Nightmare Strand Explained in Saros

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As you explore the different biomes in Saros, you will spot gateways that look like they teleport you to a different place. These are called Nightmare Strands, and the one in Shattered Rise can only be accessed once you unlock the Grapple, while the one in Ancient Depths can only be accessed after unlocking Eclipse Threads. So the first actual Nightmare Strand you will have the opportunity to enter is in the third biome.

As players approach the portal, they will get a pop-up saying that entering the Strand will refill their Second Chance. The guide below offers information on whether or not it is a good idea to visit these Strands every time you come across one in Saros.

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By Waseem Muhammad

Should You Traverse Nightmare Strand in Saros?

Image via Game Rant; Source: Housemarque
Image via Game Rant; Source: Housemarque
Image via Game Rant; Source: Housemarque

The main purpose of the Nightmare Strand is to refresh your Second Chance if you don’t have it, but you have to complete the whole thing while under the effect of a Carcosan Modifier. There are quite a few modifiers you can get, like hostiles spawning projectiles on death or enemies dealing more damage, and this can make the whole encounter very challenging, especially if you are low on health and don’t have a Second Chance.

In the case that you already have a Second Chance but are low on Integrity, you can intentionally die on the final wave of the Nightmare Strand, as this will replenish your Second Chance. However, if you have high health plus a Second Chance, there is no need to die, and you can simply complete the Strand for the other rewards.

Image via Game Rant; Source: Housemarque
Image via Game Rant; Source: Housemarque

Image via Game Rant; Source: Housemarque
Image via Game Rant; Source: Housemarque

When it comes to the other rewards, you will find a bunch of Lucenite, Power or Integrity Augments, a Large Aether, a possible Acolyte's Wager, and a few containers as well. This, on top of the Lucenite you get from the three waves of enemies, will increase your Proficiency quite a bit, making future weapons you find much better by comparison.

There are seven Nightmare Strands, one in each of the first seven biomes, and completing all of them will reward you with the “Nightmare Strands” Gold trophy. These gates are marked on the map with a visible symbol, so there is little chance you will miss them while exploring the different biomes.