Are Mantis Blades Still Good in Cyberpunk 2077? A Deep Dive
Yes, Mantis Blades are still a very viable and powerful option in Cyberpunk 2077, particularly after the 2.0 update and the release of the Phantom Liberty DLC. While they may not be the undisputed king of melee combat anymore, they’ve carved out a unique niche that makes them a compelling choice for certain playstyles. The 2.0 update has leveled the playing field, making them comparable to katanas in many aspects while offering their own distinct advantages. They truly shine when synergized with the new relic skill tree, and with proper planning, you can unleash devastating damage with them. Let’s dive into the specifics to see why Mantis Blades deserve a spot in your arsenal.
The Evolution of Mantis Blades
Originally, Mantis Blades were considered by some to be a mid-tier melee option, often overshadowed by katanas. However, the 2.0 update significantly changed the landscape. Now, Mantis Blades boast identical stats to a standard katana of the same tier. This means they’re no longer inherently weaker; the difference comes down to specific perks, unique katana effects, and the player’s preferred approach to combat. The new relic skill tree introduced with the Phantom Liberty DLC further enhanced their potential, unlocking abilities that synergize incredibly well with their unique combat style.
Mantis Blades vs. Katanas: A Fair Fight?
The perception that Mantis Blades are simply “worse katanas” is largely outdated. While katanas can indeed benefit from crafting perks and iconic effects, the Mantis Blades offer consistent, reliable damage output. The leap attack with Mantis Blades, which closes distances quickly and allows for a powerful strike, is a game-changer, and the Relic skill tree further empowers this capability, allowing for even more aggressive and mobile combat.
The core advantage of Mantis Blades lies in their integration into the cyberware system. Unlike katanas, which occupy a weapon slot, Mantis Blades are installed into your arm slot. This means you’re not swapping out weapons, and they’re always readily accessible. They are your fists, making the seamless transition between unarmed and deadly incredibly fluid.
Defining Your Playstyle
Ultimately, whether Mantis Blades are “better” than katanas depends heavily on your preferred playstyle. If you’re looking for highly versatile and stylish melee combat with the potential for unique katana effects, then a katana might be a better fit. However, if you prefer aggressive, in-your-face melee with a focus on mobility and close-quarters power, then Mantis Blades are an excellent choice, particularly in the post 2.0 Cyberpunk world.
Unique Advantages of Mantis Blades
Here’s a breakdown of what makes Mantis Blades still a potent choice:
- Cyberware Integration: They are a cyberware modification, not a weapon, and are always available as your melee.
- Leaping Attack: The ability to leap toward enemies for a devastating attack adds an incredible level of aggression and mobility.
- Relic Skill Synergies: The Relic tree expands on the leap, closing gaps faster and doing more damage.
- No Weapon Slot: Mantis blades occupy an arm slot and are always ready, freeing up your weapon slots.
- Stealth Potential: Combine Mantis Blades with the “Hidden Dragon” perk from the cool tree to perform devastating sneak takedowns, utilizing height to your advantage.
- Physical Combat The blades scale with reflex. A hybrid melee build with Body and Reflex will allow you to maintain high sustainability with mantis blades.
Damage Capabilities and Considerations
While the raw DPS of legendary Monowires (like the one from Doc Ryder, at 1607 DPS) might seem higher than the Mantis Blades (at 728 DPS in the article), this isn’t the whole story. Mantis Blades are built for consistent, high-damage melee, and they can inflict significant damage with each successful hit. Their reliance on Reflex combined with Body for sustainability make them the ideal melee hybrid build weapon. The “high damage threshold with less random kill chance” is a testament to their consistency.
Mantis Blades vs. Other Cyberware Options
It’s also crucial to consider Mantis Blades in the context of other cyberware options, specifically Gorilla Arms and Monowire:
- Gorilla Arms: These are focused on Strength, making them ideal for brawling and blunt weapon builds. They are necessary for the “Beat on the Brat” missions. They don’t utilize the agility offered by Reflex.
- Monowire: This is a netrunner’s best friend, offering high damage potential (especially against full health enemies), and has a high chance for instant death. It also offers a silent stealth kill option.
Therefore, the best choice really comes down to what you want your V to excel at. Mantis Blades shine in fast, mobile, aggressive melee builds where the player wants to close gaps quickly and maintain high mobility, focusing on Reflex based perks with some body for sustain.
Final Verdict
Mantis Blades remain an excellent choice for melee builds in Cyberpunk 2077. They’re no longer simply a second-rate option, as they offer comparable damage to katanas with some unique advantages. If you desire a fast-paced, aggressive, and highly mobile melee combat style, coupled with the unique enhancements of the relic tree, then Mantis Blades will continue to be your deadly best friend. They are a solid, reliable, and enjoyable weapon choice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Mantis Blades
1. Are Mantis Blades good for a stealth build?
Yes, with the Hidden Dragon perk from the Cool tree, you can perform sneak takedowns using Mantis Blades from a height. They also are fairly silent.
2. Can you still punch with Mantis Blades?
Absolutely! Mantis Blades replace your fists, allowing you to attack with them in melee combat.
3. How do Mantis Blades scale?
Mantis Blades scale primarily with the Reflex stat and the Blades skill tree.
4. Do blade perks affect Mantis Blades?
Yes, any perks that specify “blades” within the Reflex skill tree will affect your Mantis Blades.
5. Can Mantis Blades be modded?
Yes, the rarity level of the Mantis Blades will determine how many mods you can apply. You can find rare, epic, and legendary versions.
6. What is the difference between Monowire and Mantis Blades?
Monowire excels in netrunner builds and has high damage against full-health enemies. Mantis Blades are tailored for aggressive, mobile melee builds, focusing on Reflex and the Blades skill.
7. Are Mantis Blades melee damage?
Yes, Mantis Blades are considered melee weapons and deal physical damage. Your Body stat will help with sustain.
8. Do Mantis Blades take up a weapon slot?
No, they are installed as cyberware in your arm slot, freeing up your weapon slots.
9. Can I use Mantis Blades in Beat on the Brat?
No, weapons like Mantis Blades and Monowire are disabled during the Beat on the Brat missions. Gorilla Arms are the only applicable cyberware weapon during those missions.
10. Is there a legendary version of Mantis Blades?
Yes, there are rare, epic, and legendary versions of Mantis Blades.
11. How do you lunge with Mantis Blades?
Hold down the strong attack button to leap towards an enemy with a powerful attack. The Relic skill tree can enhance this attack with additional effects.
12. Do Mantis Blades retract?
Yes, Mantis Blades are designed to retract into your arms when not in use.
13. Do Flash and Thunderclap affect Mantis Blades?
Yes, Flash and Thunderclap allows you to perform a distance closing leap with a strong attack, enhancing Mantis Blade engagements.
14. Is Katana better than Mantis Blades?
It depends on your playstyle. Katanas can benefit from unique effects and crafting perks, but Mantis Blades offer consistent melee damage and a unique leap attack. Both have their strengths and weaknesses.
15. What is the best melee weapon?
It depends on your build. Katanas are versatile and powerful with different unique iconic effects. The Monowire does massive damage to full health enemies. Mantis Blades excels with mobility and an emphasis on speed and aggression. All are top contenders depending on the build.