Hey guys! Are you diving into the wasteland of Fallout 4 and wondering which playstyle is the most popular and effective? You're not alone! Many players grapple with the decision between Commando (small guns), Heavy Gunner, and Melee builds. Each offers a unique way to experience the game, and the 'best' choice really boils down to your personal preferences and playstyle. Let's break down each option, explore their strengths and weaknesses, and see why one might resonate with you more than the others.
Commando (Small Guns): The Versatile Wastelander
If you're looking for a versatile and reliable playstyle, the Commando (small guns) build might be right up your alley. This build focuses on automatic rifles and pistols, offering a blend of damage output, range, and ammo efficiency. Imagine yourself as a nimble wasteland wanderer, darting between cover, unleashing a hail of bullets, and taking down enemies before they even get close. Sounds pretty cool, right?
One of the biggest advantages of the Commando build is its adaptability. You can engage enemies at various ranges, making it effective in both close-quarters combat and medium-range firefights. The automatic weapons used in this build, like the Combat Rifle and the Submachine Gun, have a high rate of fire, allowing you to quickly dish out significant damage. Plus, ammo for small guns is generally more plentiful than heavy gun ammo, meaning you'll spend less time scavenging and more time blasting.
To truly shine as a Commando, you'll want to invest in perks that enhance your automatic weapon proficiency. The Commando perk (duh!) is essential, increasing the damage of your automatic rifles and pistols. Gunslinger is another great choice for automatic pistols, while Rifleman is the go-to for non-automatic rifles if you want some extra punch at longer ranges. Don't forget about perks like Gun Nut and Science!, which allow you to modify your weapons, making them even more powerful. And for staying alive, snag the Medic perk to heal more efficiently with stimpaks, and the Toughness perk for damage resistance.
The Commando build is a fantastic choice for players who enjoy a balanced approach to combat. It offers a solid mix of damage, accuracy, and survivability, making it a great option for both newcomers and seasoned Fallout veterans. You'll feel like a true action hero, mowing down hordes of enemies with a satisfying spray of bullets.
Heavy Gunner: Unleash the Fury!
Now, if you're the type of player who likes to go big or go home, the Heavy Gunner playstyle is where it's at! This build is all about wielding the most devastating weapons in the wasteland – think Miniguns, Gatling Lasers, and Missile Launchers. If you want to feel like an unstoppable force of nature, the Heavy Gunner is the way to go. Imagine yourself walking into a room full of Raiders and simply turning them into a pile of scrap metal with a single, sustained burst from your Minigun. The raw power is simply exhilarating!
The defining characteristic of the Heavy Gunner build is its sheer damage output. Heavy weapons can tear through enemies like they're made of paper, making them especially effective against heavily armored foes and large groups. However, this power comes at a cost. Heavy weapons are, well, heavy, which means you'll need to invest in Strength to carry them and their ample ammunition. Ammo can also be a scarce resource, so you'll need to be diligent about scavenging and crafting.
To maximize your effectiveness as a Heavy Gunner, you'll absolutely need the Heavy Gunner perk, which significantly increases the damage of your heavy weapons. Strength is your best friend, so perks like Strong Back (for carrying capacity) and Pain Train (for charging through enemies in Power Armor) are also excellent choices. Locksmith and Hacker can help you get into locked areas to find precious resources and rare heavy weapons. And of course, you'll want to invest in Power Armor to provide additional protection and further boost your Strength. The Nuclear Physicist perk can help extend the life of your fusion cores, which are essential for powering your armor.
The Heavy Gunner is a fantastic playstyle for players who love overwhelming firepower and don't mind sacrificing some agility and stealth. If you dream of wading into the thick of battle, unleashing a storm of bullets and explosions, then the Heavy Gunner is your calling. Just remember to bring plenty of ammo!
Melee: Get Up Close and Personal
For those of you who prefer a more visceral and intimate approach to combat, the Melee playstyle offers an adrenaline-pumping experience unlike any other. This build focuses on close-quarters combat, using weapons like Super Sledges, Katanas, and even your bare fists to take down enemies. If you enjoy the thrill of getting right in the thick of the fight, feeling the impact of every swing, then the Melee build is for you. Picture yourself charging into a group of Ghouls, unleashing a flurry of powerful strikes, and sending them flying through the air. It's brutal, it's satisfying, and it's incredibly fun!
The Melee build is all about raw power and aggression. You'll be relying on your strength, speed, and cunning to close the distance with enemies and deliver devastating blows. While you might lack the range of the Commando or the raw firepower of the Heavy Gunner, you'll make up for it with incredible damage potential and a unique sense of control over the battlefield. Plus, there's something undeniably cool about taking down a Deathclaw with a well-placed swing of a Super Sledge.
To excel as a Melee fighter, you'll need to invest heavily in Strength and Agility. The Big Leagues perk is your bread and butter, increasing the damage of your melee weapons. Iron Fist does the same for unarmed combat, while Blitz allows you to teleport short distances to your target in V.A.T.S., making it easier to close the gap. Rooted is a great defensive perk, increasing your damage resistance and melee damage while standing still. And don't forget about the Ninja perk, which significantly boosts your sneak attack damage with melee weapons, allowing you to one-shot even tough enemies if you're stealthy enough.
The Melee build is a thrilling choice for players who enjoy a challenge and aren't afraid to get their hands dirty. It requires a different mindset than the ranged builds, focusing on positioning, timing, and exploiting enemy weaknesses. If you crave the intensity of close-quarters combat and the satisfaction of delivering bone-crushing blows, then the Melee playstyle is waiting for you.
So, Which Playstyle is the Most Popular?
Alright, so we've looked at the Commando, Heavy Gunner, and Melee builds. But which one reigns supreme in terms of popularity? Honestly, there's no definitive answer, as player preferences vary widely. However, we can look at some general trends and observations.
The Commando build is arguably the most popular choice overall. Its versatility and reliability make it a great option for a wide range of players, from beginners to veterans. The availability of ammo and the effectiveness of automatic weapons across various combat scenarios make it a solid and consistent choice. You'll often see players rocking Combat Rifles, Handmade Rifles, and other automatic weapons as their go-to tools of destruction.
The Heavy Gunner build has a dedicated following, particularly among players who enjoy the sheer power and spectacle of heavy weapons. While it might not be as universally popular as the Commando, the Heavy Gunner is a very strong choice, especially in the late game when you have access to the best weapons and plenty of ammo. The Minigun, Gatling Laser, and Missile Launcher are iconic weapons for a reason, and the Heavy Gunner build lets you wield them to their full potential.
The Melee build, while perhaps the least popular of the three, has a passionate fanbase. Players who enjoy the Melee playstyle appreciate the unique challenge and the visceral thrill of close-quarters combat. It's a more demanding playstyle, requiring careful planning and skillful execution, but it can be incredibly rewarding. Plus, there's a certain sense of satisfaction that comes from taking down a tough enemy with nothing but your fists or a trusty melee weapon.
Finding the Playstyle That's Right for YOU
Ultimately, the 'most popular' playstyle is the one that you enjoy the most! Fallout 4 is a game about player choice and freedom, and you should feel empowered to experiment with different builds and find the one that suits your preferences. Don't be afraid to try out all three of these playstyles (and others!) to see what clicks with you.
Consider your preferred combat style. Do you like to hang back and snipe enemies from a distance? Do you prefer to run and gun, unleashing a hail of bullets? Or do you thrive in close-quarters combat, feeling the impact of every blow? Your answers to these questions will help guide you toward the right playstyle.
Also, think about the type of weapons and armor you enjoy using. Do you love the satisfying sound of an automatic rifle firing? Are you drawn to the massive firepower of heavy weapons? Or do you prefer the feel of a melee weapon in your hands? Your favorite gear can also influence your playstyle choice.
Don't be afraid to respec your character if you're not happy with your initial choices. Fallout 4 allows you to reallocate your SPECIAL points and perks, so you can always change your build if you want to try something new. Experimentation is key to finding the playstyle that's perfect for you.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it! We've explored the Commando, Heavy Gunner, and Melee playstyles in Fallout 4, discussing their strengths, weaknesses, and overall popularity. While the Commando build might be the most generally popular due to its versatility, each playstyle offers a unique and rewarding way to experience the game. The best way to find the right fit for you is to try them out and see what feels most fun and engaging. Happy exploring, wastelanders!
