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Fallout 76: Mastering VATS Builds

Discover the key elements to optimize your VATS build in Fallout 76 for maximum damage output.
Fallout 76: Mastering VATS Builds

Highlights

  • Unleash extreme DPS with VATS builds via constant critical hits.
  • Select weapons and mutations strategically to enhance damage and AP efficiency.
  • Equip specific perks and armor sets to amplify your VATS build effectiveness.

Fallout 76's version of VATS functions similarly to its predecessor but without the time-slow feature. It acts as an auto-aim tool that offers significant advantages when combined with specific perk cards. To fully leverage VATS, crafting a build tailored to its mechanics is essential.

VATS builds excel in delivering high DPS through a stream of critical hits, albeit at the cost of increased AP consumption. These builds are versatile, suitable for various activities like side quests and public events in Fallout 76. Below is a comprehensive guide on constructing an effective VATS build, along with a sample Commando loadout setup.

Crafting Your VATS Build: Perks and SPECIAL

VATS builds accommodate all weapon types. The example provided is tailored for a Level 50 non-stealth, non-Bloodied Commando specializing in automatic rifles. For different weapon preferences, adjust your SPECIAL attributes and select appropriate perks such as Shotgunner or Gunslinger. Key VATS perks include:

  • Better Criticals: Amplifies damage from VATS criticals.
  • Critical Savvy: Reduces the critical meter consumption for VATS criticals.
  • Gun Fu: Automatically switches targets in VATS upon a kill, granting bonus damage for the next VATS shot.
  • Action Boy/Girl: Boosts AP regeneration rate.
  • Adrenaline: Increases damage for a brief duration after each kill.
  • Concentrated Fire: Enables targeting specific limbs in VATS, enhancing damage and accuracy with each shot.
  • Grim Reaper's Sprint: Chance to fully replenish AP upon a VATS kill.
  • Four Leaf Clover: Each hit in VATS offers a chance to refill the critical meter.
  • Psychopath: Each kill in VATS provides an opportunity to refill the critical meter.

Due to perk distribution, players must prioritize damage-enhancing perks over AP and critical meter-related ones.

Optimal Weapons and Mutations for Your VATS Build

Weapon selection in Fallout 76 varies based on personal preference. For the Commando build, consider utilizing an automatic Fixer or Railway Rifle with legendary effects that bolster damage output and AP efficiency.

Essential mutations like Eagle Eyes, Herd Mentality, and Herbivore significantly enhance your build. These mutations provide increased critical damage, bonus SPECIAL stats in group settings, and amplified effects from plant-based food. Recommended food buffs to complement Herbivore mutation include:

  • Corn Soup (boosts AP regeneration)
  • Blight Soup (increases critical damage)
  • Company Tea (enhances AP regeneration)
  • Hard Lemonade (raises max AP and regeneration rate)

Prioritize armor sets with high damage resistance. Initially, a full set of Heavy Combat Armor with the Brotherhood of Steel modification is effective. For an upgrade, aim to craft a complete Secret Service Armor set obtainable from Regs, a Gold Bullion trader in Fallout 76.

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