Highlights
Remnant 2 tackles the issue of the previous game's lack of class identity by introducing distinctive starting classes. One such class is the Handler, which revolves around its AI companion, a faithful dog.With the Handler's Companion, players have the freedom to define their combat role and alleviate the sense of solitude during solo play by having an AI-controlled ally by their side.
The Handler class provides valuable offensive support, offering benefits such as reduced friendly fire damage, enhanced movement speed for allies, and skills that can both boost allies and inflict additional damage. This class is an excellent choice for players who prefer a run-and-gun playstyle with automatic weapons.
In just the first two days of the Ultimate Edition early access launch of Remnant 2, the game has already made significant strides in showcasing the distinctiveness and variety of each starting class. Unlike its predecessor, Remnant: From the Ashes, which faced criticism for its lack of class identity and uniform gameplay, Remnant 2 effectively tackles this issue by introducing unique starting class archetypes. Among these, the Handler class stands out as an exemplar of the game's fresh approach to class dynamics, highlighting the notable differences from the first installment in the series.
The Handler is the sole class in Remnant 2, regardless of whether it is the initial or subsequent class, whose abilities revolve entirely around its constant AI partner. Despite the dire post-apocalyptic backdrop and storyline of Remnant 2, there is still an abundance of loyal canine companions to be found. The Handler's partner, namely a dog, can assume different combat roles based on the use of one of the class' three available skills. This feature alleviates the sense of solitude when playing solo, as there is always an AI-controlled companion readily available.
Remnant 2: Handler Perks and Skills
When considering the initial class selection in Remnant 2, it is important to remember two key factors. Firstly, players will eventually have the ability to switch their archetype, ensuring they are not bound to their initial choice. Secondly, it is crucial to think about which starting loadout aligns best with one's preferred play style. While each class has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of starting loadouts, The Handler is particularly suited for players who enjoy a run-and-gun approach, making it an ideal choice for a starting class.
Remnant 2 Handler Perks
The Handler class, equipped with an AI-controlled dog companion, offers a unique advantage by reducing damage from friendly fire. In co-op gameplay of Remnant 2, maintaining situational awareness becomes crucial to avoid inadvertently harming teammates during intense encounters. With its supportive abilities akin to the Medic class, the Handler and its Companion provide additional offensive capabilities and desirable starting equipment, making them an enticing choice for players seeking more than just a healing role.Pack Hunter: Damage Perk: While the Companion is active and within a 25-meter radius of the player, gain a 3% increase in Ranged and Skill Damage.
Spirit of the Wolf: Team Perk: Enhances Movement Speed by 10%. All allies within 10 meters of the Handler will acquire the Handler's Movement Speed.
Teamwork: Utility Perk: Handler and Companion gain 5% increased Revive Speed.
Best Friend: Relic Perk: Using a Relic fully restores the Companion's health.
Bonded: Prime Perk: When Handler is downed, Companion will attempt to revive them at 50% Max Health.
Remnant 2 Handler Skills
Guard Dog: The Companion will trail the Handler, provoking a 15% increase in threat while engaging in attacks. Moreover, any damage inflicted upon the Companion is mitigated by 20%.
Support Dog: The Companion will accompany the Handler, providing constant healing to allies within a 3.5-meter range, restoring 0.25% of their maximum health per second.
Attack Dog: The Companion will accompany the Handler and inflict an extra 20% damage.
The Handler's available skills adapt according to how players press the skill button to direct their canine companion. The impact of each skill varies, depending on whether players use a single press, double press, or hold the skill button. Each input influences how the Companion reacts to the assigned skill. With the ability to enhance allies and attract enemies' attention, the Handler class is one of the top offensive support choices when beginning Remnant 2.
Remnant 2 releases on July 25 for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.