Greetings, Commanders! In our previous Solo Wave Defense Sneak Preview, we walked you through the basics of this thrilling new mode. Now that it’s officially live, we’re here with an in-depth look at battle tactics and tips to ensure you come out on top. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the Solo Wave Defense arena, these pointers will help you make the most of your three-ship deployment and secure those all-important rewards.
1. Stay Centered, Stay Alert
Unlike standard Wave Defense modes, enemies in Solo Wave Defense can spawn anywhere in the system—even near the central target.
- Don’t fly your ships to the system edges! If you venture too far, hostiles might appear behind your lines.
- Keep your fleet near the center at the start of each wave to anticipate spawns. Engage quickly, then pull back to re-center and brace for the next assault.
2. Forget the Cutting Beam (For Now)
All Solo Wave Defense hostiles are immune to the cutting beam. Don’t let that discourage you from using the Borg Cube if it’s among your strongest ships, but remember that beam-focused strategies won’t be effective in this particular mode.
3. Upgrade Apex Shred Favors
Enemies in Solo Wave Defense rely heavily on Apex Barriers to withstand your attacks, so it’s critical to boost your Apex Shred for the best results.
- Prioritize Apex Shred favors in the Section 31 Faction Store using your hard-earned Victory Credits.
- Even the first tier of Apex Shred can significantly boost your effectiveness, allowing you to slice through formidable barriers much more effectively.
4. Ready for Real Combat
Expect only battle-ready enemy ships—there are no surveys or soft targets here. Each hostile vessel is primed for high-intensity combat, so bring your best loadouts, officers, and synergy to each wave.
5. Maximize Pre-Wave Deployment
Before you start the fight, use the ability to bring three ships to your advantage:
- Deploy a Cerritos or Titan first to buff your combat ships.
- Then recall that support vessel and bring in your third combat ship.
- Because Solo Wave Defense fights typically end quickly, your buff should remain active throughout the battle, giving you an edge in those crucial opening moments.
6. Prepare for Isolytic Combat
Solo Wave Defense enemies come equipped with powerful Isolytic offense and defense. You’ll need to bolster your own Isolytic capabilities to keep pace. Focus on research, officers, and artifacts that enhance Isolytic Damage and mitigate Isolytic attacks.
7. Wave Completion and Exclusive Rewards
In addition to the thrill of survival, Solo Wave Defense offers valuable currency and credits for each wave you conquer:
- Clearing the third wave rewards you with normal Section 31 and Mirror Section 31 credits, alongside the new currency.
- Completing all five waves yields an even larger bundle, so aim to finish at least three waves to secure even better rewards—and push for five if you dare!
These incentives make each round more than a simple fight; every victory contributes directly to your progression and your store of key resources.
Looking Back: The Sneak Preview
If you’re new to Solo Wave Defense or simply want a refresher, check out our previous blog post for an overview of how this revamped mode works, from the introduction of Apex Raiders to the central narrative driver of the Baraam. There, we explain everything from basic wave structures to the concept of Apex Shred and why it’s a game-changer in large-scale PvE.
Ready to Conquer the Waves?
We hope these tips help you overcome the fierce challenges waiting in Solo Wave Defense. Stay centered, stack your buffs, and invest in Apex Shred—these strategies are key to cutting through the toughest barriers and securing those exclusive rewards.
Live long and prosper, Commanders. Now, gear up, rally your fleets, and show the galaxy you have what it takes to stand against the new wave of threats.
We Want Your Feedback!
Your insights help shape the future of Star Trek Fleet Command. Share your Solo Wave Defense experiences in our official Discord or community forums, and let us know which tactics are working best for you. Good luck out there!
