R.E.P.O. is a thrilling survival game that pits players against monstrous entities in a chaotic, loot-filled world. Among the arsenal of weapons available, the Tranq Gun stands out as a unique and strategic tool. While it won’t kill your enemies, it can temporarily incapacitate them, giving you precious time to escape, reposition, or set up a devastating follow-up attack. This guide will walk you through how to obtain the Tranq Gun and master its use in R.E.P.O.
Where to Find the Tranq Gun in R.E.P.O.
The Tranq Gun isn’t a guaranteed drop, but it’s a purchasable item that can appear in the game’s Service Station shop.
Here’s how to get your hands on it:
- Progress Through Levels: After completing a level in R.E.P.O., head to the Service Station, the in-game shop where you can spend your hard-earned cash. The Tranq Gun has a chance to spawn here alongside other items like Shotguns, melee weapons, and player upgrades.
- Check the Shelves: The Tranq Gun typically appears on the central shelves of the shop, though it might occasionally be found on the floor. Its availability is random, so if it doesn’t show up, complete another level and check again.
- Prepare Your Funds: The Tranq Gun isn’t cheap—it usually costs between $15,000 and $20,000. Make sure you’ve saved up enough from looting and surviving levels. If you’re short on cash, prioritize grabbing valuables during your runs.
- Purchase It: Once you spot the Tranq Gun, take it to the purchasing platform in the Service Station and activate the red button. Congratulations—you now own a Tranq Gun for the rest of your run!
How to Use the Tranq Gun in R.E.P.O.
The Tranq Gun is a ranged weapon that fires tranquilizer darts to stun enemies, making it a fantastic utility tool rather than a lethal one. Here’s how to wield it effectively:
- Equip the Weapon: Pick up the Tranq Gun like any other item in R.E.P.O.—select it from your inventory to ready it for use.
- Aim Carefully: Line up your shot by adjusting your camera. The Tranq Gun shoots in the direction it’s facing, not necessarily where your character is looking, so take a moment to ensure it’s pointed at your target. Aiming for the body is fine; headshots aren’t required.
- Fire the Dart: Press the action key (default is “E” on keyboard) to shoot. If your dart connects, the target will be stunned for about 15 seconds, regardless of its health or strength (with some exceptions, like the Apex Predator).
- Manage Your Ammo: The Tranq Gun comes with a limited number of charges—typically three darts per load. Once depleted, you’ll need to recharge it at your ship using Energy Crystals, which can be purchased separately. Plan your shots wisely!
- Combine Strategies: The Tranq Gun shines when paired with other tactics:
- Escape: Stun a monster to buy time for a quick getaway, especially during exfiltration when enemies get more aggressive.
- Team Play: Stun an enemy so your crew can bash it with melee weapons or finish it off with a Shotgun blast.
- Pit Traps: On maps with environmental hazards (like Headman Manor’s massive floor holes), stun a monster and toss it into a pit for an easy disposal.
Tips for Success with the Tranq Gun
- Know Your Targets: The Tranq Gun works on most medium and large enemies, like Reapers, Huntsmans, and Animals, but it’s less effective against smaller, agile foes you can evade or melee instead. It’s also speculated to be useless against the Apex Predator—test at your own risk!
- Stay Calm Under Pressure: The Tranq Gun can be tricky to aim, especially if you’re moving. Stand still for a moment to line up your shot, particularly when a monster is stationary or charging at you.
- Recharge Regularly: A fully charged Tranq Gun can last one or two levels, but heavy use will drain it fast. Keep Energy Crystals on hand and recharge at your ship to avoid running dry mid-run.
- Use It Sparingly: With only three shots per charge, don’t waste darts on trivial threats. Save it for emergencies—like when a monster corners you or blocks your exfil route.
Why the Tranq Gun Is Worth It
The Tranq Gun isn’t about raw firepower; it’s about control. Its ability to stun enemies opens up tactical options that other weapons can’t match. Whether you’re stunning a monster to shotgun it in the face, throwing it into a pit, or simply running away to loot more goodies, the Tranq Gun gives you breathing room in R.E.P.O.’s relentless world.
Pair it with a stealthy approach or a well-coordinated team, and you’ll find it’s one of the game’s most versatile tools.
So, next time you’re at the Service Station with a wad of cash burning a hole in your pocket, grab the Tranq Gun. It might just be the difference between a triumphant extraction and becoming monster chow.