Can the Shadow Leviathan Be Killed? A Comprehensive Guide
Yes, the Shadow Leviathan can be killed in Subnautica: Below Zero. While it’s a formidable and terrifying creature, it’s not invincible. However, defeating a Shadow Leviathan requires preparation, the right tools, and careful execution. Unlike some other creatures in the game, the Shadow Leviathan does not respawn once killed, making your efforts permanent and creating a safer passage through its territory.
Understanding the Shadow Leviathan
The Shadow Leviathan is a large, aggressive leviathan-class creature residing primarily in the Crystal Caves and Fabricator Caverns of Subnautica: Below Zero. Its imposing size and terrifying attack patterns make it one of the game’s most challenging enemies. It attacks by wrapping its appendages around the player or their vehicle, attempting to swallow them whole. This behavior demands a strategic approach rather than a direct, reckless confrontation.
Essential Tools for Shadow Leviathan Hunting
The primary method for taking down a Shadow Leviathan involves using the Prawn Suit equipped with specific arm attachments. The most effective combination includes:
- Drill Arm: The drill arm is crucial for inflicting consistent damage on the Shadow Leviathan. Its ability to rapidly drill into the creature makes it a reliable weapon.
- Grappling Arm: The grappling arm is essential for mobility and positioning. It allows players to quickly maneuver around the leviathan and stay in close combat range. This also allows you to avoid being grabbed easily.
Strategy and Combat Tips
The key to a successful encounter is to be strategic and efficient. Here’s a step-by-step approach:
- Preparation: Ensure your Prawn Suit is fully repaired and charged. Carry extra power cells if needed.
- Engagement: Use the grappling arm to quickly close the distance to the Shadow Leviathan.
- Attack: Initiate the attack with the Drill Arm. Keep drilling into its body, aiming for consistent damage.
- Mobility: Use the grappling arm to circle the leviathan, avoiding its grabbing attacks. This requires constant movement and reaction.
- Persistence: Be patient and persistent. The Shadow Leviathan has a significant amount of health, so the battle will take time.
- Repeat: Continue to drill and dodge until the Shadow Leviathan is defeated.
- Caution: Even with the best equipment, the Shadow Leviathan can still cause significant damage. Be cautious and ready to disengage if your Prawn Suit is at critical health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Shadow Leviathans and Leviathan Hunting
1. Can you kill a Ghost Leviathan?
Yes, the Ghost Leviathan can also be killed using the Prawn Suit with the Drill and Grappling Arms. Although they are slightly less armored than Shadow Leviathans, they still require a similar methodical approach to defeat.
2. Can you kill a Reaper Leviathan?
Absolutely. Reaper Leviathans are killable using the Prawn Suit and Drill Arm method. It often takes around 3-5 drilling sessions to bring one down, depending on your accuracy and attack consistency.
3. Do Shadow Leviathans regenerate health?
No, no creature in Subnautica regenerates health. Any damage inflicted on a Shadow Leviathan is permanent. This fact supports the strategy of focusing on finishing the creature in one encounter.
4. Can you kill the Sea Dragon Leviathan?
Yes, the Sea Dragon Leviathan is killable although it is one of the most challenging encounters in the game. While traditional methods such as drilling may prove ineffective, more creative approaches like using gas pods or even provoking Lava Lizards can do the job. It’s a long and taxing endeavor for those that decide to attempt.
5. What is the deadliest Leviathan in Subnautica?
The Sea Dragon Leviathan is considered one of the most dangerous Leviathans in the original Subnautica, second only to the Sea Emperor. Its size, ability to destroy structures, and fiery attacks make it a devastating foe. This is not the same as the deadliest in Subnautica: Below Zero.
6. What is the biggest enemy in Subnautica?
The Sea Dragon Leviathan holds the title of the largest predator in the original Subnautica. There are only three in total within the map.
7. How do I get rid of a Shadow Leviathan without killing it?
While killing is the most reliable way to “get rid of” a Shadow Leviathan permanently, you can also try to avoid it by navigating through the Crystal Caves and Fabricator Caverns carefully. Staying clear of its aggro range can allow you to progress without an engagement. This, however, is less reliable.
8. Can a Seamoth outrun a Ghost Leviathan?
The ability of a Seamoth to outrun a Ghost Leviathan depends on the initial distance. If the Ghost Leviathan is very close, escaping is unlikely. If the chase begins at a distance, you may have a chance. Ultimately, the Seamoth is not built for sustained evasion of such large predators.
9. Can you kill fish in Subnautica?
Yes, you can kill fish in Subnautica with a crafted knife. This ability is essential for gathering food and advancing through the game.
10. What kills Leviathans?
Leviathans are generally defeated through direct combat using the Prawn Suit with the Drill and Grapple Arms, or through unique exploits utilizing the environment or other creatures. Lore-wise, there are references to other methods of defeating them, but these don’t come into play during the gameplay.
11. Can the Ghost Leviathan hurt you?
Yes, both adult and juvenile Ghost Leviathans can inflict significant damage. An adult Ghost Leviathan’s attack deals about 84 percent damage to the player. Juvenile Ghost Leviathans deal 55 percent damage, making them a serious threat to your vehicles, particularly the Cyclops.
12. Where do Shadow Leviathans live?
Shadow Leviathans are found primarily in the Crystal Caves and Fabricator Caverns of Subnautica: Below Zero.
13. How big is the Reaper Leviathan?
The Reaper Leviathan is a massive creature, measuring 55 meters in length. It has a distinct white body with red fins and long pectoral protrusions.
14. How many Ghost Leviathans are in Subnautica?
There are six Ghost Leviathans spawning on the map, excluding the three at the crater’s edge. Three juveniles are in the Lost River, two adults in the Grand Reef, and one adult in the Northern Blood Kelp Zone.
15. How big is a Ghost Leviathan?
An adult Ghost Leviathan is incredibly large, measuring 107 meters in length, while a juvenile is around 65 meters long. They have 12 glowing yellow eyes on their hammerhead-shaped head.
Conclusion
While the Shadow Leviathan presents a formidable challenge in Subnautica: Below Zero, it is ultimately killable with the correct strategy and equipment. Remember to use the Prawn Suit with the Drill and Grapple Arms, carefully maneuver around the leviathan, and persist in your attacks. By following these guidelines, you can safely eliminate the threat of the Shadow Leviathan and explore the depths of Subnautica with greater peace of mind.