Introduction
In the desolate, scrap-strewn moons of Lethal Company, where corporate greed meets cosmic horror, survival hinges on more than just scavenging. It demands resourcefulness, strategic planning, and often, the brutal efficiency of a well-placed shotgun blast. The metallic echo of gunfire slicing through the eerie silence can be the only thing standing between you and becoming monster fodder. Lethal Company throws you and your team into perilous environments teeming with grotesque creatures, forcing you to collect scrap to meet quotas for the ever-demanding Company. Amidst this chaos, the shotgun emerges as a powerful, albeit risky, tool. This guide will delve into every aspect of the Lethal Company shotgun, exploring its strengths, weaknesses, optimal uses, and providing you with the tips and tricks needed to turn this boomstick into your best friend (and the monsters’ worst nightmare). We’ll explore how to maximize its effectiveness, conserve precious ammunition, and ultimately, survive another day in this brutal, unforgiving landscape.
The Shotgun: A Closer Look
First things first, acquiring this beast of a weapon. You’ll find the shotgun available for purchase at the Company store, accessible through the terminal on your ship. The price, while hefty, is often a worthwhile investment if your team intends to venture into high-risk environments. Consider purchasing one early on a run if you plan to hit high value scrap locations. The shotgun quickly becomes a strategic piece in your runs for survival and profitability.
Now, let’s break down the specifics. The shotgun’s damage output is substantial at close range, capable of obliterating many threats with a single well-aimed shot. However, its effectiveness diminishes dramatically as the distance increases. This is due to the nature of the weapon; it fires a spread of pellets rather than a single, concentrated projectile. The range becomes less of a problem when faced with claustrophobic hallways and tight spaces of the various facilities the moons host.
Ammo capacity is a crucial consideration. The shotgun holds a limited number of shells, demanding careful shot placement and strategic reloading. The reload time, while not excruciatingly long, can feel like an eternity when a creature is bearing down on you. Weight also plays a factor in movement speed. Carrying it around could hinder your ability to escape from monsters.
Regarding firing mechanics, understanding the pellet spread is paramount. Aiming down sights (ADS) tightens the spread, increasing accuracy at slightly longer ranges. However, hip-firing can be effective in extremely close quarters when quick reactions are crucial. Familiarize yourself with the recoil pattern, as successive shots can become less accurate if not properly controlled. It is unknown if the bullets penetrate enemies, although it is likely that they do not due to the spread of the pellets.
Shotgun vs. the Bestiary: A Monster Mash
The true test of the shotgun lies in its effectiveness against the varied and terrifying creatures that inhabit the moons. Let’s examine how it fares against some common threats:
Blind Dogs (Snare Fleas, Hoarding Bugs)
The shotgun is an absolute monster (pun intended) against these smaller, swarming enemies. A single blast can clear out a group of Hoarding Bugs, preventing them from stealing your precious scrap. Snare Fleas, clinging to the ceiling, are also easily dispatched with a well-timed shot.
Bracken
Dealing with a Bracken can be tricky with the shotgun. The key is to close the distance quickly and deliver a point-blank blast before it can react. However, be prepared to backpedal immediately after firing, as the Bracken’s counterattack can be devastating.
Thumper
The Thumper presents a more challenging target. Its size and agility make it difficult to hit consistently. Aiming for the head can increase your chances of a critical hit, but it’s often a safer bet to kite it and let your teammates handle it while you provide support.
Giant
Save your shells. The shotgun is largely ineffective against the Giant. Its immense size and thick hide render the shotgun’s damage negligible. Avoid engaging this creature with the shotgun if possible; focus on evasion and let your teammates with more suitable weapons take the lead.
Coil-Head
Using a shotgun on Coil-Heads is high-risk, high-reward. One shot can eliminate a Coil-Head, but one misstep could also get you eliminated. Try to position yourself in a spot that is easy to back away from, incase the Coil-Head charges you.
Bunker Spider
This creature is most deadly in the tight crawl spaces of a facility. If a spider is in front of you in a narrow hallway, one shot from the shotgun should take it out.
Remember, teamwork is crucial. Coordinate with your teammates to cover your flanks and prioritize targets. The shotgunner can act as a front-line defender, clearing paths and eliminating immediate threats, while other teammates focus on scouting and carrying scrap.
Tips and Tricks for Boomstick Domination
To truly master the shotgun, you need to go beyond simply pointing and shooting. Here are some advanced tips and tricks:
Ammo Conservation is King
Every shell counts in Lethal Company. Avoid wasting ammunition on unnecessary shots. Target weak points and prioritize eliminating the most immediate threats. Communicate with your team to coordinate attacks and avoid overkill. If you have a shovel, use it on smaller creatures.
Positioning is Key
Maintain an optimal range – close enough to maximize damage, but far enough to avoid getting caught in a monster’s melee range. Utilize doorways and chokepoints to funnel enemies into predictable patterns. Backpedaling while firing can help maintain distance and buy you valuable time to reload.
Embrace the Shotgunner Role
Designate a team member as the primary shotgun user. This allows them to specialize in close-quarters combat and develop a deeper understanding of the weapon’s nuances. Equip them with extra ammunition if possible, and ensure they have adequate support from their teammates.
Listen Carefully
Sound is your greatest ally in Lethal Company. Pay close attention to enemy sounds to anticipate attacks and prepare accordingly. The telltale skittering of a Snare Flea or the heavy footsteps of a Thumper can provide valuable early warning, allowing you to position yourself for a preemptive strike.
When to Run
Knowing when to disengage is just as important as knowing when to fight. If you’re low on ammunition, surrounded by enemies, or facing a creature that the shotgun is ill-equipped to handle, don’t hesitate to retreat. Survival is paramount, and sometimes, discretion is the better part of valor.
Advantages and Disadvantages: A Balanced Perspective
The shotgun is a powerful weapon, but it’s not without its drawbacks. Understanding both its strengths and weaknesses is crucial for effective utilization.
Advantages
Unmatched Close-Range Damage: No other weapon in Lethal Company can match the shotgun’s sheer destructive power at close range.
Excellent Crowd Control: The wide pellet spread makes it ideal for clearing groups of smaller enemies quickly and efficiently.
Versatile in Tight Spaces: The shotgun excels in the claustrophobic hallways and cramped rooms of the facilities, where its limited range is less of a hindrance.
Disadvantages
Limited Effective Range: Its effectiveness drops off dramatically at longer distances, making it unsuitable for engaging enemies in open areas.
Slow Reload Time: The reload process can leave you vulnerable, especially when facing multiple enemies.
Ammo Scarcity: Shells can be difficult to come by, demanding careful shot placement and strategic resource management.
Weight Concerns: Carrying the shotgun can impact mobility, hindering your ability to escape from danger.
Alternatives and Complements: Building a Loadout
While the shotgun is a formidable weapon, it’s not always the best choice for every situation. Consider pairing it with other tools and weapons to create a well-rounded loadout. The shovel is an obvious early game option that can kill many monsters. The zap gun is a great way to freeze enemies to line up a perfect shot with the shotgun. Consider a loadout strategy with your team. When is it better to use a different weapon? This depends on your team’s needs, as well as the environment.
Conclusion: The Verdict on the Boomstick
The shotgun in Lethal Company is a high-risk, high-reward weapon. Its devastating close-range damage and crowd-control capabilities make it an invaluable asset in the right hands. However, its limited range, slow reload time, and ammo scarcity demand careful planning and strategic execution. Mastering the shotgun requires understanding its strengths and weaknesses, adapting to different enemy types, and coordinating with your teammates. It is undoubtedly a worthwhile investment for players who embrace its aggressive playstyle and are willing to put in the time to hone their skills.
So, is the shotgun essential for survival? Not necessarily. But it is undoubtedly a powerful tool that can significantly increase your chances of success in the harsh environments of Lethal Company. Now get out there, load up your boomstick, and show those monsters who’s boss! Just remember to aim carefully, conserve your ammo, and always watch your back. The Company is counting on you.
