NeonHades2Hades II guideSearch the guide
NeonHades2Hades II guideSearch the guide

Independent Hades II guideNot affiliated with Supergiant Games

Aspect build · Black Coat

Aspect of Selene

Start each night with a unique Hex that strikes multiple foes and applies Shine.

Choose the goal for this run. Every mode is a complete, aspect-specific build.

AOverallEasy to learnSConsistencyAClear speedASafetyAHigh Fear

Choose the run goal

Prepare the aspect, starting Keepsake, Arcana, Familiar, Hex, and ranks before choosing a run goal.

Pre-run preparation

Understand the aspect before funding a plan

Set your ranks and pre-run tools here. Then choose Strongest or Safest for the combat decisions you make during the run.

Leave the Crossroads with a complete setup

Prepare what both goals share first. Each goal then lists only what changes.

Same for both goals

Familiar and Hex

PickWhyLimitFit
FrinosFamiliarThe Life bonus improves every encounter and asks for no build-specific setup.Frinos adds less clear speed than Familiars with offensive passive bonuses.S
Sky FallHexRepeated strikes add damage while Melinoe continues moving and using the weapon.Random target selection can spread damage in crowded rooms.A

Strongest preparation

Strongest plan

Start with

  1. 1Opening KeepsakeSword Hiltlimited use

    Use the opening region to secure the first preferred god and main Boon.

    At the next keepsake cabinet, replace it after its god offer is consumed and its Rarify charge is spent. Switch earlier only when you intentionally abandon the unused Rarify benefit.

12 Grasp Arcana

If current Grasp cannot hold the full list, keep the cards that protect the main plan first, then add Persistence and Death before other support cards.

Safest preparation

Safest plan

Start with

  1. 1Opening KeepsakeIridescent Fanlimited use

    Use the opening region to secure the first preferred god and main Boon.

    At the next keepsake cabinet, replace it after its god offer is consumed and its Rarify charge is spent. Switch earlier only when you intentionally abandon the unused Rarify benefit.

12 Grasp Arcana

If current Grasp cannot hold the full list, keep the cards that protect the main plan first, then add Persistence and Death before other support cards.

Aspect rank progression

Each rank lists its forge cost and the exact value it gives this Aspect.

StepEffectCost
Rank 1Common
Mana Cost
100
Moon Beam Count
8 base
Moon Beam Damage
50 base
Moon Beam Duration
8
Moon Beam Vulnerability
1.5 base
4Moon Dust4Silver
Rank 2Rare
Mana Cost
90
Moon Beam Count
8 base
Moon Beam Damage
50 base
Moon Beam Duration
8
Moon Beam Vulnerability
1.5 base
1Nightmare
Rank 3Epic
Mana Cost
80
Moon Beam Count
8 base
Moon Beam Damage
50 base
Moon Beam Duration
8
Moon Beam Vulnerability
1.5 base
1Nightmare
Rank 4Heroic
Mana Cost
70
Moon Beam Count
8 base
Moon Beam Damage
50 base
Moon Beam Duration
8
Moon Beam Vulnerability
1.5 base
1Nightmare
Rank 5Legendary
Mana Cost
60
Moon Beam Count
8 base
Moon Beam Damage
50 base
Moon Beam Duration
8
Moon Beam Vulnerability
1.5 base
2Nightmare

Strongest run plan

Excels at
Guaranteed Hex access
Watch for
Needs regular Magick spending to cycle the Hex
AOverall grade

Combat sequence

  1. 1

    Spend Magick through safe Omega moves

  2. 2

    Let the Hex fire while maintaining Special pressure

  3. 3

    Use the vulnerability window for the next damage cycle

Also strong

  • Multi-target pressure while using the normal Coat kit

Avoid

  • Automatic targeting offers less control than direct burst
SConsistency
AClear speed
ASafety
AHigh Fear
Essential loadout

Take these five Boons first

Spend Magick through safe Omega moves

  1. Priority 1GainGrisly Gain
  2. Priority 2SpecialHeaven Flourish
  3. Priority 3AttackSworn Strike
  4. Priority 4CastEngagement Ring
  5. Priority 5DashBlinding Rush
Commit check

When this build comes online

The first two stages make the plan functional. The last is a power spike, not a reason to delay the run.

  1. 01
    The main move is funded

    Secure Grisly Gain.

    The carrying action now has its required Boon, so the basic sequence works without filling unrelated slots.
    Grisly Gain
  2. 02
    The build is online

    Secure the main choices: Grisly Gain + Heaven Flourish.

    Guaranteed Hex access The named choices now reinforce the same sequence instead of competing for upgrades.
    Grisly GainHeaven Flourish
  3. 03
    The first major power spike

    Take Launcher Frame if it appears.

    This upgrades the action already carrying the plan. It improves the existing loop but is not required for the build to function.
    Launcher Frame
Alternatives and slot details

Adjust only after the five essentials

Attack, Special, Cast, Dash, and Gain stay in the shown order when offers compete. Open a slot to see its other proven fits and fallbacks.

First choiceFallbacks if the first choice does not appearWhy
Priority 1 · GainBuild focus
Grisly GainS

Striking foes with your Weapon has a 20% chance to spill Blood Drop, which can restore Magick.

Born GainB

Whenever you run out of Magick, Prime until the next location to restore all Magick.

Use this only when the preferred omega choice is unavailable. It preserves "Spend Magick through safe Omega moves" without changing the damage loop.
This is a breakpoint for "Spend Magick through safe Omega moves". It powers a move the damage plan already repeats instead of splitting upgrades across unrelated actions.
Priority 2 · SpecialBuild focus
Heaven FlourishS

Your Specials inflict Blitz.

Vicious FlourishB

Your Specials deal more damage and inflict Wounds.

Use this only when the preferred special choice is unavailable. It preserves "Let the Hex fire while maintaining Special pressure" without changing the damage loop.
This is a breakpoint for "Let the Hex fire while maintaining Special pressure". It powers a move the damage plan already repeats instead of splitting upgrades across unrelated actions.
Priority 3 · AttackSupporting slot
Sworn StrikeS

Your Attacks deal more damage and inflict Hitch.

Nova StrikeB

Your Attacks deal more damage in a larger area.

Use this if the preferred Attack choice does not appear. It keeps the complete five-slot package coherent without changing the plan's higher priorities.
This is the recommended Attack choice for the complete five-slot package. Take it after the higher-priority choices only when offers compete.
Priority 4 · CastSupporting slot
Engagement RingS

Your Casts inflict Hitch and immediately deal damage based on foes in the binding circle.

Arctic RingB

Your Casts inflict Freeze and repeatedly deal damage to foes in the binding circle.

Use this if the preferred Cast choice does not appear. It keeps the complete five-slot package coherent without changing the plan's higher priorities.
This is the recommended Cast choice for the complete five-slot package. Take it after the higher-priority choices only when offers compete.
Priority 5 · DashSupporting slot
Blinding RushS

Your Sprint is faster and inflicts Daze on surrounding foes.

Nexus RushB

Your Sprint inflicts Hitch on surrounding foes, and deals damage when it does.

Use this if the preferred Dash choice does not appear. It keeps the complete five-slot package coherent without changing the plan's higher priorities.
This is the recommended Dash choice for the complete five-slot package. Take it after the higher-priority choices only when offers compete.
Optional ceiling

Duo and Legendary targets

Finish the functional build first. Open Requirement to compare this plan with the other valid options.

Duo Boons

Pairings this plan can reach without replacing its main actions.

Universal DonorA

Whenever you exit a location, keep some of your Blood Drop bonuses.

Opens with

This plan can open the target with Grisly Gain + Sworn Strike after its main actions are funded.

Do not chase this target before the main plan works, because an unseeded run may not offer every required god or Boon.

Requirement
This plan uses
Choose one Boon from each of 2 prerequisite groups.Other options
  1. Group 1
  2. Group 2
Cutting EdgeA

Your falling blades from Ares drop 1 additional time in succession and deal damage in a larger area.

Opens with

This plan can open the target with Cut Above + Blinding Rush after its main actions are funded.

Do not chase this target before the main plan works, because an unseeded run may not offer every required god or Boon.

Requirement
This plan uses
Choose one Boon from each of 2 prerequisite groups.Other options
  1. Group 1
  2. Group 2
Cherished HeirloomA

Your Keepsakes are stronger this night (if possible).

Opens with

This plan can open the target with Arctic Ring + Sworn Strike after its main actions are funded.

Do not chase this target before the main plan works, because an unseeded run may not offer every required god or Boon.

Requirement
This plan uses
Choose one Boon from each of 2 prerequisite groups.Other options
  1. Group 1
  2. Group 2
Sun WorshiperA

In each encounter, the first foe you slay returns to fight for you.

Opens with

This plan can open the target with Engagement Ring + Blinding Rush after its main actions are funded.

Do not chase this target before the main plan works, because an unseeded run may not offer every required god or Boon.

Requirement
This plan uses
Choose one Boon from each of 2 prerequisite groups.Other options
  1. Group 1
  2. Group 2
Hail StormA

Your Freeze effects also cause lightning bolts to repeatedly strike afflicted foes.

Opens with

This plan can open the target with Heaven Flourish + Arctic Ring after its main actions are funded.

Do not chase this target before the main plan works, because an unseeded run may not offer every required god or Boon.

Requirement
This plan uses
Choose one Boon from each of 2 prerequisite groups.Other options
  1. Group 1
  2. Group 2
Hostile EnvironmentA

Your Omega Cast is stronger and follows you, even as you start to channel it.

Opens with

This plan can open the target with Cut Above + Arctic Ring after its main actions are funded.

Do not chase this target before the main plan works, because an unseeded run may not offer every required god or Boon.

Requirement
This plan uses
Choose one Boon from each of 2 prerequisite groups.Other options
  1. Group 1
  2. Group 2
King's RansomA

Give up all your boons of Hera. For each, raise level for all your boons of Zeus.

Opens with

This plan can open the target with Engagement Ring + Heaven Flourish after its main actions are funded.

Do not chase this target before the main plan works, because an unseeded run may not offer every required god or Boon.

Requirement
This plan uses
Choose one Boon from each of 2 prerequisite groups.Other options
  1. Group 1
  2. Group 2

Legendary Boons

Single-god finishers with their own prerequisite path.

Sanguinary SavorA

You inflict Wounds with greater Power, and spilled Blood Drop is drawn to you automatically.

Opens with

This plan can open the target with Vicious Flourish + Grisly Gain + Cut Above after its main actions are funded.

Do not chase this target before the main plan works, because an unseeded run may not offer every required god or Boon.

Requirement
This plan uses
Choose one Boon from each of 3 prerequisite groups.Other options
  1. Group 1
  2. Group 2
  3. Group 3
Beyond the five slots

Additional useful Boons

Add these only after the five main slots are secure. The tiers are specific to strongest mode.

BSituational fits25 Boons
Glamour Gain

You automatically inflict Weak on nearby foes and gradually restore Magick near them.

This can support "Spend Magick through safe Omega moves", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Lucid Gain

Whenever your Casts expire, restore Magick.

This can support "Spend Magick through safe Omega moves", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Nova Flourish

Your Specials deal more damage in a larger area.

This can support "Let the Hex fire while maintaining Special pressure", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Carnal Pleasure

Whenever you collect Blood Drop, you may create a Heartthrob.

This can support "Spend Magick through safe Omega moves", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Tranquil Gain

After remaining inactive for 0.5 seconds, rapidly restore Magick until you act.

This can support "Spend Magick through safe Omega moves", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Ice Flourish

Your Specials deal more damage and inflict Freeze.

This can support "Let the Hex fire while maintaining Special pressure", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Exceptional Talent

Your Omega Attack and Omega Special fire 2 times, but use more Magick.

This can support "Spend Magick through safe Omega moves", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Controlled Burn

Your Omega Special also launches a fireball, but uses +10 Magick.

This can support "Let the Hex fire while maintaining Special pressure", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Tough Gain

Whenever you take damage, shrug some of it off and restore 150 Magick.

This can support "Spend Magick through safe Omega moves", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Volcanic Flourish

Your Specials can cause a blast that deals 500 damage in the area.

This can support "Let the Hex fire while maintaining Special pressure", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Sworn Flourish

Your Specials deal more damage and inflict Hitch.

This can support "Let the Hex fire while maintaining Special pressure", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Racing Thoughts

Your Omega moves are faster.

This can support "Let the Hex fire while maintaining Special pressure", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Cardio Gain

Whenever your Attack or Special deals damage, restore Magick.

This can support "Spend Magick through safe Omega moves", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Flame Flourish

Your Specials inflict Scorch.

This can support "Let the Hex fire while maintaining Special pressure", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Heart Breaker

Whenever you use 40 Magick, create a Heartthrob.

This can support "Spend Magick through safe Omega moves", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Sunny Disposition

Whenever you create Heartthrobs, create more.

This can support "Spend Magick through safe Omega moves", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Incandescent Aura

Whenever you restore Magick during encounters, damage all Hitch-afflicted foes.

This can support "Spend Magick through safe Omega moves", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Brave Face

Automatically use Magick to resist up to 30% of any damage.

This can support "Spend Magick through safe Omega moves", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Uncanny Fortitude

Gain bonus maximum Life based on your Magick limit.

This can support "Spend Magick through safe Omega moves", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Flood Gain

Your Omega moves make you briefly restore any Magick you use, repeatable after 8 seconds.

This can support "Spend Magick through safe Omega moves", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Wave Flourish

Your Specials hit foes with a splash that knocks other foes away.

This can support "Let the Hex fire while maintaining Special pressure", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Snow Queen

Gain a barrier that stops 1 instance of damage in each location, but you Prime Magick.

This can support "Spend Magick through safe Omega moves", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Love Handles

Your blast effects from Hephaestus also create a Heartthrob.

This can support "Spend Magick through safe Omega moves", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Power Surge

Whenever you use Magick, a random surrounding foe is struck by lightning.

This can support "Spend Magick through safe Omega moves", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Ionic Gain

In each encounter, an Aether Font appears in the area and restores all Magick when used.

This can support "Spend Magick through safe Omega moves", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Run upgrades

Daedalus Hammers next

These improve the move already carrying the plan. They do not replace a missing main Boon.

Choose the main Boon and required Magick recovery before changing the weapon around a Hammer.

HammerChangeFit
Launcher Frame

Whenever your Attack strikes a foe, your Special has a 25% chance to fire automatically.

S
Sudden Salvo

Your Omega Special locks on faster and uses 20% less Magick.

A
Rapid Frame

Your Attacks are 35% faster.

A

Reward order

  1. Core BoonFill the aspect's hex damage slot before spending rewards on optional scaling.
  2. Magick recoverySecure recovery before repeated Omega or Hex use makes the attack pattern stall.
  3. Daedalus HammerTake a compatible top-ranked Hammer after the Boon for the build's main move. No Hammer is required to make the build function.
  4. Maximum LifeMove maximum Life ahead of damage rewards when the current route cannot survive the next guardian reliably.
  5. Pom of PowerUse Poms after the main Boon exists so levels land on an effect the build repeatedly uses.
  6. Duo or LegendaryPursue a Duo or Legendary only after the build already contains a valid choice from every prerequisite set.

Useful interactions

  • Phalanx Shot

    Your Specials also launch a projectile ahead that can Deflect, rearming after 2 seconds.

    Requires you to have met Athena once before the current night.
  • Word of Greater Girth

    Grow in size, increase maximum Life by 15%, and deal 15% more damage with your Nocturnal Arm.

    Circe can offer this choice.
  • Shadow Pounce

    After you Dash, your Omega moves may deal Critical damage for 2 seconds.

    Artemis can offer this choice.
  • Turning to a Simple Form

    Your Omega moves have a 15% chance to inflict Polymorph on a susceptible foe, with a 10-second cooldown.

    Requires you to complete Circe's related quest.
  • Drunken Stupor

    Your Omega moves inflict Hangover the first time they strike foes.

    Dionysus can offer this choice.
  • Killing Stroke

    Your Specials may deal Critical damage, but you Prime 40 Magick.

    Artemis can offer this choice.
  • Ingenious Flourish

    Your Special boon gains 3 levels, but you Prime 35 Magick.

    Requires Special.
  • Explosive Intent

    Your Omega moves also deal 50 damage in an area around foes they hit, but use 10 additional Magick.

    Icarus can offer this choice.
  • Support Fire

    After you hit with your Attacks or Specials, fire a seeking arrow.

    Artemis can offer this choice.

Switch Keepsakes when their job is done

The starting Keepsake is listed in Setup. These are the in-run swaps.

  1. 2
    Later regionsLuckier Toothlimited use

    Use the extra Death Defiance after the main Boon is secured when ordinary rooms still threaten the run.

    At the next keepsake cabinet, replace it after its Last Stand has triggered because the spent keepsake adds no second recovery. Equip it after the opening god is secured if room damage is consuming Death Defiance or maximum Life.
  2. 3
    Final regionKnuckle Boneslimited use

    Use the guardian-focused effect when the final encounter is the remaining route constraint.

    At the next keepsake cabinet, replace it after its limited guardian effect has been consumed and another guardian remains. Equip it before the final region only when the run already survives normal rooms reliably.

Boss and route decisions

Keep spending Magick through safe actions so the built-in Hex does not stall during long phases.

Automatic target selection is strongest in dense rooms and still adds free boss pressure.

Aspect rank progression

Each rank lists its forge cost and the exact value it gives this Aspect.

StepEffectCost
Rank 1Common
Mana Cost
100
Moon Beam Count
8 base
Moon Beam Damage
50 base
Moon Beam Duration
8
Moon Beam Vulnerability
1.5 base
4Moon Dust4Silver
Rank 2Rare
Mana Cost
90
Moon Beam Count
8 base
Moon Beam Damage
50 base
Moon Beam Duration
8
Moon Beam Vulnerability
1.5 base
1Nightmare
Rank 3Epic
Mana Cost
80
Moon Beam Count
8 base
Moon Beam Damage
50 base
Moon Beam Duration
8
Moon Beam Vulnerability
1.5 base
1Nightmare
Rank 4Heroic
Mana Cost
70
Moon Beam Count
8 base
Moon Beam Damage
50 base
Moon Beam Duration
8
Moon Beam Vulnerability
1.5 base
1Nightmare
Rank 5Legendary
Mana Cost
60
Moon Beam Count
8 base
Moon Beam Damage
50 base
Moon Beam Duration
8
Moon Beam Vulnerability
1.5 base
2Nightmare

Safest run plan

Excels at
Full Magick restoration keeps the guaranteed Hex cycling
Watch for
Automatic Hex targeting remains less controllable than direct damage
AOverall grade

Combat sequence

  1. 1

    Secure recovery before spending Magick

  2. 2

    Cycle safe Omega moves until the Hex fires

  3. 3

    Maintain ranged Special and reposition during the vulnerability window

Also strong

  • Ranged Special maintains pressure without entering the automatic target area

Avoid

  • The plan slows when Omega spending stops
SConsistency
BClear speed
SSafety
AHigh Fear
Essential loadout

Take these five Boons first

Secure recovery before spending Magick

  1. Priority 1GainBorn Gain
  2. Priority 2SpecialNova Flourish
  3. Priority 3CastArctic Ring
  4. Priority 4DashBlinding Rush
  5. Priority 5AttackIce Strike
Commit check

When this build comes online

The first two stages make the plan functional. The last is a power spike, not a reason to delay the run.

  1. 01
    The main move is funded

    Secure Born Gain.

    The carrying action now has its required Boon, so the basic sequence works without filling unrelated slots.
    Born Gain
  2. 02
    The build is online

    Secure the main choices: Born Gain + Nova Flourish.

    Full Magick restoration keeps the guaranteed Hex cycling The named choices now reinforce the same sequence instead of competing for upgrades.
    Born GainNova Flourish
  3. 03
    The first major power spike

    Take Launcher Frame if it appears.

    This upgrades the action already carrying the plan. It improves the existing loop but is not required for the build to function.
    Launcher Frame
Alternatives and slot details

Adjust only after the five essentials

Attack, Special, Cast, Dash, and Gain stay in the shown order when offers compete. Open a slot to see its other proven fits and fallbacks.

First choiceFallbacks if the first choice does not appearWhy
Priority 1 · GainBuild focus
Born GainS

Whenever you run out of Magick, Prime until the next location to restore all Magick.

Cardio GainB

Whenever your Attack or Special deals damage, restore Magick.

Use this only when the preferred omega choice is unavailable. It preserves "Secure recovery before spending Magick" without changing the reliability loop.
This is a breakpoint for "Secure recovery before spending Magick". It powers a move the reliability plan already repeats instead of splitting upgrades across unrelated actions.
Priority 2 · SpecialBuild focus
Nova FlourishS

Your Specials deal more damage in a larger area.

Ice FlourishB

Your Specials deal more damage and inflict Freeze.

Use this only when the preferred special choice is unavailable. It preserves "Maintain ranged Special and reposition during the vulnerability window" without changing the reliability loop.
This is a breakpoint for "Maintain ranged Special and reposition during the vulnerability window". It powers a move the reliability plan already repeats instead of splitting upgrades across unrelated actions.
Priority 3 · CastSupporting slot
Arctic RingS

Your Casts inflict Freeze and repeatedly deal damage to foes in the binding circle.

Solar RingB

Your Casts inflict Daze, and deal a burst of damage before they expire.

Use this if the preferred Cast choice does not appear. It keeps the complete five-slot package coherent without changing the plan's higher priorities.
This is the recommended Cast choice for the complete five-slot package. Take it after the higher-priority choices only when offers compete.
Priority 4 · DashSupporting slot
Blinding RushS

Your Sprint is faster and inflicts Daze on surrounding foes.

Frigid RushB

Your Sprint forms a Gust around you that lingers after you stop.

Use this if the preferred Dash choice does not appear. It keeps the complete five-slot package coherent without changing the plan's higher priorities.
This is the recommended Dash choice for the complete five-slot package. Take it after the higher-priority choices only when offers compete.
Priority 5 · AttackSupporting slot
Ice StrikeS

Your Attacks deal more damage and inflict Freeze.

Nova StrikeB

Your Attacks deal more damage in a larger area.

Use this if the preferred Attack choice does not appear. It keeps the complete five-slot package coherent without changing the plan's higher priorities.
This is the recommended Attack choice for the complete five-slot package. Take it after the higher-priority choices only when offers compete.
Optional ceiling

Duo and Legendary targets

Finish the functional build first. Open Requirement to compare this plan with the other valid options.

Duo Boons

Pairings this plan can reach without replacing its main actions.

Warm BreezeA

Whenever you Dodge or a foe misses because of Daze, restore some Life.

Opens with

This plan can open the target with Blinding Rush + Cardio Gain after its main actions are funded.

Do not chase this target before the main plan works, because an unseeded run may not offer every required god or Boon.

Requirement
This plan uses
Choose one Boon from each of 2 prerequisite groups.Other options
  1. Group 1
  2. Group 2
Cherished HeirloomA

Your Keepsakes are stronger this night (if possible).

Opens with

This plan can open the target with Arctic Ring + Born Gain after its main actions are funded.

Do not chase this target before the main plan works, because an unseeded run may not offer every required god or Boon.

Requirement
This plan uses
Choose one Boon from each of 2 prerequisite groups.Other options
  1. Group 1
  2. Group 2
Sun WorshiperA

In each encounter, the first foe you slay returns to fight for you.

Opens with

This plan can open the target with Born Gain + Blinding Rush after its main actions are funded.

Do not chase this target before the main plan works, because an unseeded run may not offer every required god or Boon.

Requirement
This plan uses
Choose one Boon from each of 2 prerequisite groups.Other options
  1. Group 1
  2. Group 2
Tropical CycloneA

While standing in a Gust, you randomly fire gales every 0.3 seconds.

Opens with

This plan can open the target with Nova Flourish + Frigid Rush after its main actions are funded.

Do not chase this target before the main plan works, because an unseeded run may not offer every required god or Boon.

Requirement
This plan uses
Choose one Boon from each of 2 prerequisite groups.Other options
  1. Group 1
  2. Group 2
Beyond the five slots

Additional useful Boons

Add these only after the five main slots are secure. The tiers are specific to safest mode.

BSituational fits25 Boons
Glamour Gain

You automatically inflict Weak on nearby foes and gradually restore Magick near them.

This can support "Secure recovery before spending Magick", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Lucid Gain

Whenever your Casts expire, restore Magick.

This can support "Secure recovery before spending Magick", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Grisly Gain

Striking foes with your Weapon has a 20% chance to spill Blood Drop, which can restore Magick.

This can support "Secure recovery before spending Magick", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Vicious Flourish

Your Specials deal more damage and inflict Wounds.

This can support "Maintain ranged Special and reposition during the vulnerability window", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Carnal Pleasure

Whenever you collect Blood Drop, you may create a Heartthrob.

This can support "Secure recovery before spending Magick", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Tranquil Gain

After remaining inactive for 0.5 seconds, rapidly restore Magick until you act.

This can support "Secure recovery before spending Magick", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Exceptional Talent

Your Omega Attack and Omega Special fire 2 times, but use more Magick.

This can support "Secure recovery before spending Magick", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Controlled Burn

Your Omega Special also launches a fireball, but uses +10 Magick.

This can support "Maintain ranged Special and reposition during the vulnerability window", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Tough Gain

Whenever you take damage, shrug some of it off and restore 150 Magick.

This can support "Secure recovery before spending Magick", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Volcanic Flourish

Your Specials can cause a blast that deals 500 damage in the area.

This can support "Maintain ranged Special and reposition during the vulnerability window", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Sworn Flourish

Your Specials deal more damage and inflict Hitch.

This can support "Maintain ranged Special and reposition during the vulnerability window", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Racing Thoughts

Your Omega moves are faster.

This can support "Maintain ranged Special and reposition during the vulnerability window", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Flame Flourish

Your Specials inflict Scorch.

This can support "Maintain ranged Special and reposition during the vulnerability window", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Heart Breaker

Whenever you use 40 Magick, create a Heartthrob.

This can support "Secure recovery before spending Magick", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Sunny Disposition

Whenever you create Heartthrobs, create more.

This can support "Secure recovery before spending Magick", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Incandescent Aura

Whenever you restore Magick during encounters, damage all Hitch-afflicted foes.

This can support "Secure recovery before spending Magick", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Brave Face

Automatically use Magick to resist up to 30% of any damage.

This can support "Secure recovery before spending Magick", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Uncanny Fortitude

Gain bonus maximum Life based on your Magick limit.

This can support "Secure recovery before spending Magick", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Flood Gain

Your Omega moves make you briefly restore any Magick you use, repeatable after 8 seconds.

This can support "Secure recovery before spending Magick", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Wave Flourish

Your Specials hit foes with a splash that knocks other foes away.

This can support "Maintain ranged Special and reposition during the vulnerability window", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Snow Queen

Gain a barrier that stops 1 instance of damage in each location, but you Prime Magick.

This can support "Secure recovery before spending Magick", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Love Handles

Your blast effects from Hephaestus also create a Heartthrob.

This can support "Secure recovery before spending Magick", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Power Surge

Whenever you use Magick, a random surrounding foe is struck by lightning.

This can support "Secure recovery before spending Magick", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Ionic Gain

In each encounter, an Aether Font appears in the area and restores all Magick when used.

This can support "Secure recovery before spending Magick", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Heaven Flourish

Your Specials inflict Blitz.

This can support "Maintain ranged Special and reposition during the vulnerability window", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Run upgrades

Daedalus Hammers next

These improve the move already carrying the plan. They do not replace a missing main Boon.

Choose the main Boon and required Magick recovery before changing the weapon around a Hammer.

HammerChangeFit
Launcher Frame

Whenever your Attack strikes a foe, your Special has a 25% chance to fire automatically.

S
Sudden Salvo

Your Omega Special locks on faster and uses 20% less Magick.

A
Rapid Frame

Your Attacks are 35% faster.

A

Reward order

  1. Core BoonFill the aspect's hex damage slot before spending rewards on optional scaling.
  2. Magick recoverySecure recovery before repeated Omega or Hex use makes the attack pattern stall.
  3. Daedalus HammerTake a compatible top-ranked Hammer after the Boon for the build's main move. No Hammer is required to make the build function.
  4. Maximum LifeMove maximum Life ahead of damage rewards when the current route cannot survive the next guardian reliably.
  5. Pom of PowerUse Poms after the main Boon exists so levels land on an effect the build repeatedly uses.
  6. Duo or LegendaryPursue a Duo or Legendary only after the build already contains a valid choice from every prerequisite set.

Useful interactions

  • Phalanx Shot

    Your Specials also launch a projectile ahead that can Deflect, rearming after 2 seconds.

    Requires you to have met Athena once before the current night.
  • Word of Greater Girth

    Grow in size, increase maximum Life by 15%, and deal 15% more damage with your Nocturnal Arm.

    Circe can offer this choice.
  • Shadow Pounce

    After you Dash, your Omega moves may deal Critical damage for 2 seconds.

    Artemis can offer this choice.
  • Turning to a Simple Form

    Your Omega moves have a 15% chance to inflict Polymorph on a susceptible foe, with a 10-second cooldown.

    Requires you to complete Circe's related quest.
  • Drunken Stupor

    Your Omega moves inflict Hangover the first time they strike foes.

    Dionysus can offer this choice.
  • Killing Stroke

    Your Specials may deal Critical damage, but you Prime 40 Magick.

    Artemis can offer this choice.
  • Ingenious Flourish

    Your Special boon gains 3 levels, but you Prime 35 Magick.

    Requires Special.
  • Explosive Intent

    Your Omega moves also deal 50 damage in an area around foes they hit, but use 10 additional Magick.

    Icarus can offer this choice.
  • Support Fire

    After you hit with your Attacks or Specials, fire a seeking arrow.

    Artemis can offer this choice.

Switch Keepsakes when their job is done

The starting Keepsake is listed in Setup. These are the in-run swaps.

  1. 2
    Later regionsLuckier Toothlimited use

    Use the extra Death Defiance after the main Boon is secured when ordinary rooms still threaten the run.

    At the next keepsake cabinet, replace it after its Last Stand has triggered because the spent keepsake adds no second recovery. Equip it after the opening god is secured if room damage is consuming Death Defiance or maximum Life.
  2. 3
    Final regionKnuckle Boneslimited use

    Use the guardian-focused effect when the final encounter is the remaining route constraint.

    At the next keepsake cabinet, replace it after its limited guardian effect has been consumed and another guardian remains. Equip it before the final region only when the run already survives normal rooms reliably.

Boss and route decisions

Spend Magick only through moves that leave enough time to react while the Hex chooses its target.

Ranged pressure and frequent Hex cycles reduce the danger of mixed rooms.

Aspect rank progression

Each rank lists its forge cost and the exact value it gives this Aspect.

StepEffectCost
Rank 1Common
Mana Cost
100
Moon Beam Count
8 base
Moon Beam Damage
50 base
Moon Beam Duration
8
Moon Beam Vulnerability
1.5 base
4Moon Dust4Silver
Rank 2Rare
Mana Cost
90
Moon Beam Count
8 base
Moon Beam Damage
50 base
Moon Beam Duration
8
Moon Beam Vulnerability
1.5 base
1Nightmare
Rank 3Epic
Mana Cost
80
Moon Beam Count
8 base
Moon Beam Damage
50 base
Moon Beam Duration
8
Moon Beam Vulnerability
1.5 base
1Nightmare
Rank 4Heroic
Mana Cost
70
Moon Beam Count
8 base
Moon Beam Damage
50 base
Moon Beam Duration
8
Moon Beam Vulnerability
1.5 base
1Nightmare
Rank 5Legendary
Mana Cost
60
Moon Beam Count
8 base
Moon Beam Damage
50 base
Moon Beam Duration
8
Moon Beam Vulnerability
1.5 base
2Nightmare