9 /10 3

Spelunky 2 is the definition of a “just one more run” masterpiece, expanding on the original’s procedural brilliance with interconnected worlds and deeper mechanics. It retains the brutal difficulty that fans adore while adding layers of complexity through liquid physics and mounts. Critics praise its ability to surprise players even after hundreds of hours. This review breaks down why its steep learning curve is worth every death.

How to Play Spelunky 2

You explore shifting 2D caves, managing limited ropes and bombs while avoiding lethal traps and angry shopkeepers.

1. Controls – Precise platforming inputs; dash button is your best friend and worst enemy
2. Progression – Unlock shortcuts to later biomes and new playable characters
3. Combat/Mechanics – Jump on heads or use the whip; utilize throwable items for safety
4. Tips – Always look down before jumping; never steal unless you have a plan

Who Should Play Spelunky 2

Built for masochistic platformer fans and players who love discovering obscure secrets through experimentation.

• Player 1 – The Explorer who loves finding secrets within secrets
• Player 2 – The Speedrunner looking for the perfect optimized path
• Player 3 – Co-op groups who don’t mind accidentally killing each other
• Skip if – You get frustrated easily by permadeath and losing progress

Spelunky 2 Platform Performance

Pixel-perfect precision requires stable performance, and Spelunky 2 delivers rock-solid framerates across the board.

Spelunky 2 System Requirements

Extremely accessible requirements mean almost any modern computer can run this game flawlessly.

Similar Games to Spelunky 2

If you enjoy the cycle of death and learning, these roguelites offer similar satisfaction.

• Rogue Legacy 2 – Focuses more on permanent upgrades and “heir” traits
• Celeste – Offers similar platforming difficulty but without the permadeath punishment
• Dead Cells – Faster combat focus but shares the “die, learn, repeat” loop
• La-Mulana 2 – For players who want the puzzle and exploration aspect dialed up

Spelunky 2 vs Competitors

Compared to its peers, Spelunky 2 offers less meta-progression but significantly more emergent gameplay depth.

Spelunky 2 Story & World

Ana Spelunky journeys to the Moon to find her missing parents, discovering a massive, shifting underground network. The story is minimal, told mostly through journal entries and environmental storytelling. The world feels alive and indifferent to your presence, with distinct biomes like the lush Jungle, the fiery Volcana, and the cosmic Neo Babylon, each with unique ecology.

Spelunky 2 Multiplayer & Online

Offers chaotic fun with friends, supporting both local couch co-op and online play.

• Adventure Co-op – Up to 4 players work together (or sabotage each other)
• Arena Mode – Competitive deathmatch mode for quick battles
• Daily Challenge – Compete for high scores on a seeded daily run
• Cross-Play – Supported between PC, Xbox, and PlayStation

Spelunky 2 DLC & Expansions

The developers have focused on free updates rather than paid DLC expansions.

• Online Update – Major patch that added and fixed online multiplayer
• Cross-Play Patch – Enabled cross-platform functionality post-launch
• Season Pass – No season pass available
• Free Updates – Occasional bug fixes and balance tweaks

Spelunky 2 Community & Support

A dedicated, hardcore community that is still discovering secrets years after release.

• Official Discord – Hub for speedrunners and secret hunters
• Mossranking – Community leaderboard for speedruns
• Mod Support – Active PC modding scene for skins and level edits
• Updates – Infrequent now, as the game is considered complete