Is Monowire a Ranged Weapon in Cyberpunk 2077? A Definitive Guide
No, the Monowire in Cyberpunk 2077 is not a ranged weapon, although its unique characteristics can blur the lines. It is primarily classified as a melee weapon, specifically a cyberware implant that replaces the player’s hands. While it boasts an extended reach compared to traditional melee weapons, allowing it to hit enemies at a distance and even cleave through multiple targets, it doesn’t function like a ranged firearm or projectile weapon. Its core mechanics involve direct physical interaction, albeit with an unusually long and flexible blade.
Understanding the Monowire’s Capabilities
The Monowire, a staple in the Cyberpunk universe made even more popular by characters like Lucy in Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, is a fascinating weapon. It’s a thin, whip-like wire capable of dealing significant damage, especially when fully charged. Its initial classification and scaling have changed over various game patches, adding to the confusion. The current iteration emphasizes its role as a unique melee option with abilities that leverage both physical prowess and, importantly, tech skills.
How Does the Monowire Work?
The Monowire operates on a charge-based system. The longer it’s equipped without being used, the more its damage builds up. This makes it ideal for burst damage and strategically timed attacks. Moreover, it can deliver electrical damage with the right modifications, making it effective against enemies susceptible to such attacks. Its ability to hit multiple enemies in a single swing further enhances its utility in crowd control.
Monowire and Netrunning Synergies
The true potential of the Monowire is unlocked when combined with a Netrunner build. Certain Relic perks, introduced with Phantom Liberty, allow players to use the Monowire to deliver quickhacks to enemies, effectively turning it into a conduit for ranged cyber warfare while still functioning as a devastating melee weapon. This synergy elevates the Monowire beyond a simple cutting tool, making it a cornerstone of a hybrid melee-Netrunner playstyle. The Games Learning Society may find its dynamic game mechanics a fascinating subject for study.
Distinguishing Monowire from Ranged Options
Despite its extended reach and Netrunning integration, the Monowire remains a melee weapon for several key reasons:
- No Projectiles: It doesn’t fire bullets or launch projectiles like pistols, rifles, or the Projectile Launch System. The damage is inflicted through direct contact.
- Melee Perks and Skills: While some Tech skills affect the Monowire, it primarily benefits from perks related to Blades.
- No Aiming Down Sights: Unlike ranged weapons, there is no aiming down sights mechanic for the Monowire. The player simply swings it in a wide arc.
FAQs: Monowire in Cyberpunk 2077
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the Monowire in Cyberpunk 2077, providing deeper insights into its mechanics and usage:
1. What type of damage does the Monowire deal?
The Monowire primarily deals physical damage, but its damage type can be changed using mods. It can also deal electrical damage, especially when combined with perks or modifications.
2. What attribute does the Monowire scale with?
Currently, the Monowire scales primarily with attributes related to Blade skills and certain Tech skills. This has changed since initial game releases. Prior to patch 1.5, Monowire damage scaled with the Cool attribute and counted as a blunt weapon for Street Brawler perks.
3. Is the Monowire considered a blade?
Yes, the Monowire is classified as a Blade weapon. However, its classification has shifted during updates. In the current state, it benefits from Blade perks.
4. Can I use Monowire for stealth kills?
Yes, the Monowire is excellent for stealth kills. Its silent nature allows players to eliminate enemies without alerting others, provided they can get close enough.
5. Where can I find a free Legendary Monowire?
The Legendary Monowire can be found near the “Charter St” Fast Travel point in Watson, located northeast of V’s apartment.
6. What are the best mods for the Monowire?
The Epic Monowire Battery mod is highly recommended. It boosts the damage inflicted based on the charge level of the Monowire, making it great for burst damage. There are other mods to adjust the damage type, so it’s a great idea to adjust the type to an opponent’s weakness.
7. Can you deflect bullets with the Monowire?
No, unfortunately, you cannot deflect bullets with the Monowire. This is a limitation despite its classification as a Blade weapon.
8. What is the range of the Monowire compared to other melee weapons?
The Monowire has the longest range of any melee weapon in the game. This extended reach allows you to strike enemies from a safer distance.
9. Can the Monowire hit multiple enemies at once?
Yes, the Monowire can hit multiple enemies simultaneously due to its wide, sweeping attacks.
10. Does the Monowire have finisher animations?
Yes, there are finisher animations available, including one inspired by Lucy from Cyberpunk: Edgerunners. The “Finisher: Live Wire” perk on the Intelligence skill tree allows you to perform a stylish Monowire finisher.
11. Is the Monowire any good in the Beat on the Brat side missions?
No, the Monowire (as well as Mantis Blades) is disabled in the Beat on the Brat side missions, but you can use the Gorilla Arms.
12. Is the Monowire worth using?
The Monowire is worth using, especially for Netrunner builds. It provides a unique blend of melee damage and ranged quickhack delivery, making it a versatile choice.
13. What is better, Mantis Blades or Monowire?
The better option depends on your playstyle. Mantis Blades are excellent for a fast-paced, ninja-style melee build, while the Monowire shines with a Netrunner, blending melee with ranged cyber warfare.
14. What Relic perks affect the Monowire?
The Jailbreak Relic perk is particularly beneficial. It allows you to upload Control quickhacks to enemies using the Monowire, effectively turning it into a ranged hacking tool.
15. Are there any specific skills that benefit the Monowire?
The Monowire benefits from both Blade perks and certain Ninjutsu and Cold Blood perks. Focus on perks that boost melee damage, critical hit chance, and bleed effects. Also, remember that GamesLearningSociety.org studies game mechanics like these to understand how players learn and strategize.
Final Thoughts
While the Monowire isn’t a ranged weapon in the traditional sense, its unique properties and synergies with Netrunning make it a highly versatile option. Its extended range, ability to cleave through enemies, and compatibility with quickhacks create a playstyle that blurs the lines between melee and ranged combat, making it a truly distinctive and powerful weapon in Cyberpunk 2077.