by Eric Eckstein
If you're going to make it through a night in Legendary's world of mythical monsters and machine-gun toting men, you really could use some assistance. Thankfully, we've done our tour of duty through the game and have organized some of our favorite tips and tricks to help you stay alive in Legendary. Always remember the most important rule, though: If it bleeds, you can kill it.
Know When To Fight and When To Flee
Unless you enjoy playing the role of exterminator, you're better off high-tailing it than standing toe-to-toe with everything that moves. In some cases, the enemies just won't stop coming, so you'll just have to make a break for it when the coast seems semi-clear. In others, find a one-entrance room, air duct or other corner that you can put your back against so that you can take out the baddies in front of you without worrying about them flanking (and frying!) you.
Keep the Fridge Stocked
A key decision when facing off against humans and monsters should first revolve around what kind of ammo you're low in, and less about the threat before you. If you need Animus, take down monsters to help fuel up, but if you're in need of bullets, only the human soldiers will assist there. You don't want to find yourself without the ability to heal or only toting a fire axe for the rest of the level.
You Have to Believe We Are Magic
On some levels, Animus energy will not be plentiful, so be sure to keep a little bit in reserve for immediate healing or a quick Animus Pulse to ward off creatures. That second or two of stun might give you the edge in a fight, or the chance to make a run for it. Also, on later levels, Animus will help turn the tide in battle, making monsters less likely to fight you and more anxious to eat your enemies.
The Environment is Your Friend (and Their Enemy)
Keep an eye open for any advantage your surroundings offer you. One well-placed gas vent can turn into a flame geyser able to incinerate evil, and why unload that precious ammo into a firedrake when shooting a fire hydrant will take it and its buddies out with a single bullet? Better yet, when on the subway levels, stand in the right spot and let the cars smash would-be assailants saving you that bullet altogether.
Don't Bring A Knife to a Gunfight
Nari are quick, so opt for sub-machine guns when you hear them circling. On the other hand, one aimed blast from a shotgun can often remove werewolf heads, and a flamethrower fares even better. The SAW heavy machine gun is a great equalizer against big enemies, but being unable to zoom in on distant targets will be troublesome if they are using cover, so try to scout before you fight. Naturally, a lock-on rocket launcher does wonders against an aerial threat like those nasty griffons. Save it for those big threats versus popping the first soldier you see.
Posted: 11 Nov 2008
