th Builder

Conclusion

Unlocking your 6th builder is a significant milestone in Clash of Clans. By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to achieving this goal efficiently. Remember to prioritize key upgrades, manage your resources wisely, and utilize the new features like Raid Medals to your advantage. Happy clashing!

Layla: A Comprehensive Guide to Cryo Support

Welcome to this in-depth guide on Layla, Genshin Impact’s aspiring scholar and formidable Cryo support. We’ll delve into her abilities, optimal builds, and team compositions to help you master her playstyle.

✦ Quick Infographic ✦

✦ Introduction ✦

Layla is a 4-star Cryo Sword user whose strength lies in her ability to provide consistent off-field Cryo application and a powerful shield. Her kit revolves heavily around maximizing her Max HP, making her a F2P-friendly option. While a damage-focused build is possible, this guide will focus on her optimal role as a Cryo support.

"Huh, glad I saw this. I almost didn’t even notice it."

✦ Talents Overview ✦

✦ Elemental Skill: Nights of Formal Focus ✦

Layla’s Elemental Skill deals AoE Cryo DMG and creates a Cryo Shield known as Curtain of Slumber. This skill is the crux of her off-field Cryo application.

• Cooldown: 12s

Curtain of Slumber (Shield)

• Duration: 12s (100% uptime)
• Absorption: Based on Layla’s Max HP
• Cryo DMG Absorption: 250% effectiveness
• Cryo Application: Briefly applies Cryo to Layla on cast

Night Stars (Off-Field Cryo Application)

• Generation: Every 1.5s, a Night Star is created while the shield is active. Using an Elemental Skill while protected by the shield generates 2 Night Stars (0.3s cooldown).
• Damage: Upon accumulating 4 Night Stars, they will fire at nearby enemies, dealing Cryo DMG.
• Energy Generation: Hitting enemies with Night Stars generates 1 Energy Particle (33% chance for 2) on a 3s cooldown, even when Layla is off-field.

Important Notes:

• Maximum of 4 Night Stars can be active.
• New Night Stars won’t generate until all previous ones have fired.
• Shield breaking or ending prematurely will remove any unfired Night Stars.
• Night Stars have a small AoE on hit.

✦ Elemental Burst: Dream of the Star-Stream Shaker ✦

Layla’s Elemental Burst summons a celestial field that continuously fires projectiles at enemies, dealing Cryo DMG. Each hit also generates Night Stars on a 0.5s cooldown.

• Energy Cost: 40
• Cooldown: 12s
• Duration: 12s

✦ Normal Attack: Sword of the Radiant Path ✦

This encompasses Layla’s Normal, Charged, and Plunging Attacks. While functional, they are not a priority due to her kit’s focus on HP scaling for shield strength and off-field Cryo application.

Normal Attack (NA)

• Performs up to 3 consecutive Physical DMG strikes.

Charged Attack (CA)

• Consumes 20 Stamina to unleash a two-hit Physical DMG attack.

Plunging Attack

• Standard plunging attack dealing AoE Physical DMG.

✦ Passive Talents ✦

✦ Ascension 1: Like Nascent Light ✦

Each time Layla’s shield gains a Night Star, the shielded character’s Shield Strength increases by 6%, stacking up to 4 times. This effect persists until the shield ends, further bolstering Layla’s defensive capabilities.

✦ Ascension 4: Sweet Slumber Undisturbed ✦

This passive increases the DMG dealt by Night Stars generated from Layla’s Elemental Burst by 1.5% of her Max HP. While this enhances their damage, focusing on Crit and DMG% will yield greater returns.

✦ Utility Passive ✦

Layla has a 10% chance to double the product when crafting Character Talent Materials, a valuable asset for long-term character development.

✦ Talent Priority and Playstyle ✦

Prioritize leveling Layla’s Elemental Skill to enhance both her shield’s durability and the damage of her Night Stars. Her Elemental Burst should also be leveled for its consistent Cryo DMG and 100% uptime. Her Normal Attack talent can be left at level 1.

Layla’s playstyle revolves around deploying her shield and Burst off-field, allowing your DPS characters to benefit from consistent Cryo application and a strong shield.

✦ Artifacts and Stats ✦

Artifact Sets

• 4-Piece Tenacity of the Millelith: This is Layla’s best-in-slot set. It provides a 20% HP bonus and increases the ATK of all party members by 20% and their Shield Strength by 30% for 3 seconds after Layla’s Elemental Skill hits an opponent. This set synergizes perfectly with her kit, offering both offensive and defensive benefits.

• 4-Piece Noblesse Oblige: A strong alternative if you haven’t farmed Tenacity. This set grants a 20% Burst DMG bonus and increases all party members’ ATK by 20% for 12 seconds upon casting Layla’s Elemental Burst.

• 4-Piece Instructor: A viable option for teams that benefit from Elemental Mastery. Upon triggering a reaction, this set grants a 120 EM buff to the entire party for 8 seconds. However, its lower HP stats compared to 5-star artifacts may result in a weaker shield.

• 2-Piece Flex (Tenacity/Emblem/Noblesse): Use a combination of 2-piece sets to optimize specific stats if needed.

• Damage Sets (Blizzard Strayer/Emblem of Severed Fate): While viable for a damage-focused build, Layla’s strengths lie in her support capabilities.

Main/Sub Stats

• Ascension Stat: HP (24%)

• Sands: HP% / ER% (depending on ER needs)

• Goblet: HP% / Cryo DMG Bonus

• Circlet: HP% / Crit Rate (if using Favonius Sword)

Prioritize Energy Recharge until you achieve comfortable Burst uptime, followed by HP%, Crit Rate (if using Favonius Sword), and Crit DMG.

✦ Weapons ✦

• Favonius Sword: The ideal F2P-friendly option. Its high Energy Recharge sub-stat helps fuel Layla’s Burst, while its passive generates additional energy particles. Aim for a decent amount of Crit Rate to activate its effect consistently.

• Freedom-Sworn: While Layla doesn’t benefit directly from its stats, the party-wide ATK buff provided by this sword is incredibly potent. Consider this option if your team composition doesn’t require Layla to build ER and her shield remains consistent.

• Key of Khaj-Nisut: The best 5-star option for maximizing Layla’s shield strength due to its HP% sub-stat. However, its EM-sharing effect is less valuable on her.

• Primordial Jade Cutter: Another 5-star option that provides HP and a significant Crit Rate boost. While the Crit Rate is more beneficial for other characters, this sword can be used for a more offensive Layla build.

• Sacrificial Sword: A decent option for ensuring shield uptime, as its passive can reset the cooldown of Layla’s Elemental Skill. However, the effect only triggers on shield cast or when Layla is on-field.

Other Notable Weapons: Xiphos’ Moonlight, Festering Desire, Skyrider Sword, Skyward Blade, and Harbinger of Dawn (F2P option for damage builds).

✦ Teams ✦

Layla’s team compositions often overlap with Diona’s due to their similar roles. However, Layla lacks healing but offers different buffing and energy generation mechanics.

Freeze Teams

Layla excels in Freeze teams, providing consistent Cryo application for perma-freezing enemies. While she lacks Diona’s healing, Freeze teams often don’t require it with proper execution.

Mono Cryo Teams

Layla synergizes well with Shenhe in Mono Cryo teams, providing a shield and further amplifying Cryo DMG.

Fridge Teams

Layla’s Cryo application can be used in "Fridge" teams, where Cryo and Dendro auras coexist on enemies to generate Blooms for Burgeon or Hyperbloom reactions.

Physical Damage Teams

Layla’s shield and Superconduct application make her a valuable asset for Physical DPS characters like Eula and Razor.

Any Team

Layla’s versatility allows her to slot into various team compositions, especially for newer players who need a reliable shielder and off-field Cryo applicator.

✦ Constellations ✦

Layla is a capable support at C0. Consider pulling for constellations if you are particularly fond of her or if she’s featured on a banner with a desired 5-star character.

• C1: Increases shield absorption by 20% and grants nearby party members without a shield a weaker version of Curtain of Slumber upon casting Layla’s Elemental Skill.

• C2: Restores 1 Energy to Layla each time a Shooting Star from Nights of Formal Focus hits an enemy.

• C3: Increases the Level of Nights of Formal Focus by 3.

• C4: Grants nearby party members the Dawn Star effect when Nights of Formal Focus begins firing Shooting Stars, increasing their Normal and Charged Attack DMG based on Layla’s Max HP.

• C5: Increases the Level of Dream of the Star-Stream Shaker by 3.

• C6: Increases the DMG of Shooting Stars and Starlight Slugs by 40% and decreases the interval between Night Star creation by 20%.

A Newbie’s Bestiary: A Comprehensive Guide to Threats in Dwarf Fortress

Welcome to Dwarf Fortress, where the world is your oyster – an oyster filled with a delightful assortment of creatures eager to crack your fortress wide open! This guide will introduce you to the many dangers awaiting your dwarves, from the mundane to the mythical.

Natural Threats

Ordinary Wildlife

While most wild animals won’t go out of their way to attack your fortress, they can be a nuisance. Predators might stalk your dwarves in the wilderness, and some critters may develop a taste for your hard-earned supplies. The general rule of thumb is: if you don’t bother them, they’ll mostly ignore you.

However, the "agitated" wildlife status (new to the Steam version) can turn even docile animals into threats. The cause of this agitation remains a mystery, so be prepared for anything!

Savage and Evil Biomes

Don’t let the inviting names fool you – biomes like "Joyous Wilds" or "Savage Wilds" are anything but. These, along with "Terrifying", "Sinister", and "Haunted" biomes, are home to creatures far more dangerous than your average wild animal.

Savage biomes feature both animal people and giant versions of common creatures. While giant desert scorpions are a thing of the past, giant predators remain a significant threat. On the bright side, some of these behemoths can be captured, tamed, and trained for your military!

Evil biomes harbor a menagerie of unique threats. Ogres, as dangerous as semi-megabeasts, often roam in packs. Harpies combine aggression with aerial superiority, while grimelings drag unsuspecting dwarves to watery graves. And if that wasn’t enough, even more terrifying creatures lurk within these cursed lands.

Undead Wildlife

Evil biomes are also home to the undead – creatures that are inherently aggressive and much harder to kill. While they won’t launch organized attacks, they pose a constant threat to anything venturing outside your fortress walls.

Remember: undead don’t need internal organs! Severed limbs can reanimate as long as they can grasp. Stick to blunt weapons when dealing with these foes, and avoid butchering or hunting in these areas.

Evil Weather

As if the local fauna wasn’t bad enough, evil biomes are often plagued by supernatural weather. Evil rain can range from annoying (human blood, anyone?) to deadly (think contact poison that induces necrosis).

But the real danger lies in the fog. Any creature caught within these ethereal mists risks contracting a disease that instantly transforms them into a thrall – a superpowered undead abomination. To make matters worse, thralls can spread the fog’s effects. Since the fog can’t penetrate walls or doors, staying indoors is your safest bet.

Civilized Creatures

Kobolds

Don’t let their civilized status fool you – kobolds are pesky creatures that dwell in caves and love stealing shiny things. While weak, primitive, and generally disorganized, they are masters of stealth and can infiltrate your fortress with ease. They can disarm traps, pick locks, and will make off with your valuables given the chance.

Guard dogs can help detect these would-be thieves. Once discovered, kobolds usually flee, posing little threat to an armed dwarf. However, if they manage to steal enough loot, they may grow bolder and launch small raiding parties called "ambushes". While not overly dangerous, these ambushes require a small militia to repel.

Goblins

Goblins are the bane of dwarven existence. Ruled by despotic demons, these barbaric creatures are driven by an insatiable hatred for all things dwarven. While individual goblins might be amicable, their civilizations are not. Expect them to become your primary military adversary.

The goblin threat manifests in two ways:

• Baby-snatchers: These solitary infiltrators operate like kobold thieves but with a more sinister goal – kidnapping dwarven children. They can be countered with the same methods used against thieves.
• Sieges: Goblin armies will attempt to overrun your fortress with the intent of wiping out your entire population. These sieges consist of:
  • Goblin infantry: Armed with iron weapons and armor, they are a match for equally equipped dwarves. However, your dwarves’ ability to enter martial trances gives them an edge in large-scale combat. Be wary of other races joining their ranks, often the descendants of enslaved children.
  • Goblin cavalry: Riding a variety of creatures like beak dogs, cave crocodiles, and giant bats, they can bypass moats and even walls.
  • War monsters: Trolls, ogres, and cave dragons, while less organized than their goblin counterparts, can wreak havoc on your fortress, smashing through even locked doors.
  • Demonic rulers: If still alive, the goblins’ demonic overlord might join the fray. These beings are comparable to titans, which we’ll cover later.

Remember: goblins are cowardly creatures. Routing their main force will send the survivors fleeing.

Elves

These pointy-eared, tree-hugging cannibals might not be inherently hostile like goblins or kobolds, but they can be a real pain. Elves revere nature and despise those who exploit it. Trading or gifting them products derived from plants or animals (except those created through their own nature magic) will anger them and could spark a war. They might also try to impose treaties limiting your logging activities. Violating such a treaty inevitably leads to conflict.

Elven aggression takes two forms:

• Ambushes: Large parties, often accompanied by war animals, will attempt to take you by surprise.
• Sieges: Elves will openly assault your fortress in large numbers.

Traditionally considered a minor threat due to their reliance on weak wooden weapons, elves have reportedly received a combat boost in the Steam release.

Humans

Humans generally make for good neighbors and trading partners. They are incredibly difficult to offend in trade (short of murdering their merchants, you’re probably good) and relatively easy to get along with. However, they might still declare war on you during world generation.

In warfare, humans are slightly larger than dwarves and wield iron weapons and armor. They don’t bother with subterfuge – when humans go to war, they send a large army to besiege your fortress. Expect both infantry and cavalry to come knocking at your gate. They will encamp outside your fortress for a time before launching their assault.

Dwarves

Unless you actively seek it out, facing your kin in battle is highly unlikely. However, starting a war with another dwarven kingdom is possible. Like humans, dwarves prefer sieges to ambushes. Unlike humans, they wield steel weapons and armor, enter martial trances when outnumbered, and might bring cave creatures as mounts and war animals. Be prepared to face an enemy that utilizes your own tactics.

Even worse is the possibility of conflict with your own kingdom. This triggers a "loyalty cascade" – a devastating event that plunges your fortress into civil war, followed by a chaotic free-for-all. There’s no reliable way to salvage your fortress once this begins. Avoid attacking your own kingdom at all costs.

Bandits

Occasionally, bandit gangs composed of goblins, humans, or kobolds might attempt to besiege your fortress. However, these sieges are significantly weaker than those launched by organized civilizations. Bandit forces are smaller, typically lack cavalry or war animals, and are poorly equipped.

Night Creatures

Ghosts

A dwarf denied a proper burial might return to haunt your fortress as a ghost. The type of ghost depends on the dwarf’s personality in life and the circumstances of their death. They can range from harmless phantoms to vengeful, murderous spirits.

To deal with a ghost, lay the deceased to rest by either burying them in a tomb or, if the body is irretrievable, constructing and engraving a memorial slab. Ensure these graves are well-protected – desecration or destruction will bring back the ghost in its most aggressive form.

Werebeasts

These cursed individuals transform into monstrous beasts once a month. They are rarely found in civilization, often choosing to live as hermits in the wilderness.

Werebeasts will stealthily approach your fortress. Amusingly, they still undergo their transformations even when already inside, leading to descriptions of naked humans in the same tone used for megabeasts. In their civilized form, they pose no greater threat than any other human, dwarf, or elf, and will flee from combat. However, their beast form is far more dangerous, requiring a dedicated militia to defeat.

The greatest threat from werebeasts lies in their curse’s contagious nature. Any dwarf bitten by a werebeast has a chance of becoming one themselves. Quarantine any survivors of a werebeast attack for a month to identify and contain the infection.

Vampires

Cursed with immortality and an unquenchable thirst for blood, vampires can pass for living members of their race. They might infiltrate your fortress disguised as dwarven immigrants, lying about their age to conceal their true nature. Look for inconsistencies in their skills or accomplishments – a young dwarf with expertise beyond their years might be a vampire in disguise.

Vampires don’t require food, drink, or sleep. While they don’t NEED to drink blood, they will indulge their cravings. They feed on sleeping dwarves, draining them of blood and killing them. The game won’t explicitly identify vampires, so you must rely on observation and deduction. Be wary of framing attempts – vampires are cunning and manipulative.

Despite their dangers, vampires can be surprisingly useful. Their lack of basic needs makes them ideal for menial tasks like bookkeeping or lever pulling. As living creatures, they are also immune to attacks from mindless undead.

A word of caution: ingesting vampire blood turns a dwarf into a vampire. Use this knowledge responsibly (or for chaotic fun, your choice).

Necromancers

These immortal wizards command armies of the dead from their secluded towers. Angering a necromancer or settling too close to their domain will provoke their wrath. Expect both ambushes and sieges.

A necromancer’s army consists of:

• Mindless undead: While generally unarmed and unarmored, they are incredibly resilient.
• Intelligent undead: Retaining the skills and equipment they possessed in life, these undead pose a significant threat.
• Necromancers: Capable of reanimating the dead with ease, as long as the corpse can move. Even a severed hand can become a weapon in their hands.

Using blunt weapons against undead armies is highly recommended.

Megabeasts

Semi-Megabeasts

Large and powerful creatures like minotaurs, giants, cyclopes, and ettins, semi-megabeasts are drawn to sufficiently large and prosperous fortresses. They pose a serious threat to civilians and can destroy doors, but a well-prepared military should be able to handle them.

Hydras

These massive, seven-headed serpents are the smallest of the true megabeasts. Each head can attack independently, and the hydra can survive as long as a single head remains. Their multiple heads also provide defense, blocking attacks aimed at the body. While they can’t regrow lost heads, hydras possess a potent healing factor.

When facing a hydra, you have two options:

• Use piercing weapons and aim for vital organs like the lungs or heart.
• Attempt to sever the heads with slashing weapons.

Dragons

These fire-breathing behemoths are the stuff of legends. While their physical prowess is formidable, their true terror lies in their fiery breath – one of the deadliest attacks in the game. Dragonfire burns four times hotter than the sun’s surface, incinerating or melting almost anything in its path.

Dwarves caught in a dragonfire blast are almost certainly doomed. However, shields offer some protection. Dragons themselves are immune to all fire damage.

Dragonfire ignites plants and trees, potentially starting massive wildfires that endanger dwarves far from the initial conflict. Engaging a dragon in a barren or underground environment is advisable. Ranged weapons and shields are your best bet.

Rocs

These colossal birds of prey are a force to be reckoned with. While lacking special attacks, their ability to fly allows them to bypass ground-based defenses. Never assume that unroofed walls will protect your fortress from these airborne threats!

Bronze Colossi

These towering humanoids are made of solid bronze, making them walking tanks. Most weapons will only scratch their metallic hide. To stand a chance, equip your military with steel weapons or utilize environmental hazards like magma to melt them down.

Titans

These gigantic nature spirits are a law unto themselves. Each titan is unique, its abilities dictated by the environment it spawned from. This makes creating a comprehensive guide to titans nearly impossible. However, some traits deserve special attention:

• Rock or metal bodies: These natural defenses make titans incredibly difficult to kill. You’ll need high-quality metal weapons, preferably steel, to stand a chance. If the titan itself is made of steel, consider indirect methods of combat. Note that iron and steel titans are immune to magma.
• Toxic blood, vapor, or gas: These can be deadly depending on the toxin’s potency. Effects range from mild dizziness to rapid flesh decay.
• Web attacks: Titans can shoot webs to ensnare and immobilize your dwarves, leaving them vulnerable to follow-up attacks. Keep your distance and utilize ranged weapons.
• Dust attacks: These blasts of dust particles can knock dwarves down and potentially inflict them with toxins. While titans made of organic or fragile materials might harm themselves with their own dust attacks, it’s best to avoid direct confrontation with these behemoths.

The Underground

General Underground Wildlife

As a rule of thumb, underground creatures are more dangerous and aggressive than their surface counterparts. While many are relatively harmless or pose no unique threat, caution is always advised. Notable threats include blind cave trolls, cave crocodiles, and cave dragons.

Animal People Tribes

These subterranean societies, while considered civilized, don’t adhere to the same rules as other civilizations. Most tribes, even hostile ones, will keep to themselves rather than launch organized attacks. However, their primitive weapons are often coated in deadly poisons.

Magma Dwellers

These creatures are immune to fire and magma, often wielding fire-based attacks. While relatively fragile, they can be a significant threat if they reach your fortress. Keep them away from flammable materials, especially your booze stockpile.

Giant Cave Spiders

These monstrous arachnids are among the deadliest "ordinary" creatures you’ll encounter. They possess a potent fast-acting paralytic venom and can trap victims in their webs. Engaging them from a distance, outside their web range, is crucial. Large war animals like elephants or giant surface predators are less susceptible to the venom due to their size. Always equip your dwarves with helmets, as giant cave spiders tend to aim for the head.

Hidden Fun Stuff

Some things are best left undisturbed in the earth’s depths. If you’re unlucky enough to encounter them, refer to the titan section above, as they share similar characteristics. Good luck, you’ll need it.

Romancing SaGa -Minstrel Song-: Before You Play Tips (Spoiler-Free)

Romancing SaGa -Minstrel Song- Remastered is finally here! To celebrate its release and help newcomers navigate the unique world of the SaGa series, we’ve compiled some spoiler-free tips. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a fresh-faced wanderer, these pointers will ensure you get the most out of your journey.

What is Romancing SaGa -Minstrel Song-?

For a deep dive into the SaGa series, check out this comprehensive guide:

• Where to Start with the SaGa Series Guide

Here’s a glimpse of what awaits you in -Minstrel Song-:

• No Traditional Leveling: Characters grow organically, with stats increasing after each battle based on their actions.
• Open-World Freedom: Explore a vast world with minimal hand-holding, uncovering its secrets at your own pace.
• A Dynamic, Living World: Time progresses, events unfold, and the world changes around you, regardless of your involvement.
• Eight Unique Paths: Choose from eight protagonists, each with their own story, motivations, and events to experience.
• Choices That Shape Your Journey: Every decision carries weight and consequences, shaping the narrative and world around you.
• Gameplay-Focused Experience: While rich in lore, -Minstrel Song- prioritizes engaging gameplay, allowing you to delve as deep into the story as you desire.
• Challenging Encounters: Prepare for demanding battles that require strategy and mastery of the game’s mechanics. Embrace death as a learning experience, and utilize the save-anywhere system to your advantage.

Intrigued? Meet the captivating cast of characters in the new trailer:

Character Introduction Trailer (Contains Spoilers)

What’s New in the Remaster?

Beyond the stunning HD visuals and refined UI, the remaster introduces a wealth of new content and quality-of-life improvements:

• Five New Playable Characters: Aldora, Schiele, Marina, Monica, and Flammar join the adventure, each offering a fresh perspective on the world.
• New Voice Acting: Experience the expanded roster with brand-new voice recordings, breathing new life into their stories.
• Enhanced Bosses: Test your mettle against powered-up versions of familiar foes, each boasting unique mechanics and accompanied by newly arranged battle themes. Thirteen enhanced bosses await, including a secret, even more challenging final boss encounter!
• Five New Classes: Further customize your party’s composition and strategies with the addition of five new classes, each offering distinct abilities and playstyles.
• Turbo Speed: Traverse the world and engage in battles at your own pace with adjustable speed settings, up to 2x and 3x speed.
• Fast Travel: Navigate bustling cities with ease using the new fast travel option, allowing quick access to shops and key locations.
• Adjustable Event Rank Speed: Fine-tune the flow of time and events with the Event Rank speed selector. Choose from Super Slow to Super Fast, unlocking additional options as you progress through the game.
• New Event for Aldora: Uncover a brand-new event and questline exclusive to the enigmatic Aldora, adding further depth to her character.
• Auto-Saving: Enjoy peace of mind with the addition of auto-saving, ensuring your progress is preserved.
• Colorblind Mode: Experience the game’s vibrant world with enhanced accessibility through the new colorblind mode.
• New Game+: Embark on new journeys with your favorite characters and carry over your progress from previous playthroughs. Customize your New Game+ experience by selecting specific data to transfer, such as Event Rank, monster ranks, skill levels, cleared quests, BP, Jewels, and more.
• In-Game Library: Immerse yourself in the world of -Minstrel Song- with the new library feature. Explore a gallery of beautiful illustrations and relive the adventure’s soundtrack with the music player.
• New Legendary Weapons: Discover and wield at least three new legendary weapons, each possessing unique powers and stories.
• Disable Unused Arts: Streamline your battle commands by disabling unwanted arts, preventing clutter and allowing for quicker decision-making.
• In-Game Clock: Keep track of the ever-changing world with the addition of a clock to the party menu, providing a constant reminder of the Event Rank’s progression.
• Smoke Bag: Escape from unwanted encounters with the new Smoke Bag item. This handy tool allows for a quick getaway from battle, providing strategic options for navigating dangerous areas.

Gameplay Mechanics: A Primer

-Minstrel Song- boasts a depth of mechanics that rivals, and even surpasses, other entries in the SaGa series. While mastering every nuance isn’t necessary to enjoy the game, understanding the basics will significantly enhance your experience.

Stats: Your Character’s Foundation

Don’t be intimidated by the numerous stats in -Minstrel Song-. The game provides in-depth explanations for each one through helpful tooltips accessible within the menus. While most stats function as their names suggest, some possess secondary effects that can be explored by those seeking to min-max their party.

Here are three crucial stats that operate differently than in traditional JRPGs:

• HP (Hit Points): Represents your character’s current health. Falling to 0 HP results in incapacitation, but any healing spell or item can revive them. There are no dedicated "revive" items or spells.
• LP (Life Points): A unique mechanic in the SaGa series, LP determines how many times a character can be revived in battle. Each time a character’s HP reaches 0, they lose 1 LP. LP can be restored at inns. Be mindful that certain actions, such as using powerful techniques beyond your character’s skill level, can also deplete LP. Losing all LP has different consequences for generic and unique characters. Generic characters are gone forever, while unique characters will eventually return to their recruitment location.
• BP (Battle Points): Fuel your character’s actions in battle. Each character has a maximum BP and a starting BP value. BP regenerates each turn, allowing you to unleash powerful techniques when the time is right.

Stat Growth: Evolving Through Combat

Forget traditional leveling systems. In -Minstrel Song-, character stats increase organically based on their actions in battle. The stronger the enemy, the higher the chance of stat growth. Experiment with different weapons, magic schools, and skills to shape your party’s development.

Jewels and Gold: Treasures of the Realm

Jewels and Gold are the two primary currencies in -Minstrel Song-, each serving a distinct purpose:

• Gold: Acquired through battles and quests, Gold is used to purchase equipment, items, and other necessities from shops.
• Jewels: A more valuable currency, Jewels are primarily used to acquire new skills and upgrade classes from mentors.

Managing your resources wisely is crucial. Don’t squander your hard-earned Jewels on the first appealing skill you come across. Explore different towns and compare prices before making any significant purchases.

Event Rank and Battle Rank: The World’s Rhythms

The world of -Minstrel Song- is in constant motion, governed by two interconnected systems: Event Rank and Battle Rank.

• Event Rank (ER): Think of it as the world’s clock. As ER increases, new events are triggered, while others may become inaccessible. This dynamic system influences character recruitment, quest availability, and the overall flow of the narrative.
• Battle Rank (BR): Dictates the type and strength of enemies you encounter. As you win battles, your BR increases, introducing new challenges and more formidable foes.

The remaster introduces the Event Rank Speed Selector, granting players greater control over the flow of time. Choose a pace that suits your playstyle, whether you prefer to savor every moment or speed through the ranks.

Weapon Techs and Magic Spells: Mastering the Art of Combat

Weapon Techs:

-Minstrel Song- features a unique approach to learning weapon skills. By simply using a specific weapon type, your characters will gradually learn new techniques, or "Techs." These techniques vary in range, speed, and effect, adding a layer of strategic depth to combat.

Magic Spells:

Magic plays a crucial role in -Minstrel Song-, offering a diverse range of offensive, defensive, and support abilities. Here’s a quick rundown of the magic system:

• Spells are learned by purchasing them from shops or temples.
• Temples offer a wider selection of spells but at a higher cost. Purchasing from temples also increases your favor with the corresponding god, unlocking unique benefits.
• There are ten distinct schools of magic. Characters can only learn spells from one school at a time. Learning spells from an opposing school will cause them to forget any spells from their previous school.
• Certain mage classes can synthesize new spells, combining existing ones to create even more potent abilities.

Turn Order: Seizing the Initiative

Understanding turn order is crucial for success in -Minstrel Song-‘s challenging battles. Several factors influence when your characters act:

• Formation: Character positioning (Front, Middle, Back) affects their action speed based on their equipped weapon type.
• AGI (Agility): Higher AGI allows characters to act faster.
• Tech Speed Rating: Some techniques have inherent speed modifiers (Quick, Slow).
• Combat Mode: Characters can be assigned different combat modes (Attack, Defense, Trick), each influencing their turn order and actions.

Mastering these elements will give you a significant edge in combat, allowing you to anticipate enemy actions and unleash devastating combos.

General Tips: Navigating the World

• Save Often: Seriously, save your game frequently and utilize multiple save slots. You never know what challenges await in the world of -Minstrel Song-.
• Consult the Town Maps: Always ask the Volunteer Brigade children in each town for a map. These invaluable tools reveal points of interest, shops, and other important locations.
• Recruit Every Main Character: Even if you don’t plan on using them in your party, recruiting each main character at least once unlocks new areas and expands your exploration options.
• Strategic Gear Acquisition: Early in the game, consider recruiting characters solely to acquire their equipment. Some characters, particularly unique ones, start with powerful gear that can give you an edge.
• Prioritize Class Level 3: Upgrading at least one character’s class to level 3 unlocks the ability to purchase individual skills, offering a more cost-effective way to customize your party.
• Essential Proficiencies: Jump and Climb are invaluable proficiencies for navigating the world. Level them up early to access new areas and hidden treasures.
• Master the Art of Evasion: Utilize proficiencies like Lurk and Move Silently, or the new Smoke Bag item, to avoid unwanted encounters, especially in the early game.
• Embrace Exploration: Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path, experiment with different party compositions, and uncover the many secrets hidden within the world of -Minstrel Song-.

Conclusion: Your Legend Awaits

This guide merely scratches the surface of the rich and rewarding experience that awaits in Romancing SaGa -Minstrel Song- Remastered. The true joy of the game lies in discovery, experimentation, and forging your own path. So gather your party, embrace the unknown, and embark on an unforgettable adventure!

Gnomish Orphanages? No Need! A Practical Guide to Character Optimization in Pathfinder 2e

So, you’re ready to dive into the exciting world of Pathfinder 2e, but the sheer volume of character options has you feeling a bit lost? Fear not, adventurer! This guide is here to help you navigate the feat system and build a character that’s effective and fun to play.

Now, let’s be clear: this isn’t about chasing the absolute most powerful build. This guide is about understanding how to evaluate feat choices in the context of your character concept. We’ll focus on building a well-rounded character capable of handling the diverse challenges Pathfinder 2e throws your way.

Building Around a Niche

The first step to optimization is identifying your character’s niche. What do they excel at? Are they a master of battlefield control like a Wizard, a potent party buffer like a Bard, or something else entirely? Once you’ve nailed down your class and concept, consider these key areas when selecting feats:

1. The Third Action Conundrum

Combat in Pathfinder 2e often leaves you with a precious third action. Most of the time, a third attack at a -10 penalty isn’t ideal, and many spells eat up two actions. So, what to do?

Prioritize feats that give you a compelling third action option. Some excellent choices include:

• Skill Actions: Demoralize, Hide, and Aid can be incredibly effective.
• Quick Spells: Consider spells like True Strike, Magic Missile, or Shield.
• Strategic Movement: Don’t underestimate the power of repositioning. Attacks of opportunity are less common, and sometimes, the best defense is a strategic retreat.
• Bard Dedication: This deserves a special mention! The ability to use Composition cantrips is a fantastic use of a third action, especially for martial characters who want to stay in the fray.

2. The Power of Focus

Focus spells are your secret weapon. Think of them as a middle ground between cantrips and leveled spells – a renewable resource that recharges with a short rest.

Why are they important for optimization? Because you’re likely already taking those 10-minute breaks to Treat Wounds or recover. Why not make the most of that downtime?

• Prioritize single-action Focus spells: Spells like Lay on Hands are ideal. They provide a potent use for your Focus points and give you a valuable third action option.

3. Reacting to the Situation

Having a reliable reaction can make all the difference in combat. While some class feats grant reactions, they might not always be broadly useful (we’re looking at you, Counterspell).

• Offensive or Defensive: Strive for at least one good reaction, whether it’s a defensive boost like a Champion reaction or an offensive maneuver like Attack of Opportunity or the infamous Fake Out.
• Adaptability: Having both offensive and defensive reactions provides valuable flexibility in combat.
• When in Doubt, Aid: If you’re ever unsure how to use your reaction, remember that aiding a party member is always a solid choice. Teamwork makes the dream work!

4. Exploration: Not Just for Rogues!

Don’t neglect the Exploration Mode! Unless your GM is particularly combat-heavy, you’ll spend a significant amount of time exploring.

• Skillful Exploration: Choose feats and skills that enhance your character’s exploration capabilities. Mages might focus on Repeating Spells or Detecting Magic, while Rogues could prioritize Stealth and Perception.
• What Would Your Character Do? Consider your character’s strengths and how they would naturally contribute to exploration.

5. The Art of Being Helpful

Sometimes, your character’s main gimmick just won’t cut it. Maybe the GM is on a roll, you’re facing an enemy immune to your best attacks, or the environment isn’t cooperating.

• Have a Backup Plan: Always have a way to contribute even when your primary strategy fails.
• Team Support: Consider options like buff spells (Haste, Invisibility, True Target), in-combat healing (Battle Medicine), or the ever-reliable Aid action.

Optimizing Your Resources

Remember, every Pathfinder 2e character has access to the same basic resources: actions, HP, spells, focus points, and reactions. Optimization is about using these resources efficiently and maximizing the value of your feat choices.

By focusing on these key areas, you’ll be well on your way to creating a well-rounded and effective character that’s ready for anything!

Zigzagzigal’s Guides – Great Commanders/Rulers of China

This guide series explores some of the most influential leaders in world history and how their unique abilities translate to Civilization VI gameplay. We’ll delve into their optimal victory paths, strategic nuances, and discuss their overall balance within the game.

This time, we’re venturing into the heart of East Asia to analyze the various leaders representing the Chinese civilization. From early unifiers to masterful strategists, China’s leaders offer diverse playstyles that can lead you to victory.

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China

Unifier Qin

Focus: Domination, Science

Unifier Qin excels at leveraging early aggression and converting it into a springboard for either Domination or Science victories. His unique ability allows for the creation of a formidable early army by converting Barbarian units.

Early Game Dominance:

1. Train Warriors: Begin by training a couple of Warriors early in the game.
2. Locate Barbarian Outposts: Scout the map to find Barbarian Outposts.
3. Intercept Barbarian Scouts: Wait for Barbarian Scouts to complete their journey from an Outpost to a city’s border. As the Scout returns to the Outpost, it will trigger the spawning of additional Barbarian units.
4. Convert Barbarian Units: Position your Warriors near the Outpost to intercept and convert the newly spawned Barbarians. This tactic provides a significant early-game military advantage.

Strategic Considerations:

• Barbarian Outpost Spawning: Remember that Barbarian Outposts cannot spawn in territory within a civilization’s line of sight. Maximize your early exploration to limit Barbarian presence and increase your chances of converting their units.
• The Great Wall: Unifier Qin synergizes well with China’s unique infrastructure, The Great Wall. Its defensive bonuses and gold output help maintain and upgrade your formidable Barbarian army.

Overall: Unifier Qin’s straightforward yet powerful ability allows for creative strategies and rewarding gameplay. His capacity to amass an early army makes him a formidable opponent and a strong contender for Domination victories. Additionally, the economic advantage gained from converted units can be effectively channeled towards scientific development, making him a versatile leader capable of achieving different victory conditions.

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Wu Zetian

Focus: Science, Culture

Wu Zetian, China’s first and only female emperor, brings a more subtle yet potent playstyle to the game. Her strength lies in maximizing China’s civilization ability through a clever combination of espionage and technological advancement.

Espionage and Eureka Boosts:

1. Strategic Espionage: Wu Zetian’s unique ability grants a significant advantage in Spy missions. Instead of immediately using your free Spy for stealing technologies, focus on easier missions like "Fabricate Scandal" or "Foment Unrest."
2. Boost Success Rate: Successfully completing these missions will quickly level up your Spy, increasing their effectiveness and the success rate of future missions, including stealing Eureka boosts.
3. Maximize Eureka Benefits: By stealing Eureka boosts from other civilizations, you accelerate your own technological advancement, amplifying the bonuses provided by China’s civilization ability.

Cultural Prowess:

While Wu Zetian’s focus leans towards Science victories, her ability indirectly benefits Culture victories as well. The increased pace of technological advancement allows for quicker access to cultural wonders and civics, providing a significant edge in the race for cultural dominance.

Overall: Wu Zetian’s strength lies in her ability to leverage espionage to fuel China’s already potent scientific capabilities. Her playstyle rewards a more strategic and calculated approach, making her a compelling choice for players who enjoy a balance of espionage, technological superiority, and cultural progression.

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Yongle

Focus: Science

Yongle, the third emperor of the Ming dynasty, is renowned for his ambitious maritime expeditions and cultural achievements. In Civilization VI, he translates this legacy into a powerful ability that focuses on rapid city growth and maximizing yields.

Early Expansion and Growth:

1. Prioritize Religious Settlements: Aim for the "Religious Settlements" Pantheon early in the game. This Pantheon grants a free Settler with every Holy Site you found, accelerating your early expansion.
2. Balance Expansion and Growth: While expanding your empire, focus on developing your cities’ infrastructure and housing to support rapid population growth.
3. Governor Magnus: Utilize Governor Magnus’ "Provision" and "Surplus Logistics" promotions to further enhance your city growth. "Provision" prevents population loss when training Settlers, while "Surplus Logistics" speeds up city growth.

Maximizing Yields:

1. Delayed "Lijia (Food)" Project: While tempting, avoid using the "Lijia (Food)" city project immediately. Wait until your cities have at least 11 housing to maximize its effectiveness.
2. Housing Threshold: City growth slows down by 50% if the population is one less than the housing capacity. Aim for 11 housing to maintain a steady population growth to 10, the threshold for Yongle’s ability to take effect.
3. Alternative Strategy – River Goddess: Consider the "River Goddess" Pantheon for additional housing and amenities in cities with Holy Sites. This strategy synergizes well with the "Monasticism" wildcard during Dark Ages, further boosting your science output.

Overall: Yongle’s ability to significantly boost yields based on population makes him incredibly powerful. His playstyle encourages a balance between expansion, city development, and strategic use of city projects. While his focus lies in Science victories, the sheer economic power he generates can be channeled to pursue other victory conditions as well.

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Other Notable Chinese Leaders

While this guide focuses on the Chinese leaders introduced in the Rise and Fall and Gathering Storm expansions, it’s worth mentioning the other leader representing China in Civilization VI:

Qin Shi Huang

Focus: Domination, Wonders

As the founder of the Qin dynasty and China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang’s legacy is built on military might and monumental construction projects. His unique ability reflects this by granting additional Builder charges and enhancing their construction speed, allowing for rapid development and the construction of Ancient and Classical wonders.

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Conclusion

China, with its rich history and diverse leaders, offers a wide range of playstyles in Civilization VI. From Unifier Qin’s early aggression to Yongle’s focus on city growth, each leader presents unique challenges and rewards. Whether you prefer conquering your opponents with overwhelming force, outpacing them in technological advancements, or achieving cultural dominance, China has a leader that suits your strategic preferences.

Level Up Your Game: Top 5 Overwatch 2 Settings for Enhanced Aim and Game Sense

Want to elevate your Overwatch 2 gameplay? Optimizing your settings can significantly impact your performance, sharpening your aim and boosting your game sense. This guide will walk you through five key settings that can give you a competitive edge.

1. Ditch the Default: Choosing the Optimal Crosshair Color

While it might not be the first thing that comes to mind, your crosshair color plays a crucial role in your aiming accuracy. The default white crosshair can easily get lost against lighter backgrounds in Overwatch 2.

To enhance visibility, opt for a color that stands out. A bright, light green is an excellent choice, as it’s rarely used in the game’s environment. If that’s too jarring, a dark blue offers a good alternative.

Here’s an example of how a white crosshair can blend into the background.

Beyond color, experiment with different crosshair shapes and sizes to find what suits your playstyle best. You can find a variety of customizable options within the settings menu.

This is my preferred crosshair setup, but feel free to experiment!

2. Streamline Your Actions: Disabling Unnecessary Ability Toggles

Many heroes in Overwatch 2 have the option to toggle their abilities on or off. However, in most cases, it’s more efficient to keep these toggles disabled.

Why? Because toggling requires two inputs (one to activate and another to deactivate), while holding the button down for the ability’s duration only requires one. This might seem insignificant, but those extra milliseconds can add up, reducing your overall actions per minute.

Here’s a list of toggles you should consider disabling:

• Shields: Reinhardt, Sigma, Brigitte
• Scopes: Ashe, Widowmaker, Ana
• Matrix: D.Va
• Grapple: Wrecking Ball
• Healing Ofuda: Kiriko (this one is on by default)

While most toggles are best left off, some depend on personal preference and playstyle. For example:

• Mercy: Disabling the beam toggle is recommended for players who prioritize mobility with Guardian Angel. However, if you prefer to use Guardian Angel for its facing direction, enabling the toggle can be beneficial.
• D.Va, Echo, Soldier: 76: These heroes have movement ability toggles. It’s generally recommended to learn them with the toggle off for greater control, but if you’re already comfortable with the toggle on, there’s no need to change.

3. Maximize Aim Precision: Enabling High Precision Mouse Input

This setting might seem technical, but it has a significant impact on your aim. Here’s a simplified explanation:

Overwatch 2 registers your mouse input at specific intervals (ticks). Without High Precision Mouse Input enabled, your shot only registers if your crosshair is on target exactly when the game checks for input.

Enabling this setting allows the game to register input between these intervals, resulting in smoother and more accurate tracking.

This graphic by KarQ illustrates the concept perfectly. The white lines represent the standard input checks, while the red lines show the additional inputs enabled by High Precision Mouse Input.

4. Amplify Your Awareness: Utilizing Friendly and Enemy Elimination Sounds

Overwatch 2 introduced a valuable new feature: separate sound cues for teammate and enemy eliminations. While it might seem like a small addition, it can significantly enhance your game sense.

These auditory cues provide instant feedback on the state of the fight without needing to glance at the kill feed. You’ll instinctively know when a teammate goes down or when you’ve successfully taken out an opponent.

This heightened awareness allows for quicker decision-making, helping you determine when to push aggressively or retreat to safety.

5. Maintain Constant Battlefield Awareness: Enabling Ally Health Bars and Outlines

Another impactful setting introduced in Overwatch 2 is the option to display ally health bars and outlines. Having this information readily available is crucial for team-based play.

Here’s why it’s beneficial:

• Supports: Easily prioritize healing targets and quickly locate allies in need of assistance.
• All Players: Track flanking teammates, identify allies under attack, and maintain better overall map awareness.

Ensure that both "Ally Health Bars" and "Ally Outlines" are set to "Default" and "Occluded" respectively in your settings menu.

Bonus Tips for an Optimized Overwatch 2 Experience

• Display Performance Stats: Enable the display of FPS and latency in the video settings. This allows you to monitor your connection and identify potential performance issues.
• Reduce Camera Shake: Minimize distractions during intense firefights by setting "Camera Shake" to "Reduced" in the accessibility settings.
• Experiment with Colorblind Settings: While intended for accessibility, the colorblind options can enhance the visuals for all players. Try out different settings to find a color scheme that suits your preference.

Conclusion

Optimizing your settings is a simple yet effective way to improve your Overwatch 2 experience. By implementing these changes, you’ll enhance your aim, boost your game sense, and gain a competitive edge. So, head into the practice range, experiment with these settings, and watch your gameplay reach new heights!

Mastering Wilton’s Night: A Crimson Banquet Guide

Wilton’s Night can be a tricky event to master in Love Nikki, especially when it comes to deciphering those challenging themes. But don’t worry, this guide is here to help you navigate the Crimson Banquet like a pro! We’ll break down the most common themes, highlighting what to look for and what to avoid, with visual examples to guide your choices.

Important Note: Achieving 100% accuracy is tough! Sometimes, the options are so random it’s a gamble. This guide aims to boost your success rate to 90%, so don’t be discouraged by the occasional curveball.

Winter Day Fashion

Look for: Nikki in a cozy, casual style. Think tennis shoes or fuzzy boots, layered outfits with hats, scarves, and warm coats. This theme prioritizes the "warm" tag, so when in doubt, choose the more layered Nikki. If both options are simple, favor the one with a scarf or warm hat. Be mindful of overlap with the "Colorful Summer Night" theme.

Avoid: Formal wear like ball gowns and office attire. Steer clear of items from the "City Beauty" and "Star of the Dinner Party" themes. Be cautious with pieces from the "Sentimental Time" theme, like the "Tranquil Time" recolor (see third image below). Remember the overlap with "Colorful Summer Night" and don’t rule out those items.

Image of Winter Day Fashion Example 1

Image of Winter Day Fashion Example 2

Image of Winter Day Fashion Example 3

Colorful Summer Night

Look for: This theme is deceptively simple. Nikki might be sporting scarves due to the "simple" tag. Opt for a plain, cute, and somewhat sporty look. Surprisingly, "warm" items like scarves and hats can appear here – it’s all about the "simple" tag. If unsure, choose the Nikki showing more skin or wearing plainer clothes.

Think of "Colorful Summer Night" as the more casual, playful younger sister of "Winter Day Fashion."

Avoid: Anything overly fancy, sexy, or mature. This includes ball gowns, office attire, and glamorous party dresses.

Image of Colorful Summer Night Example 1

Image of Colorful Summer Night Example 2

Image of Colorful Summer Night Example 3

Sentimental Time

Look for: Nikki in her cutesy, girly element. Think frills, bows, overalls, pink dresses (both short and frilly), and youthful accessories. Prioritize "lively," "cute," and "pure" looks. When unsure, choose the softer-looking Nikki.

Avoid: Ball gowns, even Nikki’s Dance (it’s pink but too formal for this theme). Steer clear of overly fancy shoes, office heels, mature-looking heels, elaborate headdresses, masquerade masks, crows, fancy hats, and the like.

Image of Sentimental Time Example 1

Image of Sentimental Time Example 2

Image of Sentimental Time Example 3

City Beauty

Look for: Nikki channeling her inner "Office Lady." Look for classic office wear like button-up shirts, tailored pants, and items tagged "office lady." Alternatively, she might be in a slightly formal, alluring night-out dress with plain heels. "Cheesecake" shoes are a favorite for this theme.

Pro Tip: In the last image below, notice the "Cheesecake" shoes peeking out from under the cloud-like coat. If facing wildcard Nikkis not in office attire, choose the more mature, sexy, and gorgeous option.

Avoid: While cloud items can be tricky, avoid the two specific kimonos and their recolors (they appear as competitors often). Also, steer clear of overly cutesy, girly pieces with bows – anything belonging to the "Sentimental Time" theme.

Image of City Beauty Example 1

Image of City Beauty Example 2

Image of City Beauty Example 3

Star of the Dinner Party

Look for: Nikki at her most glamorous and mature. She often wears distinctive headdresses like masquerade masks, head beads, butterfly face coverings, "buddy" sunglasses, or the red flowers (see last image below). Ball gowns are common, as are items with "European" and "evening gown" tags.

Think of "Star of the Dinner Party" as the regal, ultra-formal older sister of "City Beauty." Both share similar elements, but "Star of the Dinner Party" takes it up a notch with ball gowns and a focus on the "gorgeous" tag. Occasionally, she might appear in sparkly, sexy clubwear that overlaps with "City Beauty."

Avoid: Anything overly pure, casual, or belonging to the "Sentimental Time" theme. Steer clear of Nikkis who look cute and lively.

Image of Star of the Dinner Party Example 1

Image of Star of the Dinner Party Example 2

Important Note: Avoid the dress in the middle of this image, even though it looks like a ball gown. Its "pure" tag makes it a common trap!