NeonHades2Hades II guideSearch the guide
NeonHades2Hades II guideSearch the guide

Independent Hades II guideNot affiliated with Supergiant Games

Aspect build · Witch's Staff

Aspect of Circe

Whenever you use Casts, so does your Animal Familiar, forming a Psychic Leash.

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

BOverallEasy to learnAConsistencyBClear speedSSafetyAHigh 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
HecubaFamiliarThe Magick bonus supports repeated Omega actions while the stun creates safer openings.A build that rarely spends Magick gains less than it would from Life, critical chance, or mobility.A
Phase ShiftHexSlowing the encounter creates room to attack, reposition, or recover without replacing the build's normal actions.It adds less immediate burst than a direct-damage Hex.S

Strongest preparation

Strongest plan

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.

14 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 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.

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
Damage
10
Duration
5
Interval
0.2
5Marble5Lotus
Rank 2Rare
Damage
15
Duration
5
Interval
0.2
1Nightmare
Rank 3Epic
Damage
20
Duration
5
Interval
0.2
1Nightmare
Rank 4Heroic
Damage
25
Duration
5
Interval
0.2
1Nightmare
Rank 5Legendary
Damage
30
Duration
5
Interval
0.2
2Nightmare

Strongest run plan

Excels at
Cast and familiar actions overlap naturally
Watch for
Depends on familiar positioning and upgrade state
BOverall grade

Combat sequence

  1. 1

    Place Cast to trigger the familiar

  2. 2

    Use ranged Special while the target is controlled

  3. 3

    Refresh Cast before the control expires

Also strong

  • Good control without requiring close-range commitment

Avoid

  • Less direct boss scaling when added targets are absent
AConsistency
BClear speed
SSafety
AHigh Fear
Essential loadout

Take these five Boons first

Place Cast to trigger the familiar

  1. Priority 1CastStorm Ring
  2. Priority 2GainLucid Gain
  3. Priority 3SpecialSworn Flourish
  4. Priority 4AttackHeaven Strike
  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 Storm Ring.

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

    Secure the main choices: Storm Ring + Sworn Flourish.

    Cast and familiar actions overlap naturally The named choices now reinforce the same sequence instead of competing for upgrades.
    Storm RingSworn Flourish
  3. 03
    The first major power spike

    Take Rapid Moonshot 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.
    Rapid Moonshot
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 · CastBuild focus
Storm RingS

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

Other proven fits
Arctic RingA

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

This can fill the same cast role when its condition matches "Place Cast to trigger the familiar". Keep the rest of the damage plan unchanged.
Smolder RingA

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

This can fill the same cast role when its condition matches "Place Cast to trigger the familiar". Keep the rest of the damage plan unchanged.
Tidal RingB

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

Use this only when the preferred cast choice is unavailable. It preserves "Place Cast to trigger the familiar" without changing the damage loop.
This is a breakpoint for "Place Cast to trigger the familiar". It powers a move the damage plan already repeats instead of splitting upgrades across unrelated actions.
Priority 2 · GainSupporting slot
Lucid GainS

Whenever your Casts expire, 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 3 · SpecialBuild focus
Sworn FlourishS

Your Specials deal more damage and inflict Hitch.

Vicious FlourishB

Your Specials deal more damage and inflict Wounds.

Use this only when the preferred special choice is unavailable. It preserves "Use ranged Special while the target is controlled" without changing the damage loop.
This is a breakpoint for "Use ranged Special while the target is controlled". It powers a move the damage plan already repeats instead of splitting upgrades across unrelated actions.
Priority 4 · AttackSupporting slot
Heaven StrikeS

Your Attacks inflict Blitz.

Sworn StrikeB

Your Attacks deal more damage and inflict Hitch.

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 5 · 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.
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 + Smolder 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
Thermal DynamicsA

Your Blitz effects also inflict Scorch whenever they deal damage.

Opens with

This plan can open the target with Heaven Strike + Smolder 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
Cherished HeirloomA

Your Keepsakes are stronger this night (if possible).

Opens with

This plan can open the target with Arctic Ring + Sworn 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
Killer CurrentA

Your lightning deals more damage to Froth-afflicted foes.

Opens with

This plan can open the target with Tidal 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
Incandescent AuraA

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

Opens with

This plan can open the target with Sworn Flourish + Smolder 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
Beach BallA

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

Opens with

This plan can open the target with Lucid Gain + Tidal 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 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.

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
Hail StormA

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

Opens with

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.

Opens with

This plan can open the target with Lucid Gain + 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
Queen's RansomA

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

Opens with

This plan can open the target with Sworn Flourish + Storm 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 Born Gain + Storm 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
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
Rapture Ring

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

This can support "Place Cast to trigger the familiar", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Super Nova

Your Casts expand in size until they expire.

This can support "Place Cast to trigger the familiar", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Solar Ring

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

This can support "Place Cast to trigger the familiar", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Prominence Flare

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

This can support "Place Cast to trigger the familiar", but it ranks behind the named strongest 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 "Place Cast to trigger the familiar", 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 "Use ranged Special while the target is controlled", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Sword Ring

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

This can support "Place Cast to trigger the familiar", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Meat Grinder

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

This can support "Place Cast to trigger the familiar", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Lightning Lance

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

This can support "Place Cast to trigger the familiar", but it ranks behind the named strongest 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 "Place Cast to trigger the familiar", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Arctic Gale

Your Casts also create a Gust around the binding circle.

This can support "Place Cast to trigger the familiar", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Glowing Coal

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

This can support "Place Cast to trigger the familiar", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Ice Flourish

Your Specials deal more damage and inflict Freeze.

This can support "Use ranged Special while the target is controlled", 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 "Use ranged Special while the target is controlled", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Anvil Ring

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

This can support "Place Cast to trigger the familiar", 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 "Use ranged Special while the target is controlled", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Engagement Ring

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

This can support "Place Cast to trigger the familiar", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Winner's Circle

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

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

Your Omega moves are faster.

This can support "Use ranged Special while the target is controlled", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Flame Flourish

Your Specials inflict Scorch.

This can support "Use ranged Special while the target is controlled", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Seismic Servo

Any boon effects that recharge over time recharge faster.

This can support "Place Cast to trigger the familiar", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Geyser Spout

Your Omega Cast gains Power and knocks foes away.

This can support "Place Cast to trigger the familiar", 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 "Use ranged Special while the target is controlled", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Hostile Environment

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

This can support "Place Cast to trigger the familiar", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Rousing Reception

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

This can support "Place Cast to trigger the familiar", but it ranks behind the named strongest choices for that slot.
Heaven Flourish

Your Specials inflict Blitz.

This can support "Use ranged Special while the target is controlled", 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
Rapid Moonshot

Your Specials are 25% faster.

S
Shimmering Moonshot

Your Specials bounce toward up to +2 foes, dealing 10% damage for each hit.

A
Dual Moonshot

Your Specials fire 2 projectiles, but have 40% less range.

A

Reward order

  1. Core BoonFill the aspect's cast 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

  • 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.
  • Fuchsia Dress

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

    Requires you to meet Arachne once.
  • Hazard Boom

    Your Casts also blast the area after 4 seconds, dealing 500 damage to foes, but 20 to you.

    Icarus can offer this choice.
  • Tipsy Shot

    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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Howling Soul

    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.
  • Lethal Snare

    Foes in your Casts may take Critical damage from your Attacks.

    Artemis can offer this choice.
  • Mental Block

    Your Casts also deal a burst of damage in the area and momentarily make you Deflect.

    Athena can offer this choice.
  • Easy Shot

    A piercing arrow fires toward any foe damaged by your Omega Cast.

    Artemis 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 Cast uptime for control and accept that the familiar contribution may be less concentrated on a mobile boss.

Dense rooms make the shared Cast action especially efficient.

Aspect rank progression

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

StepEffectCost
Rank 1Common
Damage
10
Duration
5
Interval
0.2
5Marble5Lotus
Rank 2Rare
Damage
15
Duration
5
Interval
0.2
1Nightmare
Rank 3Epic
Damage
20
Duration
5
Interval
0.2
1Nightmare
Rank 4Heroic
Damage
25
Duration
5
Interval
0.2
1Nightmare
Rank 5Legendary
Damage
30
Duration
5
Interval
0.2
2Nightmare

Safest run plan

Excels at
Rooted targets stay inside both Cast and familiar pressure
Watch for
Familiar position can still reduce the aspect payoff
AOverall grade

Combat sequence

  1. 1

    Place a rooting Cast where the target will remain

  2. 2

    Let the familiar engage while Special attacks from range

  3. 3

    Refresh Cast before control and Magick expire

Also strong

  • The ranged follow-up avoids trading for familiar damage

Avoid

  • Boss phases without stable Cast uptime lower the extra damage
SConsistency
BClear speed
SSafety
AHigh Fear
Essential loadout

Take these five Boons first

Place a rooting Cast where the target will remain

  1. Priority 1CastArctic Ring
  2. Priority 2SpecialNova Flourish
  3. Priority 3GainBorn Gain
  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 Arctic Ring.

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

    Secure the main choices: Arctic Ring + Nova Flourish + Born Gain.

    Rooted targets stay inside both Cast and familiar pressure The named choices now reinforce the same sequence instead of competing for upgrades.
    Arctic RingNova FlourishBorn Gain
  3. 03
    The first major power spike

    Take Rapid Moonshot 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.
    Rapid Moonshot
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 · 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 "Place a rooting Cast where the target will remain" without changing the reliability loop.
This is a breakpoint for "Place a rooting Cast where the target will remain". 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 "Let the familiar engage while Special attacks from range" without changing the reliability loop.
This is a breakpoint for "Let the familiar engage while Special attacks from range". It powers a move the reliability plan already repeats instead of splitting upgrades across unrelated actions.
Priority 3 · 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 "Refresh Cast before control and Magick expire" without changing the reliability loop.
This is a breakpoint for "Refresh Cast before control and Magick expire". 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 · 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 fits45 Boons
Rapture Ring

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

This can support "Place a rooting Cast where the target will remain", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Glamour Gain

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

This can support "Refresh Cast before control and Magick expire", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Super Nova

Your Casts expand in size until they expire.

This can support "Place a rooting Cast where the target will remain", 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 "Place a rooting Cast where the target will remain", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Lucid Gain

Whenever your Casts expire, restore Magick.

This can support "Refresh Cast before control and Magick expire", 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 "Place a rooting Cast where the target will remain", 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 "Place a rooting Cast where the target will remain", 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 "Place a rooting Cast where the target will remain", 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 "Refresh Cast before control and Magick expire", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Vicious Flourish

Your Specials deal more damage and inflict Wounds.

This can support "Let the familiar engage while Special attacks from range", 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 "Refresh Cast before control and Magick expire", 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 "Place a rooting Cast where the target will remain", 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 "Place a rooting Cast where the target will remain", 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 "Place a rooting Cast where the target will remain", 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 "Place a rooting Cast where the target will remain", 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 "Refresh Cast before control and Magick expire", 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 "Refresh Cast before control and Magick expire", 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 "Let the familiar engage while Special attacks from range", 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 "Place a rooting Cast where the target will remain", 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 "Refresh Cast before control and Magick expire", 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 "Let the familiar engage while Special attacks from range", 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 "Place a rooting Cast where the target will remain", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Sworn Flourish

Your Specials deal more damage and inflict Hitch.

This can support "Let the familiar engage while Special attacks from range", 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 "Place a rooting Cast where the target will remain", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Racing Thoughts

Your Omega moves are faster.

This can support "Let the familiar engage while Special attacks from range", 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 "Place a rooting Cast where the target will remain", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Flame Flourish

Your Specials inflict Scorch.

This can support "Let the familiar engage while Special attacks from range", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Heart Breaker

Whenever you use 40 Magick, create a Heartthrob.

This can support "Refresh Cast before control and Magick expire", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Sunny Disposition

Whenever you create Heartthrobs, create more.

This can support "Refresh Cast before control and Magick expire", 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 "Refresh Cast before control and Magick expire", 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 "Refresh Cast before control and Magick expire", 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 "Refresh Cast before control and Magick expire", 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 "Place a rooting Cast where the target will remain", 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 "Place a rooting Cast where the target will remain", 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 "Place a rooting Cast where the target will remain", 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 "Refresh Cast before control and Magick expire", 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 "Let the familiar engage while Special attacks from range", 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 "Refresh Cast before control and Magick expire", 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 "Place a rooting Cast where the target will remain", 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 "Refresh Cast before control and Magick expire", 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 "Place a rooting Cast where the target will remain", 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 "Place a rooting Cast where the target will remain", 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 "Refresh Cast before control and Magick expire", 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 "Refresh Cast before control and Magick expire", but it ranks behind the named safest choices for that slot.
Heaven Flourish

Your Specials inflict Blitz.

This can support "Let the familiar engage while Special attacks from range", 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
Rapid Moonshot

Your Specials are 25% faster.

S
Shimmering Moonshot

Your Specials bounce toward up to +2 foes, dealing 10% damage for each hit.

A
Dual Moonshot

Your Specials fire 2 projectiles, but have 40% less range.

A

Reward order

  1. Core BoonFill the aspect's cast 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

  • 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.
  • Fuchsia Dress

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

    Requires you to meet Arachne once.
  • Hazard Boom

    Your Casts also blast the area after 4 seconds, dealing 500 damage to foes, but 20 to you.

    Icarus can offer this choice.
  • Tipsy Shot

    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.
  • 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.
  • Howling Soul

    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.
  • Lethal Snare

    Foes in your Casts may take Critical damage from your Attacks.

    Artemis can offer this choice.
  • Mental Block

    Your Casts also deal a burst of damage in the area and momentarily make you Deflect.

    Athena can offer this choice.
  • Easy Shot

    A piercing arrow fires toward any foe damaged by your Omega Cast.

    Artemis can offer this choice.
  • 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

Recast after movement phases instead of sending the familiar toward an empty circle.

Dense rooms reward the shared control action without requiring Melinoe to stand beside it.

Aspect rank progression

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

StepEffectCost
Rank 1Common
Damage
10
Duration
5
Interval
0.2
5Marble5Lotus
Rank 2Rare
Damage
15
Duration
5
Interval
0.2
1Nightmare
Rank 3Epic
Damage
20
Duration
5
Interval
0.2
1Nightmare
Rank 4Heroic
Damage
25
Duration
5
Interval
0.2
1Nightmare
Rank 5Legendary
Damage
30
Duration
5
Interval
0.2
2Nightmare