Weapon Tier List — Ranked by Performance
| Tier | Weapon | Location | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | Rifle | Slums (second floor apartment) | Long range, high damage |
| S | Shotgun | Docks (warehouse) | Close range, boss fights |
| A | Revolver | Prison Armory | Versatile, reliable |
| B | Crowbar | Docks (crate) | Melee, utility (opens doors) |
| C | Rusty Scalpel | Starting cell | Stealth kills only |
Pro Tip: The Rifle is the best weapon in the game for dealing with dangerous enemies from a distance. It can one-shot most standard enemies with a headshot. Save it for tough encounters.
Stealth Build — The Ghost
This build focuses on completing the game without being detected. It requires patience and map knowledge but conserves resources.
Weapon Priority
- Rusty Scalpel: Your primary stealth kill tool. Silent and infinite use.
- Revolver: For emergencies only. Use when stealth fails.
- Crowbar: Utility tool for opening paths and breaking barricades.
Recommended Loadout
| Slot | Item | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Melee | Rusty Scalpel | Silent stealth kills |
| Ranged | Revolver (6 rounds) | Emergency defense |
| Tool | Crowbar | Opens locked doors |
| Consumable | Bandages (x5) | Healing |
| Consumable | Lockpick (x2) | Optional locked chests |
Pro Tip: The Ghost build relies on knowing enemy patrol routes. Watch patrols for a full cycle before moving. Patience is the key to success.
Combat Build — The Hunter
For players who prefer direct confrontation. This build uses loud weapons and aggressive tactics.
Weapon Priority
- Shotgun: Your primary weapon. Devastating at close range.
- Rifle: For long-range engagements and boss fights.
- Revolver: Backup weapon for medium range.
Recommended Loadout
| Slot | Item | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Melee | Crowbar | Emergency melee, utility |
| Ranged 1 | Shotgun (8 shells) | Primary damage dealer |
| Ranged 2 | Rifle (6 rounds) | Long range, precision |
| Consumable | Bandages (x5) | Healing |
| Consumable | Holy Water (x2) | Boss damage |
For ammo farming routes, see our Gloomwood Loot Guide.
Hybrid Build — The Opportunist
The best approach for most players. Use stealth when possible and combat when necessary.
Weapon Priority
- Revolver: Your go-to weapon. Use it for most combat encounters.
- Rusty Scalpel: Stealth kills to conserve ammo.
- Shotgun: For tough enemies and bosses.
- Crowbar: Utility and backup melee.
Recommended Loadout
| Slot | Item | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Melee | Rusty Scalpel | Stealth kills |
| Ranged 1 | Revolver (12 rounds) | Primary ranged weapon |
| Ranged 2 | Shotgun (4 shells) | Bosses and emergencies |
| Tool | Crowbar | Utility |
| Consumable | Bandages (x5) | Healing |
Weapon Stats Comparison
| Weapon | Damage | Range | Fire Rate | Ammo Type | Stealth |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rusty Scalpel | 20 (stealth: instant kill) | Melee | Fast | None | Silent |
| Crowbar | 35 | Melee | Slow | None | Loud |
| Revolver | 50 | Medium | Medium | Revolver Rounds | Loud |
| Shotgun | 80 (per pellet x8) | Short | Slow | Shotgun Shells | Very Loud |
| Rifle | 100 | Long | Very Slow | Rifle Rounds | Loud |
For detailed enemy weaknesses, see our Gloomwood Enemy Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best weapon in Gloomwood?
The Rifle is the best weapon for damage per shot, but ammo is very rare. The Revolver is the best all-around weapon.
Is the Crowbar worth carrying?
Yes. It opens locked doors and breaks barricades, giving access to shortcuts and loot. It also deals decent melee damage.
What is the best build for beginners?
The Opportunist (hybrid) build is the most forgiving. It allows you to stealth when possible and fight when necessary.
How do I get more ammo?
Ammo is found in drawers, on enemy bodies, and in hidden caches. Explore thoroughly and stealth kill enemies to conserve ammo.
Is the Shotgun worth using?
Yes, especially for boss fights. The Shotgun deals massive damage at close range. Save shells for boss encounters.
Can I upgrade weapons?
No, Gloomwood does not have a weapon upgrade system. The weapons you find are as strong as they will ever be.
What is the best weapon for stealth?
The Rusty Scalpel is the only silent weapon. It is essential for stealth-focused playthroughs.
Where is the Rifle located?
In the Slums, on the second floor of an apartment building. The door is locked — use a Lockpick or find the key in the nearby office.