What are the best ways to avoid Hoarding Bug swarms in open areas in noisy environments in Lethal Company?

Hoarding Bugs in Lethal Company are one of the most dangerous threats in open areas, especially in noisy environments where their swarming behavior can quickly overwhelm players. These bugs are attracted to noise and movement, making them particularly challenging to avoid when you're trying to scavenge or complete objectives. To effectively avoid Hoarding Bug swarms, you need to understand their mechanics, plan your movements carefully, and coordinate with your team to minimize risks.

First, let's break down the mechanics of Hoarding Bugs. These creatures are highly sensitive to sound and movement. When they detect noise, such as running, loud footsteps, or even the sound of items being dropped, they will swarm toward the source. In open areas, their swarming behavior is especially dangerous because they can come from multiple directions, making it harder to escape. Additionally, Hoarding Bugs are fast and can quickly close the distance if you're not careful. They are also persistent, meaning they will continue to chase you until they lose interest or you manage to break line of sight.

To avoid Hoarding Bug swarms in open areas, the first step is to minimize noise. Walk instead of run whenever possible, as running generates more noise and attracts their attention. If you must move quickly, try to do so in short bursts and then pause to let the bugs lose interest. Avoid dropping items or making loud noises, such as using loud tools or equipment, unless absolutely necessary. If you're in a noisy environment, such as an area with machinery or other loud ambient sounds, be extra cautious, as these sounds can mask your movements but also make it harder for you to hear the bugs approaching.

Team coordination is crucial when dealing with Hoarding Bugs. Assign roles to team members, such as having one person act as a lookout while others scavenge or complete objectives. The lookout should keep an eye out for any signs of Hoarding Bugs, such as movement in the distance or the sound of their skittering. If bugs are spotted, the team should immediately stop making noise and move to a safer location. Communication is key, so use voice chat or in-game signals to alert your team to any threats.

One effective strategy is to use the environment to your advantage. If you're in an open area, try to stay near cover, such as walls, rocks, or other obstacles. These can provide a temporary barrier between you and the bugs, giving you time to escape. If you're being chased, try to lead the bugs into narrow spaces or areas where they can't swarm as effectively. For example, moving through a narrow corridor or doorway can slow them down and make it easier to lose them.

Another important tip is to manage your inventory carefully. Hoarding Bugs are attracted to items, so if you're carrying a lot of loot, you're more likely to draw their attention. Try to deposit items in a safe location, such as a drop pod or a secure area, before venturing into open areas. This reduces the risk of attracting bugs and makes it easier to move quickly if you need to escape.

Common mistakes to avoid include panicking and running when you see Hoarding Bugs. Running will only make them chase you faster, and you're likely to attract more bugs in the process. Instead, stay calm and move deliberately. Another mistake is ignoring the sounds of the environment. If you hear skittering or other signs of bugs nearby, stop and assess the situation before proceeding. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to a sudden swarm that you're unprepared for.

Advanced techniques include using distractions to divert Hoarding Bugs away from your team. For example, you can drop an item or create a loud noise in a different direction to draw the bugs away. This can give your team time to move to a safer location or complete objectives without interference. Additionally, some players use flashlights or other light sources to disorient the bugs, though this is less reliable and should be used as a last resort.

Risk management is essential when dealing with Hoarding Bugs. Always have an escape plan in mind before entering an open area. Identify safe routes and locations where you can retreat if needed. If you're playing with a team, make sure everyone knows the plan and is ready to execute it at a moment's notice. Finally, don't take unnecessary risks. If an area is too dangerous or infested with bugs, it's better to retreat and come back later with a better strategy.

In specific scenarios, such as when you're trying to retrieve a valuable item from an open area, you can use a combination of these strategies to minimize risk. For example, one team member can act as a decoy, creating noise to draw the bugs away while another team member retrieves the item. Alternatively, you can use stealth to move through the area without alerting the bugs, though this requires precise timing and coordination.

In conclusion, avoiding Hoarding Bug swarms in open areas and noisy environments requires a combination of careful movement, team coordination, and strategic use of the environment. By understanding their mechanics and following these strategies, you can significantly reduce the risk of encountering these dangerous creatures and improve your chances of survival in Lethal Company.