Choose survival when the same point ends multiple runs. Once the loop is stable, test whether the next bottleneck has moved back to damage or clear speed.
Stability test
- Identify the point where the run consistently ends.
- Change only the defensive route relevant to that failure.
- Compare completion rate across the same stage.
- Return to offense when stable completions expose a new wall.
Version checks for a survival route
Survival results can be distorted by a bug fix or a display issue. Ver 1.02.01 fixed Sanctuary healing being applied at one tenth of its intended value and recorded that some maximum-stat displays were visual only. The official known-issues history also described an intermittent elemental-resistance penalty reset in Plaguelands, later addressed in Ver 1.02.03. These facts make patch and failure-point notes essential before calling a defensive route stronger.
| SURVIVAL FIELD | RECORD | DO NOT SUBSTITUTE |
|---|---|---|
| Loss point | Stage, wave, boss or effect | A general “too weak” label. |
| Defensive change | One skill, Rune, gear effect or formation change | A full build replacement. |
| Result | Completion rate and repeat attempts | One lucky survival. |
| Patch state | Ver 1.2.8 and relevant hotfix history | An old screenshot without conditions. |
Return to clear speed or boss damage only after the same failure stops occurring. A stable route is evidence that the bottleneck moved; it is not proof that defensive choices are universally best.
Official sources: Ver 1.02.01 hotfix and the patch desk.