NeonHades2Hades II guideSearch the guide
NeonHades2Hades II guideSearch the guide

Independent Hades II guideNot affiliated with Supergiant Games

Aspect build · Sister Blades

Aspect of Melinoë

Your Attacks and Specials deal more damage by striking foes from behind.

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

BOverallModerate learning demandAConsistencyAClear speedBSafetyBHigh 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

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.

Familiar and Hex

PickWhyLimitFit
GaleFamiliarThe passive defensive mobility remains active without requiring a particular attack pattern.Dodge is less predictable than a larger Life pool and adds no direct build resource.A
Wolf HowlHexThe effect resolves quickly and works without a slain enemy, long channel, or delayed target.Its close target area can be unsafe when the landing window is poorly timed.A

Strongest preparation

Start with

  1. 1Opening KeepsakeVivid Sealimited 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.

Safest preparation

Start with

  1. 1Opening KeepsakeBarley Sheaflimited 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.

Aspect rank progression

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

StepEffectCost
Rank 1Common
Damage
0%
Included
Rank 2Rare
Damage
40%
Rank 3Epic
Damage
60%
Rank 4Heroic
Damage
80%
Rank 5Legendary
Damage
100%

Strongest run plan

Excels at
Strong payoff for flanking
Watch for
Loses value against targets that turn quickly
BOverall grade

Combat sequence

  1. 1

    Cast the group

  2. 2

    Dash behind the priority target

  3. 3

    Complete the normal Attack string when the finisher window is secure

  4. 4

    Otherwise take the safe opening hits and leave before the target turns

Also strong

  • Both main move sets can use the same positioning plan

Avoid

  • Close-range greed is heavily punished
AConsistency
AClear speed
BSafety
BHigh Fear
Essential loadout

Take these five Boons first

Cast the group

  1. Priority 1AttackWave Strike
  2. Priority 2SpecialHeaven Flourish
  3. Priority 3CastEngagement Ring
  4. Priority 4DashBlinding Rush
  5. Priority 5GainBorn Gain
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 Wave Strike.

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

    Secure the main choices: Wave Strike + Heaven Flourish.

    Strong payoff for flanking The named choices now reinforce the same sequence instead of competing for upgrades.
  3. 03
    The first major power spike

    Take Skulking Onslaught 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.
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 · AttackBuild focus
Wave StrikeS

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

Other proven fits
Sworn StrikeA

Your Attacks deal more damage and inflict Hitch.

This can fill the same attack role when its condition matches "Complete the normal Attack string when the finisher window is secure". Keep the rest of the damage plan unchanged.
Flutter StrikeB

Your Attacks deal more damage to nearby foes.

Flutter Strike is the stronger low-investment, full-string fallback. At Common level 1, its 80% adds 164 to the 205-damage string, four more than eight Wave Strike splashes, and it remains ahead through level 3 against one nearby target. Wave Strike overtakes at level 4, on cancelled strings, and whenever splashes hit extra foes. Backstab and Hammer damage modifiers are additive, so they raise the direct result without changing this comparison.
Wave Strike is the strongest upgraded Attack plan for the Blades' eight-hit normal string: 20 + 20 + five times 15 + 90 = 205 raw damage. At Common level 1, eight 20-damage splashes add 160, narrowly below Flutter Strike's 164. At level 4, eight 35-damage splashes add 280, above Flutter Strike's 266.5. It also wins on the 15- and 20-damage opening hits and can damage grouped foes. Prioritize Poms on it. This comparison assumes each unique hit clears the 0.033-second cooldown and its splash lands.
Priority 2 · SpecialBuild focus
Heaven FlourishS

Your Specials inflict Blitz.

Other proven fits
Vicious FlourishA

Your Specials deal more damage and inflict Wounds.

This can fill the same special role when its condition matches "Cast the group". Keep the rest of the damage plan unchanged.
Flame FlourishB

Your Specials inflict Scorch.

Use this only when the preferred special choice is unavailable. It preserves "Cast the group" without changing the damage loop.
This is a breakpoint for "Cast the group". It powers a move the damage plan already repeats instead of splitting upgrades across unrelated actions.
Priority 3 · 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 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 · GainSupporting slot
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 if the preferred Gain choice does not appear. It keeps the complete five-slot package coherent without changing the plan's higher priorities.
This is the recommended Gain 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.

Freezer BurnA

Whenever you inflict Freeze on a foe with Scorch, deal damage and remove Scorch.

This plan can open the target with Arctic Ring + Flame 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
Warm BreezeA

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

This plan can open the target with Blinding Rush + Flame 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
Arterial SprayA

Your splash effects from Poseidon may hit 2 times (and take the color of the River Styx).

This plan can open the target with Vicious Flourish + Wave 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
Cherished HeirloomA

Your Keepsakes are stronger this night (if possible).

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
Incandescent AuraA

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

This plan can open the target with Engagement Ring + Flame 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
Hearty AppetiteA

You deal more damage with your Weapon the more maximum Life you have.

This plan can open the target with Frigid Rush + Flutter 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
Beach BallA

Your Sprint creates a watery globe behind you, which surges ahead once you stop.

This plan can open the target with Blinding Rush + Wave 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
One selected Boon satisfies more than one prerequisite group.
Choose one Boon from each of 3 prerequisite groups.Other options
  1. Group 1
  2. Group 2
  3. Group 3
Sun WorshiperA

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

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.

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
Romantic SparkA

Rushing into foes with Blitz immediately activates the effect and makes it stronger.

This plan can open the target with Heaven Flourish + Flutter 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
King's RansomA

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

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
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 fits14 Boons
Nova Flourish

Your Specials deal more damage in a larger area.

This can support "Cast the group", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Nova Strike

Your Attacks deal more damage in a larger area.

This can support "Complete the normal Attack string when the finisher window is secure", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Vicious Strike

Your Attacks deal more damage and inflict Wounds.

This can support "Complete the normal Attack string when the finisher window is secure", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Ice Flourish

Your Specials deal more damage and inflict Freeze.

This can support "Cast the group", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Ice Strike

Your Attacks deal more damage and inflict Freeze.

This can support "Complete the normal Attack string when the finisher window is secure", 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 "Cast the group", 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 "Cast the group", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Volcanic Strike

Your Attacks can cause a blast that deals 400 damage in the area.

This can support "Complete the normal Attack string when the finisher window is secure", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Sworn Flourish

Your Specials deal more damage and inflict Hitch.

This can support "Cast the group", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Racing Thoughts

Your Omega moves are faster.

This can support "Cast the group", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Nimble Limbs

Your Attack, Special, and Cast are faster.

This can support "Complete the normal Attack string when the finisher window is secure", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Flame Strike

Your Attacks inflict Scorch.

This can support "Complete the normal Attack string when the finisher window is secure", 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 "Cast the group", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Heaven Strike

Your Attacks inflict Blitz.

This can support "Complete the normal Attack string when the finisher window is secure", 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
Skulking Onslaught

Your Attack deals 150% more damage when it strikes a foe from behind.

S
Rapid Onslaught

Your Attacks are 35% faster.

A
Final Slice

The last strike in your Attack sequence deals 300% more damage in a larger area.

A

Reward order

  1. Core BoonFill the aspect's attack damage slot before spending rewards on optional scaling.
  2. 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.
  3. Maximum LifeMove maximum Life ahead of damage rewards when the current route cannot survive the next guardian reliably.
  4. Pom of PowerUse Poms after the main Boon exists so levels land on an effect the build repeatedly uses.
  5. Magick recoveryTake recovery only after the normal-move plan and immediate survival needs are covered.
  6. Duo or LegendaryPursue a Duo or Legendary only after the build already contains a valid choice from every prerequisite set.

Useful interactions

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

    Circe can offer this choice.
  • Your Attack boon gains 3 levels, but you Prime 35 Magick.

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

    Artemis can offer this choice.
  • Your Special boon gains 3 levels, but you Prime 35 Magick.

    Requires Special.
  • Foes in your Casts may take Critical damage from your Attacks.

    Artemis can offer this choice.
  • Each Attack hit randomly deals exactly 5, 55, or 555 damage.

    Requires you to speak with Dionysus after the true ending.
  • 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

Pom Wave Strike toward level 4 and take only the backstab strings allowed by committed boss animations.

Open Surface arenas make flanking easier, while crowded rooms require Cast control first.

Aspect rank progression

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

StepEffectCost
Rank 1Common
Damage
0%
Included
Rank 2Rare
Damage
40%
Rank 3Epic
Damage
60%
Rank 4Heroic
Damage
80%
Rank 5Legendary
Damage
100%

Safest run plan

Excels at
Root creates deliberate backstab windows instead of forcing a chase
Watch for
Bosses that turn quickly still shorten the safe backstab window
BOverall grade

Combat sequence

  1. 1

    Root the priority target

  2. 2

    Move behind it during the control window

  3. 3

    Use a short Attack string and leave before the target can turn

Also strong

  • The Attack plan keeps direct scaling while adding room control

Avoid

  • Wave Strike still depends on each splash landing against the intended target
AConsistency
BClear speed
ASafety
AHigh Fear
Essential loadout

Take these five Boons first

Root the priority target

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

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

    Secure the main choices: Ice Strike + Arctic Ring + Nova Flourish.

    Root creates deliberate backstab windows instead of forcing a chase The named choices now reinforce the same sequence instead of competing for upgrades.
  3. 03
    The first major power spike

    Take Skulking Onslaught 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.
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 · AttackBuild focus
Ice StrikeS

Your Attacks deal more damage and inflict Freeze.

Other proven fits
Wave StrikeA

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

Wave Strike beats Flutter Strike on each 15- or 20-damage opening hit and adds knockback. The five stabs are 0.08 seconds apart, which clears its 0.033-second cooldown, but Demeter remains safer because Freeze creates the backstab window directly.
Flutter StrikeB

Your Attacks deal more damage to nearby foes.

Use this only when the preferred attack choice is unavailable. It preserves "Use a short Attack string and leave before the target can turn" without changing the reliability loop.
Freeze creates the backstab opening and still scales the direct hit that receives the aspect bonus.
Priority 2 · CastBuild focus
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 only when the preferred cast choice is unavailable. It preserves "Root the priority target" without changing the reliability loop.
This is a breakpoint for "Root the priority target". It powers a move the reliability plan already repeats instead of splitting upgrades across unrelated actions.
Priority 3 · SpecialBuild focus
Nova FlourishS

Your Specials deal more damage in a larger area.

Flame FlourishB

Your Specials inflict Scorch.

Use this only when the preferred special choice is unavailable. It preserves "Root the priority target" without changing the reliability loop.
This is a breakpoint for "Root the priority target". It powers a move the reliability plan already repeats instead of splitting upgrades across unrelated actions.
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 · GainSupporting slot
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 if the preferred Gain choice does not appear. It keeps the complete five-slot package coherent without changing the plan's higher priorities.
This is the recommended Gain 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.

Freezer BurnA

Whenever you inflict Freeze on a foe with Scorch, deal damage and remove Scorch.

This plan can open the target with Ice Strike + Flame 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
Warm BreezeA

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

This plan can open the target with Blinding Rush + Flame 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
Cherished HeirloomA

Your Keepsakes are stronger this night (if possible).

This plan can open the target with Ice Strike + 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
Hearty AppetiteA

You deal more damage with your Weapon the more maximum Life you have.

This plan can open the target with Frigid Rush + Flutter 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
Beach BallA

Your Sprint creates a watery globe behind you, which surges ahead once you stop.

This plan can open the target with Nova Flourish + Wave Strike + 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 3 prerequisite groups.Other options
  1. Group 1
  2. Group 2
  3. Group 3
Sun WorshiperA

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

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.

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 fits35 Boons
Rapture Ring

Your Casts inflict Weak, and damage foes while dragging them toward the center.

This can support "Root the priority target", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Super Nova

Your Casts expand in size until they expire.

This can support "Root the priority target", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Prominence Flare

After your Omega Cast expires, rapidly deal damage in the area for 2 seconds.

This can support "Root the priority target", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Glorious Disaster

You can channel 30 additional Magick into your Omega Cast to repeatedly strike foes with lightning bolts.

This can support "Root the priority target", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Nova Strike

Your Attacks deal more damage in a larger area.

This can support "Use a short Attack string and leave before the target can turn", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Sword Ring

Your Casts create a falling blade over each foe in the binding circle.

This can support "Root the priority target", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Meat Grinder

Your Omega Cast also creates a Blade Rift in the binding circle.

This can support "Root the priority target", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Vicious Flourish

Your Specials deal more damage and inflict Wounds.

This can support "Root the priority target", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Vicious Strike

Your Attacks deal more damage and inflict Wounds.

This can support "Use a short Attack string and leave before the target can turn", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Lightning Lance

Hold Cast to aim where the binding circle appears. Foes within are struck by lightning.

This can support "Root the priority target", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Local Climate

Your Omega Cast deals more damage. If you are in the binding circle, the bonus is doubled.

This can support "Root the priority target", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Arctic Gale

Your Casts also create a Gust around the binding circle.

This can support "Root the priority target", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Glowing Coal

Hold Cast to aim a fireball that explodes on impact. The binding circle forms there.

This can support "Root the priority target", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Ice Flourish

Your Specials deal more damage and inflict Freeze.

This can support "Root the priority target", 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 "Root the priority target", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Anvil Ring

Your Casts deal damage 3 times in succession to foes in the binding circle.

This can support "Root the priority target", 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 "Root the priority target", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Volcanic Strike

Your Attacks can cause a blast that deals 400 damage in the area.

This can support "Use a short Attack string and leave before the target can turn", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Engagement Ring

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

This can support "Root the priority target", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Sworn Flourish

Your Specials deal more damage and inflict Hitch.

This can support "Root the priority target", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Sworn Strike

Your Attacks deal more damage and inflict Hitch.

This can support "Use a short Attack string and leave before the target can turn", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Winner's Circle

You channel your Omega Cast faster, and your Casts deal damage and expire faster.

This can support "Root the priority target", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Racing Thoughts

Your Omega moves are faster.

This can support "Root the priority target", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Nimble Limbs

Your Attack, Special, and Cast are faster.

This can support "Use a short Attack string and leave before the target can turn", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Smolder Ring

Your Casts repeatedly inflict Scorch on foes in the binding circle.

This can support "Root the priority target", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Flame Strike

Your Attacks inflict Scorch.

This can support "Use a short Attack string and leave before the target can turn", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Seismic Servo

Any boon effects that recharge over time recharge faster.

This can support "Root the priority target", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Tidal Ring

Your Casts also immediately hit foes with a powerful splash that inflicts Froth.

This can support "Root the priority target", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Geyser Spout

Your Omega Cast gains Power and knocks foes away.

This can support "Root the priority target", 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 "Root the priority target", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Hostile Environment

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

This can support "Root the priority target", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Rousing Reception

Your Casts damage any foes as they join the encounter, wherever they appear.

This can support "Root the priority target", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Storm Ring

Your Casts cause lightning bolts to repeatedly strike 1 foe at a time in the binding circle.

This can support "Root the priority target", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Heaven Flourish

Your Specials inflict Blitz.

This can support "Root the priority target", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Heaven Strike

Your Attacks inflict Blitz.

This can support "Use a short Attack string and leave before the target can turn", 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
Skulking Onslaught

Your Attack deals 150% more damage when it strikes a foe from behind.

S
Rapid Onslaught

Your Attacks are 35% faster.

A
Final Slice

The last strike in your Attack sequence deals 300% more damage in a larger area.

A

Reward order

  1. Core BoonFill the aspect's attack damage slot before spending rewards on optional scaling.
  2. 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.
  3. Maximum LifeMove maximum Life ahead of damage rewards when the current route cannot survive the next guardian reliably.
  4. Pom of PowerUse Poms after the main Boon exists so levels land on an effect the build repeatedly uses.
  5. Magick recoveryTake recovery only after the normal-move plan and immediate survival needs are covered.
  6. Duo or LegendaryPursue a Duo or Legendary only after the build already contains a valid choice from every prerequisite set.

Useful interactions

  • 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.
  • Don an Outfit with 20 Armor that makes your Cast deal 100% more damage.

    Requires you to meet Arachne once.
  • Your Casts also blast the area after 4 seconds, dealing 500 damage to foes, but 20 to you.

    Icarus can offer this choice.
  • Hold Cast to lob a large explosive. The binding circle forms there.

    Requires none of these boons in the current setup: Glowing Coal, Lightning Lance, Howling Soul, Hostile Environment.
  • Grow in size, increase maximum Life by 15%, and deal 15% more damage with your Nocturnal Arm.

    Circe can offer this choice.
  • Your Attack boon gains 3 levels, but you Prime 35 Magick.

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

    Artemis can offer this choice.
  • Your Special boon gains 3 levels, but you Prime 35 Magick.

    Requires Special.
  • Your Casts launch a projectile that seeks foes. The binding circle forms where it hits.

    Requires none of these boons in the current setup: Glowing Coal, Lightning Lance, Tipsy Shot, Hostile Environment.
  • Foes in your Casts may take Critical damage from your Attacks.

    Artemis can offer this choice.
  • Your Casts also deal a burst of damage in the area and momentarily make you Deflect.

    Athena can offer this choice.
  • A piercing arrow fires toward any foe damaged by your Omega Cast.

    Artemis can offer this choice.
  • Each Attack hit randomly deals exactly 5, 55, or 555 damage.

    Requires you to speak with Dionysus after the true ending.
  • 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

Take one controlled backstab window and disengage before the boss retargets.

Root protects the flank in crowded rooms while Wave Strike remains an optional room-control alternative.

Aspect rank progression

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

StepEffectCost
Rank 1Common
Damage
0%
Included
Rank 2Rare
Damage
40%
Rank 3Epic
Damage
60%
Rank 4Heroic
Damage
80%
Rank 5Legendary
Damage
100%