How do I use flares to distract Thumpers in Lethal Company?

Using flares to distract Thumpers in Lethal Company is a crucial survival tactic that can save your life and your teamÔÇÖs. Thumpers are fast, aggressive monsters that rely on sound and movement to track players. Flares, when used correctly, can create a diversion, allowing you to escape or reposition safely. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to use flares effectively against Thumpers.

First, letÔÇÖs understand the mechanics. Thumpers are drawn to loud noises and sudden movements. Flares emit both light and sound, making them an excellent tool for creating distractions. When a flare is thrown or activated, it produces a bright light and a distinct hissing sound. Thumpers will prioritize investigating the source of the noise, giving you a window of opportunity to move away or complete objectives without being detected.

To use flares effectively, follow these steps. Start by equipping the flare in your inventory. When you hear or see a Thumper nearby, quickly throw the flare in a direction away from your intended path. Aim to throw it at least 10-15 meters away to ensure the Thumper is drawn far enough from your position. Once the flare lands, the Thumper will move toward it, giving you time to either hide, run, or continue your task. If youÔÇÖre indoors, throw the flare into a different room or hallway to lure the Thumper away from your current location.

Timing is critical when using flares. If you throw a flare too early, the Thumper might lose interest before youÔÇÖve had a chance to escape. If you throw it too late, the Thumper might already be too close to ignore you. Pay attention to the ThumperÔÇÖs behavior. If itÔÇÖs charging toward you, throw the flare immediately. If itÔÇÖs patrolling or searching, wait until itÔÇÖs closer to your position before deploying the flare.

Here are some important tips and considerations. Always carry multiple flares, as you might need more than one to distract a Thumper or other monsters. Be mindful of your surroundings when throwing flares. Avoid throwing them near other players, as this could draw the Thumper toward them instead. Additionally, flares have a limited duration, so plan your movements accordingly. Once the flare burns out, the Thumper will resume its search, so use the distraction wisely.

Common mistakes to avoid include throwing flares too close to your position, which can still attract the Thumper to you. Another mistake is relying solely on flares without having an escape plan. Always know where youÔÇÖre going after throwing the flare, whether itÔÇÖs to a hiding spot, an exit, or a safe area. Lastly, avoid using flares unnecessarily, as they are a limited resource. Save them for situations where youÔÇÖre in immediate danger.

Advanced techniques involve combining flares with other tools and strategies. For example, you can use a flare to lure a Thumper into a trap or environmental hazard, such as a pitfall or explosive barrel. This not only distracts the Thumper but also neutralizes it, reducing the threat to your team. Another optimization is to coordinate with your team to create multiple distractions. While one player throws a flare, another can use a noisemaker or another tool to further confuse the Thumper, increasing the chances of a successful escape.

Team coordination is essential when dealing with Thumpers. Communicate with your team before using a flare to ensure everyone is aware of the plan. Assign roles, such as who will throw the flare and who will focus on completing the objective. If youÔÇÖre playing with a larger team, consider having one player act as a decoy while others move to safety or gather loot. Clear communication and teamwork can turn a dangerous situation into a manageable one.

Risk management strategies involve assessing the situation before using a flare. If youÔÇÖre low on health or resources, it might be better to avoid the Thumper altogether rather than risking an encounter. Always prioritize survival over completing objectives, especially if the Thumper is in a high-traffic area. Additionally, be aware of other monsters in the vicinity. Using a flare might attract not only the Thumper but also other creatures, increasing the overall danger.

Specific examples and scenarios can help illustrate these strategies. Imagine youÔÇÖre in a narrow corridor with a Thumper approaching from the opposite end. You throw a flare into a side room, and the Thumper investigates the noise, allowing you to slip past it. In another scenario, your team is scavenging in a large open area when a Thumper appears. One player throws a flare to distract the Thumper while the others quickly gather the remaining loot and regroup at the extraction point.

In conclusion, using flares to distract Thumpers in Lethal Company requires careful planning, timing, and teamwork. By understanding the mechanics, following step-by-step strategies, and avoiding common mistakes, you can effectively use flares to survive encounters with these dangerous monsters. Advanced techniques, team coordination, and risk management further enhance your chances of success. Always be prepared, stay alert, and use your resources wisely to outsmart the Thumpers and complete your missions.