NeonHades2Hades II guideSearch the guide
NeonHades2Hades II guideSearch the guide

Independent Hades II guideNot affiliated with Supergiant Games

Aspect build · Umbral Flames

Aspect of Supay

You have the Devil Sparks, which also enhance your Sprint boon.

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

Start with

  1. 1Opening KeepsakeCloud Banglelimited 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.

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
Sky FallHexRepeated strikes add damage while Melinoe continues moving and using the weapon.Random target selection can spread damage in crowded rooms.A

Aspect rank progression

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

StepEffectCost
Rank 1Common
Sprint Damage Bonus
10%
Duration
4
Rank 2Rare
Sprint Damage Bonus
15%
Duration
4
Rank 3Epic
Sprint Damage Bonus
20%
Duration
4
Rank 4Heroic
Sprint Damage Bonus
25%
Duration
4
Rank 5Legendary
Sprint Damage Bonus
30%
Duration
4

Strongest run plan

Excels at
Maintains pressure while moving
Watch for
Long firing periods can drain Magick or attention
AOverall grade

Combat sequence

  1. 1

    Start firing from range

  2. 2

    Sprint around the edge while maintaining pressure

  3. 3

    Add Special rings when the path is clear

Also strong

  • Sprint is part of the damage plan instead of only an escape

Avoid

  • Tight rooms reduce safe kiting space
SConsistency
AClear speed
ASafety
AHigh Fear
Essential loadout

Take these five Boons first

Start firing from range

  1. Priority 1AttackHeaven Strike
  2. Priority 2DashBreaker Rush
  3. Priority 3SpecialWave Flourish
  4. Priority 4GainCardio Gain
  5. Priority 5CastEngagement Ring
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 Heaven 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: Heaven Strike + Breaker Rush + Wave Flourish.

    Maintains pressure while moving The named choices now reinforce the same sequence instead of competing for upgrades.
  3. 03
    The first major power spike

    Take Inverted Blaze 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
Heaven StrikeS

Your Attacks inflict Blitz.

Other proven fits
Wave StrikeA

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

This can fill the same attack role when its condition matches "Start firing from range". Keep the rest of the damage plan unchanged.
Flame StrikeB

Your Attacks inflict Scorch.

Use this only when the preferred attack choice is unavailable. It preserves "Start firing from range" without changing the damage loop.
This is a breakpoint for "Start firing from range". It powers a move the damage plan already repeats instead of splitting upgrades across unrelated actions.
Priority 2 · DashBuild focus
Breaker RushS

Whenever you Sprint, hit the first foe you run into with a blast that knocks foes away.

Nexus RushB

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

Use this only when the preferred sprint choice is unavailable. It preserves "Sprint around the edge while maintaining pressure" without changing the damage loop.
This is a breakpoint for "Sprint around the edge while maintaining pressure". It powers a move the damage plan already repeats instead of splitting upgrades across unrelated actions.
Priority 3 · SpecialBuild focus
Wave FlourishS

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

Flame FlourishB

Your Specials inflict Scorch.

Use this only when the preferred special choice is unavailable. It preserves "Add Special rings when the path is clear" without changing the damage loop.
This is a breakpoint for "Add Special rings when the path is clear". It powers a move the damage plan already repeats instead of splitting upgrades across unrelated actions.
Priority 4 · GainSupporting slot
Cardio GainS

Whenever your Attack or Special deals damage, restore Magick.

Born GainB

Whenever you run out of Magick, Prime until the next location to restore all 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.
Priority 5 · 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.
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 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
Thermal DynamicsA

Your Blitz effects also inflict Scorch whenever they deal damage.

This plan can open the target with Heaven 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
Cherished HeirloomA

Your Keepsakes are stronger this night (if possible).

This plan can open the target with Arctic Ring + Nexus 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
Incandescent AuraA

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

This plan can open the target with Engagement Ring + 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
Hail StormA

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

This plan can open the target with Heaven Strike + 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.

This plan can open the target with Engagement Ring + Heaven 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
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 fits26 Boons
Flutter Flourish

Your Specials deal more damage to nearby foes.

This can support "Add Special rings when the path is clear", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Passion Rush

Rushing damages surrounding foes and inflicts Weak, and again once you stop.

This can support "Sprint around the edge while maintaining pressure", 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 "Add Special rings when the path is clear", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Blinding Rush

Your Sprint is faster and inflicts Daze on surrounding foes.

This can support "Sprint around the edge while maintaining pressure", 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 "Start firing from range", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Vicious Flourish

Your Specials deal more damage and inflict Wounds.

This can support "Add Special rings when the path is clear", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Stabbing Rush

Your Dash creates a row of falling blades along your path.

This can support "Sprint around the edge while maintaining pressure", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Vicious Strike

Your Attacks deal more damage and inflict Wounds.

This can support "Start firing from range", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Fire Away

Your Casts destroy many foes' ranged shots, and inflict Scorch on the attacking foes.

This can support "Sprint around the edge while maintaining pressure", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Ice Flourish

Your Specials deal more damage and inflict Freeze.

This can support "Add Special rings when the path is clear", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Frigid Rush

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

This can support "Sprint around the edge while maintaining pressure", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Ice Strike

Your Attacks deal more damage and inflict Freeze.

This can support "Start firing from range", 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 "Add Special rings when the path is clear", 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 "Add Special rings when the path is clear", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Smithy Rush

If a foe is near after you Dash, you can cause a blast that deals 200 damage in the area.

This can support "Sprint around the edge while maintaining pressure", 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 "Start firing from range", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Sworn Flourish

Your Specials deal more damage and inflict Hitch.

This can support "Add Special rings when the path is clear", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Sworn Strike

Your Attacks deal more damage and inflict Hitch.

This can support "Start firing from range", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Racing Thoughts

Your Omega moves are faster.

This can support "Add Special rings when the path is clear", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Nimble Limbs

Your Attack, Special, and Cast are faster.

This can support "Start firing from range", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Heat Rush

Your Sprint leaves a cinder trail, and any damage you take from burning is reduced to 1.

This can support "Sprint around the edge while maintaining pressure", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Beach Ball

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

This can support "Sprint around the edge while maintaining pressure", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Romantic Spark

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

This can support "Sprint around the edge while maintaining pressure", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Nitro Boost

Your Sprint is 15% faster and gives you a barrier that ignores instances of damage.

This can support "Sprint around the edge while maintaining pressure", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Heaven Flourish

Your Specials inflict Blitz.

This can support "Add Special rings when the path is clear", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Thunder Rush

Rushing causes surrounding foes to be struck by lightning bolts.

This can support "Sprint around the edge while maintaining pressure", 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
Inverted Blaze

Your Attacks linger for +2 seconds and launch back towards you after you Dash.

S
Mega Blaze

Your Attacks fire 20% farther and deal 30% more damage.

A
Leaden Blaze

Your Attacks knock foes away and have +10 Power.

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

Circle at a range that preserves projectile uptime without crossing the boss's center line.

Open Surface arenas favor the mobile loop more than cramped encounters.

Aspect rank progression

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

StepEffectCost
Rank 1Common
Sprint Damage Bonus
10%
Duration
4
Rank 2Rare
Sprint Damage Bonus
15%
Duration
4
Rank 3Epic
Sprint Damage Bonus
20%
Duration
4
Rank 4Heroic
Sprint Damage Bonus
25%
Duration
4
Rank 5Legendary
Sprint Damage Bonus
30%
Duration
4

Safest run plan

Excels at
Ranged Attack pressure continues while Sprint protects the orbit
Watch for
Tight rooms still reduce the available orbit
SOverall grade

Combat sequence

  1. 1

    Root the fastest threats

  2. 2

    Begin firing from the edge and Sprint around the group

  3. 3

    Stop the stream before the orbit crosses a hazard or attack line

Also strong

  • Cast control keeps fast enemies out of the firing path

Avoid

  • Long firing periods can hide incoming attacks behind damage effects
SConsistency
AClear speed
SSafety
AHigh Fear
Essential loadout

Take these five Boons first

Root the fastest threats

  1. Priority 1AttackHeaven Strike
  2. Priority 2DashBlinding Rush
  3. Priority 3CastArctic Ring
  4. Priority 4GainBorn Gain
  5. Priority 5SpecialIce Flourish
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 Heaven 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: Heaven Strike + Blinding Rush + Arctic Ring.

    Ranged Attack pressure continues while Sprint protects the orbit The named choices now reinforce the same sequence instead of competing for upgrades.
  3. 03
    The first major power spike

    Take Inverted Blaze 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
Heaven StrikeS

Your Attacks inflict Blitz.

Flame StrikeB

Your Attacks inflict Scorch.

Use this only when the preferred attack choice is unavailable. It preserves "Stop the stream before the orbit crosses a hazard or attack line" without changing the reliability loop.
This is a breakpoint for "Stop the stream before the orbit crosses a hazard or attack line". It powers a move the reliability plan already repeats instead of splitting upgrades across unrelated actions.
Priority 2 · DashBuild focus
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 only when the preferred sprint choice is unavailable. It preserves "Begin firing from the edge and Sprint around the group" without changing the reliability loop.
This is a breakpoint for "Begin firing from the edge and Sprint around the group". It powers a move the reliability plan already repeats instead of splitting upgrades across unrelated actions.
Priority 3 · 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 fastest threats" without changing the reliability loop.
This is a breakpoint for "Root the fastest threats". It powers a move the reliability plan already repeats instead of splitting upgrades across unrelated actions.
Priority 4 · 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.
Priority 5 · SpecialSupporting slot
Ice FlourishS

Your Specials deal more damage and inflict Freeze.

Nova FlourishB

Your Specials deal more damage in a larger area.

Use this if the preferred Special choice does not appear. It keeps the complete five-slot package coherent without changing the plan's higher priorities.
This is the recommended Special 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 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
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 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
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
Hail StormA

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

This plan can open the target with Heaven Strike + 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
Tropical CycloneA

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

This plan can open the target with Solar Ring + 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
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 Born Gain + Heaven 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
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 fits38 Boons
Rapture Ring

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

This can support "Root the fastest threats", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Passion Rush

Rushing damages surrounding foes and inflicts Weak, and again once you stop.

This can support "Begin firing from the edge and Sprint around the group", 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 fastest threats", 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 fastest threats", 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 fastest threats", 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 "Stop the stream before the orbit crosses a hazard or attack line", 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 fastest threats", 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 fastest threats", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Stabbing Rush

Your Dash creates a row of falling blades along your path.

This can support "Begin firing from the edge and Sprint around the group", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Vicious Strike

Your Attacks deal more damage and inflict Wounds.

This can support "Stop the stream before the orbit crosses a hazard or attack line", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Fire Away

Your Casts destroy many foes' ranged shots, and inflict Scorch on the attacking foes.

This can support "Begin firing from the edge and Sprint around the group", 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 fastest threats", 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 fastest threats", 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 fastest threats", 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 fastest threats", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Ice Strike

Your Attacks deal more damage and inflict Freeze.

This can support "Stop the stream before the orbit crosses a hazard or attack line", 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 fastest threats", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Smithy Rush

If a foe is near after you Dash, you can cause a blast that deals 200 damage in the area.

This can support "Begin firing from the edge and Sprint around the group", 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 "Stop the stream before the orbit crosses a hazard or attack line", 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 fastest threats", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Nexus Rush

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

This can support "Begin firing from the edge and Sprint around the group", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Sworn Strike

Your Attacks deal more damage and inflict Hitch.

This can support "Stop the stream before the orbit crosses a hazard or attack line", 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 fastest threats", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Nimble Limbs

Your Attack, Special, and Cast are faster.

This can support "Stop the stream before the orbit crosses a hazard or attack line", 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 fastest threats", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Heat Rush

Your Sprint leaves a cinder trail, and any damage you take from burning is reduced to 1.

This can support "Begin firing from the edge and Sprint around the group", 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 fastest threats", 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 fastest threats", 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 fastest threats", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Beach Ball

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

This can support "Begin firing from the edge and Sprint around the group", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Breaker Rush

Whenever you Sprint, hit the first foe you run into with a blast that knocks foes away.

This can support "Begin firing from the edge and Sprint around the group", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Wave Strike

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

This can support "Stop the stream before the orbit crosses a hazard or attack line", 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 fastest threats", 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 fastest threats", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Romantic Spark

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

This can support "Begin firing from the edge and Sprint around the group", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Nitro Boost

Your Sprint is 15% faster and gives you a barrier that ignores instances of damage.

This can support "Begin firing from the edge and Sprint around the group", 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 fastest threats", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Thunder Rush

Rushing causes surrounding foes to be struck by lightning bolts.

This can support "Begin firing from the edge and Sprint around the group", 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
Inverted Blaze

Your Attacks linger for +2 seconds and launch back towards you after you Dash.

S
Mega Blaze

Your Attacks fire 20% farther and deal 30% more damage.

A
Leaden Blaze

Your Attacks knock foes away and have +10 Power.

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

  • 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 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

Keep the firing orbit outside the boss's next attack line rather than maximizing uninterrupted uptime.

Root creates room to kite in cramped encounters while open arenas favor the normal orbit.

Aspect rank progression

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

StepEffectCost
Rank 1Common
Sprint Damage Bonus
10%
Duration
4
Rank 2Rare
Sprint Damage Bonus
15%
Duration
4
Rank 3Epic
Sprint Damage Bonus
20%
Duration
4
Rank 4Heroic
Sprint Damage Bonus
25%
Duration
4
Rank 5Legendary
Sprint Damage Bonus
30%
Duration
4