ABOVE Perks Guide: Best Upgrades for Your Mountain Retreat

Understanding the Perk System in ABOVE

Perks in ABOVE are special passive upgrades that enhance your shelter management capabilities. Unlike one-time upgrades from the workshop, perks provide ongoing benefits that affect everything from resource gathering to guest satisfaction. You unlock perk slots as you progress through the game's narrative, with the first slot becoming available after rescuing your fifth climber.

Each perk belongs to one of three categories: Hospitality, Survival, and Expedition. You can equip up to five perks simultaneously by the end of the game, so choosing the right combination for your playstyle is essential. Perks are unlocked by completing specific milestones, such as reaching certain guest counts or successfully mapping new trails.

Hospitality Perks: Keeping Guests Happy

Hospitality perks focus on guest satisfaction and revenue generation. These are ideal for players who want to build a thriving resort atmosphere.

Survival Perks: Thriving in Harsh Conditions

The alpine environment of ABOVE is unforgiving. Survival perks help you manage the harsh weather and keep your shelter operational during blizzards.

Cold Resistance reduces the heating cost of your shelter by 25%, making it a top priority for new players. Resourceful Gatherer increases the yield from supply drops by 30%, which is critical when resupply flights are delayed by storms. Medic's Touch speeds up guest recovery from injuries by 40%, ensuring climbers return to the trails faster.

For players following the beginner guide, equipping Cold Resistance and Resourceful Gatherer together creates a solid foundation for the first season.

Expedition Perks: Conquering the Peaks

Expedition perks directly affect your ability to explore and map new routes. These are essential for progressing through the game's story and unlocking new areas.

Best Perk Combinations for Different Playstyles

Your choice of perks should align with your overall strategy. Here are three recommended loadouts:

1. The Hospitality Focus

   Equip Warm Welcome, Seasoned Chef, and Entertainment Master. This combination maximizes guest satisfaction and revenue, ideal for players who enjoy the simulation aspect of the game.

2. The Survivalist Build

   Use Cold Resistance, Resourceful Gatherer, and Medic's Touch. This loadout ensures your shelter remains operational even during the worst weather events.

3. The Explorer's Kit

   Select Experienced Guide, Trailblazer, and Weather Forecaster. This setup is perfect for players who want to complete the game's map and story content quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Perks

How do I unlock more perk slots? Perk slots are unlocked by progressing through the main story. You will earn your second slot after completing the first major expedition, with subsequent slots unlocked at key narrative milestones.

Can I change my perks after selecting them? Yes, you can swap perks at any time from the management menu. There is no cost or penalty for changing your equipped perks.

Are there any hidden perks? Yes, there are two secret perks that can be discovered by completing specific side quests. One involves rescuing a legendary climber, while the other requires mapping every trail in a particular region.

Do perks stack with upgrades? Perks and upgrades work independently. For example, the Cold Resistance perk stacks with insulation upgrades from the workshop, providing cumulative benefits.