Anthem: This Is The Most Critical Thing The Game Doesn’t Tell You

TL;DR

  • Primers set up combos while detonators trigger them for massive damage
  • Each javelin class receives unique benefits from successful combo execution
  • Visual indicators on gear and enemies help identify combo opportunities
  • Optimal loadouts include both primer and detonator abilities for flexibility
  • Advanced coordination enables both team combos and self-combo strategies

Mastering Anthem’s combo system transforms you from a basic shooter pilot into a strategic battlefield commander. While firearms provide consistent damage output, the true power emerges when you synergize your javelin’s special abilities with your squad’s capabilities.

Strategic ability combinations generate devastating combo attacks that inflict significant damage and apply debilitating status effects to enemies. Each javelin archetype receives distinct advantages from successful combos: Rangers amplify single-target damage, Colossus suits create area-of-effect explosions, Storm javelins spread status effects across multiple targets, and Interceptors gain persistent damage auras that continuously afflict nearby foes. Learning which combinations to deploy and coordinating with teammates introduces deep tactical considerations to your combat approach.

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Anthem’s primary challenge lies in its limited explanation of combo mechanics. For comprehensive understanding, you need to grasp two fundamental concepts: Primers and Detonators. Primers initiate combo sequences by applying status conditions to enemies, while Detonators activate these setups for explosive damage and additional effects.

The crucial question for every pilot is determining which abilities function as Primers, Detonators, or non-combo gear. Anthem provides this information during loadout configuration through specific visual indicators attached to gear descriptions.

Primer abilities display circular icons containing central dots, resembling target bullseyes. These markers indicate which skills can prepare enemies for devastating follow-up attacks.

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Detonator gear features throwing star-shaped icons that suggest explosive potential. Recognizing these symbols ensures you build effective loadouts capable of both initiating and completing combos.

During combat, successfully applied Primers trigger red status icons beside enemy nameplates. These indicators display the specific condition affecting the target—such as freezing, burning, or electrification—providing clear visual cues for optimal Detonator timing.

While not an absolute requirement, experienced pilots consistently equip both Primer and Detonator abilities for mission flexibility. This configuration enables multiple strategic options: setting up combos for teammates, activating their prepared targets, and executing self-combos using your own ability sequences.

Combination attacks represent Anthem’s most engaging combat element and become increasingly vital at higher difficulty levels and advanced content. Proper gear selection directly impacts your combo effectiveness and overall mission success.

Common Combo Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Using Detonators on unprimed targets wastes cooldowns
  • Overlapping identical status effects from multiple Primers provides no additional benefit
  • Ignoring team composition leads to inefficient combo coverage
  • Failing to recognize enemy resistance to specific status effects

Advanced Coordination Strategies:

  • Establish communication protocols for combo sequencing
  • Coordinate javelin selections to ensure Primer/Detonator balance
  • Practice timing variations for different enemy types and situations

Our comprehensive Anthem coverage continues with additional guides designed to maximize your javelin piloting capabilities. Meanwhile, explore our detailed Anthem review for additional insights.

Action Checklist

  • Identify primer and detonator icons in your gear loadout menu
  • Equip at least one primer and one detonator ability before missions
  • Practice recognizing red status icons on primed enemies during combat
  • Coordinate with teammates to establish primer/detonator roles
  • Experiment with self-combo techniques using your own ability sequences

No reproduction without permission:SeeYouSoon Game Club » Anthem: This Is The Most Critical Thing The Game Doesn’t Tell You Master Anthem's combo system with primers, detonators, and advanced team coordination strategies