How a hit is worked out, stats, damage types and weak points

Horizon Walker damage formula and battle mechanics

A skill hits for a percentage of the attacker's Melee, Ranged or Magic ATK. The target's DEF against that damage type cuts it by DEF over DEF plus 1000, and the level gap scales the result. Hits into a Vanguard's back can't be dodged or blocked.

1. 1.Base damage

   ATK x skill %

   The ATK is the one the skill names: Melee, Ranged or Magic. The skill's percentage is the N% in its description, and it rises with the skill level.

2. 2.Defense

   x (1 - DEF / (DEF + 1000))

   DEF is the target's defense against the hit's physical type (Slash, Pierce or Crush), or its resistance to the element when the skill carries one. Each point counts for less as DEF grows: 50 DEF cuts 4.8%, 100 DEF cuts 9.1%, 250 DEF cuts 20%, 500 DEF cuts 33.3%, 1,000 DEF cuts 50%, 2,000 DEF cuts 66.7%. Negative DEF, from debuffs, raises the damage instead.

3. 3.Level gap

   x (1 + 8% per level above)

   An attacker at or above the target's level deals 8% more damage per level of the gap. An attacker below it deals a share from the level-gap table further down. A hit never deals less than 1.

4. 4.Bonuses and reductions

   Damage boosts for the type (Slash Boost, Heat Boost and the rest), crits (Crit DMG starts at 150%), added damage from buffs, and the target's damage reduction apply around the core above. A battle-wide multiplier closes it out.

Every damaging skill deals one physical type, and some add an element. Each type has its own boost on the attacker and its own DEF on the target.

Most Vanguards have a 120° weak arc at their back. A hit landing from inside it can't be dodged or blocked and counts as a weak-point attack, which deals extra Weakness damage. Facing and positioning matter as much as the skill itself, and enemies carry their own weak arcs.

Five primary stats feed the rest. Each grows with rank through Ascension, and each class adds a little per level. The stat screen works a derived stat out as: (1 + trait %) x (coefficient x primary stat + constant) x (the Vanguard's own multiplier + the class's gain per level) + flat bonuses.

• Strength

  Strength influences a character's Melee ATK. It embodies powerful force that crushes enemies, superior combat instincts, and an unyielding determination even when facing foes head-on. Typically, those with high strength are either exceptional warriors or specialize in overpowering opponents, paving the way for allies by smashing through enemies with overwhelming destructive power.

• Technic

  Technic influences a character's Ranged ATK. It represents precise movements, the ability to assess and judge situations, and exceptional dexterity or skills. Characters with high Technic excel at intercepting enemies from a distance, infiltrating silently to strike at the perfect moment, and employing a variety of useful techniques to create advantageous conditions for their allies in numerous situations.

• Intelligence

  Intelligence is a figure that affects a character's Magic ATK. It represents extraordinary thinking abilities gained from a lifetime of experiences, reading numerous books, listening to others, or ancient folklore. Characters with high intelligence may have an exceptional ability to commune with gods, a high affinity for magic, and can be brilliant strategists or adept political tacticians.

• Vitality

  Vitality affects the Max HP of a character. It represents formidable mental strength, an iron-like physique, and tireless stamina. Characters with high vitality can generally withstand enemy attacks for a longer period and excel in protecting allies from enemies. They often possess capabilities due to repetitive training or inherent superior traits.

• Agility

  Agility influences a character's evasion and AP Recovery. It represents elusive movements characterized by sharp instincts, keen senses, heightened concentration, and fluid agility. Characters with high Agility are often highly skilled in one-on-one combat and can easily escape dire situations where they would otherwise be incapacitated.

A party has a cost cap of 16. Every Vanguard has their own party cost (the team builder lists each one), and the same number multiplies what their skill levels cost. Each class stands in the Front, Middle or Rear row and fills one of three roles: Attack, Defense and Support.