10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Playing Lies Of P
Lies of P. The name alone conjures images of gothic horror, intricate clockwork mechanisms, and a puppet with a serious case of daddy issues. And let me tell you, the game delivers on all fronts. I plunged into Krat expecting a challenging Soulslike experience, and I got that in spades. However, there were definitely a few things I wish I had known before I started my journey. Knowing these tips would have saved me a lot of frustration and made my initial hours significantly smoother.
So, if you're about to embark on your own adventure in Lies of P, or are struggling through your first playthrough, here are 10 things I wish I knew before picking up the controller. Consider this your pre-Krat survival guide.
1. Don't Sleep on the Specter (Especially Early On)
Seriously, use the Specter. I know, I know, some purists will scoff at the idea of using summons in a Soulslike. But Lies of P is brutal, especially in the early game. The Specter isn't just a distraction; it's a damage sponge and a valuable source of extra DPS. Save your Star Fragments for boss fights that are giving you trouble. Think of it as a training wheel. Once you get a better handle on the combat system and enemy patterns, you can start phasing them out. But early on? Embrace the Specter. It's there to help you learn the ropes and overcome those initial hurdles. Trust me, you'll thank me later.
2. Weapon Assembly is Your Best Friend (Experiment!)
This is one of Lies of P's most unique and rewarding mechanics. Don't just stick with the first weapon you find. Experiment with different blade and handle combinations. The handle determines the weapon's moveset and scaling, while the blade dictates the damage type and overall attack power. A heavy blade on a fast handle can create a surprisingly effective weapon. Don't be afraid to try weird combinations! You might stumble upon something that perfectly suits your playstyle. And remember, you can disassemble weapons at any Stargazer, so there's no penalty for experimenting. The ability to tailor your weapon to your specific needs is a game-changer, and mastering it is key to success.
3. Legion Arms Are More Than Just Gimmicks
Your Legion Arm is not just a cool-looking gadget; it's a vital tool in your arsenal. Each arm has its own unique ability and can be upgraded to become even more powerful. The Puppet String, for example, allows you to close the distance to enemies quickly, while the Aegis arm provides a temporary shield. Don't just rely on your weapon; learn to integrate your Legion Arm into your combat strategy. Experiment with different arms to find the ones that complement your playstyle. Upgrading them is also crucial, as it unlocks new abilities and increases their effectiveness. The Legion Arm can be the difference between victory and defeat, especially against tough bosses.
4. Perfect Guard is King (But Don't Neglect Dodging)
Mastering the Perfect Guard (parry) is essential for survival in Lies of P. It allows you to deflect enemy attacks without taking damage, and it can stagger enemies, opening them up for critical attacks. However, don't completely abandon dodging. Some attacks are simply too fast or too powerful to parry reliably. Learn to read enemy attack patterns and use a combination of Perfect Guard and dodging to stay alive. Practice makes perfect, so spend some time in the early areas perfecting your timing. The ability to seamlessly switch between parrying and dodging will make you a much more formidable opponent.
5. Vigor is More Important Than You Think (Especially Early On)
In many Soulslike games, players often prioritize damage stats over health. While damage is important in Lies of P, Vigor (health) is arguably even more crucial, especially in the early game. You're going to get hit, a lot. Having a larger health pool will allow you to survive more mistakes and learn enemy attack patterns without constantly dying. Don't neglect Vigor in your early stat allocations. A few extra points in health can make a huge difference in your survivability. Once you feel comfortable with your health pool, you can start focusing on damage stats.
6. Explore Every Nook and Cranny (Seriously!)
Krat is a beautifully designed world filled with secrets and hidden items. Take the time to explore every nook and cranny. You'll often find valuable resources, new weapons, and even entire side quests that you would otherwise miss. Don't just rush through the main path; venture off the beaten track. Pay attention to environmental clues and hidden passages. Some of the best rewards in the game are hidden in plain sight. Thorough exploration is not only rewarding but also adds to the overall immersion and enjoyment of the game.
7. Don't Be Afraid to Respec (It's Relatively Easy)
If you find that your initial stat allocation isn't working for you, don't worry. Lies of P allows you to respec your stats relatively easily. You'll need a certain item (the Gold Coin Fruit), which can be obtained through various means. This gives you the freedom to experiment with different builds and playstyles without having to start a new game. Don't be afraid to try something new. If it doesn't work out, you can always respec and try something else. This flexibility is a welcome addition to the Soulslike formula.
8. Learn Enemy Weaknesses (Elemental Damage Matters)
Different enemies in Lies of P are weak to different types of damage. Some are vulnerable to fire, while others are weak to electricity or acid. Pay attention to the damage types of your weapons and Legion Arms, and try to exploit enemy weaknesses whenever possible. Using the right damage type can significantly increase your damage output and make even the toughest enemies much easier to defeat. Experiment with different weapons and Legion Arms to find the ones that are most effective against specific enemy types.
9. The Truth Matters (But Not How You Think)
The "Lies" mechanic is central to the story of Lies of P. Your choices about whether to tell the truth or lie will have consequences, affecting the story and even unlocking different endings. However, it's not always clear which choice is the "right" one. Don't be afraid to experiment and see what happens. Pay attention to the dialogue and the reactions of the characters you interact with. Your choices will shape the narrative and ultimately determine the fate of Pinocchio.
10. Don't Give Up! (It's Worth It)
Lies of P is a challenging game, but it's also incredibly rewarding. There will be times when you feel frustrated and want to give up. But don't! Keep practicing, keep experimenting, and keep learning. The feeling of finally overcoming a difficult boss or discovering a hidden secret is incredibly satisfying. The game's story, atmosphere, and combat system are all top-notch. If you stick with it, you'll be rewarded with a truly unforgettable gaming experience.
So, there you have it – 10 things I wish I knew before playing Lies of P. Armed with this knowledge, you'll be much better prepared to face the challenges that await you in Krat. Good luck, and may your strings never break!