Spelunky 2: Item Priority & Shop Strategy

Items make or break your runs. Knowing what to pick up and what to skip is essential.

S-Tier Items (Always Pick Up)

• Cape: Gives you flight and glide. The single most versatile item.
• Mattock: Breaks through any wall. Essential for secret areas.
• Bomb Bag: Infinite bombs. Spelunky 2 is a game about bombs.
• Rope: Extra climbing options. Always pick up if you dont have a cape.
• Spring Shoes: Double jump effect. Incredibly versatile.

A-Tier Items (High Priority)

• Paste: Stick items to walls. Combine with bombs for remote detonation.
• Compass: Shows all exits on the minimap.
• Spectacles: Reveals hidden doors and traps.
• Hedjet (Crown): Doubles all gem values. Pick up early.

Items to Avoid

• Cursed Items: The Cursed Skull, Chest, and Idol curse you — the ghost will chase you forever.
• Ankh: Revives you once but curses you. Not worth it.
• Kapala: Gives HP on kills but curses you. High risk.

Shop Strategy

• First shop visit: Buy the Cape if available ($10,000).
• Second shop visit: Buy Bomb Bag ($5,000) or Rope ($3,000).
• Late game: Save gold for the Waddler if you see it.

Bomb Bag vs Rope Debate

Bomb Bag is better for exploration (break walls, find secrets). Rope is better for vertical movement. For most players, Bomb Bag is the better choice.