Ever since Deep Rock Galactic (DRG) exited Early Access, several advanced metastrategies have emerged. If you notice players employing one or more of the following tactics, rest assured that you have a seasoned DRG veteran on your team!

This guide aims to present some exciting ways to play the game and help you maximize your competitive edge over other dwarf teams. These advanced metastrategies aim to deliver a greatly enhanced teamplay and to provide a highly sophisticated end-game gameplay for the most skilled of players.

Be sure to try out these strategies and let us and the community know how they work for you. We'll be keeping a close eye on the evolution of DRG and will keep developing and sharing new metastrategies as they come to light.

The desired outcome of a mission, and these metastrategies will be useful, if executed correctly!

IMPORTANT NOTE: In order for these metastrategies to work best, we assume that the class required for the corresponding meta(s) is completely upgraded and you have some experience under your belt.

This meta is particularly useful on Salvage, Point Extraction, Elimination and Escort Duty missions, where you need to defend a fixed area for a certain period or eliminate some Glyphid Dreadnoughts. The Gunner uses his ziplines to create a strategic network around the defense zone. It’s ideal to ensure that the ziplines intersect, allowing you to easily jump from one to the next one.

A Gunner defending the team against a swarm while the drop pod powers up!

As enemies appear, the Gunner (or any other class) can hang from a zipline and shoot at them while moving along it. By moving back and forth, melee attacks from enemies are avoided. Special attention should be given to enemies with ranged attacks (especially during missions with Mactera Plague), to prevent being shot off the zipline. Additionally, the elevated firing position often makes it easier to target the enemies' weak points.

A Gunner laying waste to a Glyphid Dreadnought while safely riding the zipline!

Meta complexity:

This meta is a slight variation of the Mobile-Turret-Meta and is particularly useful for defending specific areas, especially during the final battle in Escort Duty missions against the Ommoran Heartstone. The Gunner creates a dense network of , allowing him to jump from one zipline to another zipline if needed.



This grants the Gunner unmatched mobility and, thanks to the elevated position, the ability to identify and shoot at incoming threats early. Unlike the Mobile-Turret-Meta , in this meta, other classes should avoid using the ziplines and leave aerial supremacy to the Gunner.


Spidergunner, Spidergunner, does whatever a Spidergunner does!

Meta complexity:

This meta is a variant of the Death-From-Above-Meta, which requires a Gunner on the team. The Gunner throws his Shield Generator at the enemy, trapping them within the shield and securing them in one place. Meanwhile, supply drops can be called into the shield for an easy kill. Of course, you can always use conventional firepower to eliminate the Dreadnought with this meta if you don’t have enough Nitra for the supply drops.

A trapped Glyphid Dreadnought about to meet its demise!

Meta complexity:

This meta is specifically for players who prefer the One-Class-Only-Meta with the Gunner class. The goal is to compensate for the lack of Engineer platforms and Scouts by using the Gunner's ziplines to reach resources.

The zipline should always be positioned slightly above the target resources. Travel to the end of the zipline, look down slightly and start mining the minerals. If enemies appear during the mining process, move back a bit on the zipline, eliminate them, and then continue mining in peace.

Experienced players can jump from the zipline into the small cavities created by mining resources within the walls and continue mining from there.



Meta complexity:

Another metastrategy for collecting resources for a Gunner-only team is the Drive-by-Mining-Meta. However, even with a heterogeneous team composition, this strategy is often very useful!


Resources on pillars and the sides of long junctions and islands are the preferred targets for this meta. The Gunner shoots a zipline as close as possible to the resource. After that, he uses the zipline to approach the resources and starts mining them. By skillfully moving back and forth on the zipline with the use key, the Gunner can almost stop at the resource and mine very quickly.

Meta complexity:

This meta-strategy is especially useful when using the Gunner-only Meta.

Hard-to-reach resources on cave walls and ceilings can be an issue for a team of Gunners only. But not anymore! As you may have already noticed, the bullets of the Minigun create small holes in the landscape. You can take advantage of this and simply shoot at the hard-to-reach resources! With a little endurance and sufficient precision, small pieces of resources will begin to fall and can be easily picked up.



Meta complexity:

The Autocannon-Mining-Meta is an ingenious way for the Gunner to use the "Thunderhead" Heavy Autocannon for mining operations. This strategy allows the Gunner to target and break apart hard-to-reach minerals, causing them to fall to more accessible locations where they can be collected easily.


By employing the raw power of the "Thunderhead" Heavy Autocannon, the Gunner can break minerals lodged high up on cave walls or in other hard-to-reach spots. Aiming carefully, the Gunner can fire explosive rounds to shatter these mineral deposits. As the minerals break apart, the pieces will fall to the ground, ready for collection.

This method is particularly useful in situations where other classes may struggle to reach specific minerals without the aid of platforms or ziplines. The Gunner's Autocannon provides a versatile and efficient solution, turning mining into a high-powered operation.

Similar to the highly effective Minigun-Mining-Meta and Autocannon-Mining-Meta, the Hurricane Rocket Launcher can also be used to mine resources. How? It's simple: Just aim at the resources to be mined on the wall or ceiling, fire, and then gather the falling chunks.

Meta complexity:

Unknown to many players, this meta is extremely efficient in the middle of a fight. To keep the spin-up time of the Gunner's Minigun as short as possible, the reload button (probably "R" for most players) should be pressed before firing to spin the Minigun's barrels manually. The Minigun can then be fired almost instantly without any spin-up time, i.e., much sooner than without manual pre-turning. With this meta, the spin-up time of the Minigun can be reduced by 0.2s and combined with the "Lighter Barrel Assembly" even further.

You spin me round (like a Minigun)!

Meta complexity:

Similar to the Spinup-Meta, the reload button serves another practical function with the Minigun: If the Minigun is in the red zone in terms of heat, pressing the reload button ensures that the Minigun is turned manually, aiding in a faster cooldown. Please note that this meta only works as long as the Minigun is not fully overheated. Using this meta temporarily adds +0.2 cooling speed for the duration of the animation to the Minigun.

Almost overheated? Better give this meta a spin!

Meta complexity:

This metastrategy focuses on the Driller class. As the Driller, you should only use your pickaxe to dig during the mission to keep your drilling fuel at full capacity until the end. Once the drop pod lands, aim at its exact location and drill all the way to it, regardless of the distance.

It’s important to closely monitor the temperature of the drills to keep them operational. When the heat reaches about 90-95%, stop and wait for the temperature to drop to 10% before starting to drill again.

This strategy allows you to navigate challenging terrain and obstacles with ease, saving up to 5% of your time.

[left] A long way to go, but it's the only one worth taking!

[right] Pay attention to the temperature of your drills, or they will overheat!


A Gunner and Scout defending the tunnel while the Driller does his amazing work!

Meta complexity:

This strategy is a simple yet efficient variation of the Max-Fuel-Meta and requires two Drillers. Once the Escape Pod is called, one Driller starts drilling a tunnel towards it, using his drills until they nearly overheat. At this point, the second Driller takes over and continues drilling until his drills also approach overheating. By now, first Driller’s drills have cooled down, anll him to resume drilling. This alternating pattern continues until the team safely reaches the Escape Pod. When combined with the Max-Fuel-Meta, this strategy is particularly effective, enabling the team to reach the Escape Pod at record speed.

Meta complexity:

This strategy counters the Gunner's Cooling-Meta. When using the Driller's drills for extended periods of time, such as with the Max-Fuel-Meta, always allow the drills to overheat and then wait for them to un-jam. Combined with the "Streamlined Integrity Check" modification, this drilling method is faster than letting the drills reach 99% heat and waiting for them to cool down naturally with the "Magnetic Refrigeration" modification.

Let off some steam, Driller!

Meta complexity:

This metastrategy for Salvage missions is designed to maximize the use of the area to be defended. Having a Driller on the team is very useful for this is strategy, but other classes can also use it, albeit with a bit more time.

If the Uplink or Fuel Cells are in unfavorable positions, such as being partially within walls or in generally obstructed terrain, this metastrategy should be employed. The Driller uses his drills to expand the area to be defended, ensuring the entire defense area is utilized. When combined with the infamous Roof-Meta, this becomes a versatile metastrategy.


A highly experienced team using both the Roof- and Free-Space-Meta!

Meta complexity:

When an object needs to be defended, such as the Uplink and the Fuel Cells in Salvage missions or the Mine Head in Point Extraction missions, this strategy is employed. First, the Driller constructs a deep defensive trench around the object. The trench should be approximately two dwarves deep and at least three dwarves wide. It is very crucial for the trench to be as consistently constructed as possible. Once the trench is built, the team gathers around the object to defend it and starts the event.

Time for a new experiment, let's try gas!

The trench significantly delays or even stops enemies as they approach the object. To further enhance the defense, the Driller can evenly distribute his Neurotoxin Grenades into the trench. Incoming enemies must pass through the gas-filled trench, often dying before they can reach the team.

Meta complexity:

With the right perks, gear, and strategy, the Driller can be turned into an almost unstoppable self-healing melee class.

The first thing to do is to take the "Breathing Room" armor upgrade, which grants temporary invulnerability after being revived. This allows you to heal yourself for a few precious seconds to get back on your feet when you have been downed. Choose the following perks: Berserker, Vampire, Iron Will. When you are able to activate Vampire while Iron Will is active, you will heal up and won't go down. If available at the Abyss Bar, a cold Skull Crusher Ale will provide a welcome extra boost of 10% melee damage.

As far as weapons go, the Cryo Cannon has great crowd control and renders enemies frozen, giving you plenty of time to axe them and regain health, synergizing nicely with the Vampire perk. Modify the Cryo Cannon to have lots of ammunition and freeze enemies as quickly as possible.
The Power Drills should be upgraded with improved melee damage ("Barbed Drills") and the cooling capability when drilling enemies ("Bloody Cold Drills"). Upgrading pickaxe damage upgrade is also helpful, as well as taking Impact Axes with you, which oddly count as a melee attack and can be used at a safe distance.

Keep in mind when using the Vampire perk, there are a few things that will not trigger it: Swarmers, Loot Bugs, Brood Nexus, Q'ronar Shellbacks, Spitball Infectors, Hatchlings, and Shockers, and non-hostile wildlife in general don't give you Vampire health when you kill them with melee, throwing axes, and drills. And yes, you are able to melee a Bulk Detonator... in theory...

So, basically: Freeze medium and large enemies with your upgraded Cryo Cannon and lay into them with your many melee attacks (Power Drills, Pickaxe, Impact Axes), triggering your Vampire perk. Frozen enemies suffer triple damage and are particularly vulnerable to kinetic (melee) damage, making this meta a very useful strategy.

Meta complexity:

In this strategy, the Driller uses his Satchel Charges exclusively to blast passages to nearby caves. Instead of continuously checking the minimap to determine the direction of the next cave, then switching to the drills to create a passageway, one Satchel Charge is sufficient to clear the path. It goes without saying that in this strategy, the Satchel Charges are not to be used for any other purpose throughout the mission.




Before detonating the Satchel Charge, it is essential to ensure that no other players are within the blast radius to avoid causing harm. This strategy is particularly efficient when combined with the Max-Fuel-Meta and the "Rock Mover" modification for the Satchel Charges.

Meta complexity:

The secret technique of the C4-Mining-Meta is a legendary method mastered only by the smartest dwarves. It has been well-guarded over the millennia and passed down to a select few. This metastrategy is particularly useful when employing the One-Class-Only-Meta or when minerals need to be extracted quickly. For optimal results, use the "Rock Mover" modification for Satchel Charges.

A vein of gold and an egg are blown free at the same time — brilliant!

The Driller throws one of his Satchel Charges at the resource to be mined, ensures that both he and his teammates are at a safe distance outside the blast radius, and then detonates the charge. It should be noted that due to the force of the explosion, some resource chunks might fly through the area and not fall directly to the ground below, so be on the lookout for those.

A Driller unearthing an Aquarq, one Satchel Charge at a time!

Meta complexity:

The Plasma-Mining-Meta is the Holy Grail of mining as a Driller. Some dwarves have attempted it, many have failed, but a select few have seen the light and bath in its glory. Essentially, it involves shooting a charged shot at the resources you want to mine and then firing a regular shot immediately after to detonate the charged shot at just the right spot. The resulting explosion is not only glorious and deals significant damage to enemies, but it also carves an enormous sphere in the landscape, effectively mining the resources. This technique is particularly useful when using the One-Class-Only-Meta with a team of Drillers, but it generally saves a great deal of time compared to using your trusty pickaxe.

But before start joyfully shooting at precious minerals, you should first modify your Experimental Plasma Charger accordingly. AIM to maximize the ammo and get the lower charged shot ammo consumption perk and overclock, which gives you a total of 184 ammo. Each mining attempt costs 5 ammo (4 for the charged shot and 1 for the regular shot).

The EPC mining build of the plasma gods!

The 21122 build is quite forgiving and provides plenty of ammo to work with. With168 ammo in this build, you get 33 charged shots, which is a lot and should last quite some time down in the mines. The final step is to master the timing needed to detonate the charged shot in the right place.

Meta complexity:

The Hindenburg-Meta strategy revolves around turning the dangerous Naedocyte Breeder into a deadly weapon against its own minions. By utilizing the Driller's Cryo Cannon, this tactic provides an efficient and spectacular method to clear waves of enemies. The Hindenburg-Meta is based on freezing Naedocyte Breeders mid-air with the Cryo Cannon, causing them to fall and crush the enemies below. This explosive tactic not only takes advantage of the Naedocyte Breeder's size and weight but also creates chaos among the enemy ranks, giving your team a significant edge.


To execute this strategy, start by locating the Naedocyte Breeder within the cave system. These large, floating enemies are usually surrounded by smaller minions they continuously spawn. Ensure the Driller's Cryo Cannon is fully charged and ready for action, as the freezing effect is crucial for this strategy to succeed. Position yourself at a safe distance and aim the Cryo Cannon at the Naedocyte Breeder. Fire the cannon to freeze the Naedocyte Breeder solid, causing it to plummet to the ground. As the frozen Naedocyte Breeder falls, it will crush any enemies underneath it, dealing massive damage and clearing the area. Once the Naedocyte Breeder has fallen, finish off any remaining enemies and move on to the next target.

This strategy is effective for crowd control as it reduces the number of enemies by using the Naedocyte Breeder's own weight against them. It is resource efficient as it saves ammunition and supplies by utilizing the Cryo Cannon for a dual-purpose attack. Timing is key to ensure the Naedocyte Breeder is positioned above a large group of enemies before freezing it to maximize the impact. Communicate with your team to coordinate the Cryo Cannon freeze with other crowd control methods for maximum effectiveness. The Hindenburg-Meta can be used in various mission types, especially in tight spaces where enemies gather in large numbers.

Meta complexity:

For this meta strategy, you only need a dedicated Engineer; the other dwarves are free to choose their classes.

The critical part is that only the Engineer is allowed to take ammo from the supply drops. The Engineer's task is to eliminate all enemies using his Sentry Guns while the other dwarves focus on mining.

This approach provides a significant time advantage due to faster mining, and even the Engineer can assist mining while his Sentry Guns handle the combat.


The other three dwarves are prohibited from receiving supplies, because:

• They're not going to need it anyway, because they won't have to shoot at enemies.
  
• The Engineer requires maxium ammunition to maintain the entire team's defense.

This metastrategy is particularly effective when combined with the Early-Drop-Meta, ensuring that the Engineer always has enough ammo to refill the Sentry Gun(s).


Meta complexity:

Everybody knows the challenge: Salvage missions inevitably lead to defending the Uplink and, shortly after, the Fuel Cells. The area to be defended is fixed, offers little freedom of movement, and the objectives are often located in tight spaces.

To maximize the use of any given area, experienced players have adopted the Roof-Meta. This meta requires an Engineer on the team. The Engineer places platforms above the objects to be defended, allowing the other players to move comfortably underneath and fight. By positioning the platforms side by side, the Engineer creates a second level, providing an additional efficient way to defend the area. Moreover, placing Sentry Guns on these platforms significantly enhances their effectiveness due to the extended field of vision. The platforms also serve as a protection against long-range enemy attacks and help limit the area where enemies can appear and attack, exposing them to the concentrated firepower of the entire team.





Meta complexity:

This meta strategy simplifies the final battle against the Ommoran Heartstone in Escort Duty missions. In the second phase of the fight, the Ommoran Heartstone will attempt to destroy Doretta with flying rocks. If the team does not focus their firepower on the rocks, the mission can quickly be lost due to the significant damage they cause.

The Engineer can prevent this by using one of the surrounding stone formations to build a ceiling over Doretta with his platforms after the first round of combat and the initial shock wave from the Ommoran Heartstone. Since the shock waves between phases destroy the platforms, they should be constructed quickly at the beginning of the second round. If a flying rock is not destroyed in time, it will harmlessly shatter on the platforms, keeping Doretta safe. This allows the team to primarily focus on bugs during the fight without worrying about the flying rocks.

A marvelous piece of engineering!

Sticks and stones may break my bones, but not Doretta!


Meta complexity:

The Pancake-Meta is one of the tastiest metas available. It should be used whenever an area needs to be defended for an extended period of time (e.g., Point Extraction).

The Engineer uses his Platform Gun to fire a few platforms onto the ground as he jumps, quickly building a tower that can vary in height depending on the environment.

Once the tower is in place, the Engineer can set up his Sentry Gun(s) and cover his teammates from above. The Grenade Launcher, in particular, becomes highly efficient from this elevated position.

Behold, the mythical Tower of Pancakes! Yummy!

It’s important that the Platform Gun is equipped with the Tier 3 upgrade "Repellent Additive", so that bugs are less likely to climb the tower, allowing the Engineer to manage his delicious defense tower calmly. However, you still need to watch out for flying and shooting enemies!

Meta complexity:

The Stairs-Meta allows clever Engineers to quickly and easily access valuable resources without relying on the often careless and lazy Scouts. When using the One-Class-Only-Meta with Engineers, this strategy is essential and ensures full pockets for everyone.

A perfect example of an effectively constructed staircase!

The Engineer uses his Platform Gun to build a convenient staircase to the resources. Make sure that the individual platforms can be easily accessed by jumping and are not built too close to each other.

Who needs Scouts when you can have such great stairs?

If the staircase is properly constructed (see examples of possible staircase types), the Engineer can reach and retrieve the resources. Additionally, forward-thinking Engineers place their Sentry Gun(s) in the direction of the resource beforehand, providing cover while mining.

Meta complexity:

The Balcony-Meta is an innovative tactic designed for the third and final phase of the battle against the Ommoran Heartstone at the end of Escort Duty missions. This strategy utilizes the Engineer's platform gun to create elevated positions near the tips of the emerging laser crystal spires, allowing the Scout to easily grapple onto these platforms and destroy the spires' tips with a well-placed pickaxe hit, thereby neutralizing the lasers.

During the intense third phase, as the laser spires emerge, the Engineer must swiftly deploy platforms close to the spire tips. This creates a stable foothold for the Scout. The Scout then uses the Grappling Hook to quickly ascend to these platforms, positioning themselves perfectly to strike at the vulnerable tips of the spires with their pickaxe.

Turning laser spires into balconies for our Scouts since 2021!

This method significantly reduces the time and risk typically associated with disabling the lasers, as the Scout can bypass the hazardous climb and directly attack the spires' weak points from a secure platform. By efficiently neutralizing the lasers, the team can focus on dealing damage to the Ommoran Heartstone without the constant threat of deadly laser beams.

This meta requires seamless coordination and precise execution between the Engineer and Scout. When performed correctly, this tactic streamlines the battle, turning a chaotic final phase into a controlled and manageable encounter. Embrace the power of teamwork and ingenuity to bring down the Ommoran Heartstone with finesse.

Meta complexity:

The Group-Dance-Meta revolves around the coordination and simultaneous throwing of multiple L.U.R.E. grenades by the Engineer to significantly amplify the effects of these grenades. This allows for better control of enemies and gives the team valuable time to eliminate larger threats or reposition themselves.

To implement this strategy, it is essential to communicate with your team to coordinate the use of multiple L.U.R.E. grenades. Choosing strategic locations where the grenades should be placed is crucial to maximize their benefit, such as narrow corridors or choke points. Ensuring that several L.U.R.E. grenades are placed close to each other at the same time is a key aspect of this meta. Waiting for the right timing to throw all the grenades simultaneously will enhance their effect.

Looks like the Glyphids got invited to an epic dance party!

When multiple L.U.R.E. grenades are active simultaneously, their attraction and distraction effects on enemies are significantly increased. This results in an efficiency boost of approximately 150% compared to using a single grenade. This amplified attraction keeps enemies in a specific area longer, increasing the chance for the team to eliminate them more easily.

In solo play, the Engineer can use the grenades more effectively to buy time when overwhelmed by a large number of enemies. In cooperative play, multiple Engineers can use this meta to control massive enemy waves and temporarily relieve the team. The timing of the simultaneous throwing of grenades is crucial, and a well-coordinated team can prevent enemies from effectively executing their attacks.

This meta requires precise coordination and communication within the team but rewards with significantly improved control over enemy movements. Use the Group-Dance-Meta to turn chaos to your advantage and lead your team to success.

Meta complexity:

The No-Platform-Meta is a bold reimagining of how the Engineer class operates in Deep Rock Galactic. In this groundbreaking approach, the Platform Gun is left untouched throughout the entire mission. Though unconventional, this strategy redefines teamwork dynamics and highlights the Engineer’s capacity to innovate and excel beyond traditional roles.

By abstaining from using platforms, the team is encouraged to embrace adaptability, leveraging the natural structure of the caves and pushing the boundaries of their collaboration. The Driller, for instance, steps up by carving precise paths to otherwise inaccessible resources, making the environment itself part of the solution. Meanwhile, the Scout's Grappling Hook becomes a centerpiece of mobility, fostering a thrilling, high-skill approach to navigating complex caverns and retrieving elusive minerals.

The Engineer, freed from the resource demands of the Platform Gun, can focus entirely on combat efficiency. The ammunition saved is redirected to devastatingly effective tools like the Breach Cutter or the grenade arsenal, turning the Engineer into an offensive force capable of controlling swarms and eliminating high-priority targets with precision. This new combat role showcases the Engineer’s potential as a damage powerhouse rather than just a support figure.

Additionally, the absence of platforms sharpens the team’s environmental awareness. Instead of relying on a constructed safety net, each member must creatively engage with the terrain, finding unique vantage points, ledges, and zipline opportunities. This newfound emphasis on situational intelligence not only makes missions more engaging but also transforms the challenge into a team-building exercise, as everyone contributes to problem-solving in real time.

The No-Platform-Meta encourages a fresh perspective on the Engineer’s role and reshapes the cooperative experience. It is an approach for those seeking innovation, strategy, and a dash of audacious gameplay, breaking the mold of traditional expectations.

As we all know, among all the classes, the Scout has the most difficulty reaching Molly to unload resources. Therefore, the Carry-Mule-Meta dictates that Molly must stay with the Scout at all times.

When playing with experienced players, the Scout should generally be at least 500 meters away from the rest of the team. If the Scout isn’t engaging in the Scout-Leech-Meta or Scout-Bait-Meta (which he should), he can use his time to gather resources. To avoid constantly returning to Molly, she should remain with him throughout the entire match.

Other team members are not allowed to call Molly for the entire game. If any of the other three players don't understand the Carry-Mule-Meta or think it's pointless (*gasp*), the Scout should avoid arguments and simply keep pressing the "C" key to ensure Molly stays with him.

This strategy has the significant advantage of allowing the other three dwarves to focus entirely on enemies, while the Scout explores the caves and collects the necessary minerals to complete the mission.

Meta complexity:

The purpose of this meta strategy is to maximize the light output of the Scout's flares. To achieve the brightest possible light, you should shoot two flares within a 5-meter (16,4042-foot) radius of each other.

The flares will enhance each other’s brightness by up to 50%, depending on their relative distance and the angle between the light sources.

This provides a significant advantage during swarms, in larger caves, and is extremely helpful when searching for every single mineral source.

The two flares burning in close proximity push the light output well beyond the usual limits!

Meta complexity:

This little-known meta revolves around using the Scout's Flare Gun as a lethal weapon. Flares fired from the Flare Gun are armor-piercing and can easily penetrate any enemy armor. Therefore, the Scout inherently has an armor-piercing weapon with this Support Tool and can modify his other weapons to select different important mods instead of armor-piercing ones.

When combined with the “Expanded Ammo Bags” and either the “Supercharged Feed Mechanism” or “High Capacity Magazine” mods, the Flare Gun becomes an exceptionally useful weapon in the Scout's arsenal.

Meta complexity:

This meta is both an inversion of the Stealth-Meta and a variation of the Leave-All-Dwarves-Behind-Meta. Instead of lighting up the cave system, the Scout player conserves the Flare Gun's ammo for the entire round, using it all at once at the end.

Once the drop pod has been called (see Instant-Escape-Pod-Meta), the Scout tries to reach the drop pod as quickly as possible (see Leave-All-Dwarves-Behind-Meta). Upon arrival, he lights up the entire area around the drop pod with his saved flares, including the inside of the drop pod by firing flares around the entrance door. Additionally, his throwable flares can be used to further illuminate the area.

The smart Scout lights up the drop pod to ensure everyone reaches it safely!

Firstly, this strategy guarantees that at least one player escapes, thus ensuring the mission's success. Secondly, it makes it much easier for the other players to find their way to the drop pod, as it becomes brightly visible from afar and illuminates the cave impressively, like a shining monolith of rock and stone!

Meta complexity:

The Scout-Leech-Meta uses the Scout class as bait. As a Scout player, your task in this meta strategy is to use your grappling hook to move around the caves as quickly as possible. You are not allowed to be distracted by mining minerals or doing anything else - that’s what the rest of the team is for.

The great thing about this strategy is that you become the bait for every cave leeche in the area. By moving quickly across a large area with your grappling hook, you will inevitably be caught by some cave leeche, which:

• Keeps the rest of your team safe by keeping the leech busy.
  
• Allows you to easily find and mark the leeches for your fellow dwarves.
  
• Is much faster than looking at the ceiling and wasting flares to light up every single cave.

After you get downed by a cave leech, your team will kill it, revive you, and the whole process starts over.

[left] A fellow player gazes in awe at the freshly captured Scout, marveling at the spectacular display of sheer skill and teamplay!


[right] Meanwhile, another player engages in a fierce battle with the cave leech to free their forward-thinking teammate!



An experienced Scout player masterfully gets caught by a cave leech, keeping the team safe!

Meta complexity:

The Scout-Bait-Meta is a variation of the Scout-Leech-Meta. In this strategy, two Scouts use their grappling hooks and weapons to act as bait for enemies, targeting larger groups and big enemies.

One Scout grapples near the enemies to distract them, while the other Scout focuses on attacking their weak spots. Meanwhile, the other two dwarves collect minerals.

This meta makes perfect use of the Scout’s grappling hooks and speed, allowing them to move quickly around and distract incoming enemy groups.

Since this meta strategy consumes a lot of ammunition for two of the four players, we recommend using the Early-Drop-Meta simultaneously.


Two scouts using the Scout-Bait-Meta to distract a group of enemies, while the other two dwarves work in complete safety!

Meta complexity:

This meta strategy applies only to Salvage missions and is similar to the Scout-Bait-Meta. Once the mission reaches the step where the Uplink needs to be set up and defended, three players remain within the Uplink perimeter, while one player acts as a distraction to the enemies.

With three players in the circle, the mission bar continues progresses rapidly. The player serving as a distraction (ideally a Scout) should move far enough away from the team to prevent emerging opponents from attacking them, yet close enough that the enemies target him instead of the team members. This allows him to bait and kite the enemies.

The Scout player leaves the area to bait the swarms, while the other players defend the objective!

Finding the optimum distance requires considerable time and practice, but it significantly relieves the other three members of their task. This strategy can also be used during the Fuel Cells start-up phase.

Meta complexity:

It is well known within the community that the most successful DRG teams are composed of a single class. By having your entire team commit to a single class, you can significantly increase your effectiveness. Even the developers have admitted in numerous interviews that the intended way of playing DRG is with four players of the same class in a match.

Which class-team suits your purpose best depends on the biome you will want to visit, the mission type, and the resources you aim to extract. Here are a few points to consider before selecting your team's single class:

Scout-only team

• Best mobility out of all teams (Leave-All-Dwarves-Behind-Meta)
  
• Best visibility out of all teams (Double-Flare-Meta, Shiny-Exit-Meta)
  
• Your team can quickly cross large distances
  
• You can easily escape enemy waves and larger enemies
  
• Your team can bait enemies very effectively (Scout-Bait-Meta, Scout-Leech-Meta)
  
• Each resource is easily accessible thanks to Grappling Hooks
  
• Best team for Dense Biozone due to Grappling Hooks

Gunner-only team

• Second strongest firepower out of all teams
  
• Can easily dispatch any enemy, including Glyphid Dreadnoughts (Mobile-Turret-Meta)
  
• High mobility due to an abundance of ziplines (Zipline-Meta, Drive-by-Mining-Meta, Spidergunner-Meta)
  
• Shield generator allows for safely reviving fallen teammates during swarms
  
• Just shoot at resources to mine them (Minigun-Mining-Meta, Autocannon-Mining-Meta, Missile-Mining-Meta)
  
• Best team for Crystalline Caverns and Glacial Strata due to ziplines
  
• Very useful team for Magma Core due to explosion resistance

Driller-only team

• Very good mobility due to drills and C4 (Free-Space-Meta, C4-Traversing-Meta)
  
• Can easily escape during the run to the drop pod due to Max-Fuel-Meta
  
• Flamethrower and Cryo Cannon eliminate trash mobs, pistol for medium-sized and distant enemies, satchel charges for heavy enemies, Plasma Charger is an all-rounder, Melee-Meta possible
  
• Buried resources are easy to reach (Satchel-Mining-Meta)
  
• Descend safely into deep pits by drilling a downward tunnel
  
• Circumvent deep pits by drilling a tunnel down
  
• Best team for Magma Core due to fire resistance

Engineer-only team

• Best firepower out of all other teams (max. 8 standard turrets or 4 advanced turrets)
  
• Very effective weapons for both trash mobs and single, large foes (Engi-Only-Ammo-Meta)
  
• Platforms allow the building of additional layers in combat (King-Of-The-Hill-Meta, Roof-Meta, Pancake-Meta)
  
• Platforms allow for a safe descend into deep pits and easy and fast crossing
  
• High-up resources can be reached by building stairs with the platforms (Stairs-Meta)
  
• Can use platforms to block enemy paths (Bunker-Meta)
  
• Best team for Fungus Bogs due to poison resistance

Meta complexity:

This meta is applied during the loading screen, before the start of the mission. Usually, all kinds of very important things are done in the Space Rig, such as drinking beer and dancing, but a reasonable tactic for the next mission is seldom discussed.

As soon as the Drop Pod has launched and all players are in the loading screen, one player tabs out (ALT + Tab) to the desktop and, for example, watches some random anime videos on YouTube, downloads 8K movies, searches for the latest DRG memes on Reddit, etc. A really slow PC and an even slower Internet connection help enormously in the applying this meta.

The absolute highlight: The loading time is greatly increased, and all players must stay in the loading screen much longer. This allows sufficient time to discuss good tactics for the upcoming mission. It is also recommended to consult this meta guide through the Steam Overlay for other helpful metas at this stage. Once the tactics have been discussed long enough, the corresponding player tabs back into the game, and the mission can finally start.

Meta complexity:

To play as efficiently as possible, all players need to be aware of their surroundings. Fortunately, there’s the Laser-Pointer-Meta, one of the easiest yet most effective metas. Accessible by holding the [Left CTRL] or [X] key on a keyboard, the Laser Pointer is the tool of choice for quickly and effectively pointing things out (hence the name) to teammates.


Resources, enemies, other players, maggots, various fauna, and other interesting things can be marked with the Laser Pointer by pressing the fire button while aiming at the desired object. So be sure to use it profusely. A vein of Nitra just outside the cave's only exit? Tag it. A Bulk Detonator that the entire team is currently battling? Tag it! A resource somewhere at the end of an enormous cave that no one can get to right now? You guessed it, tag it!

So far, so good. However, experienced players don't just tag once but multiple times in a row to ensure that every teammate is anware and can make informed decisions. Greenbeards often have low SPM (scans per minute) counts, usually below 50. A good value for seasoned DRG players is approximately 400-500 SPM. For elite players on Hazard 5, an SPM value of 800 or above makes even more sense.

Meta complexity:

The Overload-Meta is an unconventional approach to defeating the Caretaker boss. By having all dwarves continuously target the Caretaker's force field with their Laser Pointers for at least 30 minutes, the force field collapses, allowing the team to engage the boss directly without the need to deactivate the Power Stations.

The core of this strategy lies in the unwavering focus and coordination among team members. Each dwarf must hold their Laser Pointer steady on the force field, demonstrating the sheer power of persistence and determination.

The basis for this strategy is rooted in the principle of resonant frequency disruption. When all Laser Pointers are directed at the force field in a concentrated manner, they create a cumulative energy interference pattern that destabilizes the field's molecular structure. The sustained focus of energy causes the field to resonate at its natural frequency, leading to an overload and eventual collapse of its protective integrity.

25 minutes down, just a few more to go!

While this meta may seem tedious and requires immense patience, it can be a game-changer, especially for teams looking to bypass the typically challenging task of deactivating the Power Stations. Once the force field collapses, the team can unleash their full firepower on the now vulnerable Caretaker boss, leading to a potentially swift and decisive victory.

The key to success with the Overload-Meta is strong communication and a shared commitment to seeing the strategy through. Embrace the power of persistence and show the Caretaker that even the mightiest force fields can't withstand the unwavering focus of a determined team of dwarves.

Meta complexity:

Similar to other metas where the Scout explores the caves far from the team, this strategy involves the entire team spreading out. Immediately after the mission starts, all players head in different directions to search for resources independently. This ensures an optimal search for resources and faster completion of mission objectives. Combined with the Instant-Drop-Pod-Meta, this allows the next mission to start quickly.

Mission types with many different cave paths, such as Point Extraction, Elimination, and Egg Hunt, are ideal for this meta. However, other mission types can also benefit from having each player in a completely different part of the cave, doing their own thing. The player who has Molly with them when the mission objectives are completed must immediately apply the Instant-Drop-Pod-Meta, regardless where their teammates are. Each player then tries to get to the drop pod on their own.

Meta complexity:

The purpose of this meta strategy is to have as many supply drops on the battlefield as possible at all times. As soon as you reach 80 Nitra, you must call down a supply drop. Regardless of whether everyone is still fully loaded with ammunition, simply call the drop pod. You never know, when it might come in handy, so it’s better to be safe!

Another advantage of this meta strategy is that when you run back to the drop pod to escape, you will find numerous supply drops scattered along your path. This allows you to easily refill your ammo without having to wait for a supply drop in the middle of enemy spawns.

A good start and a beautiful way of thinking, but not nearly enough supply drops!

It's getting there, but more is always better!

A pack of supply drops in their natural habitat!

Meta complexity:

This strategy hinges on the tactical placement of resupply pods to maximize team efficiency and safety. The Edge-of-the-World-Meta posits that it’s always strategically advantageous to call in a resupply pod at the farthest, most remote locations, ideally carried out by the Scout.

The fundamental concept of the Edge-of-the-World-Meta is to utilize the Scout's mobility to secure resupply pods in distant or hard-to-reach areas. By doing so, you ensure that your team can maintain a steady flow of supplies while minimizing the risk of overwhelming enemy attacks during resupply.


To implement this strategy, the Scout should be proactive in identifying and securing remote locations throughout the mission. Use your grappling hook to reach these far-flung areas quickly and efficiently. Once you've identified an optimal spot, call in the resupply pod. This location should be as isolated as possible to ensure minimal enemy interference.

The advantages of this strategy are numerous. By placing resupply pods at the edge of the world, you create safe zones where your team can regroup and resupply without constant threat of enemy attacks. This tactic also allows you to manage the pacing of the mission more effectively, as you can control when and where to take a breather.

While this meta requires precise execution and excellent communication, the benefits are substantial. The Scout's mobility and quick access to remote areas make this strategy particularly effective. By consistently ensuring that your team has safe and reliable access to supplies, you can maintain peak performance throughout the mission.

In summary, this meta offers a strategic approach to supply management. By utilizing the Scout's unique abilities to secure resupply pods in remote locations, you can enhance team efficiency, safety, and overall mission success.

Meta complexity:

This strategy is all about leveraging Molly in innovative ways to maximize your mining efficiency. Whether you're a seasoned miner or just getting started, the Molly-Mining-Meta offers a fresh take on resource collection and tactical advantage.

The core idea behind the Molly-Mining-Meta is to use Molly as a mobile platform to reach otherwise inaccessible resources. By calling Molly to your location and strategically positioning yourself on her sturdy frame, you can mine minerals that are out of reach or in precarious locations without needing complex parkour or grappling tactics.

As you explore the cave system, keep an eye out for high or awkwardly placed mineral deposits. Mark these spots for future reference. When you encounter a challenging deposit, call Molly to your location and ensure she is positioned directly beneath the resource you need to mine.


Stand on Molly's back to gain the elevation needed to mine the resources. Use Molly's stability to maintain balance and ensure accurate swings of your pickaxe. Once you've mined the deposit, quickly deposit the minerals into Molly for seamless collection and transport back to the drop pod.

This method allows you to reach high or difficult-to-access mineral deposits without the need for complex movement abilities. Molly provides a stable platform, reducing the risk of falling or taking damage while mining. Additionally, it streamlines the mining process by combining resource extraction and collection in one efficient motion.

Coordinate with teammates to cover multiple mining locations simultaneously, using Molly to bridge any vertical gaps. The Molly-Mining-Meta is versatile and can be adapted to various mission types, from mining expeditions to salvage operations. Make sure to call Molly back to the team frequently to avoid leaving her in a precarious location.

The Molly-Mining-Meta is a testament to the ingenuity of Deep Rock Galactic's dwarves, turning every tool at their disposal into a tactical advantage. Remember, in the depths of Hoxxes IV, resourcefulness can be the key to survival and success.

Meta complexity:

This meta strategy focuses on the player responsible for mining minerals. You are only allowed to mine half of the minerals to fulfill the mission requirements precisely in the last cave of the system.

By mining only half of the minerals, you will progress much faster than if you mined them all, while still gathering enough minerals to complete the mission in the last cave. This means that minerals such as Nitra, Morkite, and Gold should not be mined completely. However, you are allowed to mine Bismor, Umanite, and other optional but rare minerals entirely.

This approach allows for the quickest possible mission completion with the required quantity of minerals and the largest amount of optional minerals at the same time. If done correctly, this meta strategy can save up to 50% of the time. It takes some practice to gather enough minerals to meet the mission requirements without over-mining, but it optimizes the efficiency.




Meta complexity:

This meta strategy is a very advanced technique recommended only for the most experienced players (Miner rank 100+) and short missions (e.g., NOT Salvage).

The entire team is prohibited from picking up Nitra to complete the mission as quickly as possible. Ignoring Nitra saves a lot of time, but the downside is you are limited to the amount of ammo you start with. Therefore, you must aim carefully and avoid wasting unnecessary ammo on enemies. Use the pickaxe and its power attack whenever possible to finish off injured enemies, conserving valuable ammo. If used properly, this meta can save approximately 40% of the time on average.

An untouched vein of Nitra remains this way!

Meta complexity:

This unconventional strategy flips the traditional mining approach on its head, prioritizing mission completion over resource collection, specifically gold. The No-Gold-Meta challenges the assumption that gathering gold is worth the time and effort. The premise of the No-Gold-Meta is simple: gold is not worth collecting, ever. Instead of spending valuable time mining gold, which can be tedious and time-consuming, it's better to skip it altogether and focus on completing the mission objectives. By ignoring gold deposits and prioritizing mission completion, you can finish missions faster, thereby maximizing your overall gold earnings in the long run.

The rationale behind this strategy is that the time spent mining gold could be better spent progressing through the mission. Completing missions quickly allows you to undertake more missions within the same timeframe, leading to greater rewards from mission objectives and bonuses. Essentially, by skipping gold, you get more gold.

To execute this strategy, focus on the primary and secondary objectives of the mission, as these are where the bulk of your rewards will come from. Resist the temptation to mine gold; it may seem counterintuitive, but the time saved can be redirected towards completing the mission more efficiently. Move quickly through the cave system, engaging in combat only when necessary to progress, and avoid getting bogged down by optional resource collection. By completing missions faster, you can increase the number of missions completed in a session, thus boosting your overall earnings.


There is gold here... but not for me!

The advantages of the No-Gold-Meta are clear. It streamlines your gameplay by removing the distraction of gold mining, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: completing missions and earning rewards. Additionally, it can lead to a more dynamic and engaging gameplay experience, as you’re constantly moving and tackling new challenges rather than spending prolonged periods mining.

However, the No-Gold-Meta is not without its challenges. It requires a disciplined approach and a shift in mindset. You must be willing to forgo the immediate gratification of collecting gold in favor of long-term gains. Effective communication and coordination with your team are also crucial to ensure everyone is aligned with this strategy.

In summary, this meta is a bold and efficient approach to the game. By focusing on mission completion and ignoring gold deposits, you can maximize your rewards and streamline your mining operations.

Meta complexity:

Inexperienced players often tend to attack and repair an emerging BET-C immediately. However, in missions with many long tunnels, BET-C, especially combined with Molly, can become a self-made death trap and is often not very helpful due to its weak AI.

Firstly, defusing BET-C costs the team a lot of ammunition when fighting the Xynarch Charge-suckers. For inexperienced teams, a fight against BET-C often results in a complete mission wipe on higher difficulties. Even when BET-C is finally on the team’s side, it can still cause problems: BET-C tends to hurt players when attacking opponents if one or more players happen are in the way, and this damage can be significant. Additionally, the team has no control over BET-C, as it acts independently. One of the worst "features" of BET-C is that it can block players when they are kiting enemies, leading to unnecessary damage or even a down.

Therefore, BET-C should be avoided and ignored whenever possible. If a fight cannot be avoided, BET-C should at least not be repaired afterward.

Meta complexity:

When the team encounters an Omen Modular Exterminator as a machine event, this meta comes into play. Before the event begins, one player positions themselves on the surface of the tower. Once the event is fully activated and the tower rises from the ground, this player remains on the tower for the duration of the event, supporting their teammates by managing the enemy waves while the others destroy the cooling tanks. With this meta, three players can focus entirely on the tower, allowing them to defeat it faster and more efficiently than usually.



Meta complexity:

This infamous strategy should only be used for Salvage missions, and it is preferable to have a Driller and an Engineer on the team.

First, the Driller digs a small cave underneath one of the objectives (Uplink, Fuel Cells), ensuring that all players are still counted as being in the green circle once the objective is activated. Then, the team members activate the objective as usual and jump down into the cave.

The magical cave of wonders awaits!

Once the whole team is gathered in the cave, the Engineer seals the entrance with his platforms so that no enemy can enter. Time is of the essence here, to prevent the enemies from getting into the cave before it's completely sealed.

The team is safe and sound while the objective is being completed!

Upon successful completion of the objective, the team prepares for the "breakout" to exit the cave and deal with the accumulated enemy masses. Useful tools include Shields Generators, Satchel Charges, and lots of grenades. The team may also decide to leave the bunker sealed and let the Driller dig a tunnel towards the Escape Pod once it's fully powered up.

Caution: If Bulk Detonators are part of the spawn list in your current mission, you should think twice about using this strategy. Bulk Detonators have the nasty habit of digging through dirt towards your team, potentially messing up your neat bunker if your team is not careful and doesn't kite the Bulk Detonator away. This is also applies to randomly appearing Dreadnoughts, so be vigilant.

Meta complexity:

This meta is a variation of the Bunker-Meta. Follow the steps described in the Bunker-Meta and have your Driller create a lengthy tunnel below the objective (or to the side if the objective is right next to a wall). Instead of sealing off the entrance, call in a supply pod inside the cave (make sure to dig it large enough initially) and let the Engineer seal off the small tunnel created by the supply pod’s arrival.

He must come through this hollow way!

One player activates the objective as usual, then returns to the cave. The entire team focuses on the entrance to fend off the bugs. Funneling all the enemies through one narrow path allows your team to dispatch them with ease, and the supply pod ensures that your team has enough ammo for the entire duration of the objective. Weapons with blowthrough rounds and grenades are particularly effective and should usually suffice to hold off most enemies. The Gunner can also use his shield at critical times to prevent the team from being overrun if the enemy spawns become too overwhelming.

Today, no Dwarf dies!!

Unlike the Bunker-Meta, you won't have to deal with all the enemies when leaving your cave, as you will have slaughtered them all during the timer. Both metas have their respective advantages and disadvantages, so use the one that works best for your team!

Meta complexity:

The Uplink and/or the Fuel Cells are often in unfavorable positions that are hard to defend. Instead of building a neat bunker (see Bunker-Meta) or using the 300-Meta, it can often make more sense to simply bury the Uplink/Fuel Cells. This can be easily done with the pickaxe. Once it is completely buried, one player activates it, and the Engineer seals the hole with a platform to prevent anyone from falling in. The advantage of this meta is that the team now has more space to defend and a better view of the opponents.

There was an UPLINK here. It's gone now.

Meta complexity:

This meta strategy is a reversal of the One-On-The-Run-Meta. Depending on team composition, personal preferences and the circumstances of the mission, one of the two strategies may be more useful. It should be considered before starting the defense part of the mission which of the two strategies will be used.

In this meta strategy, one player remains in the circle to defend (ideally a Gunner or an Engineer) to recharge the progress bar, albeit slowly. The other three players move freely outside the circle, using their mobility, weapons, and wits to keep the incoming opponents away from the defending player. If necessary, Field Generators or Sentries can assist the defender, though they typically do not need to fear an attack if this strategy is properly executed.

A lone Gunner getting ready to defend the position, while the rest of the team freely roams the map!

Meta complexity:

Think big glyphids are hard to beat? Think again! With this meta strategy, you can defeat Praetorians and even Dreadnoughts with ease, without breaking a sweat and with minimal risk. This strategy uses supply pods as a deadly weapon against large glyphids and can be executed in several variants, depending on team composition, mission type, available resources, etc.

A direct hit with a supply pod removes one full health bar, instantly killing Glyphid Praetorians. If Glyphid Dreadnoughts are hit while still having some armor (yellow bar), the armor is destroyed, and they get take some additional health damage. Otherwise, it's a one-hit-kill. Two supply drops on a Dreadnought are also an instant kill. In summary, you need one hit for Praetorians and one or two hits for Dreadnoughts, depending on the preliminary damage done.

In Elimination missions, where the Dreadnoughts are still in cocoons at the start of the round, a simple variant of this meta strategy can be applied: Two players call a supply drop below the cocoon. Just before the first supply drop is about to hit the cocoon, the team destroys it so that the Dreadnought spawns. The two pods then hit it in quick succession, and it’s done. The Scout's IFG grenades can help prevent the Dreadnought from moving too far when it hatches.


Meta complexity:

Dwarves are not typically known for flying, but this meta is definitely worth considering. This strategy only works in the Biome Azure Wead and has very specific uses.

During a swarm, look for the nearest Cave Angel and hang onto it. Steer it in such a way that you stay airborne for the entire duration of the swarm (e.g., flying in a circle continuously). The other dwarves in the team handle the enemies, which is a clever way of saving precious ammo. Once the area is clear, you can safely land and continue with the mission. Just be careful not to fly into cave walls and avoid being shot down by flying bugs.


I don't know about angels, but it's fear that gives dwarves wings!

Meta complexity:

After landing, one player always stays inside the drop pod to prevent it from disappearing. This player remains in the drop pod throughout the entire round and can be replaced by another player, as long as there is always at least one player in the drop pod. The player inside can, of course, shoot at enemies outside to support the team.

Another advantage of this strategy is that some opponents are distracted by the player in the drop pod and focus on attacking them, while the other players are not targeted or recognized as valid targets.


Once the mine head has been launched and the timer for the escape pod begins ticking down, all players retreat inside the initial drop pod, which now serves as a shelter to wait out the timer. When the timer expires and the escape pod finally lands, all players leave the drop pod simultaneously and rush to the escape pod.


This meta works best in Point Extraction missions but can also be effectively used in all other mission types.

Meta complexity:

This meta strategy is known to very few hardcore DRG players, which is surprising because it is extremely effective when used correctly.

The Stealth-Meta requires that no flashlights be used under any circumstances during the entire mission. Since they are automatically activated when a mission starts, they must be deactivated immediately by holding down the F key after the loading screen (preferably already in the drop pod) to ensure the maximum efficiency. The Scout's Flare Gun may not be used for the entire mission either.

The whole team must move carefully through the mission, avoiding any enemies. Be careful not to run, as fast movements can attract the attention of the bugs and, depending on the surface, can cause loud noises. Additionally, no supply pods should be called because they usually alert all bugs in the current part of the cave. The use of the pickaxe is generally fine, but Driller’s drills usually cause too much noise, so pickaxes should be used when breaking through compacted dirt to the next section of the cave.

There are three dwarves and a Subata hidden in this screenshot!

In general, ensure that enemies are circumvented carefully and are not startled by quick movements and loud noises. For example, the sticky goo in Fungus Bogs can dampen the noise of movements. With this strategy, large parts of a mission can be completed without fighting, as long as the team coordinates, bypasses enemies, and simultaneously eliminates nearby opponents without raising an alarm. However, as soon the Escape Pod is called in, all bugs in the mission get alerted, and the mission turns loud.

Meta complexity:

This meta strategy aims at to save the collected resources at all costs and with minimal risk.

When the drop pod is called, one player, ideally the Scout, is the only one who returns to the drop pod. All other players stay in place to bait and kill the spawning enemies, allowing the Scout to reach the drop pod unharmed.

By going alone, the Scout should encounter minimal enemy spawns, if any at all, since the enemies are focused on the other three players.

The Scout can also concentrate on reaching the drop pod without having to look out for and possible rescue downed players, which could compromise the whole operation.

Once the Scout has safely reached the drop pod, all other players use satchel charges and/or grenades to down themselves, so the drop pod can leave immediately.

Since at least one player escapes, all players will receive 100% of the collected resources. The bonus for all players being alive is minimal and can safely be ignored in the big picture.

Meta complexity:

This meta is based on the realization that it makes the most sense to press the escape button on Molly as soon as it becomes available. As soon as you hear the words "Good Job, mission complete!" instantly hit the button to call in the drop pod. Experienced players are so good at calling the drop pod that they press the button while Mission Control is still talking.

The reasoning behind this meta strategy is clear: The amount of extra credits and/or crafting materials you would get by extending the mission is almost never worth it.

This is especially true for mission types like Egg Hunt, Point Extraction, Salvage, and Elimination, which either consist of a plethora of tedious tunnels or you can see the entire map from the beginning. Even in Expedition, the extra stuff is negligible, as you only get minor extra XP and/or minerals.

This also applies to meeting secondary objectives. Going past the primary objective for credits or XP isn't worth it unless they are easy to reach and can be quickly grabbed and deposited into the M.U.L.E. Since most of the items required for secondary objectives are often hidden in annoying spots (especially fossils), extracting ASAP is always a good idea. If you missed some secondary items, try to get them on your way back if it's not too much of a hassle; otherwise, focus on escaping first and foremost.

In summary, there is little point in staying. Don't waste an hour on every round so people can search every nook and cranny and wait for them to dig everything they can. It's a huge waste of time for everyone involved, and the longer you spend looking for something, the higher the chance of another swarm and the further the way to the drop pod. The meager yield of some materials and XP is not worth the extra 30 minutes in which you could easily finish another mission and probably get a lot more rewards.

Meta complexity:

It is evident that not every strategy will work perfectly within your current team setup, so some adjustments of the described meta strategies may be necessary to fully leverage their advantages.

Feel free to experiment with these meta strategies and share your experiences with us and the community. We will closely monitor the future of DRG and continue to develop and share new meta strategies as they emerge.

This is particularly important for those who play DRG competitively in official e-sports tournaments or participate in official speedruns.

When the upcoming "Beard Royale" or "Barrel Royale" game modes are released, we will add a corresponding PvP meta section to this guide. Stay tuned for updates!

Minerals and Sediments!