How to Use VATS in Fallout 76

Like in previous games, including Fallout 3 and Fallout 4, you can use VATS in Fallout 76, but it’s somewhat different in this online version of the post-apocalypse. Here is how to use VATS in Fallout 76 effectively in combat.

How VATS Works in Fallout 76

Unlike in past titles, Fallout 76’s VATS is slightly different in that it does not pause gameplay completely. In fact, it doesn’t even slow time. Everything is in real-time, and you must make split-second decisions on where to aim, which limb to focus damage on, and which enemy you want to nail first.

It’s a much more frantic experience that suits the hazardous online gameplay of Fallout 76.

To use VATS in Fallout 76 with a weapon equipped, tap ‘LB’ or ‘L1’ on your controller or use ‘Q’ on the mouse and keyboard. In doing so, you will enter the iconic VATS screen, which highlights your targeted enemy in green and displays the hit chance. With the right perk, you can even focus attention on specific limbs to cripple an enemy altogether.

Perk Cards to Improve VATS in Fallout 76

If you intend to build a character that heavily relies on VATS in Fallout 76, then you’ll want to select the right perk cards, such as:

• Action Boy/Girl: Your action points regenerate up to 45% faster than normal.
• Lone Wanderer: When traveling solo, you take 10% less damage and gain up to 30% Action Point Regeneration.
• Gun Fu: Your VATS will automatically switch targets when the original enemy is dead and provides a +10% damage boost on the next target.
• Concentrated Fire: Allows you to specifically target an enemy’s limbs to increase accuracy and damage for each shot.
• Better Criticals: Your VATS criticals will now do up to +100% damage.
• Grim Reaper’s Sprint: Any kill using VATS grants up to a 35% chance to restore all Action Points.

Now that you better understand how to use VATS in Fallout 76, perhaps you want to test your newfound skills on the Mole Miners in the Ash Heap.