How to upgrade the grapple gun in RE4 Remake Separate Ways DLC

Separate Ways is here at last, letting you play as Ada Wong as she surreptitiously sneaks through the background of Leon’s campaign. But unlike the more grounded Leon, Ada has a nifty tool unique to herself. The grapple gun is a useful item in the RE4 Remake Separate Ways DLC, and it becomes even better with a certain optional upgrade.

Do you remember those shielded enemies in Resident Evil 4? They were tricky foes who only got more challenging later on the island. A shotgun did wonders against enemies with wooden shields, which turned into splinters with every blast. But the enemies with metal shields? I hate those guys.

Where to get the grapple gun upgrade in RE4 Remake Separate Ways DLC

Ada, though, won’t have any issue with shields in her story. After you reach chapter five, hit up the Merchant and scroll over to the Trade menu. You should see a new charm available: Ada Wong (Special) for a mere five spinel. It’s a cheap price for an exceptionally powerful charm.

The charm, once equipped, will upgrade the grapple gun and allow it to rip the shields out of enemy hands. And yes, it works on both wooden and metal shields. All you need to do in order to use it is wait for a shielded enemy to get within range. When you see a button icon for “Grapple Shield,” press it and Ada will yank the shield away. Now all you have to do is suppress a chuckle as the enemy gawks in surprise.

Tips on using the upgrade

I spent a few hours pulling away shields while giggling, and came down with a couple tips for the grapple’s use. For one, it doesn’t seem you can use it on enemies on the wrong elevation. Don’t try to grapple the shield off a Ganado who is too high up a staircase. All that happens is an awkward staring contest until one of you gets closer. If you’re getting charged by a group of enemies, arrange them with a shielded foe in the middle. Pull away the shield then drop them with a few shots to the legs. Use the grapple once you get the option to do a zip melee. Your melee attack will damage all the enemies nearby, letting you save a bit on some bullets.