Slaraash unlocks after Chapter 2 and replaces Cobalt’s shield-first identity with Acid and drones. Acid attacks can create temporary damaging pools; drones can add firepower, healing or mitigation. Build around the Acid Vat and Incubator instead of copying a Cobalt route, then use Carrier or Stinger pressure to exploit that ecosystem.
How to unlock Slaraash
Official faction notes say the Slaraash Swarm unlocks after completing Chapter 2. Once unlocked, it can be selected freely for both Story and Free Play runs.
Acid controls space
Slaraash Acid attacks have a chance to create temporary pools that keep damaging anything caught inside. The Acid Vat colony pushes that damage identity further. Inversion is especially notable because it changes allied interaction with those pools: they still hurt enemies but also heal allies standing inside them.
Drones are a build layer, not one fixed unit
Official July/August notes distinguish inherent and bonus drones. Carriers come with inherent drones, while Droneries and Incubator tech can add or improve bonus drones. Depending on the build, drones can contribute damage, healing or incoming-damage reduction.
Unlearn your Cobalt habits
Slaraash plays best when you stop importing Cobalt assumptions. There is no Shield Generator infrastructure to hide behind—drones are the mitigation layer, and they scale with the build rather than with a placed structure. Positioning also inverts: Acid pools are territory you fight around, and with Inversion they are territory you want to stand in. Give yourself a Free Play run to relearn those instincts before judging the faction.
Carrier and Stinger fill different jobs
Balance notes specifically mention Stingers among units toned down after being overpowered, so avoid hard-coding an “always best” verdict.
| Ship | Official identity | Use it for |
|---|---|---|
| Carrier | Drone-based primary firepower; Drone Bomb can weaponize drones | Scaling a drone package and converting infrastructure into pressure. |
| Stinger | Mosquito-like beam ship with high-piercing Ripper Beam | Piercing priority targets and adding direct pressure to an Acid/drone fleet. |
Sources & version note
This guide is verified for the pre-Early Access build window on September 13, 2026. Older playtest footage is used for mechanics and player questions only when it does not conflict with newer official changes.