Introduction to the Hidden
The Hidden is one of the most devious and elusive monsters in the game R.E.P.O., a world where delinquent pupils with supernatural abilities can turn your round into a nightmarish ordeal. This invisible entity thrives on causing chaos and disruption, often appearing as a vengeful spirit or a mischievous ghost. While the Hidden doesn’t possess the physical form we can see, it’s far from all-powerful. Understanding its behavior and tactics is crucial to maintaining control over your play session and ensuring that you and your team can navigate the maps safely.
What Does the Hidden Do in R.E.P.O?
The Hidden can appear across all maps in R.E.P.O., but it is most frequently encountered in Headman Manor and in pairs at Swiftbroom Academy, particularly from level three onwards. Unlike other monsters that can inflict direct harm, the Hidden’s primary method of attack is to pick you up and transport you to the furthest point from where you started. This can be incredibly disruptive, as you are rendered powerless and unable to hold any items during the journey. Your character will appear to lift into the air in a crouched position, accompanied by the eerie sounds of heavy breathing and maniacal laughter from an unseen force. To onlookers, it looks as if your teammate is possessed by an invisible entity, running uncontrollably towards unknown territory. The Hidden’s objective is to disorient and isolate you, potentially leaving you vulnerable to more dangerous monsters that can one-shot you.
How to Evade the Hidden in R.E.P.O
Evading the Hidden can be challenging, especially if you’re playing solo. However, if you’re in a team, you have a significant advantage. The key is to be vigilant and aware of the Hidden’s tell-tale signs. When the Hidden grabs a player, that player becomes a carriable item, similar to other items in the game. Teammates can pick up the crouched, possessed player by using “Ctrl” or “Q” to shrink their body. This can be particularly effective in narrow corridors or doorways, where the Hidden’s movement is more constrained. The breathing animation, footprints, and breathing sound cue are crucial indicators of the Hidden’s presence. Other monsters in R.E.P.O. do not have this breathing sound, making it a unique and reliable warning sign. Stay alert and maintain a safe distance when you suspect the Hidden is nearby, and avoid doors that open towards you, as this is often a sign that the Hidden is lurking.
The Hidden’s Cycles
The Hidden operates in three distinct phases, each with its own unique behavior:
- Standing Still and Exhaling: In this phase, the Hidden remains stationary and releases a large breath cloud, which is visible even though the entity itself is not. This is a clear sign that the Hidden is in the area and is preparing to move.
- Walking Around: The Hidden will wander the map, leaving a trail of footprints and breathing sounds. You can often spot him by these signs, especially in well-lit areas.
- Running and Laughing: This is the most dangerous phase. The Hidden will start to move rapidly towards you, accompanied by a maniacal laugh and heavy breathing. If you see a door opening towards you and hear this sound, it’s a sure sign that the Hidden is coming for you. Weaving in and out of adjacent rooms can help you evade him, but it requires high stamina and a fast speed stat. If you’re solo, your best bet is to stay alert and avoid direct confrontation.
Dealing with the Hidden Solo
When playing R.E.P.O. solo, dealing with the Hidden can be particularly challenging. If the Hidden grabs you, you are at its mercy unless you’re well-prepared. Equipping a Tranq Gun or a Stun Grenade can be your best defense. Using these items, you can sedate the Hidden, giving you a brief window (12 to 15 seconds) to switch to a melee weapon, such as a Frying Pan or Baseball Bat, and finish it off. The Hidden’s breath and the yellow cursor indicator are your primary clues that it’s nearby. If you see or hear these signs, take immediate action. Alternatively, using the Gun to shoot the Hidden will kill it instantly, and you can also bait the Huntsman into shooting the Hidden for you. This will not only eliminate the Hidden but also grant you $3,000, as its life orb drops onto the ground, revealing its invisible form.
Using the Hidden to Your Advantage
While the Hidden is primarily a nuisance, you can sometimes turn its behavior to your advantage. For instance, if you’re near the final extraction point and the Hidden picks you up, it can inadvertently move you to a safer location, such as the truck. This can be a risky strategy, but if successful, it can help you avoid other monsters and reach your extraction point unharmed. The Hidden’s ability to transport you to distant locations can be a double-edged sword, but with the right timing and a bit of luck, it can work in your favor.
Conclusion
The Hidden is a master of disruption in R.E.P.O., using its invisibility to play psychological games and cause chaos among players. While it cannot directly harm you, its ability to move you to dangerous areas can be just as deadly. Whether you’re playing solo or with a team, staying vigilant and recognizing the Hidden’s tell-tale signs are essential for survival. With the right strategies, you can not only avoid the Hidden but also use its unique abilities to your advantage, turning a potential threat into an unexpected ally.
