While combat against the genetically altered beasts called Orphans is a core part of Cronos: The New Dawn, the game equally challenges your understanding of its mechanics through environmental puzzles. These brain-teasers demand resourcefulness akin to classic survival horror titles.

Midway through your journey, you’ll encounter the Hardware Store—a dilapidated building ravaged by the apocalyptic “Change” outbreak. Identifiable by nearby signage, this location holds vital supplies and an essential tool for story progression. A locked office door blocked by hostile biomass stands in your path, requiring unconventional methods to bypass.

Circle back clockwise from the obstructed doorway to locate a shattered pane. Peer through to spot a red flammable canister (see image). A precise handgun shot triggers combustion, clearing the fungal overgrowth. Once inside, claim the Lock Breaker—a multi-purpose tool for accessing restricted areas throughout the game world, including another sealed chamber in this very building.