In Transistor, the gameplay mechanics revolve around the strategic use of “functions” that can be equipped into different slots of the Transistor weapon, providing a rich and customizable experience. Players can utilize these functions in three distinct ways:

1. Active Attacks: Functions can be executed as direct attacks that players manually trigger in real-time combat. This allows for dynamic engagement with enemies, employing a variety of attacks according to the functions equipped.

2. Upgrades: Players can modify their active attacks by equipping functions that enhance or alter their capabilities. This means that players can tailor their offense to suit their gameplay style or specific combat situations.

3. Passive Buffs: Functions can also be equipped as passive buffs, which grant ongoing benefits without the need for activation. This feature provides players with strategic advantages, such as increased damage resistance, immunity to slowing effects, extra damage upon contact, and energy regeneration.

As players progress through the game, they unlock up to four passive slots, allowing for a broader array of buffs and enhancements to suit their playstyle. The strategic combination of these buffs plays a key role in surviving the game’s challenges.

Moreover, the Turn() ability adds a layer of tactical depth to the gameplay. By freezing time, players can plan out a series of attacks and movements, allowing for careful strategy to maximize damage and ensure survivability. Some passive functions can generate resources or improve positioning during Turn(), making it easier to execute a planned sequence effectively.

In conclusion, while Transistor does not feature traditional power-ups that players pick up during gameplay, the extensive mechanics surrounding functions provide a system of persistent buffs and tactical enhancements. This allows players to create a highly personalized experience, leveraging both active and passive strategies to overcome challenges and engage in combat that reflects their preferred style of play. The flexibility and customization of these mechanics serve as a modern interpretation of power-ups tailored to the unique gameplay environment of Transistor.