This guide, compiled from player experience, offers valuable tips and tricks to help you navigate the treacherous roads and challenges of Pacific Drive. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to improve your survival skills, this guide has something for you.
Pro Tips For New Drivers In Pacific Drive
This guide shares hidden gems and tricks I’ve discovered while playing. I’ll keep adding info and pictures as I explore more, and feel free to share your own tips or point out any mistakes!
Garage:
The garage in Scrap Mechanic isn’t just a pit stop, it’s a treasure trove of resources and efficiency hacks. Here’s how to turn your garage into a productivity powerhouse:
Car Care on the Cheap:
- Dumpster Diving: Before patching up your banged-up ride, peek into the “friendly dumpster.” It often holds better loot, including whole panels, compared to self-repair. Time for a quick rummage!
- Wrecked Car Windfall: Remember that wrecked car outside? Each time you return from a drive, it magically respawns with fresh loot, including the computer and radio. Free scrap, anyone?
Fuel Up for Adventure:
- Pre-Trip Pit Stop: Before embarking on your next expedition, don’t forget to fill your empty fuel cans in the garage. Did you know you can use fuel pumps directly on them? No more messy siphoning from cars or barrels!
Bonus Tip: Matter Matters:
- Vacuum Blues: The Matter Deconstructor is a handy tool, but its scraps don’t mix well with the vacuum cleaner. Trust me, you’ll regret losing valuable “Dumpster Pearls” due to lazy cleaning. Pick those scraps up manually!
Remember, these are just starting points. Experiment, customize, and most importantly, have fun optimizing your garage experience in Scrap Mechanic!
Driving:
Beware the Save-scum Trap:
- Saving in the garage and then loading that save won’t teleport you back. You’ll be stuck on the road where you left off! So, double-check your supplies and equipment before leaving. This game doesn’t play save-scum games.
To Turn Off or Not to Turn Off:
- Leaving the car running burns fuel, but starting it up every time you hop out might waste more in the long run. Unless you’re parked for a long time, it’s usually better to leave it running.
Gateway Getaways Made Easy:
- Escaping (following the yellow light) is easier if you get as close as possible to your desired gateway first. The map will warn you if you’re too close to another one. Pro tip: activate the escape sequence only when you’re in the right spot!
Don’t Panic About the Anchors:
- Despite the spooky music, grabbing a Stable Anchor is usually harmless. However, it can spawn anomalies right on top of you, so be prepared for a fight.
Size Matters (for Anchors):
- Big anchors on the map mean big energy boosts. Small ones are best avoided if they’re hard to reach or surrounded by trouble, as they offer less energy compared to the hassle.
Car Modifications:
Prioritize Off-Road Tires:
- Forget fancy spoilers, get grippier tires first! Even if you mostly stick to paved roads, things get intense off-road. Off-road tires will save you from a lot of headaches (and potential crashes).
Match Your Tire Game:
- Mismatched tires are a recipe for disaster. They make your car handle like a drunk hippo on ice, especially on slippery or steep terrain. Keep your tires consistent, both on the car and your spare!
Side Storage: Your New Best Friend:
- Build side storage and a side rack ASAP! Keep your repair kit and first aid there for quick access, leaving your main trunk free for bigger loot. This is especially crucial in dangerous areas where time outside the car is precious.
Bonus Tips:
Preparation is Key:
- Fuel Up: Don’t forget to fill your spare fuel cans using pumps! It’s not just for siphoning.
- Organize Your Ride: Build side storage and racks for quick access to repair kits and first aid, leaving your main trunk free for loot. This is especially important in danger zones.
- Match Your Tires: Mismatched tires mean unpredictable handling, especially on rough terrain. Keep your car and spare tire consistent.
Driving Smarts:
- Off-Road First: Prioritize off-road tires for better grip and handling when things get bumpy.
- Save Wisely: Saving in the garage won’t teleport you back. Make sure you’re ready before leaving.
- Ignition Management: Leaving the car running burns fuel, but starting it up often can waste more. Choose wisely based on your situation.
- Gateways & Anchors: Get close to your desired gateway before starting the escape sequence. Bigger anchors offer more energy, but smaller ones might not be worth the hassle. Don’t panic about the music when grabbing anchors, but be prepared for anomalies.
Saving Strategies:
Double Save in the Garage:
- Create two save files: Use the top and bottom save slots to create two distinct save points.
- Save in the garage: Before leaving for a mission, save your game in both slots.
- Mission save overwrite: When you save during your mission, it will only overwrite the top slot.
- Garage backup: The bottom slot remains untouched, acting as a backup save point in the garage.
Benefits:
- Security blanket: If your mission save gets corrupted or you encounter unexpected issues, you can revert to the garage save.
- Flexibility: You can decide whether to continue your mission or return to the garage based on your progress and circumstances.
Additional notes:
- This method doesn’t prevent accidental overwrites during your mission. Always be mindful of when you save.
- Consider naming your save files descriptively to easily distinguish them later.
- This tip might not be necessary for everyone, depending on their playstyle and risk tolerance.
By following these tips and learning from the experiences of others, you’ll be well-equipped to survive and thrive in the unforgiving world of Pacific Drive. Remember, exploration and experimentation are key, so don’t be afraid to get out there and discover your strategies!
Last Updated on March 6, 2024
An avid listener of music from a number of countries. Writing is his hobby and passion. A follower of all the latest android and PC games. Not to mention his favorite: Mobile Legends!