In Abyssus, you play as a team exploring the ocean’s depths, racing through partially submerged ruins, battling enemies, and grabbing loot. The game is roguelike, so you’ll need multiple attempts to improve your skills, unlock better weapons, and discover secrets hidden beneath the water. If you’re new to this type of game, you might be unsure where to begin.
To help you get started, here are some beginner tips and strategies for Abyssus. These will help you avoid early mistakes and set you on the right path.
Always Keep Moving
Rooms in Abyssus are small, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed quickly. Always stay on the move within each space. Once familiar with the layout, it’s best to move backward while firing at enemies. This keeps you safe while you attack. If your weapons are suited for close-range combat, moving forward may be better—like with shotguns. Just be cautious to avoid running into enemies when moving backward. Alternate between high ground and low ground; enemies tend to swarm from high positions, but they also give you a better vantage point. Low ground offers more space but worse angles. Moving smoothly between these positions keeps you safe.
Diversify or Focus on Specific Builds
When selecting enhancements, you’ll get chances to earn small or major blessings at certain points. Major blessings are more powerful and can significantly boost your build. Early in your runs, it’s usually smarter to diversify your abilities. Focus on getting different aspects for your main weapon, secondary fire, and special skills. This variety gives you more options later, as you progress through the run. Stick to building a balanced skillset until you get more experience.
Look for Healing Items Before Self-Healing
Sometimes, after defeating a boss or moving between areas, you might find healing items on the ground—such as health vials or pickups. Don’t assume you have to heal immediately after a tough fight. Explore the room first; bosses and chests often contain healing items. Saving your resources and using available healing pickups can be the difference between surviving and dying.
Check for Hidden Treasure
Before leaving a room, scan for gold pots, vases, or chests nearby. These often contain valuable gold, and every bit counts. Additionally, always glance at your mini-map to spot any hidden chests. Sometimes, these chests are locked but still worth opening later, as they can hold powerful charms or extra gold. Leaving no loot behind can give you an advantage.
Not All Aspects Are Worth It
Every aspect or modification has its pros and cons. Some are more effective than others; for example, tentacle-based and elemental effects like fire or ice tend to be very useful. Depending on your playstyle, you might prefer offensive aspects—such as increased damage—over defensive ones like shields. Shields can be helpful, but they are slow to build up. If you prefer a quick, aggressive approach, focus on damage-based aspects early. Find what works best for your style.
Target Bosses, Not Just Grunts
In most combat rooms, defeating the boss will clear out all other enemies. Unless a minor enemy is charging up a special ability or causing other problems, prioritize taking down the boss first. Killing the boss usually causes all enemies to be eliminated automatically. Focus on hitting weak spots—often centered on the boss’s body—to deal more damage and defeat them faster.
Be Wary of Fall Damage
There is fall damage in Abyssus, and it can chip away at your health—usually about 10 HP. Although not devastating, it can still turn the tide of a fight. Use your dash ability while falling to avoid damage if necessary. Avoid jumping off unstable surfaces or off the map, as falling out of bounds causes damage and can be deadly. Stay on safe platforms, especially when navigating multiple levels.
Prioritize Objectives Over Enemies
Some rooms challenge you to activate pillars, deactivate constructs, or complete other tasks. Focus on completing these objectives first. This usually stops enemies from spawning or making your task easier. Wasting time fighting endless enemies while ignoring your goal can drain resources like health and healing items. Clear the room after completing the objectives to proceed smoothly.
These tips should help you make better decisions and survive longer in Abyssus. Keep practicing, learn the enemy patterns, and adapt to the challenges you face beneath the waves.
