How To Buy Weapons In Once Human: A Survivor's Guide

Once Human throws you into a shattered world teeming with Aberrants, rogue AI, and other desperate survivors. To survive, you'll need more than just grit – you'll need firepower. While crafting is a vital part of your arsenal, sometimes you need a specific weapon, or a higher-tier version, that you can't immediately produce. That's where buying weapons comes in. This guide will walk you through the different methods of acquiring weapons through trade in Once Human, ensuring you're always prepared for the dangers ahead.

Forget wandering aimlessly hoping for a lucky drop. Understanding the game's economy and where to find vendors is key to building a formidable arsenal. We'll cover everything from utilizing Territory Points and understanding vendor inventories to navigating the Black Market and maximizing your trading potential. So, holster your rusty pipe wrench and let's dive into the world of weapon acquisition.

1. Territory Points: Your Foundation for Weapon Acquisition

Territory Points are your primary currency for buying weapons and other essential items from vendors within your claimed territory. These points are earned by completing various activities within your territory, such as:

  • Defeating Aberrants: Every Aberrant you eliminate contributes to your Territory Point pool. Higher-level Aberrants naturally yield more points.
  • Completing Territory Missions: These missions, often found on your territory's control panel, offer a substantial reward of Territory Points upon completion. They can range from resource gathering to defending your territory from attacks.
  • Resource Gathering: While less lucrative than combat, gathering resources within your territory also grants a small amount of Territory Points. Think of it as a passive income stream while you're building your base.
  • Territory Defense: Successfully defending your territory from Aberrant waves or other player attacks will reward you with a significant amount of Territory Points. This is a crucial aspect of maintaining a stable economy.

Tip: Prioritize Territory Missions and Aberrant hunting to maximize your Territory Point income. Efficiently clearing out nests of Aberrants can significantly boost your earnings.

2. Locating and Interacting with Territory Vendors

Once you've amassed a decent amount of Territory Points, it's time to find a vendor. These vendors are typically located within your claimed territory, often near the control panel or other key structures. Here's how to find them and interact with them:

  • Check Your Territory Control Panel: The control panel often displays the location of nearby vendors. Look for icons representing merchants or traders.
  • Explore Your Territory: If the control panel doesn't provide a clear location, explore your territory thoroughly. Vendors are usually situated in easily accessible areas.
  • Look for the Vendor Icon: When you're close to a vendor, a distinct icon will appear on your screen and on the minimap. This icon usually resembles a merchant's scale or a similar symbol.
  • Interact with the Vendor: Approach the vendor and press the interact key (usually 'E' by default). This will open the vendor's inventory.

Tip: Some territories might have multiple vendors specializing in different types of items. Explore your territory to discover all available trading options.

3. Understanding Vendor Inventories and Weapon Selection

Vendor inventories vary depending on the territory level and the vendor's specialization. Here's what to keep in mind when browsing their wares:

  • Weapon Types: Vendors typically offer a range of weapons, including melee weapons, pistols, rifles, shotguns, and even specialized weapons like grenade launchers.
  • Weapon Tiers: Weapons are tiered, with higher tiers offering better stats and damage output. Expect to pay more Territory Points for higher-tier weapons.
  • Ammunition: Don't forget to stock up on ammunition for your chosen weapon. Vendors usually sell ammunition alongside weapons.
  • Attachments: Some vendors may also offer weapon attachments like scopes, suppressors, and magazines. These attachments can significantly enhance your weapon's performance.
  • Availability: Vendor inventories refresh periodically. If you don't find what you're looking for, check back later.

Tip: Focus on acquiring weapons that complement your playstyle and the challenges you're facing. A shotgun is great for close-quarters combat, while a rifle is better for engaging enemies at a distance.

4. The Black Market: A Risky but Rewarding Option

For those seeking rare or powerful weapons, the Black Market offers a more clandestine option. However, accessing the Black Market comes with risks.

  • Finding the Black Market: Black Market locations are often hidden and require specific conditions to access. This might involve completing certain quests, finding hidden entrances, or even triggering events.
  • Black Market Currency: The Black Market typically uses a different currency than Territory Points. This currency might be obtained through specific activities, such as completing challenging quests or defeating powerful bosses.
  • High Risk, High Reward: Black Market weapons are often significantly more powerful than those found at regular vendors. However, they also come at a higher price and may be more difficult to acquire.
  • Reputation System: Engaging with the Black Market might affect your reputation with certain factions. Be mindful of the consequences of your actions.

Tip: Approach the Black Market with caution. Be prepared to face challenges and potential risks. The rewards, however, can be well worth the effort.

5. Maximizing Your Trading Potential

To get the most out of your weapon purchases, consider these tips:

  • Prioritize Weapon Upgrades: Focus on upgrading your existing weapons rather than constantly buying new ones. Upgrading can significantly improve a weapon's stats and performance.
  • Complete Daily and Weekly Challenges: These challenges often reward you with Territory Points or other valuable resources that can be used to purchase weapons.
  • Team Up with Other Players: Teaming up with other players can make it easier to complete challenging activities and earn more Territory Points.
  • Manage Your Resources Wisely: Don't waste Territory Points on unnecessary items. Focus on acquiring weapons and ammunition that will help you survive in the long run.
  • Scout Before You Buy: If possible, try out different weapon types before committing to a purchase. This will help you find the weapons that best suit your playstyle.

6. Understanding Weapon Durability and Repair

Remember that weapons in Once Human have durability. Using a weapon will gradually decrease its durability, eventually leading to reduced effectiveness and, ultimately, breakage.

  • Monitor Durability: Keep a close eye on your weapon's durability bar.
  • Repair Options: You can repair weapons at your base using repair kits or specific crafting stations.
  • Preventative Maintenance: Regularly repairing your weapons before they break down completely will help extend their lifespan and maintain their effectiveness.

Tip: Stockpile repair kits and prioritize crafting stations that allow you to repair your weapons efficiently. A well-maintained weapon is a reliable weapon.

Conclusion: Arm Yourself for Survival

Buying weapons in Once Human is a crucial aspect of survival. By understanding the different methods of acquisition, managing your resources wisely, and maintaining your weapons effectively, you can build a formidable arsenal and face the challenges of the shattered world with confidence. Territory Points are your foundation, the Black Market offers risky rewards, and vendor inventories are your go-to for reliable firepower. Now, get out there, explore, and arm yourself for the fight! Remember, knowledge is power, and a well-stocked arsenal is your key to thriving in Once Human.