Introduction
Ever walked the Mojave Wasteland, squinting into the harsh sun, and dreamed of a weapon that combines sleek design with satisfyingly accurate firepower? Look no further than the Laser Rifle in Fallout: New Vegas. This isn’t just another piece of scrap metal; it’s a symbol of energy-based combat, a tool of survival, and, in the right hands, an instrument of laser-focused fury.
This guide aims to arm you with everything you need to know about mastering the Laser Rifle in the harsh environments of New Vegas. We’ll delve into its core stats, uncover its unique variants, explore powerful build strategies, and examine its place in the game’s rich lore. Whether you’re a seasoned wasteland wanderer or a fresh-faced courier, get ready to unlock the full potential of the Laser Rifle.
Understanding the Laser Rifle’s Core Mechanics
The Laser Rifle is a staple energy weapon in Fallout: New Vegas, known for its accuracy, manageable recoil, and decent damage output. Its effectiveness is rooted in a few key areas. It deals a respectable amount of damage, and when properly modified the laser rifle can easily take down many enemies.
The Laser Rifle utilizes Energy Cells as ammunition, readily found throughout the Mojave Wasteland. Its relatively low ammunition consumption rate compared to other energy weapons makes it a sustainable choice for extended expeditions. However, judicious ammunition management is still key to survival in New Vegas. Be sure to maximize scrounging for laser rifle ammunition.
In V.A.T.S. (Vault-Tec Assisted Targeting System), the Laser Rifle offers reasonable Action Point consumption, allowing for multiple targeted shots per turn, especially with optimized builds. Its weight and value are balanced, making it easy to carry and a worthwhile investment early to mid game.
The skill requirement for the Laser Rifle falls under Energy Weapons. Investing in this skill enhances accuracy, damage, and overall weapon handling. As the Laser Rifle condition deteriorates with use, regular maintenance is crucial. Investing in the repair skill and finding matching laser rifles will allow for smooth maintenance.
Acquiring this weapon is relatively straightforward. Common locations include the Gun Runners, the Crimson Caravan, and the REPCONN Test Site. Enemy types that often wield the Laser Rifle include Van Graff Thugs guarding the Silver Rush casino and some of the upgraded Securitrons patrolling the Strip. Several vendors throughout the game sell the weapon, making it easily accessible to players.
Modifications can greatly enhance the Laser Rifle’s performance. Available mods include scopes for improved accuracy at range, beam splitters to deal damage to multiple targets, and reinforced components for increased durability. These mods can be found at vendors such as the Gun Runners and can occasionally be obtained as quest rewards.
The Laser Rifle has clear advantages and disadvantages. Its strengths lie in its accuracy, decent damage, and widespread availability. This makes it a reliable choice for various combat scenarios. However, its reliance on energy cells can be a drawback in areas where ammunition is scarce. Furthermore, the Laser Rifle is less effective against heavily armored targets compared to weapons like the Plasma Rifle.
Unveiling the Unique Laser Rifle Variants
Beyond the standard model, the Mojave Wasteland holds unique Laser Rifle variants with distinct characteristics and backstories. Securing these variants can offer significant advantages in combat.
Wattz Laser Rifle
One notable variant is the Wattz Laser Rifle. Sporting a distinct and slightly menacing dark gray finish, the Wattz Laser Rifle stands out visually. It can be found in Vault Twenty-Two, and is on the lowest level in the living quarters. The Wattz Laser Rifle offers slightly improved damage output compared to the standard model and is capable of dealing higher critical damage. However, the slightly better stats may not be worth going into the infested vault.
Compliance Regulator
The Compliance Regulator is another unique variant. This modified Laser Rifle fires non-lethal energy blasts, effectively disabling targets without killing them. It is best obtained from doing the White Glove Society’s questline, and will only be given if the player tells Mortimer about Ted. This weapon is invaluable for certain quests or role-playing scenarios where non-lethal solutions are preferred.
Crafting the Ultimate Laser Rifle Build
To truly dominate the Mojave Wasteland with a Laser Rifle, a well-crafted build is essential. This involves careful allocation of skills, perks, and equipment to maximize the weapon’s potential.
Skill Allocation
Investing heavily in the Energy Weapons skill is paramount. This skill directly impacts accuracy, damage, and critical hit chance with the Laser Rifle. Supporting skills such as Repair and Science are also valuable, allowing for weapon maintenance and crafting enhanced ammunition. Sneak can be useful if you’re focusing on being stealthy with a high crit laser build.
Starting Stats
When starting the game, consider focusing on Intelligence, Perception, and Agility to support the Energy Weapons skill. Intelligence boosts skill points, Perception enhances accuracy in V.A.T.S., and Agility increases Action Points. This starting base can be tweaked to personal preference.
Essential Perks
Several perks are essential for Laser Rifle users. Finesse increases critical hit chance. Better Criticals enhances critical hit damage. Laser Commander provides bonus damage and critical hit chance with laser weapons. Lastly, Set Lasers for Fun gives bonus critical chance when dealing damage with laser weaponry.
Combat Tactics
Strategic positioning is key to success with the Laser Rifle. Maintaining distance from enemies allows for accurate shots and minimizes the risk of close-quarters combat. V.A.T.S. is a powerful tool for targeting specific body parts, such as headshots for increased damage. Managing ammunition effectively is crucial, especially during prolonged engagements. Prioritize looting energy cells from fallen enemies and purchasing them from vendors whenever possible.
Equipment Synergies
Armor recommendations vary depending on playstyle. For those who enjoy heavy protection, the T-51b Power Armor offers excellent damage resistance. The Remnant’s Power Armor provides a balance of protection and mobility. Companions can also complement a Laser Rifle build. ED-E can repair weapons and detect enemies, while Veronica offers melee support and carries extra gear.
Optimal Damage Thresholds
The Laser Rifle works best against targets with low to medium Damage Threshold. This makes it effective against many human enemies, ghouls, and weaker creatures. However, against heavily armored targets like Deathclaws or heavily armored Super Mutants, consider using more specialized weapons.
The Laser Rifle in the Fallout: New Vegas Lore
The Laser Rifle is deeply rooted in the Fallout universe, with its origins tracing back to Wattz Electronics, a pre-War corporation known for its energy weapon technology. The weapon’s design and functionality reflect this legacy.
Several factions in Fallout: New Vegas utilize the Laser Rifle, including the Van Graffs, who deal in energy weapons at the Silver Rush casino, and Enclave remnants who still hold onto pre-War technology. Notable NPCs such as Gloria Van Graff have close ties to the Laser Rifle.
Final Thoughts on the Laser Rifle
The Laser Rifle in Fallout: New Vegas is a versatile and reliable weapon that can be incredibly effective in the hands of a skilled player. Its accuracy, manageable recoil, and decent damage make it a solid choice for various combat scenarios. While it may not be the most powerful weapon in the game, its widespread availability and adaptability make it a valuable tool for survival in the Mojave Wasteland.
Experiment with different builds, modifications, and tactics to discover your own unique playstyle with the Laser Rifle. Whether you prefer long-range sniping or close-quarters combat, this weapon can be adapted to suit your needs. So, grab your Laser Rifle, stock up on energy cells, and get ready to unleash some laser-focused fury in the unforgiving world of Fallout: New Vegas.
