How to Manage MOLLY for Cleaner DRG Extractions

Combat Summary

• Predict Paths: Always consider MOLLY’s likely route to the Drop Pod and clear a path before she gets there, especially in tight tunnels.
• Ping for Guidance: Use your laser pointer to ping the Drop Pod ramp or clear pathways to subtly influence MOLLY’s behavior, especially when dealing with DRG Hazards.
• Stay Clear: Never get between MOLLY and a large incoming threat, nor let her block your retreat during a swarm or a crucial escape from a Bulk Detonator.

MOLLY is a lifeline, but she’s also a pathing nightmare if left unmanaged, particularly during critical extractions. Many greenbeards learn this lesson the hard way, trapped against a wall by a metal mule as Glyphids close in. Effective MOLLY Management is less about direct control and more about prediction and proactive team effort to ensure smooth operations.

Predicting MOLLY’s Path

MOLLY generally takes the most direct, unblocked route to the Drop Pod. This often means through narrow tunnels, up cliffs, or right into the middle of a fresh swarm. As Miners, we need to anticipate this. If you know extraction is coming, keep an eye on potential choke points. Are there tunnels that will become bottlenecked? Are there sheer drops MOLLY will try to navigate that could leave her exposed or block a teammate?

MOLLY’s Role in Hazard Management

MOLLY can inadvertently draw aggro or create dangerous situations. Her large hitbox can push you into environmental hazards or block line of sight. When a second Bulk Detonator shows up in the Drop Pod zone, the last thing you need is MOLLY waltzing between you and the threat. Always be aware of her location relative to high-threat enemies and your own escape routes. Good Extraction Tactics involve positioning yourself so MOLLY doesn’t trap you against a wall with a Praetorian’s goo breath incoming.

Team Coordination for MOLLY

Effective Team Coordination is key. If you’re a Gunner, your shield can buy crucial time if MOLLY gets stuck or if a teammate is trapped by her. Engineers can use platforms to create easier routes up tricky terrain for her, preventing her from taking a circuitous path through a fresh swarm. Scouts can zip ahead to clear small obstacles or mark the optimal route, while Drillers can tunnel short detours around major blockages or create breathing room near the Drop Pod for MOLLY to park.

Common MOLLY Mistakes

• Ignoring her path: Assuming MOLLY will find the best way. She finds a way, often not ideal.
• Getting trapped: Allowing MOLLY to push you into a corner, especially during an intense swarm.
• Not clearing ahead: Failing to mine small obstacles or open up cramped tunnels MOLLY will inevitably use.

Miner’s Chatter

The consensus among veteran Miners is that MOLLY is both a blessing and a curse. Many recount tales of MOLLY blocking vital escape routes during overwhelming swarms or leading a parade of angry Glyphids directly into the Drop Pod ramp. The common advice boils down to treating her as another, albeit unpredictable, member of the team. Proactive clearing and intelligent pinging are often cited as the best ways to keep her from becoming a bigger hazard than the bugs.