Flare (Below Zero)
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The flare emits flames through the combustion of potassium nitrate and aluminium. Can be used to repel predators. ― PDA.
Flares are tools crafted with the Fabricator in Subnautica: Below Zero. They allow the player to illuminate dark areas such as caves with a stationary light source, making it easier to defend themselves or spot resources. Flares also provide a small amount of cold resistance.
Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Tools |
| Cold Resistance | 10% |
| Size | 1x1 |
| Blueprint Source | Unlocked upon entering the Drop Pod |
| Acquired From | Supply Crates |
| Debug ID | flare |
Locations
Flares can be found in supply crates near:
Controls
| Action | Mouse & Keyboard | Xbox One | PlayStation 4 | Nintendo Switch |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ignition and Throwing | Right Mouse Button | Right Trigger | R2 | ZR |
Uses
Flares are one of the most versatile tools in the game, especially at the start, and have several related uses:
- Predator Distraction: Flares can be used to scare certain fauna away, most notably Snow Stalkers and Sea Monkeys.
- Handheld Light Source: Flares can be held in the player's hand (by selecting it on the toolbar) and used as a consumable handheld light-source. This acts as an early-game alternative to the Flashlight by illuminating the area around the player while held.
- Stationary Light Source: Flares can be thrown to act as a permanent (non-despawning) light source. Pressing the throw button ignites the Flare and causes the player to throw it slightly forward. The Flare will sink until it finds another object to rest on, all while giving off illumination. This acts as an early-game version of the Light Stick.
- Trail Marking: Given that Flares do not despawn after being thrown, players can regularly throw flares when exploring intricate cave systems, leaving an easy-to-follow trail of flares leading back to safety. This may be seen as a low-tech early-game alternative to the Pathfinder Tool.
- Cold Resistance: When held, Flares give a 10% resistance to the cold, allowing the player to last longer before reaching hypothermia.
Recipe
The blueprint for this item is unlocked when the player enters the Drop Pod. This item is crafted in the Fabricator.
x1
Gallery
A Flare in the Thermal Spires