Transistor Functions guide: active, upgrade and passive slots
Understand Transistor’s three Function uses and build combinations you can actually equip.
Edition covered
The original 2014 Transistor campaign and its Recursion replay mode. Pictures are Supergiant’s PC Steam promotional imagery.
Start with the Function’s role
The same Function changes behavior depending on its slot. Read the active, upgrade and passive descriptions separately rather than assuming one effect follows it everywhere.
| Function | Active identity | Build question |
|---|---|---|
| Crash() | Close-range stun attack | Does this open a safe follow-up? |
| Breach() | Long piercing shot | Can the enemy be lined up? |
| Jaunt() | Quick movement | How will Red escape after Turn? |
| Spark() | Explosive area attack | Are enemies grouped closely? |
| Bounce() | Shot that ricochets between targets | Are multiple enemies within reach? |
Budget Memory before combining
Each equipped Function consumes Memory. A compelling combination is unusable if its cost exceeds the current allowance, so reserve room for mobility or defense before filling every damage slot.
| Slot or limit | Meaning | Practical use |
|---|---|---|
| Active slot | An action Red can perform | Select the core attacks |
| Upgrade slot | Modifies the attached Function | Read the combined description |
| Passive slot | Provides an ongoing effect | Cover a defensive weakness |
| Memory allowance | Limits total equipped cost | Keep the loadout within budget |
Test one change at a time
An Access Point lets you rearrange a loadout. Change a single component, enter a suitable fight or test, and observe what improved before rebuilding the whole setup.
Use different roles to uncover profiles
Function profiles reveal more about their associated people as you use Functions in different roles. Progress is a reason to experiment beyond a comfortable first combination.
Do not copy an expensive endgame combination without checking your current Memory and open slots.
References
| Reference | Website |
|---|---|
| Transistor publisher listing | store.steampowered.com |
| Supergiant Transistor page | www.supergiantgames.com |