Vigor is a unique looter-shooter that combines survival, resource management, and intense tactical combat in a post-apocalyptic Norway. While the game has a dedicated fanbase and a deep learning curve, new players often jump in expecting a fast-paced battle royale or traditional shooter experience—only to quickly become overwhelmed. To help beginners avoid common pitfalls, here are the top five mistakes new players make in Vigor, along with tips on how to overcome them.
1. Rushing Into Combat Without a Plan
One of the biggest mistakes newcomers make is charging into gunfights without proper planning or positioning. Unlike typical shooters, Vigor punishes reckless behavior. Ammunition is scarce, and every bullet matters. Most encounters are decided in a few shots, so positioning, stealth, and patience are far more valuable than aggressive play.
How to avoid this mistake:
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Use cover and stay crouched to reduce noise.
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Observe enemy movement before engaging.
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Learn the map layouts to identify choke points, sniper perches, and safe escape routes.
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Play passively when undergeared—sometimes it’s smarter to avoid conflict altogether.
2. Ignoring the Sound Cues and Noise Managements
Sound plays a critical role in Vigor. Footsteps, gunfire, supply crate drops, and even looting containers make noise that can reveal your location to others. New players often sprint around or loot carelessly, unknowingly broadcasting their position.
How to avoid this mistake:
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Move slowly, especially when near high-traffic areas or objectives like the airdrop.
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Use headphones to pick up directional audio cues.
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Learn which actions make noise and time them wisely—such as unlocking barred houses only when you’re sure it’s safe.
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Watch for visual indicators of sound on your HUD, which can alert you to nearby activity even before you hear it.
3. Overvaluing Kills Instead of Loot and Escape
Vigor is not about getting the most kills—it’s about surviving and extracting with valuable loot. New players often fall into the trap of chasing firefights, thinking it will increase their progression. In reality, this often results in losing all your gear and starting over.
How to avoid this mistake:
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Focus on looting valuable areas and planning your extraction.
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Prioritize survival over confrontation—especially if you’re carrying good loot.
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Use encounters to gather crafting materials and blueprints, not just to hunt enemies.
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Only engage when it’s necessary or when you have a clear tactical advantage.
4. Neglecting Shelter Upgrades and Loadout Management
Your shelter in Vigor is more than just a hub—it’s your long-term progression system. Many beginners ignore shelter upgrades, missing out on crucial benefits like faster crafting, increased resource production, and improved loadout options. They also enter encounters with poor gear management, either bringing too much or too little.
How to avoid this mistake:
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Invest in shelter upgrades early, especially workbenches and material generators.
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Check your crafting options and build low-cost but reliable loadouts.
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Don’t bring your best gear into every match; tailor your loadout to your goal (loot run vs. combat).
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Manage your inventory after each encounter—stash high-value items and disassemble excess weapons.
Bonus Tip: Not Using Consumables or Tools
New players often forget or avoid using tools like transmitters, signal detectors, and healing items. These can be game-changing when used strategically.
Pro tip:
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Signal detectors reveal enemy positions temporarily—great for avoiding ambushes or setting traps.
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Transmitters confuse enemy signals, helping you stay hidden.
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Always carry at least one healing item, especially in longer encounters.
Final Thoughts
Surviving in Vigor is more about strategy, patience, and resourcefulness than fast reflexes or kill counts. By avoiding these common mistakes—rushing combat, ignoring sound, over-prioritizing kills, neglecting your shelter, and skipping essential tools—new players can dramatically improve their chances of survival and long-term success.
