Pragmata: how the Shelter enhances gameplay and narrative

The Cradle, a vast lunar base and the setting for the third-person hacking shooter Pragmata, is fraught with peril. It is teeming with hostile robots that often appear unexpectedly as players navigate its numerous facilities and corridors. Fortunately, players have access to the Shelter, a hidden area that allows them to build their arsenal, restock supplies, heal, and take a respite from the dangers outside.

Beyond serving as a preparation area, the Shelter is integral to the development of the relationship between the protagonist, Hugh, and Diana, an android resembling a young girl whom he encounters in the Cradle. This bond forms the emotional core of Pragmata, influencing both the gameplay and the storyline.

Enhancing the Shelter, upgrading its facilities, and making it more comfortable is a significant aspect of Pragmata’s gameplay. The following details what players can expect from this lunar refuge.

Upgrade abilities at the Firmware Updater

The Shelter features two primary stations: the Firmware Updater and the Unit Printer. The Firmware Updater allows players to enhance Hugh’s suit and primary weapon, boosting his health and weapon damage. Additionally, Diana’s hacking skills can be improved to make enemy armor vulnerable for longer periods. Regular visits to this station are crucial for strengthening characters.

Expand your arsenal with the Unit Printer

The Unit Printer is another key facility where players can use blue Lunafilament collected throughout the Cradle. This resource is spent to permanently unlock new weapon units and hacking nodes, enabling players to customize their loadout whenever they visit the Shelter. This flexibility is vital when facing challenging enemies or bosses.

Utilize fast travel with the Tram system

Entrances to a tramway system, leading back to the Shelter, are scattered across the Cradle. These serve as checkpoints for healing and rearming and provide a fast travel option. As players acquire new abilities, previously inaccessible areas become reachable, making the tram system indispensable.

Engage with Cabin and earn rewards

As players progress, they gain licenses that expand the Shelter’s capabilities and introduce Cabin, a robotic assistant. Cabin manages systems like the Cabin Stamp Club, where players can trade Cabin Coins for stamps on bingo cards. Completing these cards unlocks new Shelter features, upgrades, and outfits for Hugh and Diana.

Participate in Simulations for Cabin Coins

The Simulation Pod, unlocked with Cabin, offers challenge levels where players can earn Cabin Coins. Each simulation has three challenges, allowing for multiple coin earnings. These coins are key to unlocking significant upgrades and resources through the Stamp Club.

Discover more story through the Data Library

Rewards from the Stamp Club include secret data files that reveal hidden aspects of the Cradle’s story. These can be accessed at the Data Library kiosk once players have collected their first file.

Learn about enemies in the Bot Database

The Bot Database offers insights into the various bot adversaries encountered in the Cradle. Files on each bot type can be unlocked through the Stamp Club.

Customize appearances at Outfit Storage

Achieving bingos on a Stamp Club sheet yields better rewards, including new cosmetic outfits for Diana and spacesuits for Hugh. Changes can be made at the Outfit Storage kiosk.

Collect Mini-Cabin statues

Miniature Cabin statues, hidden throughout the Cradle, can be collected for display in the Shelter. These collectibles are often found in obscure locations, with audio cues signaling their proximity.

Foster Hugh and Diana’s relationship

Beyond upgrading equipment, interacting with Diana is perhaps the most compelling activity in the Shelter. Conversations between her and Hugh about their experiences and future plans deepen their bond. Collectible Read Earth Memories (REMs) found throughout the Cradle can be used to furnish the Shelter with toys and create new scenes for Diana. Engaging with Diana enhances her connection with Hugh, adding depth to Pragmata’s emotional narrative.

Pragmata is set to release on PS5 on April 17.