Darkest Dungeon 2: Beginner Tips

Red Hook Studios has just released the long-anticipated sequel to Darkest Dungeon. The critically heralded rogue-like was a shift in the genre and even more so in the indie game development scene. Darkest Dungeon 2 has some things in common with its predecessor but, as it stands, the game is a whole different beast. Thankfully, this beginner tips guide can help steer both series newbies and returning Darkest Dungeon fans in the right direction.

You Are Going to Die – And That’s Okay!

darkest dungeon 2 combat line up

This may come across as obvious to veterans of the roguelike genre, but, it’s great to reiterate this at the beginning. Games like Darkest Dungeon are designed from the ground up to be replayed via losing. As soon as you start feeling the agony and seeing the light at the end of the tunnel, don’t think of it as the end. Think of it more as the game allowing you to level up!

Focus On The Stagecoach

darkest dungeon 2 stage coach

In Darkest Dungeon 2, your party will make their way down a set path in a stagecoach. This vehicle is not only used to transport you from place to place, but also serves as the way you recruit new heroes and increase your party’s inventory space. Inventory is massively important because every item, relic, treasure, and trinket will aid your progress.

Combat Items Are Overpowered

darkest dungeon 2 back line

Combat in Darkest Dungeon 2 is a difficult turn-based struggle. Items are vital in combat because they don’t take a turn to be used. For example, you can have your Highwayman use a thrown bottle of poison, then attack the same enemy on his turn, guaranteeing that the demon will die on its own turn due to the poison damage.

Backline Enemies Should Be First To Die

Darkest Dungeon 2 burning pile contains some items

In most combat encounters, the game will have the glass cannon de-buffers and mages in the very back. Getting rid of anyone who can deal ranged damage to your own backline is important. What makes them even more important in combat is they WILL be the downfall of your run. So aim for the backline first!

Stress Is The Secret Killer

darkest dungeon 2 inn resting

Just like in real life, stress is secretly the main resource of the game. HP gradually heals as you are traveling in the stagecoach, but Stress is there to stay. Whenever you’re resting at an Inn, make sure to destress your heroes. When Stress hits max, your characters can potentially gain very negative traits that will destroy them slowly. Don’t let them happen!

Relationships Are Important

darkest dungeon 2 relationship

A brand new mechanic in Darkest Dungeon 2 is relationships. As your party travels through the never-ending winding roads of hell and turmoil, they may end up forming toxic or positive relationships with others in the party. Combine this with the Stress mechanic, and there’s a lot to worry about here! As an example, if you’re in a battle and want to heal your Man-at-Arms, the character that hates the Man-at-Arms could just step in the way and get the heal themselves. This isn’t good – so always keep an eye on what your characters think about each other!

Don’t Be Afraid To Read

darkest dungeon 2 info

Darkest Dungeon 2 has a huge glossary for players to refer to as they progress. Make sure that you read all of the tutorials that pop up on the top right so you’re not overwhelmed. There’s also nifty way to read what every emblem in the game represents. If you’re hovering over an item or attack and see a symbol, press the ALT key. This will bring up a menu that explains what each Icon does. There’s a lot to remember, so, as you’re getting your footing in the game, it’s nice to know that this option is available!

What do you think of these Darkest Dungeon 2 beginner tips? Are there any tips you would add? Comment below and let us know!

Subscribe
Notify of
guest

0 Comments
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments