Unlocking the Secrets of the Artifact of Soul in Risk of Rain 2

Risk of Rain 2, the popular roguelike third-person shooter developed by Hopoo Games, is known for its challenging gameplay and intricate systems. One of the most intriguing elements of the game is the artifact system. Artifacts are special items that dramatically alter the rules of the game, offering unique challenges and rewards. Among these, the Artifact of Soul stands out as a particularly impactful choice. This article will delve into the details of the Artifact of Soul, exploring its effects, how to unlock it, strategies for using it, and its overall impact on the Risk of Rain 2 experience.

Understanding the Artifact of Soul

The Artifact of Soul is one of the many artifacts that players can activate in Risk of Rain 2. When enabled, this artifact changes the way enemies behave. Specifically, enemies will only spawn as elite versions. Elite enemies are stronger variants of regular enemies, possessing enhanced stats and unique abilities. They can be identified by their colored auras, which indicate their elite type. Common elite types include Overloading (blue), Blazing (red), Glacial (white), and Malachite (green). The Artifact of Soul ensures that every enemy you encounter will be an elite, significantly increasing the difficulty.

The Effects of the Artifact

• Elite Enemy Spawns: All enemies spawn as elite variants.
• Increased Difficulty: Elite enemies have higher health, damage, and often unique abilities, making encounters more challenging.
• Altered Gameplay: The constant presence of elite enemies requires players to adapt their strategies and builds.

Unlocking the Artifact of Soul

To activate the Artifact of Soul, you must first locate its corresponding artifact code and input it at the Artifact Portal. The Artifact Portal is found in the Bazaar Between Time, an area accessible through specific portals that randomly appear during runs. Once inside the Bazaar, look for a glowing terminal with a grid of symbols. This is the Artifact Portal.

Finding the Artifact Code

The artifact codes are located on specific stages throughout the game. For the Artifact of Soul, the code is found on the Abandoned Aqueduct stage. This stage requires two pressure plates to be activated simultaneously to open a gate leading to the artifact code. Coordinating this in solo play can be tricky, often requiring specific items or abilities like Engineer’s turrets or the Huntress’s Blink.

Once you reach the Abandoned Aqueduct, search for two large pressure plates located in different areas of the map. Activating both plates will open a large metal door, leading to a pit. Inside the pit, you will find the artifact code etched on the wall. Note the sequence of symbols carefully.

Inputting the Code at the Artifact Portal

After obtaining the code, return to the Bazaar Between Time. Interact with the Artifact Portal and input the code you found. The code for the Artifact of Soul is specific and must be entered correctly. Once the code is entered correctly, the corresponding artifact will be unlocked. You can then activate the artifact at the start of a new run by interacting with the terminals on the character selection screen.

Strategies for Playing with the Artifact of Soul

Playing with the Artifact of Soul dramatically increases the difficulty of Risk of Rain 2. Therefore, it requires careful planning and strategic gameplay. Here are some tips for surviving and thriving with this artifact active:

Prioritize Damage and Mobility

With every enemy being an elite, dealing high damage is crucial. Items that increase your damage output, such as Soldier’s Syringe, Lens Maker’s Glasses, and Crowbar, become even more valuable. Mobility is also essential for dodging attacks and repositioning during intense encounters. Items like Paul’s Goat Hoof, Energy Drink, and Hopoo Feather can significantly improve your mobility.

Focus on Build Synergy

Synergistic item builds are critical for success. Look for items that complement each other and amplify your character’s strengths. For example, combining attack speed items with on-hit effects like Kjaro’s Band and Runald’s Band can create a powerful damage output. Similarly, stacking armor and healing items can provide increased survivability.

Adapt to Elite Types

Understanding the different elite types and their abilities is crucial. Overloading elites deal chain lightning damage, Blazing elites leave trails of fire, Glacial elites slow you down, and Malachite elites nullify your healing. Adjust your tactics based on the elite types you encounter. For example, prioritize dodging attacks from Overloading elites and staying away from the fire trails of Blazing elites.

Team Coordination (Multiplayer)

In multiplayer, communication and coordination are even more important. Designate roles for each player, such as damage dealer, support, and crowd control. Coordinate your abilities and item choices to maximize your team’s effectiveness. For example, one player can focus on dealing damage while another provides healing and support.

The Impact of the Artifact of Soul on the Risk of Rain 2 Experience

The Artifact of Soul significantly alters the Risk of Rain 2 experience, transforming it into a more challenging and rewarding endeavor. It forces players to think strategically, adapt to different situations, and optimize their builds. While the increased difficulty may be daunting for some, it also provides a unique sense of accomplishment when you overcome the challenges. [See also: Risk of Rain 2 Artifact Guide]

The artifact is a favorite among experienced players looking for a greater challenge. It tests your understanding of the game’s mechanics and your ability to make effective decisions under pressure. Successfully completing a run with the Artifact of Soul active is a testament to your skill and mastery of Risk of Rain 2.

Increased Difficulty and Challenge

The primary impact of the Artifact of Soul is the increased difficulty. Every enemy is an elite, forcing you to constantly be on your guard. This can be both frustrating and exhilarating, depending on your perspective. However, it undeniably adds a new layer of depth to the game.

Strategic Depth and Build Optimization

The artifact encourages players to think more critically about their item choices and build strategies. You can’t simply rely on luck; you need to carefully consider which items will provide the most benefit in the face of constant elite enemies. This leads to a deeper understanding of the game’s mechanics and a greater appreciation for synergistic item combinations.

A Sense of Accomplishment

Overcoming the challenges posed by the Artifact of Soul provides a significant sense of accomplishment. Knowing that you have mastered the game to the point where you can consistently survive and thrive with this artifact active is a rewarding experience. It’s a badge of honor for dedicated Risk of Rain 2 players.

Conclusion

The Artifact of Soul is a powerful and transformative artifact in Risk of Rain 2. It significantly increases the difficulty by ensuring that all enemies spawn as elite variants. Unlocking this artifact requires finding its code on the Abandoned Aqueduct and inputting it at the Artifact Portal in the Bazaar Between Time. Playing with the Artifact of Soul requires careful planning, strategic gameplay, and optimized item builds. While the increased difficulty may be challenging, it also provides a unique sense of accomplishment and a deeper appreciation for the game’s mechanics. Whether you’re a seasoned Risk of Rain 2 veteran or a newcomer looking for a challenge, the Artifact of Soul offers a unique and rewarding experience. Embrace the challenge, adapt your strategies, and test your skills against the relentless waves of elite enemies.