In Fallout 76, players often choose between two popular build archetypes: the Commando and the Rifleman. Both builds focus on ranged combat but differ significantly in their approach, playstyle, and equipment. Here's a comparison of these two builds to help you decide which one suits your gameplay preferences.
Overview of Builds
Commando Build
Focus: High damage output using automatic rifles.
Playstyle: Fast-paced, aggressive combat with an emphasis on mobility and sustained fire.
Key Perks: Commando, Expert Commando, Master Commando, Tank Killer, Bandolier, and Action Boy.
Equipment: Automatic rifles, such as the 10mm SMG or the Assault Rifle.
Rifleman Build
Focus: Precision and stealth, often using sniper rifles.
Playstyle: Strategic, long-range engagements with an emphasis on stealth and accuracy.
Key Perks: Rifleman, Expert Rifleman, Master Rifleman, Tank Killer, Concentrated Fire, and Action Boy.
Equipment: Sniper rifles, such as the Hunting Rifle or the Gauss Rifle.
When it comes to enhancing your gameplay in Fallout 76, both the Commando and Rifleman builds rely heavily on choosing the right Fallout 76 items. These include not only the primary weapons such as automatic rifles for the Commando or sniper rifles for the Rifleman but also a selection of perk cards that complement each build's strengths. For example, the Commando benefits from perks like Bandolier and Action Boy, while the Rifleman relies on Concentrated Fire and Action Boy. Additionally, the choice of armor—lighter for mobility or heavier for protection—plays a crucial role in optimizing your build with the available items in the game.
Key Differences
Combat Style
Commando: Emphasizes rapid-fire combat, making it ideal for close to medium-range encounters. Commandos are versatile and can handle multiple enemies at once.
Rifleman: Focuses on precision and stealth, often using VATS for critical hits. Riflemen excel at long-range engagements and are best suited for picking off enemies one by one.
Mobility and Stealth
Commando: Generally less stealthy due to the noise from automatic fire, but can be highly mobile with the right perks.
Rifleman: Often relies on stealth to set up shots and can remain undetected for longer periods.
Damage Output
Commando: Offers high sustained damage with automatic rifles, making it effective against multiple targets.
Rifleman: Excels at delivering high critical damage with precision shots, especially effective against tough enemies.
Perk Cards
Both builds use Tank Killer for armor penetration and Action Boy for increased Action Points. However, Commandos focus on Commando-related perks, while Riflemen use Rifleman perks.
Equipment and Armor
Commando: Often uses lighter armor to maintain mobility, though heavy combat armor can be used for added protection.
Rifleman: Typically avoids Power Armor to maintain stealth and agility, opting for lighter armor sets.
Choosing the Right Build
For Aggressive Players: The Commando build is ideal for those who enjoy fast-paced combat and dealing high damage in close to medium-range fights.
For Strategic Players: The Rifleman build suits players who prefer a more methodical approach, focusing on precision and stealth to take down enemies from a distance.
Ultimately, the choice between a Commando and a Rifleman build in Fallout 76 depends on your preferred playstyle and the type of combat you enjoy most. Both builds offer unique strengths and can be highly effective when executed well.