An early decision in Control Resonant involves selecting Dylan's primary offensive capability: which Aberrant Form to equip. This choice, while impactful, is limited to three attack-oriented options, aligning with Remedy Entertainment's combat philosophy of prioritizing offense. However, the decision isn't singular; players must also select a secondary Aberrant Form, each with distinct stats influencing enemy engagement.
Understanding Aberrant Forms
Each Aberrant Form offers different strengths and weaknesses. While the initial choice is crucial, all forms can be unlocked later through spending Aberrant Strength points and Living Shards. Unlocking a Primary Aberrant Form costs 5 Aberrant Strength points and 3 Living Shards, while a Secondary Form requires 2 Living Shards in addition to the same Aberrant Strength cost. This allows players to experiment and switch strategies as they progress.
Primary Aberrant Form Recommendations
For beginners, the versatility of the forms varies. The Glaive is recommended as the most beginner-friendly option.
Glaive
The Glaive is a wide-reaching attack dealing 70-90 damage per hit, with no critical hit chance. Its primary advantage is its ability to strike multiple enemies simultaneously and create distance, which is particularly useful against the swarming Hiss enemies encountered early in the game and against The Artist Resonant. The range of the Glaive allows players to manage enemy proximity, dodge incoming attacks, and maintain a defensive space.
Strike
Strike offers a high critical hit chance of 30%, but at the cost of lower damage per hit, ranging from 30-60. This form is suitable for players who prefer to gamble on dealing bonus damage, but its effectiveness is diminished against large groups of enemies. Strike excels in one-on-one combat and boss fights rather than general crowd control.
Cleave
Cleave is a balanced attack that deals 65 damage per hit and inflicts extra damage when striking an enemy's back. While it offers slightly more damage than Strike, it lacks a critical hit chance and its effectiveness is tied to a more specific playstyle that emphasizes flanking. This form is considered more niche and less versatile for beginners compared to Glaive or Strike.
Secondary Aberrant Form Recommendations
When selecting a secondary Aberrant Form, Extend is suggested for its balance of range and utility.
Extend
Extend is a long-range attack that can hit multiple enemies and increases Falter, with potential for extra damage on a perfect charge. It deals 63-127 damage and boosts Falter by 0-21. Extend allows players to maintain distance while applying pressure, building Falter to execute enemies and enhance Dominance attacks. This form is beneficial for players who find it difficult to remain stationary during fast-paced combat.
Drill
Drill is a rapid attack that, when charged, deals significant damage and Falter. A charged Drill can inflict 95-280 damage and 0-21 Falter, continuously damaging a target. While powerful, its charging mechanic can slow down combat. Drill can effectively stunlock enemies and weaken them for quick elimination, making it a strong option for specific encounters, though potentially challenging in the initial fast-paced battles.
Crush
Crush is a slow but high-damage attack that can knock enemies down. It deals 127-222 damage and 21-42 Falter. While its raw stats are impressive, its slow execution leaves the player vulnerable. This form is best suited for players who have mastered the game's combat timing and can afford to commit to slower, more powerful attacks.