Atomic Heart Testing Ground 9 : Conquering Testing Ground 9: A Detailed Guide for Atomic Heart
Atomic Heart throws Major P-3 into a post-apocalyptic USSR overrun by rogue robots and mutated creatures. Testing Grounds are special combat arenas scattered throughout the world, offering challenging puzzles and rewarding loot for the brave (or foolhardy) P-3. This guide delves specifically into Testing Ground 9, providing a comprehensive walkthrough laced with tips and tricks to help you emerge victorious.
Unlocking the Door: Accessing Testing Ground 9
Testing Ground 9 lies on the southernmost section of the map, marked by a prominent statue in the center of a small town. However, the entrance isn’t as straightforward as walking through the door. You’ll need to solve a puzzle hidden within the town’s sewer system.
1. Descending into the Depths:
There are two entry points to the sewers:
- Underwater Access: Locate the submerged pipe near the river and take a refreshing dive.
- Landlubber Entry: For those who prefer dry navigation, find the manhole hidden near the bushes close to the building with the convenient save and upgrade stations.
2. Navigating the Sewer Labyrinth:
Once inside the sewers, prepare to navigate a maze of tunnels. Keep an eye out for lootable containers and eliminate any lurking enemies, especially the pesky “Sprouts” that can quickly overwhelm you.
3. The Boiler Room and the Key:
Your primary objective is to reach the boiler room. Here, you’ll encounter a locked control room at the back. Look for a hidden box of Candles within the room. These candles will be crucial for solving the upcoming puzzle.
4. Camera Activation:
With the Candles in hand, head back to the main area of the sewers. Locate a security camera mounted on the wall. Interact with the camera using the candles, and voila! The door to Testing Ground 9 finally unlocks.
Testing Your Might: Inside Testing Ground 9
Now that you’ve gained access, it’s time to confront the challenges within Testing Ground 9. This section focuses on the two main aspects: the platform puzzle and the enemy encounters.
1. The Platform Puzzle:
The testing ground presents a unique platform puzzle that requires agility and resourcefulness. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
- Candle Holders and Platforms: The room boasts five candle holders and two movable platforms. One candle is already positioned in a holder, while the other lies on a high platform to the left.
- Magnetic Maneuvering: Utilize your trusty “Shok” ability to activate the magnetic panels on the ceiling. This grants you temporary levitation, allowing you to reach the high platform and acquire the second candle.
- The Throwing Act: Now comes the tricky part – throwing the candles into their designated holders. Place Candle A in Holder A. Next, throw Candle B into Holder B. This activates the platform linked to Holder A. Jump onto this platform and use telekinesis to grab Candle A again. Finally, throw Candle A into Holder C.
2. Combating the Mechanical Horde:
Once the platform puzzle is solved, the real test begins. Testing Ground 9 unleashes a wave of robotic enemies. Prepare for a challenging fight, and be ready to utilize your entire arsenal of weapons, abilities, and cunning to emerge victorious:
- Know Your Enemy: The enemy composition varies depending on your difficulty setting. Expect to encounter a mix of ranged attackers, melee brutes, and agile flankers.
- Strategic Weapon Selection: Adapt your weapon choices based on the enemy types. Use shotguns for close-quarters combat against brutes, energy weapons for shielded enemies, and assault rifles for all-around versatility.
- Embrace Abilities: Don’t underestimate the power of your character’s abilities. “Shok” can stun and control enemies, “Polymere” creates a protective shield, and “Dominator” allows you to take control of certain robots, turning them against their comrades.
- Environmental Awareness: The combat area offers opportunities for strategic maneuvering. Use cover to protect yourself from enemy fire and explosive canisters scattered around the arena can be strategically detonated to damage groups of enemies.
3. Claiming the Rewards:
After defeating the mechanical horde, rejoice in your victory! Testing Ground 9 offers valuable rewards for your troubles. Keep an eye out for lootable chests scattered throughout the arena. These chests contain various goodies, including crafting materials, weapon upgrades, and new weapon blueprints.
FAQ’s
Q: Unveiling the Arkhamverse: In what order should I play the Batman: Arkham games?
For the most fulfilling narrative experience, prioritize the following order:
- Batman: Arkham Asylum (2009): The series opener throws you into Arkham Island, a twisted asylum overrun by criminals. This claustrophobic setting sets the stage for intense encounters with iconic villains like Joker and Killer Croc.
- Batman: Arkham City (2011): Gotham transforms into a sprawling open world prison. Face a wider array of adversaries, from Two-Face and Penguin to Hugo Strange. Refine your detective skills and hone your combat prowess.
- Batman: Arkham Origins (2013): A prequel exploring a younger, less experienced Batman. Uncover the secrets of his past while facing a deadly assassin hired to eliminate him. Encounter earlier iterations of iconic villains.
Optional Titles:
- Batman: Arkham City Lockdown (2011): A downloadable side story focused on Robin’s perspective during the events of Arkham City. (Play after Arkham City)
- Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate (2013): A 2.5D side-scrolling game set between Arkham Asylum and Arkham City. (Play after Arkham Origins or Arkham City)
- Batman: Arkham Knight (2015): The epic finale (considered by some as a good starting point despite spoilers). Gotham faces complete lockdown by Scarecrow. Master the Batmobile and confront a terrifying new threat. (Playing after Origins is recommended for a complete story, but some may choose to start here for a more action-packed entry point)
Q: Chronology vs. Release Order?
While the release order is Asylum > City > Origins > Knight, the chronological order is Origins > Asylum > City > Knight. Playing chronologically offers a deeper understanding of character development and plot threads.
Q: Newcomer to the Arkhamverse? Can I jump straight into Arkham Knight?
Technically, yes. However, Arkham Knight heavily references events from previous games. Starting with Arkham Asylum allows you to appreciate character growth, story arcs, and the overall evolution of the world.
Q: Looking for a Challenge? What about the spin-offs?
The downloadable title “Arkham City Lockdown” and the side-scrolling game “Arkham Origins Blackgate” offer unique gameplay experiences and expand the lore. Play them after completing their respective main titles (Arkham City and Arkham Origins) for a more comprehensive experience.
Q: YouTube Spoilers Got You Worried?
Many YouTubers offer gameplay walkthroughs and lore discussions. If you want to avoid spoilers, focus on “blind playthroughs” where the player experiences the game for the first time, or mute the commentary until you reach a specific point.
Remember: The Arkhamverse is a rich tapestry of stories. Choose the order that best suits your playstyle – chronological immersion or starting with the most action-packed title. No matter your choice, prepare for an unforgettable journey into the dark heart of Gotham
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