Snapshot Summary
- The recommended best build for Karl focuses on maximizing his rifle damage output.
- Karl’s optimal Arcana skill is “Rifle Bullet” for its quick, high-damage output and versatility in hitting multiple targets.
- Trinkets for Karl should prioritize increasing Critical Hit and Punish damage.
- The best Inspirations are “Infused Shells” and “Reload” which transform Karl into an Arcana-spamming powerhouse.
Absolum’s roguelite experience is best when character builds are made well. This is important as you venture through Talamh, mastering your chosen hero’s unique abilities and synergizing them with various upgrades is key to overcoming the challenges presented by the Sun King Azra’s forces.
How to Make the Best Karl Build in Absolum
Your main focus for Karl should be to make sure his rifle does a lot of damage. Still, creating a good build for Karl involves strategic choices across Arcana skills, Trinkets, and Rituals, capitalizing on his inherent strengths for maximum efficiency.
| Build Type | Ranged Damage / Crowd Control |
| Arcana Skill | Rifle Bullet |
| Trinkets | Tongue Charm / Whetstone |
| Inspirations | Infused Shells / Reload |
| Rituals | Burning Strike / Blazing Dash |
Best Arcana Skill for Karl
Rifle Bullet is the optimal Arcana skill for Karl. This skill lets Karl fire multiple fast bullets in a straight line, offering quick, high-damage output from both close and long ranges. It also aids in crowd control by hitting multiple targets. Rifle Bullet can be acquired at the Sanctuary from Ederig the Stalwart in Karl’s skill tree. Its speed and versatility make it a standout choice among Karl’s available Arcana.
Best Trinkets for Karl
When selecting Trinkets for Karl, prioritize those that enhance Critical Hit and Punish damage, alongside those that reduce incoming damage.
| Trinket | Effect | Priority |
|---|---|---|
| Tongue Charm | Increases Critical Hit damage | High |
| Whetstone | Increases Punish damage | High |
| Shields | Decreases damage received | Medium |
| Eyeball Charm | Increases mono-target attack damage | Medium |
| Lucky Charm | Increases Luck | Medium |
| Lord’s Bracelet | +30% damage when at 100% HP or above | High |
Karl thrives on aggressive play, and these Trinkets bolster his damage output, allowing him to eliminate enemies swiftly. His natural inclination for Critical Hits and Punishes makes the Tongue Charm and Whetstone particularly impactful. Stacking multiple copies of these beneficial Trinkets further amplifies their effects.
Best Inspirations for Karl
For Karl, Inspirations that boost his Arcana usage and provide utility in combat are ideal.
- Infused Shells: This Inspiration causes shells produced by Arcana skills to damage and auto-target enemies, adding significant passive damage.
- Reload: Allows Karl to replenish mana at will and releases a shell casing, benefiting from Infused Shells and staggering enemies.
The combination of Infused Shells and Reload transforms Karl into an Arcana-spamming powerhouse. Reload’s mana regeneration ensures continuous Arcana usage, while Infused Shells capitalizes on every cast to deal additional damage and stun foes. Ironhead Rush is also a viable option for its crowd control and mobility, allowing Karl to lunge forward and knock down enemies.
Best Rituals for Karl
Focus on Rituals that provide additional, passive damage with every action Karl takes.
- Burning Strike: Strikes inflict Burn damage.
- Blazing Dash: Dashing creates a Blazing Trail that damages enemies.
- Burning Deflect: Inflicts Burn when deflecting an enemy hit.
- Thorn Finisher: Finishers spawn two Thorn Daggers.
- Rose Arcana: Arcana spawns a Rose turret.
- Skeletal Arcana: Arcana spawns a Skeleton.
- Tornado Jump: Gain an extra jump that spawns a Small tornado.
These Rituals ensure that Karl is constantly applying damage, even during defensive maneuvers or movement. Rose Arcana and Skeletal Arcana are excellent for passive defense and damage, allowing Karl to maintain his distance and reload safely. Tornado Jump offers crucial repositioning, helping Karl escape encirclement and unleash his Arcana.
FAQs
How Should I Prioritize Upgrades at the Sanctuary for this Karl Build?
At the Sanctuary, prioritize unlocking Rifle Bullet first, as it’s the cornerstone of this build. Following that, invest in Inspirations like Infused Shells and Reload. Continuously seek out and purchase any Trinkets and Rituals that align with increasing Critical Hit, Punish, and Arcana-related damage. Also, consider upgrades that enhance Luck to improve the chances of finding better Trinkets and Rituals during a run.
What are Karl’s Core Strengths That This Build Leverages?
This build leverages Karl’s natural aptitude for strong punches and heavy slam moves that easily block attacks. His core strengths include:
- High Damage Potential: Particularly with Critical Hits and Punish attacks.
- Aggressive Playstyle: Encouraged by Trinkets and Arcana that reward constant offensive pressure.
- Durability: His heavy slam move provides a defensive option, allowing for aggressive play while mitigating damage.
- Arcana Efficiency: The build transforms his Arcana into a primary damage source with minimal downtime.
By focusing on these elements, this build maximizes Karl’s potential. If you’re looking for someone who can take everyone on alone in Absolum, Karl is your man. However, he also does well in multiplayer, so he’s good all around.
