Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallOutdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchFor a reliable first character in Valor Mortis, spend your first four Catalysts on Max Stamina, add Max Health until ordinary mistakes are survivable, then commit to one weapon and one combat identity. Saber is the most forgiving starting point; rapier suits players who can consistently parry; greatsword favors deliberate, high-power attacks. If mutations are central to your plan, move Ectoplasm Capacity and Ectoplasm Drain ahead of additional defensive upgrades.
This approach keeps your options open. Valor Mortis has no forced class selection, weapon upgrade trees can unlock substantially different abilities, and unlocked options can be switched. Your first build is therefore a foundation, not a permanent character decision.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
What your first build needs to accomplish
A first playthrough has two simultaneous demands: you must learn enemy timing, and you must have enough resources to recover when your timing is wrong. Stamina controls both attacks and dodges, so an aggressive damage plan that empties the bar can leave you unable to evade the next hit. Health is your error margin while you learn patterns. Weapon choice then determines which timing and positioning habits you practice.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Use this priority order unless your experience clearly points elsewhere:
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
- Build a stamina floor. The first four Catalysts go into Max Stamina. Keep enough remaining stamina for at least one dodge instead of spending the entire bar on offense.
- Add survivability. Raise Max Health after that foundation. Move health earlier if a recurring enemy combo kills you before you can react.
- Choose one combat identity. Select a parry, block, or mutation-oriented second-row path rather than scattering points across unrelated options.
- Invest in a weapon you will actually use. Each weapon has its own upgrade tree, and upgrades can unlock abilities that change how the weapon works.
This is a learning build, not a claim that one weapon has the highest damage. The goal is to give you stamina for movement, health for experimentation, and a clear loop to practice.
The first 25 levels: a practical allocation plan
First four Catalysts: Max Stamina
Spend the opening four Catalysts on Max Stamina. The early progression guide recommends this investment because stamina governs every attack and dodge, and four points open the second upgrade row. The extra capacity is useful even when you are playing defensively: it gives you more room to attack, disengage, and still retain a dodge.
Do not treat a full stamina bar as permission to spend it all. Build the habit of reserving one dodge before committing to another attack. That reservation matters more while learning unfamiliar enemies than a small increase in immediate damage.
After the stamina foundation: Max Health
Put the next points into Max Health for a conventional melee first run. Health does not replace learning patterns, but it prevents one missed read from ending an attempt. It is especially valuable when an enemy has a multi-hit sequence: surviving the first mistake lets you see the rest of the animation and adjust on the next encounter.
There is no fixed health threshold that suits every player. If you repeatedly die to the same combo before you can respond, stop advancing your offensive plan and add health until you can survive long enough to identify the attack. Once you can reliably recognize it, return to your chosen specialization.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
When Ectoplasm Capacity comes first
Ectoplasm Capacity is a lower priority for a melee-first character that rarely casts mutations. A mutation-heavy build is different. Capacity lets you hold more of the resource used by those abilities, and the recommended pairing is Ectoplasm Capacity with Ectoplasm Drain so your ability loop can operate more often.
Do not buy Capacity in isolation and then wonder why the build feels unchanged. Capacity increases the amount available to use; Drain supports more frequent use. Keep enough Max Health to survive mistakes while you learn when casting is safe.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Choosing your second-row identity
Once the opening stamina investment unlocks the second row, choose the loop that matches how you already approach fights:
| Identity | Core upgrades | Best fit | What to practice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parry-centered melee | Parry Impact | Players who enjoy precise deflect timing | Reading the start of an attack and answering with a clean parry rather than panic-dodging |
| Defensive learner | Block plus Max Health | Players who need more room for mistakes or face crowded encounters | Holding a safe position, blocking pressure, and waiting for a punish window |
| Mutation caster | Ectoplasm Capacity plus Ectoplasm Drain | Players who want abilities to drive the combat loop | Managing ectoplasm so a cast is available when it matters instead of spending it immediately |
These identities are not permanent classes. They are spending priorities that make your current weapon and resource loop more coherent.
Picking your first weapon
The developer describes three melee weapons in clear terms: saber is a balanced all-rounder, rapier emphasizes precision and parry timing, and greatsword is about raw power. Firearms add ranged options and have their own roles. There are six weapons overall, each with a unique upgrade tree.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
| Weapon or approach | Developer-described role | Risk and timing | Good first-build pairing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saber | Balanced all-round weapon | Most forgiving baseline when you are still learning spacing and stamina use | Max Stamina, Max Health, then Parry Impact or Block based on comfort |
| Rapier | Precision and parry weapon | Rewards accurate timing; mistakes are more costly if you cannot deflect consistently | Max Stamina followed by Parry Impact |
| Greatsword | Raw power | Deliberate attacks demand commitment and careful stamina management | Max Stamina, Max Health, then Block when groups overwhelm you |
| Firearms | Ranged options with their own roles | Changes engagement distance and resource decisions; the specific role depends on the firearm | Keep a stamina and health foundation before specializing in a ranged loop |
Choose based on the behavior you want to repeat, not on an assumed tier list. If you want a forgiving baseline while you learn enemy animations, start with the saber. If the satisfying part of combat is turning an incoming strike into an opening, choose rapier and invest in Parry Impact. If you prefer committing to slower, forceful attacks, the greatsword gives that identity, while Block and health provide a cushion when several enemies attack together.
Why upgrade trees matter more than the starting label
Every weapon has a separate upgrade tree. Upgrades can unlock abilities and significantly change how a weapon works, so the weapon name alone does not describe the final play style. You can also switch among unlocked options. That flexibility makes experimentation safe: test a branch, keep the options that support your combat loop, and change to another unlocked option when your needs change.
Because no class-based weapons are locked to a character, you do not need to restart simply because your first weapon choice feels wrong. The developer stated in the community AMA: “Hi! We’re planning to add New Game+ post-launch. However, there are no bespoke or class-based weapons in Valor Mortis.” The statement confirms the absence of class-locked weapons; it does not promise a particular New Game+ release date or feature set.
Three complete first-run build routes
Balanced saber starter
- Spend Catalysts one through four on Max Stamina.
- Add Max Health until the common attacks in your current area no longer kill you before you can respond.
- Use saber upgrades that make its balanced moveset comfortable to repeat.
- Choose Parry Impact if you are beginning to land deflects; choose Block if you are still learning enemy strings.
- Only then branch into a specialized weapon or mutation investment.
This route is the safest default because it does not require perfect parries, constant casting, or slow-weapon commitment. It gives you a neutral reference point for deciding what you want to change.
Parry duelist
- Spend the first four Catalysts on Max Stamina so failed attempts do not leave you unable to dodge.
- Take Parry Impact as your second-row identity.
- Use the rapier if you want the clearest precision-and-parry focus, or stay with saber if you want a more forgiving version of the same idea.
- Practice one enemy at a time: watch the attack start, parry on the repeatable timing, and avoid spending the entire stamina bar after a successful deflect.
- Add Max Health when an unavoidable mistake is ending attempts before you can learn the timing.
This route has a higher execution demand than the balanced starter. Its advantage is clarity: every encounter teaches you to read attacks and convert a clean defense into a punish.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Mutation hybrid
- Take the first four Max Stamina upgrades.
- Invest in Ectoplasm Capacity once you have enough health to survive ordinary errors.
- Add Ectoplasm Drain so the larger resource pool translates into more frequent ability use.
- Keep a practical health reserve instead of putting every subsequent point into ectoplasm.
- Use weapon upgrades that cover the moments when ectoplasm is unavailable or unsafe to spend.
The hybrid route is strongest when casting is part of your normal decision-making rather than an occasional emergency button. Capacity and Drain work together; buying only one leaves the intended loop incomplete.
Heavy-weapon learner
- Open with four Max Stamina upgrades.
- Build Max Health next so one mistimed greatsword commitment does not end the attempt.
- Choose greatsword upgrades that support deliberate, high-power attacks.
- Add Block when groups or crowded engagements make attack commitment risky.
- Preserve enough stamina to dodge after an attack rather than chaining swings until the bar is empty.
This route accepts slower decision-making in exchange for raw power. Its discipline is knowing when not to swing: the greatsword plan fails when every attack is treated as safe simply because it deals more damage.
Ambers: when to use your passive slots
Ambers are equippable gems that provide passive bonuses and abilities. They are obtained from quests and chests, can be swapped, and duplicate copies strengthen the passive effect. You do not need to save every Amber for a hypothetical final build; use the passive that supports the behavior you are practicing now.
| Character level | Amber-slot milestone | Total slots available |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | First slot opens | 1 |
| 15 | Second slot opens | 2 |
| 25 | Third slot opens | 3 |
| 35 | Fourth slot opens | 4 |
| 45 | Fifth slot opens | 5 |
The five-slot progression and level milestones were reported by PC Gamer in 2026. Early on, evaluate an Amber by asking whether its passive reinforces your selected loop: a parry-focused character benefits most from an effect that helps maintain that rhythm, while a mutation build should favor an effect that supports ability use when one is available. The exact value of a duplicate depends on the passive it strengthens, so compare the improved effect before replacing a different utility Amber.
Recommended Free Tools
How to adjust the build when it feels wrong
You run out of stamina before the enemy’s turn ends
Stop adding offense and check your reserve. Keep one dodge available before an attack string, then shorten your own sequence until the bar recovers. If the problem persists, prioritize additional Max Stamina rather than trying to solve a resource problem with weapon damage.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
You die before you can identify the attack
Move Max Health ahead of specialization. A build that kills quickly is not useful if you cannot stay alive long enough to learn the encounter. Return to Parry Impact, mutation investment, or a deeper weapon branch after the recurring combo is survivable.
Parries are inconsistent
Use the saber or Block while you learn the animation, or keep the rapier but stop treating every incoming strike as a parry attempt. The parry route rewards precision; it is not a requirement for completing a first run. Switching among unlocked weapon options lets you lower the timing demand without abandoning progress.
Mutations feel unavailable
Check both sides of the resource plan. Ectoplasm Capacity without Ectoplasm Drain does not provide the same frequency as a paired investment, and a build with no health reserve may be forced to spend ectoplasm defensively. Add the missing partner and retain enough stamina to disengage after casting.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsGreatsword attacks leave you exposed
Reduce the number of swings, wait for a clearer opening, and consider Block for crowded fights. Greatsword is defined by raw power, not by constant attacks. The stamina rule still applies: finish an attack with enough resource for a dodge whenever the enemy can answer immediately.
Progression beyond the opening build
After the first 25 levels, specialization can follow the weapon and combat loop you have proven you enjoy. The build index lists Stagnation, Pistol, Parry, Greatsword, Fire, Spellblade, Gun & Blade, and Claymore paths as later directions. Those labels indicate available themes, not independently tested damage rankings. Treat them as prompts for experimentation: select the path whose resource demands and timing match your current weapon, then use the ability and upgrade switching system to refine it.
As more Amber slots open at levels 35 and 45, reassess your passives instead of leaving early equipment untouched. A duplicate that strengthens a core passive may become more valuable once your build has a clear identity, while a flexible utility effect can remain preferable during exploration or unfamiliar encounters.
Quick Recap
A first-session checklist
- Spend the first four Catalysts on Max Stamina.
- Reserve enough stamina for at least one dodge.
- Add Max Health when a repeated combo kills you before you can react.
- Choose Parry Impact, Block plus health, or Ectoplasm Capacity plus Drain as your second-row identity.
- Start with saber for the most forgiving baseline, rapier for precision and parries, or greatsword for raw power.
- Remember that firearms provide ranged options and have their own roles.
- Inspect each weapon’s upgrade tree; abilities can change how the weapon works.
- Switch among unlocked options when your current branch no longer fits your combat loop.
- Use Ambers from quests and chests, and check duplicates for stronger passive effects.
- Revisit your plan at Amber milestones: levels 5, 15, 25, 35, and 45.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
