Unleashing the Beast: How to Acquire the Secret TMP in Resident Evil 4
The TMP (Tactical Machine Pistol) is a fan-favorite weapon in Resident Evil 4, and while it’s readily available for purchase in the standard game, a secret, enhanced version exists. This guide reveals exactly how to unlock this powerful weapon.
To acquire the secret TMP in Resident Evil 4, you need to beat the main story campaign on either Normal or Professional difficulty and then start a New Game Plus save. The secret TMP will be available for purchase from the Merchant at the start of the game, with an exclusive stock.
Obtaining the Secret TMP: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the process:
-
Complete the Game: First and foremost, you must successfully complete the main Resident Evil 4 storyline on either Normal or Professional difficulty. Difficulty doesn’t affect the availability of the secret TMP, so choose the one you’re most comfortable with. This means defeating Saddler and escaping the island with Ashley.
-
New Game Plus Save: After completing the game, you’ll be prompted to create a New Game Plus save file. Make sure you save your progress to utilize the unlocked features in the next playthrough.
-
Visit the Merchant: Begin a new game using your New Game Plus save. As soon as you encounter the Merchant, his inventory will be expanded.
-
Purchase the TMP: Browse the Merchant’s inventory. The secret TMP will be available for purchase. The price may vary slightly depending on difficulty settings.
-
Upgrade the TMP: The secret TMP will be available for purchase from the merchant at the start of the game, it is a completely fresh gun, so you will have to upgrade the TMP like normal to reach its maximum potential.
Why the Secret TMP is Worth the Effort
The secret TMP is a worthwhile investment for several reasons:
-
Early Access: Getting a fully automatic weapon at the beginning of the game provides a significant advantage. You can mow down enemies much faster, especially in early encounters that are normally challenging.
-
Versatility: The TMP is effective against a wide range of enemies. Its high rate of fire makes it excellent for crowd control and dealing with tougher foes.
-
Upgrade Potential: Upgrading the TMP enhances its power, capacity, and reload speed, making it even more formidable throughout the game.
-
Exclusivity: The secret TMP is only available in New Game Plus, making it a unique reward for dedicated players who have completed the game at least once.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Secret TMP
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to address common queries about acquiring and using the secret TMP in Resident Evil 4:
-
What is the difference between the regular TMP and the secret TMP?
The main difference is the time of its availability. The secret TMP can be purchased from the merchant at the start of a New Game Plus play through, after beating the main story. Regular TMP is available later during the first play through. The secret TMP also comes with exclusive stock.
-
Does the difficulty level affect the TMP’s stats or availability?
No, the difficulty level only affects enemy damage and resource availability. The secret TMP is available in New Game Plus regardless of whether you completed the game on Normal or Professional.
-
Can I get the secret TMP on my first playthrough?
No, the secret TMP is only available after completing the game once and starting a New Game Plus playthrough.
-
What carries over in New Game Plus that helps with the secret TMP?
Completed Game Data, including your inventory (weapons, items, money) and upgrades are carried over, making it easier to buy and upgrade the secret TMP at the start of the new game.
-
Is the secret TMP worth the cost?
Yes, the secret TMP is generally considered a very valuable weapon, especially for players looking for a powerful early-game advantage. Its high rate of fire and upgrade potential make it a solid investment.
-
Can I unlock the secret TMP on the Separate Ways DLC?
No, Separate Ways is a separate story campaign and does not affect the availability of the secret TMP in the main game.
-
What are the best upgrades for the TMP?
Prioritize increasing the TMP’s firepower, followed by its ammo capacity and reload speed. The stock is also a useful attachment for improved accuracy.
-
Does the secret TMP affect the game’s difficulty balance?
Yes, having a powerful weapon like the secret TMP early on can make the initial stages of the game noticeably easier, especially on lower difficulties.
-
Can I sell the secret TMP if I don’t like it?
Yes, you can sell the secret TMP to the Merchant like any other weapon. However, it’s generally recommended to keep it due to its usefulness.
-
Does using the secret TMP affect my ranking at the end of the game?
No, using the secret TMP does not directly affect your rank. Your rank is primarily determined by factors such as completion time, number of saves, and difficulty level.
-
Can I use the secret TMP to get a better rank?
Yes, by providing a better tool to fight with from the start, using a secret TMP could very likely make your play through easier, so you can achieve a higher rank overall.
-
Is the secret TMP a good weapon for speedrunning?
Yes, many speedrunners find the secret TMP helpful due to its early availability and effectiveness in clearing out enemies quickly.
-
Does the Professional difficulty affect my chance to get the secret TMP?
No, completing the game on Professional difficulty allows you to unlock the secret TMP in New Game Plus.
-
What other weapons are worth using alongside the secret TMP?
A powerful handgun like the Red9 or Blacktail, along with a shotgun like the Striker or Riot Gun, complement the TMP well.
-
Can I find more ammo for the secret TMP easily?
TMP ammo is relatively common throughout the game, and crafting it using gunpowder and resources will ensure you never run dry.
By following these steps and keeping these FAQs in mind, you can easily unlock and make the most of the secret TMP in Resident Evil 4. Enjoy your enhanced firepower!