Prey (2017): 10 Essential Tips for Surviving Talos I

Prey (2017) is a masterclass in immersive sim design, but Talos I can be overwhelming. From resource scarcity to deadly Typhon encounters, every step demands strategy. Whether you're a newcomer or a revisiting veteran, these 10 essential tips will give you the edge you need to survive and thrive.

1. Use the GLOO Cannon to Reach Hidden Areas

The GLOO Cannon is more than a weapon—it's a versatile tool. You can shoot GLOO at walls to create platforms, bridges, or block vents. Many hidden passages, loot caches, and alternative routes are only accessible by climbing GLOO structures. Always keep GLOO canisters handy and experiment with verticality.

2. Prioritize the Combat Focus Neuromod Early

Combat Focus slows time, giving you precious seconds to aim and dodge. It's invaluable against fast enemies like Mimics and Phantoms. Invest your first few Neuromods into this ability—it can turn a desperate fight into a controlled takedown.

3. Hack Everything: Turrets, Doors, and Safes

Hacking opens up the station. You can turn hostile turrets into allies, bypass locked doors, and crack safes for valuable loot. Upgrade your Hack skill early, and always carry spare repair kits to fix hacked turrets. A friendly turret can clear a room while you loot.

4. Recycle and Fabricate Wisely

Use Recycler Charges to convert unwanted items into raw materials. Then, use Fabricators to create what you need—ammo, health packs, Neuromods, and weapon upgrades. Always recycle junk like coffee mugs and broken electronics. Pro tip: Fabricate Neuromods; they're expensive but game-changing.

5. Scan Typhon to Unlock Powerful Neuromods

Use the Psychoscope to scan every Typhon enemy you encounter. Scanning unlocks new Neuromod abilities—both Human and Typhon. For example, scanning a Mimic lets you learn Mimic Matter, allowing you to transform into small objects. Complete research to reduce ability costs.

6. Use the Environment to Your Advantage

Prey's physics engine is robust. You can use explosive canisters, fire extinguishers, and loose pipes to defeat enemies without firing a shot. Lure Typhon into gas leaks then shoot to ignite. Use Nullwave Transmitters to temporarily disable enemy abilities. Think like an engineer.

7. Manage Your Inventory with Upgrades

You start with limited inventory space. Invest in the Suit Modification skill to increase carrying capacity. Also craft or find larger backpacks. Keep essential items like ammo, medkits, and repair kits, but don't hoard; recycle duplicates. Use the Operator Dispensers to summon helpful bots for healing or repair.

8. Learn the Typhon's Weaknesses

Each Typhon has specific vulnerabilities: Mimics are weak to fire, Phantoms to kinetic damage, and Telepaths to disruption. Carry a variety of weapons—shotgun, pistol, GLOO, and disruptor stun gun. Use the Psychoscope to identify weaknesses before engaging. Exploit elemental damage for extra effectiveness.

9. Save Often and Use Multiple Save Slots

Prey has no autosave outside of area transitions. Manual save frequently, especially before major encounters or hacking attempts. Use multiple slots to avoid soft-locks—some choices permanently alter the station's state. A quick load can save hours of frustration.

10. Embrace Non-Lethal Solutions

Not every fight needs to end in death. Use the Stun Gun, Q-Beam, or the Recycler Charge to immobilize or disintegrate enemies. Non-lethal takedowns sometimes yield better loot or avoid triggering alarms. In certain story moments, sparing enemies can unlock alternate outcomes.

Master these tips, and Talos I will reveal its secrets. Prey rewards curiosity and cleverness—so explore every vent, read every email, and never underestimate the power of a well-placed GLOO platform. Good luck, Morgan Yu.