Very Quick Tips: Crimson Dragon

It’s time to bring back the claw stance

Crimson Dragon can be a really tough game if you haven’t played a Panzer title before. On Classic Mode, bullets are unrelenting, and you have to kill certain enemies to progress with the campaign.

So before co-op mode drops in December, here are some tips to help you along your way.

General tips:

• The first thing you’re going to want to learn is the modified claw position. When holding the Xbox One controller, put your left and right index fingers on the LB and RB buttons respectively, then allow your hand to rest on both triggers. That way, you’ll be able to barrel roll left or right, switch weapons, and fire all at the same time. You don’t need to use this all the time — just in high pressure situations.

• Don’t forget to update your wingman every so often. Check the rankings, and find a good AI helper that’s on par with your level, but not so far leveled that it bankrupts you. Experiment to see what teams work best together, since every combination of dragons has a different ultimate.

• Constantly switch your wingman from front to back depending on the situation with the d-pad. If enemies are behind you, switch him to the back, but for the most part you will want them up front. It’s easy to forget about this aspect, but changing up your AI partner can mean the difference between victory and defeat.

• Play Classic Mode for a score bonus. It’s tougher, yeah, but it’s also more rewarding, and closer to the original Panzer franchise.

• When tasked with collecting beacons in flight, aim your targeting reticle at them. It makes it easier to swoop in and “aim” for them.

• While in free flight, you can tap the A button to constantly propel yourself forward — use this to circle strafe around some of the slower enemies.

• If you find yourself in trouble, try switching dragons. The dark dragon has a lower skill ceiling compared to your fire starter, but it’s very useful early on if you’re having trouble. Just don’t rely too heavily on it.