Mastering Warframe's Jade: Optimal Builds and Gameplay Strategies
Jade, Warframe's 57th addition, introduces a unique aerial combat style. This celestial Warframe reigns from above, devastating enemies while protecting allies. This guide details optimal builds for Jade, catering to both beginners and Steel Path veterans.
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Unlocking Jade | Gameplay Overview | Beginner Build | Steel Path Build | Abilities
Unlocking Jade
Released June 18, 2024, Jade is acquired via the Jade Shadows quest (accessed through the Codex). Components are obtained from Acension on Uranus' Brutus. Alternatively, purchase blueprints from Ordis in the Larunda Relay (Mercury) using Vestigial Motes. Resource requirements are outlined below:
| Chassis | 15000 Credits, 600 Alloy Plate, 4000 Nano Spores, 1500 Plastids, 6 Morphics |
| Neuroptics | 15000 Credits, 1000 Circuits, 750 Bundle, 3 Neural Sensors, 4 Neurodes |
| Systems | 15000 Credits, 600 Ferrite, 600 Plastids, 1100 Rubedo, 10 Control Module |
Gameplay Overview
Jade's gameplay is straightforward yet effective. Select a song (second ability) to buff allies, slow enemies, and weaken their defenses (third ability). Mark targets (first ability) and unleash devastating aerial attacks (fourth ability's alt-fire). Efficient energy management and damage mitigation are key. The builds below address these aspects.
Beginner Jade Build
This build avoids Helminth abilities and Archon shards, making it accessible to new players. Note that Jade equips two Aura mods.
| Mod | Effect |
|---|---|
| Aura Mod – Corrosive Projection | Reduces enemy armor (18% at max rank). |
| Aura Mod – Pistol Amp | Boosts exalted weapon damage (considered a pistol). |
| Exilus Slot | Aviator (damage reduction while airborne). |
| Continuity | Increases ability duration and reduces energy drain. |
| Intensify | Increases ability strength. |
| Flow | Increases energy pool. |
| Stretch | Increases ability range. |
| Redirection | Increases shield capacity. |
| Equilibrium | Increases energy and health pools via orb pickups. |
| Augur Message/Streamline | Further increases ability duration (stacks with Continuity). Streamline reduces energy usage. |
| Player’s Choice | Flexible slot for addressing build weaknesses (e.g., Augur Secrets for strength, Augur Reach for range). |
Pair this with a cost-effective Glory build (exalted weapon): Hornet Strike, Target Cracker, Barrel Diffusion, Lethal Torrent, Anemic Agility, and three damage type mods tailored to your enemies.
Steel Path Jade Build
This build maximizes Jade's potential for Steel Path challenges. No Helminth subsumption is needed. Arcanes Molt Augmented (ability power) and Arcane Avenger (critical chance) are recommended.
| Mod | Effect |
|---|---|
| Aura Mod – Aerodynamic | Significant damage reduction. |
| Aura Mod – Growing Power | Increases ability strength after inflicting status effects. |
| Exilus Slot – Aviator | Damage reduction while airborne. |
| Primed Continuity | Substantially increases ability duration and reduces energy drain. |
| Umbral Intensify | Increases ability strength. |
| Primed Redirection | Maximizes shields. |
| Stretch | Increases ability range. |
| Fast Deflection | Increases shield recharge. |
| Equilibrium | Increases energy and health pools via orb pickups. |
| Adaptation | Further damage reduction. |
| Transient Fortitude | Increases energy and health pools via orb pickups. |
The Glory build uses Hornet Strike, Primed Target Cracker, Prime Pistol Gambit, Galvanized Diffusion, Lethal Torrent, and elemental mods based on enemy types.
All Jade Abilities
- Passive – The Anointed: Grants two Aura Mod slots.
- Light’s Judgement: Creates a healing/damaging area-of-effect.
- Symphony of Mercy: Cycles through songs boosting ally strength, weapon damage, or shield regeneration.
- Ophanim Eyes: Slows and weakens enemies, allows for ranged revives.
- Glory on High: Aerial attack with a powerful alt-fire detonation.
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UPDATE: This article was updated on 1/31/25 by Escapist Editorial to add additional value.
