Sub Commander

Sub Commander is the bottom path tier 5 Monkey Sub. Its key feature is a buff: every Monkey Sub in its range, itself included, deals double damage (bonus damage included) and gets +4 pierce. With the Sub Admiral Monkey Knowledge the buff reaches every Sub on screen. The buff does not double First Strike or Pre-emptive Strike ability damage, but it does add pierce to their explosions.

Sub Commander itself also attacks twice as fast as Armor Piercing Darts, and each dart now splits into 5 airburst projectiles instead of 3.

When to buy it

Sub Commander is a decent all-round tier 5 with accurate shots and lots of projectiles. Saving up from Armor Piercing Darts is smooth, and it performs well through the mid-game. Its main hurdles are rounds 63 and 75, whose Lead Bloons can block it.

Crosspaths: 2-0-5 is preferred. Advanced Intel's global reach outweighs Heat-tipped Darts' Lead popping, which is limited by the Sub's own range. Stronger Stimulant pairs well, since damage, pierce and attack speed all boost its splitting darts.

Building a Sub army

Alone, Sub Commander struggles after round 80, especially against DDTs. Its real strength is buffing other Subs:

• Pre-emptive Strike is the strongest partner in CHIMPS. With the buff, its automatic missiles take down every DDT, including Fortified ones.
• On compact maps where all lanes intersect, round out the setup with 0-3-2 Ballistic Missiles.
• On maps with alternating lanes, use 2-0-3 Triple Guns or 2-0-4 Armor Piercing Darts.
• Admiral Brickell is the recommended hero.

Sub Commander with Triple Guns spam is also a strong choice for Least Cash ranked Boss Events, especially against Phayze.

Is it worth it?

As the centre of a Sub army, yes. As a lone damage tower it falls behind other tier 5s in the late game, so only buy it if you plan to surround it with other Subs.

Frequently asked questions

Does Sub Commander buff other towers?

No. The buff only affects Monkey Subs, but it affects every Sub in range, including other tier 5s.

What is the best crosspath for Sub Commander?

2-0-5. Advanced Intel's reach matters more than built-in Lead popping.

Can Sub Commander pop Lead?

Not with 2-0-5. Use the 0-2-5 crosspath or bring another Lead popper for rounds 63 and 75.

How much does Sub Commander cost?

$25,000 on Medium. Prices for every difficulty are at the top of the page.