Master the Madness system in Wuchang: Fallen Feathers – Learn how to use, manage, and remove this high-risk buff mechanic for massive damage (and maybe some regret).
So, What’s the Deal With Madness?
Alright, souls-like fans, gather ‘round the bonfire. Wuchang: Fallen Feathers is throwing its hat into the grimdark arena with a spicy little twist: Madness – a mechanic that’s basically like playing on hard mode for bragging rights and extra damage.
Here’s the TL;DR: the more you die or use certain items, the more this Madness meter builds up. Once it’s full, you get a big ol’ damage buff… but enemies hit harder too. Yep, it’s a glass cannon mode. The game even warns you with a dramatic “Madness Descends” message, because of course it does.
And if you really mess around and die with maxed Madness? A demon pops up at your death spot. Surprise mini-boss! Beat it to reset your Madness and recover your dropped loot, aka Red Mercury.
Why Madness Is Lowkey Kind of Genius
Madness isn’t just a “you suck” meter. It’s actually a skill check. If you’re slick with dodges and counterattacks, you can weaponize it. Dodge like a Souls vet? You’re now hitting harder than a caffeine-fueled Dark Souls speedrunner. Slip up once, though, and you’re face-planting into a loading screen.
Also, some late-game abilities only trigger at 50% or 90% Madness. So yeah, the system rewards those who live on the edge.
What’s the “Invoke” Tab, and Why’s It So Juicy?
Once you visit a shrine (think bonfire but moodier), you’ll find an Invoke tab. Here’s where things get spicy.
You can claim items that don’t cost Red Mercury – the game’s currency – but they do spike your Madness. It’s like a loot vending machine with a side of psychological trauma.
Pro tip: Wanna cheese the system? Grab the loot, purposely die to spawn the demon, fight it (or don’t), and repeat. It’s farmable. It’s chaotic. It’s probably going to get patched. Abuse it while you can.
How to Cleanse Your Inner Demon (No Sage Required)
Okay, let’s say you’re over it. Too much Madness. Not enough skill. Happens to the best of us. Here’s how to chill out:
1. Beat the Madness Demon
If you die at max Madness, a demon shows up at your death spot. Slap it back to hell, and boom—your Madness resets. Plus, you get your Red Mercury back.
2. Shu God Statue Offerings
Early on, you’ll find a Shu God Statue chilling in the Shu Sanctum. You can offer up items like:
- Divine Gift
- Fragment of the Divine Gift
- Trinity Bell
These reset Madness without needing to fight. You can find these on your journey or buy them from vendors like Tao Qing or Wu Gang (great names, by the way).
Embrace the Chaos, or Don’t
Madness in Wuchang isn’t just a mechanic – it’s a whole vibe. It’s the game asking, “How bad do you want to win?” If you’re confident in your dodge rolls and patience, Madness buffs can make you an absolute boss shredder. If you’re the kind who panic drinks healing items, maybe keep it chill.
Either way, Wuchang is looking like a solid entry for fans of painful-but-rewarding combat. Just don’t say we didn’t warn you when the demon shows up mid-boss fight.
Pro Gamer Tip:
Before picking up those Madness-boosting items, ask yourself: “Do I have the skills or just the ego?” If it’s the latter, keep those offerings to Shu handy.
Related Read:
Wuchang: Fallen Feathers Hits Xbox Game Pass Ultimate—Is It the Next Soulslike Gem?
Wuchang: Fallen Feathers Review – This Bird Has Claws (and a Few Bruises)
How Long Is Wuchang: Fallen Feathers? Game Length, Regions, and Sidequest Tips
