Spelunky is back and better than ever. As one of the most acclaimed indie games of the last decade, there were some high expectations for its sequel. Was the team going to make it even more challenging? Were the traps and enemies going to be even more absurd? That and more was addressed with the release of Spelunky 2.
For long-time fans of the game, most items are much the same. For new players, you’ll want to get well-acquainted with them. The Shopkeeper is back, pets can be taken to the end of the level for more health, and you’re going to want to grab as much loot as your pockets can handle. With this knowledge, let’s dive right into the 10 most useful items in Spelunky 2.
10 The Shotgun
The Shotgun is a classic companion to any good Spelunker. Its spread is relatively fixed, with a bit of recoil. If you’re a more fervid player, don’t be tempted to wild west your way to victory. It’s got some downfalls, but the good outweighs the bad in this case. Like any big gun, just be careful.
Along with the Jetpack, you can really put in work. This combination is as deadly as it is useful. A first-time player can really learn the ropes with this build–or die trying.
9 Bombs
When you’re in a dangerous situation, usually lobbing a bomb isn’t the smartest tactic. That being said, using these in a utilitarian fashion is advised. Some areas are just not safe to traverse and creating a new path would keep you out of danger’s clutches.
Especially in Spelunky 2, some bosses are made subservient to your bombs. If you have the money for a Bomb Box, it is a good idea to buy it. Adding the Paste item will make bombs sticky. Enemies (and for chaotic players, Shopkeepers) won’t be able to shake them off.
8 Turkeys
These gobbling birds are darn near everywhere. As morbid as it is you, as the player, can choose their fate. Yang, the protector of these turkeys, will give you a reward if you return his loose rafter. Alternatively, if you’re feeling a bit low on health, you can blow them up for an extra life.
Another cool feature is that they are ridable. Like Yoshi, they will attack enemies, reach higher areas, and provide you some needed cover. Not the most tasteful thing to do, but hey, everyone’s gotta survive.
7 Spike Shoes
There is one particular enemy that this item is useful for. In the first area, Horned Lizards will make every attempt to steamroll you beyond human recognition. Not to mention the returning Cavemen, who will run furiously at you. Enemy and trap overload was a common complaint among players, and it’s actually being patched soon.
This isn’t a one-size-fits-all sort of approach. Some enemies hit you from above. Some fire projectiles. It’s really dependent on the situation. One other thing you might gain an advantage from is being able to walk on spikes without taking damage.
6 Ankh
Returning from the original Spelunky, The Ankh is a one-use item with a new, major purpose. After melting Olmec at the bottom of the lava pool in 3-1, you can climb the dungeon to get the Ankh. This little Egyptian relic can revive you if you die. And trust us, you’ll want to take full advantage in a game that punishes you for dying.
To get to Duat, you must sacrifice your body on the altar in the City of Gold. This isn’t the game’s only intended use for this item. If you fall on some spikes or get poisoned, the Ankh will bring you back no problem. Just know you can’t then use it for traveling to Duat.
5 Powerpack
The Powerpack is a new addition to the Spelunky item compendium. Buying one will equip you with a flaming whip and bigger bombs. However, you can apply it to whatever item you are carrying, making for a faster shotgun or a more durable mattock. It’s a completely crazy item that really spices up a playthrough.
One downfall is that the price is very high. The Shopkeepers will sell them as early as the first world, but who’s to say you have enough? There’s always the option to steal one!
4 Telepack
The Telepack in Spelunky 2 is a bit of a conundrum. On one hand, it can get hilariously overused and end up killing you. On the other, you can make a complete joke of the game. One of the ways it’s very useful is if you see an opening that’s blocked off by layers of sediment. Out of bombs? Just teleport.
This will come as a relief for players. The teleporter attaches to your personnel immediately, which means that you can still carry weapons and pets to the exit. One thing to be careful of is that it requires that you must jump before you teleport. Forget that step, and you’ll get torn apart.
3 Jetpack
The Jetpack returns and is more important than ever. More often than not, this item is a factor for success, especially when it comes to the harder bosses. Also, it’s a good rule of thumb to equip one just to make sure you don’t make any perilous leaps of faith.
Shopkeepers have it marked up to a high price, but you can also find it within the walls if you have the Spectacles or the Udjat Eye with you.
2 Excalibur
The sword in the stone, Excalibur is a conditional weapon that you can only use after obtaining the crown in the Vampire Castle or the Hedjet in the Jungle. Once you have it, you’re basically royalty, being as it is a one-shot kill weapon. It helps with boss fights like the Mermaid and Kingu. That doesn’t mean one should let their guard down at all.
It would be very Spelunkian to create a joke weapon just to laugh in the player’s face, but luckily this is as real as it gets.
1 Vlad’s Cape
Vlad’s Cape is like a regular cape on steroids. Not only does it allow you to float, but you can double jump as well. Thankfully, you can acquire both the Crown and the Cape from Vampire Castle. There’s no money at stake. Just your life.
A sharp-dressed Spelunky 2 player will have this item, along with plenty of bombs, and Excalibur to ensure they reach the end of the game. This item is not necessary, but it definitely helps.
NEXT: 10 Of The Best Indie Games Of 2019
