
How to activate Matrix Effects
In this article, we’re diving deep into Etheria: Restart’s gear system, which revolves around two main components—Shells and Modules. But equipping strong gear isn’t just about stacking stats—it’s about activating Matrix effects through a strategic combination of points.
It’s a very complex system, and understanding how it works will be key to your success as you progress through Etheria: Restart.
What Are Matrix Effects?
![Heinrich Character Guide! [Builds, Shells, Upgrades, and MORE] Etheria Restart 3-45 screenshot](https://hellhades.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Heinrich-Character-Guide-Builds-Shells-Upgrades-and-MORE-Etheria-Restart-3-45-screenshot.png)
Matrix effects are powerful bonuses that enhance your Animus’ performance in battle. These effects are grouped into five major categories:
- Attack
- Defense
- Healing
- Speed
- Control
Each category covers multiple subtypes. For example, Attack Matrices may include ATK%, CRIT Rate, CRIT DMG, and more.
Example Matrix Effects:
- Swiftrush +9 [4/8/12]
→ SPD +20%
- Momentum +12 [6/12]
→ CRIT Rate +12%
→ When attacked, damage increases by 6% for each debuff or control effect on the target (max 30%)
- Furyedge +6 [6]
→ CRIT Rate +12%, CRIT DMG +20%
How Matrix Effects Are Activated: The Point System
Matrix effects aren’t automatically active—you need to collect Matrix points to trigger them. There are two sources of these points:
1. Modules:
- Each Module provides 3 Matrix points
- You can equip 6 Modules → 18 points total
2. Shells (Weapons):
- Each Shell contains 3 random Matrix effects
- Each effect contributes 3 points → 9 points total
Grand Total: 18 (Modules) + 9 (Shell) = 27 Matrix Points
Point Mechanics: Three Key Rules
Effect Level Scaling:
- The number of points determines the strength of the effect.
Example:
Momentum +6 → CRIT Rate +12%
Momentum +12 → CRIT Rate +12% and bonus damage scaling per debuff
Effect Tiers Vary:
- Some Matrix effects scale up to three levels (4/8/12), while others max out at one level (6).
Minimum Activation Threshold:
- A Matrix effect needs at least 4 points to activate.
- Since Modules provide only 3 points each, you must combine Shells and Modules strategically.
How to Build Gear Around Matrix Effects

Step 1: Start with the Shell:
The Shell is your foundation—it offers fixed Matrix effects, so it sets the tone for your build.
Step 2: Choose Complementary Modules:
Select Modules that match the Shell’s Matrix effects to fill out your point requirements.
Why Shell Comes First:
- Reason 1: The Shell’s effects are fixed—you can’t change them, so your build must adapt to them.
- Reason 2: Some powerful effects (like Furyedge) require 6 points to activate. You’ll need to pair a 3-point Shell effect with a matching Module to meet this.
Strategic Planning: Optimizing Your 27 Points





Let’s say you equip a Golden Lion Shell with the following Matrix effects:
- Swiftrush (3 points) – SPD bonus
- Momentum (3 points) – CRIT Rate & scaling damage
- Furyedge (3 points) – CRIT Rate & CRIT DMG
Here are two potential gear builds:
Plan A:
- Furyedge: Shell (3) + 1 Module (3) = 6 points (Effect Activated)
- Momentum: Shell (3) + 3 Modules (9) = 12 points (Full Effect Activated)
- Swiftrush: Shell (3) + 2 Modules (6) = 9 points (Mid-Level Effect Activated)
Total Points Used: 6 + 12 + 9 = 27 (perfect optimization)
Plan B:
- Furyedge: Shell (3) + 1 Module (3) = 6 points
- Momentum: Shell (3) + 2 Modules (6) = 9 points
- Swiftrush: Shell (3) + 3 Modules (9) = 12 points
Total Points Used: 6 + 6 + 12 = 24
3 points are unused. You lose out on a stronger Momentum effect—making Plan B less effective overall.
Final Tips for Matrix Building

- Matrix effects are activated by collecting points.
- Points come from both Shells and Modules.
- Always start with the Shell and build your Modules around it.
- Keep the 6+8+12 point allocation in mind for best efficiency.
Closing Thoughts
Etheria’s gear system may seem overwhelming at first, but once you understand the point mechanics and how Matrix effects scale, it becomes a fun and strategic part of team building. Your Shell determines your direction, and your Modules fill in the gaps—it’s a gear puzzle with endless combinations.
Start experimenting, do the math, and unleash your Animus’ full potential!