The latest Atomic Heart expansion, Annihilation Instinct, has been warmly welcomed by players. It brings fresh plot twists, characters, weapons and abilities. One feature fans have anticipated since the game launched is New Game Plus. Available now, this guide covers what to know before diving back in.
What is New Game+ in Atomic Heart
New Game Plus in Atomic Heart mirrors similar modes in other titles. Players begin the story again, but retain the levels and gear earned in the finale. That means it is possible to unlock every skill and upgrade every weapon to maximum, without worrying about scarce resources.
Typically this mode is used when a player wants to rush through the main story on a first replay and then explore side activities, all while carrying forward past progress. New Game+ also introduces a dedicated higher difficulty. Since players don’t start from zero, enemies become tougher. Mundfish appears to have tackled this balance thoughtfully.
What are the features of New Game+ in Atomic Heart
New Game Plus will test a player’s reflexes. Robotic foes gain new abilities and more autonomy. Enemies wear different auras that signal the new powers the next lab assistant has acquired. There are seven distinct aura types:
- green appearance – enemy attacks can knock the player down;
- yellow appearance — enemies resist firearm damage;
- red appearance – foes move faster and strike quicker;
- blue appearance – enemies can teleport;
- orange appearance – enemies explode when in close range;
- turquoise appearance – enemy attacks drain energy;
- purple appearance – foes resist polymer skills and cassette player elemental damage.
Of course, this means varied aura types will appear together in battles, so players must learn to adapt quickly and read their opponents well.
How to start New Game+ in Atomic Heart
The path is straightforward: complete the game once. Regardless of which ending is chosen, post-credits mode can be activated. Ensure all updates are installed, particularly version 1.8.0.0, then proceed.
If New Game+ does not appear automatically, replay the final chapter from the last save to resolve the issue.
What can be transferred to New Game+
As promised by the developers, unlocked skills and equipment can be carried over. This means starting the new run with the collected gear and abilities from the prior playthrough. Changes you unlocked should stay active, and achievements earned can remain as well, letting players chase any remaining milestones.
What cannot be transferred to New Game+ in Atomic Heart
The developers have not provided explicit limits on transfer restrictions. It is likely that consumables and first aid items must be found again. Likewise, notes and social media gleanings may not carry over.
There could also be stricter limits. For example, Nechaev might lose weapon mods, requiring players to relearn bunkers and strategic routes.
Other guides
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