Slime Rancher, the popular life simulation video game, offers a unique gameplay experience where players collect, raise, and care for adorable slimes on a ranch. One of the key features that sets this game apart from others in the genre is the use of drones. These aerial companions can greatly enhance gameplay and provide a fresh perspective on slime ranching. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of drones in Slime Rancher, exploring how to use them effectively, their benefits, and some expert tips to get the most out of your drone experience.
Obtaining Your First Drone
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of drone usage, it’s essential to know how to get your hands on one. In Slime Rancher, drones are unlocked as you progress through the game. You’ll need to complete specific tasks and achieve certain milestones to earn the necessary resources and blueprints.
To build your first drone, follow these steps:
- Reach the **Rancher Rank 5**, which requires 1,500 newbucks and 30 minutes of gameplay.
- Construct the **Drone Station** on your ranch, which costs 1,500 newbucks and 30 minutes of construction time.
- Collect the necessary materials, including 100 units of **Lava Dust**, 50 units of **Solar Crystals**, and 20 units of **Gasket Gems**.
- Access the **Drone Station** and craft your first drone using the gathered resources.
Drone Basics and Controls
Now that you have your drone, it’s time to learn the basics of piloting and controlling it.
Drone Controls
The drone controls are relatively simple:
- Move the drone: Use the left analog stick (or W, A, S, and D keys on PC) to navigate the drone in any direction.
- Drone speed: Press the right trigger (or Shift key on PC) to increase the drone’s speed.
- Drone altitude: Use the right analog stick (or mouse wheel on PC) to adjust the drone’s altitude.
Drone Modes
Drones in Slime Rancher have two primary modes:
- Explore Mode: This is the default mode, allowing your drone to freely explore the environment, collect resources, and detect slimes.
- Scan Mode: Activate this mode to highlight collectible resources, such as fruits, veggies, and plorts, in your vicinity.
Drone Upgrades and Customization
As you progress through the game, you’ll unlock new drone upgrades and customization options. These enhancements can significantly improve your drone’s performance, range, and capabilities.
Upgrade Types
There are three types of upgrades:
- Performance Upgrades: Enhance your drone’s speed, agility, and maneuverability.
- Sensor Upgrades: Improve your drone’s detection range, resource scanning capabilities, and slime tracking.
- Capacity Upgrades: Increase your drone’s storage capacity for resources and slimes.
Customization Options
Personalize your drone with a variety of cosmetic and functional modifications:
- Skins: Change your drone’s appearance with unique skins, unlocked through achievements and milestones.
- Decals: Apply decals to your drone’s body, providing a touch of personality and flair.
- Propellers: Swap out your drone’s propellers for different designs, which can affect its performance and stability.
Drone Strategies and Tips
Now that you have a solid understanding of drones in Slime Rancher, it’s time to explore some expert strategies and tips to get the most out of your aerial companion.
Exploration and Resource Collection
- Survey the area: Use your drone to scout out areas before venturing in on foot, avoiding obstacles and hidden dangers.
- Resource hotspots: Identify areas with dense resource concentrations and focus your drone’s collection efforts there.
Slime Detection and Tracking
- Slime radar: Activate your drone’s Scan Mode to detect nearby slimes, making it easier to track and capture them.
- Slime tracking: Use your drone to follow slimes, keeping them in sight while you prepare to catch them.
Drone Maintenance and Safety
- Regular maintenance: Periodically return your drone to the Drone Station to repair and recharge it.
- Avoid obstacles: Be mindful of your drone’s surroundings, avoiding collisions with trees, rocks, and other objects.
Advanced Drone Techniques
As you gain more experience with drones in Slime Rancher, you can experiment with advanced techniques to take your gameplay to the next level.
Drone-Assisted Slime Catching
- Cornering slimes: Use your drone to herd slimes into a confined area, making them easier to catch.
- Distracting slimes: Deploy your drone as a diversion, allowing you to sneak up on slimes and catch them off guard.
Long-Range Exploration
- Scouting ahead: Send your drone to explore distant areas, identifying new resources, slimes, and hidden secrets.
- Reconnaissance: Use your drone to gather intel on areas you’ve yet to visit, planning your route and strategy accordingly.
Conclusion
In Slime Rancher, drones are an invaluable tool that can greatly enhance your gameplay experience. By mastering drone usage, you’ll be able to explore new areas, collect resources more efficiently, and even track and catch slimes with ease. Remember to stay vigilant, upgrade your drone regularly, and experiment with advanced techniques to get the most out of your aerial companion. Happy ranching!
What is the purpose of using drones in Slime Rancher?
Drones are an essential tool in Slime Rancher, allowing players to reach new heights and explore areas that would be impossible to access on foot. With drones, you can scout out new slime habitats, locate hidden resources, and even assist in tasks such as plucking fruits and berries from hard-to-reach places. By mastering drone usage, you’ll be able to expand your ranch and unlock new possibilities for slime-raising success.
In addition to exploration and resource gathering, drones can also help you in combat situations. By deploying drones strategically, you can distract or disorient enemies, giving you an advantage in battle. With the right drone equipped, you can even use it to attack enemies directly, making it a valuable asset in your slime-raising arsenal.
How do I obtain a drone in Slime Rancher?
To obtain a drone in Slime Rancher, you’ll need to progress through the game’s storyline until you reach the point where you’re introduced to the “Drone Bay” on your ranch. Once you’ve unlocked the Drone Bay, you can purchase and customize your own drones using resources collected throughout the game. Each drone has its own unique abilities and upgrades, so be sure to choose one that fits your playstyle and needs.
You can upgrade your drone as you progress through the game, unlocking new abilities and improvements. Make sure to regularly visit the Drone Bay to upgrade and customize your drone, as this will greatly impact its performance and capabilities. With the right drone by your side, you’ll be able to tackle even the most challenging tasks with ease.
What are the different types of drones available in Slime Rancher?
In Slime Rancher, there are several types of drones available, each with its own unique abilities and characteristics. Some drones are specialized for exploration, with advanced sensors and mapping capabilities that help you navigate the game’s vast open world. Others are designed for combat, equipped with weapons and defense systems that make them valuable allies in battle.
Experimenting with different drone types and upgrades will help you find the ones that work best for you. Whether you’re looking to explore new areas, gather resources, or take on tough enemies, there’s a drone out there that’s perfect for the job. Be sure to try out different drones and upgrades to find the perfect combination for your slime-raising needs.
How do I control my drone in Slime Rancher?
Controlling your drone in Slime Rancher is relatively straightforward, but it does take some practice to get the hang of it. To deploy your drone, simply press the designated button (usually the “V” key on PC), and then use the camera controls to guide it through the air. You can move your drone up, down, left, right, and forward, as well as activate its special abilities using the designated buttons.
As you gain more experience with drone control, you’ll be able to navigate through tight spaces and avoid obstacles with ease. Remember to keep an eye on your drone’s health and energy levels, as it can take damage from enemy attacks or collisions. If your drone takes too much damage, it will be forced to return to the Drone Bay for repairs.
What are some tips for effectively using my drone in Slime Rancher?
One of the most important tips for effectively using your drone in Slime Rancher is to always keep it upgraded and well-maintained. Regularly visit the Drone Bay to upgrade your drone’s abilities, armor, and weapons, as this will greatly impact its performance and survivability. You should also make sure to keep a close eye on your drone’s energy levels, as it can run out of power quickly if used extensively.
Another key tip is to use your drone strategically, deploying it in areas where it can be most effective. For example, if you’re exploring a new area, send your drone ahead to scout out the terrain and locate any hidden dangers. In combat situations, use your drone to distract or disorient enemies, giving you an advantage in battle. By using your drone wisely, you’ll be able to tackle even the toughest challenges with ease.
Can I customize my drone in Slime Rancher?
Yes, you can customize your drone in Slime Rancher! As you progress through the game, you’ll unlock new parts and upgrades that can be applied to your drone. These upgrades can improve your drone’s speed, agility, armor, and even give it new abilities such as increased sensor range or enhanced combat capabilities.
Customizing your drone is a great way to tailor it to your playstyle and needs. For example, if you find yourself exploring a lot of tight spaces, you may want to upgrade your drone’s agility and maneuverability. On the other hand, if you’re focused on combat, you may want to prioritize upgrading its weapons and defense systems.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when using drones in Slime Rancher?
One common mistake to avoid when using drones in Slime Rancher is failing to keep an eye on your drone’s energy levels. If your drone runs out of power, it will be unable to function, leaving you vulnerable to attack or stranded in a difficult-to-reach area.
Another common mistake is not adapting your drone strategy to the situation at hand. For example, using a combat drone in an exploration mission may not be the most effective, and vice versa. Make sure to choose the right drone and upgrades for the task at hand, and be prepared to adjust your strategy as needed. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be able to get the most out of your drone and achieve slime-raising success.