Introduction to the Mutant Build
Welcome to the Mutant Build Guide, focused on maximizing early stat scaling to snowball into a strong mid and late game.
This build leverages Mutant’s ability to gain more stats per level, prioritizing Ranged Damage, % Damage, and Attack Speed to amplify Shotgun performance.
Early Game Strategy (First 3 Waves)
Starting Setup
- Begin with the Shotgun for strong early wave clear and scaling
Priorities
- Stack Shotguns as quickly as possible
- Focus on Ranged Damage to improve farming and XP gain
- Look for XP boosting items to accelerate scaling
Key Early Items
- Lens
- Scar
- Scope
- Sharp Bullet
- Small Magazine
Strategy
- Use Shotguns’ spread to control waves efficiently
- Increase damage early to farm more enemies → more XP → more stats
- Build momentum through rapid level-ups
Stat Priority
- Ranged Damage
- % Damage
- Attack Speed
- Luck (only if high-value option appears)
Luck can help improve overall value, but damage stats take priority.
Mid Game Strategy
At this point, your level advantage should start to show.
Priorities
- Maintain strong damage scaling
- Choose purchases carefully (items become more expensive)
- Improve wave clear consistency
Key Items
- Baby with a Beard
- Bean Teacher
- Black Belt
- Bandana
- Small Magazine
Strategy
- Continue stacking damage and attack speed
- Add Life Steal for sustain
- Focus on items that improve:
- Wave clear
- Multi-hit potential
- Survivability
Stat Priority
- Ranged Damage
- % Damage
- Attack Speed
- Life Steal
Late Game Strategy
As the run progresses, leveling slows down and item costs increase significantly.
Core Concept
- Your scaling stabilizes — focus on high-value upgrades only
- Prioritize finishing the run efficiently
Key Items
- Giant Belt
- Ricochet
- Silver Bullet
Strategy
- Focus on:
- Ranged Damage
- % Damage
- Attack Speed
- Life Steal
- Reduce priority on Luck (less impact late game)
- Maintain enough survivability to handle elites and bosses
Your Shotguns should now be fully scaled and capable of handling wave 20 with ease.
Strengths of the Build
- Strong Early and Mid Game Scaling
- High Stat Gain from Level-Ups
- Excellent Wave Clear with Shotguns
- Reliable Boss and Elite Damage
Weaknesses to Watch Out For
- Scaling Slows in Late Game
- Item Costs Become Restrictive
- Requires Efficient Early Execution
Conclusion
The Mutant Shotgun build is a powerful and consistent strategy that excels through early stat scaling and strong mid-game momentum.
While it doesn’t scale infinitely, its ability to snowball quickly makes it highly effective for clearing wave 20 and defeating elites and bosses with ease.
With proper stat prioritization and smart item choices, this build offers a smooth and reliable path to victory.