In Fallout 76, serums play a crucial role in acquiring mutations, which can significantly impact gameplay by offering both beneficial and detrimental effects. This guide will delve into the world of serums, how they work, and the various mutations available in the game.
How to Obtain Mutations
Mutations can be acquired in two primary ways:
Random Exposure: Players can gain mutations randomly through exposure to radiation from sources like irradiated creatures, food, drink, or radioactive waste.
Mutation Serums: These serums can be crafted using recipes found in the Whitespring Bunker or purchased from other players. Serums provide a specific mutation, allowing players to choose which effects they want to apply to their character.
Serum Effects
When a mutation serum is consumed, its negative effects are suppressed for one hour. After this period, the mutation takes full effect, including both positive and negative aspects.
In addition to serums, Fallout 76 items play a significant role in customizing gameplay, especially when combined with mutations. Players can enhance their experience by collecting and crafting items that complement their chosen mutations, such as health-restoring gear for those with mutations affecting health regeneration like Healing Factor, or armor that boosts energy resistance for those with mutations like Scaly Skin. This strategic use of items can significantly enhance the benefits of mutations while minimizing their drawbacks.
Popular Mutations and Their Effects
Here are some of the most notable mutations in Fallout 76, along with their effects:
MutationPositive EffectsNegative EffectsHealing Factor+300% Health Regeneration-55% Chem EffectivenessAdrenal ReactionIncreased Damage at Low HP-50 Max HPScaly Skin+50 Energy & Damage Resistance-50 APCarnivore/HerbivoreDouble Benefits from Meat/Vegetable MealsNo Benefit from Other Food TypeEgg Head+6 Intelligence-3 Strength & EnduranceSpeed Demon+20% Movement & Reload SpeedHunger & Thirst Deplete Faster
Managing Mutations
To manage mutations effectively, players can use several perks:
Class Freak: Reduces negative mutation effects by up to 75%.
Starched Genes: Prevents recovery from mutations when maxed out, allowing players to keep their desired mutations indefinitely.
Strange in Numbers: Increases positive mutation effects by 25% when playing in a team.
Removing Mutations
Mutations can be removed using Radaway or the Rad Shower. However, if Starched Genes is equipped, mutations will remain until the perk is removed.
In conclusion, mutations in Fallout 76 offer a dynamic way to customize gameplay, providing both advantages and challenges. By understanding how serums work and leveraging perks like Class Freak and Starched Genes, players can optimize their mutation strategy to suit their preferred playstyle.