In recent weeks, 4A Games have been releasing a series of gameplay videos detailing the different categories of weapons in Metro Exodus. These have ranged from handguns to rifles and shotguns, and now the studio has revealed the ‘Special Weapons‘; the Metro Exodus Helsing and Tikhar. Both of these guns use non-standard ammunition. While the Tikhar fires ball bearings, the Helsing fires crossbow bolts. Like the Tikhar, the Helsing also leans towards stealth.
The Metro Exodus Helsing has higher per-shot damage than the Tikhar, with roughly equivalent effectiveness when it comes to range. However, its stability, rate of fire, and magazine capacity are all lower. Where the Helsing makes up for this is with its ammunition. Not only are crossbow bolts craftable in the field, but they are the only ammunition which can be recovered after they’ve been fired. Just like the Tikhar, it can also fire an incendiary version of its ammo; explosive-tipped bolts.
“Silent and deadly,” says 4A Games; “this modular upgrade-able crossbow delivers the necessary stopping power and range, with the added benefit of firing craft-able ammunition that can be recovered in the field”. Of course, like every other weapon in Metro Exodus, the Helsing also features a whole host of customisation options.
Metro Exodus Helsing Configurations #1: The Sparta Crossbow
Fitted with a Twin Bow for greater damage and bolt velocity, as well as a Reflex Sight and an Assault Stock, Grip & Forend, the Sparta Crossbow also features a drum magazine with a 6-bolt capacity. This configuration benefits from greatly improved accuracy and higher damage, making it a more effective assault option than the standard Helsing.
Metro Exodus Helsing Configurations #2: The Pneumo Helsing
The second Metro Exodus Helsing configuration shown in the recent trailer is the Pneumo Helsing; so-named because it features a Pneumatic Bow System. This impressive upgrade makes the weapon fully automatic. Though this firing system does reduce the per-shot damage, it does mean that; “the Helsing can be used as a versatile, low-noise assault weapon.” The weapon also features an 8-shot capacity magazine, letting it take full advantage of its new automatic capabilities. “When resources are scarce,” says 4A Games; “and stealth is the best option, the Helsing is Artyom’s weapon of choice.”