FragPunk’s Unique Selling Point: Shard Cards
FragPunk, a fast-paced first-person shooter that combines elements from games like CS2 and VALORANT, stands out from the crowd with its innovative Shard Cards. These cards allow players to influence the match and alter the rules, adding a strategic layer that can turn the tide of battle. While some Shard Cards offer significant advantages, others are more situational or even less impactful. To help you navigate this feature, we’ve curated a list of the 10 best Shard Cards in FragPunk, focusing on those that provide the most utility and enjoyment.
10. Eye of the Reaper: Reveals Enemies After Converter Plant
For attackers, the Eye of the Reaper is an indispensable Shard Card. Once the Converter is planted, a large area around it is revealed, exposing any enemies in the vicinity. This makes it much safer and easier for attackers to manage the post-plant phase, as defenders have limited options to defuse the Converter. The attackers can see through solid materials, giving them a crucial tactical edge. However, the defenders must rely on their aiming skills and game sense to counter this card. If you’re on the attacking side, the Eye of the Reaper is a must-have, ensuring that your team has a better chance of securing the plant and winning the round.
9. Parting Flash: Explode and Blind Enemies Upon Dying
The Parting Flash Shard Card is a straightforward yet highly effective tool for both attackers and defenders. When you die, you release a blinding flash, disrupting the enemy team and potentially saving your allies. For attackers, this can mean sacrificing yourself to create an opening for your team to push forward. Defenders can use it to strategically die during critical moments, such as when the enemies breach the plant site. However, the effectiveness of this card heavily relies on teamwork and communication. If you have a communicative squad, Parting Flash can be a game-changer. Without coordination, it might just be a wasted death.
8. Regenerative Therapy: Recover HP When Not in Combat
FragPunk, like its inspirations, is unforgiving when it comes to health. Once you take damage, you’re generally stuck with it until the end of the round. The Regenerative Therapy Shard Card is a valuable exception to this rule. When not in combat, your health will slowly regenerate, giving you a second wind. This card is particularly useful for defenders, who often find themselves in prolonged engagements. Attackers can also benefit from it, especially during early pushes where taking a hit doesn’t mean the end of your usefulness. Overall, Regenerative Therapy is a great defensive utility that can turn the tide in close matches.
7. Clone Tech: Players Can Pick the Same Lancer Simultaneously
The Clone Tech Shard Card is a brutal weapon of strategy. It allows multiple players on your team to pick the same Lancer, creating devastating synergies and overwhelming the enemy with sheer force. For example, having several Brokers with their rocket launchers can decimate enemy ranks, while multiple Kismets going invisible can confuse and disorient the opposition. The possibilities are endless, making this card one of the best. However, it requires careful planning and coordination to maximize its potential. If you and your team are on the same page, Clone Tech can be a game-winner.
6. Swift Support: Teleport to a Teammate
Swift Support is a Shard Card that can be a lifesaver, especially in tough defensive situations. It allows you to teleport to any of your teammates, which is incredibly useful for maintaining map control and responding to threats quickly. For defenders, this card is a must-have, as it enables rapid repositioning across the map. Attackers can also benefit, but it’s less critical for them. If you’re a defender and this card is available, it’s a no-brainer to pick it up. It can mean the difference between a lost round and a strategic victory.
5. Double Threat: Two Converters on the Map
Double Threat is a Shard Card that can throw the enemy into disarray. Instead of one Converter, there are now two, and the enemy must split their resources to defend both. This creates confusion and makes it much easier for attackers to plant the Converter, as the defenders are forced to spread thin. Coordination is key, as you can split your team to plant both Converters simultaneously, ensuring that the enemy can’t focus on one site. While it doesn’t provide a direct combat advantage, Double Threat can significantly disrupt the enemy’s strategy, increasing your chances of winning the round.
3. Dullahans: Team’s Heads Are Invulnerable
In tactical shooters, headshots are often the quickest way to down an opponent. The Dullahans Shard Card flips this script by making your team’s heads completely invulnerable. The enemy can no longer rely on headshots, which do the most damage in FragPunk, and must instead focus on body shots, which are much less effective. Combining Dullahans with the Big Heads Shard Card can make your team nearly invincible, as the enemy will struggle to land the necessary body shots. This card is a game-changer and can turn the tide in your favor, especially if your team is skilled at dodging and maneuvering.
2. Big Heads: Enemy Heads Are Bigger
The Big Heads Shard Card is a powerful and fun addition to your arsenal. It makes the enemy team’s heads significantly larger, making them easier targets. Even with mediocre aim, you can land headshots and deal heavy damage. This card is particularly beneficial for Lancers like Hollowpoint, who rely on precise shots to take down opponents. The enemy team will find it much harder to survive, and this card can often lead to quick and decisive victories. However, its dominance might lead to a future nerf, so enjoy the advantage while it lasts.
1. Close Quarters Combat: All Players Use Only Melee Weapons
While not the most advantageous Shard Card, Close Quarters Combat is arguably the most fun. It transforms FragPunk into a knife round, where all players are armed with only melee weapons. Whether it’s a dagger, an axe, or any other blade, you’ll have to get up close and personal to down the enemy. The game’s dynamic melee mechanics make this mode incredibly exciting and engaging. It’s a great way to switch up the gameplay and add a new level of challenge. Although it might not be the best choice for a competitive match, Close Quarters Combat is a must-try for those looking to have a good time.
By understanding and utilizing these Shard Cards effectively, you can gain a significant edge in FragPunk, whether you’re an attacker or a defender. Each card offers unique advantages, and the key to success lies in knowing which card to pick based on the situation and your team’s composition. So, next time you’re in a match, don’t overlook these powerful tools—they can make all the difference.
