Guide for New Players: Remnant 2 + DLCs
Welcome to Remnant 2! If you’re new to the game or returning with the DLCs, this guide will help you navigate the campaign, understand the loot system, and start building powerful character setups.
As someone with 700+ hours in the game, I’ve gathered some key insights for beginners.
Veterans, feel free to add your tips!
1. Campaign Structure: Area Layout and Events
Remnant 2’s campaign is spread across 3 Worlds/Biomes (with more in the DLCs). Each World has 2 main storylines (or 3 with DLC). In Adventure Mode, you can target specific Worlds to explore.
- Overworld and Dungeons: Every World consists of an overworld with connected dungeons. Each dungeon and event is randomized with different objectives, and while the layout of areas remains fixed, the events and loot you encounter vary based on RNG.
- Events: Events in the dungeons or overworld can range from boss fights to puzzles. Some are fixed (e.g., Koa Kuri egg in Forgotten Kingdoms), while others are random (e.g., Hewdas Clock Tower). Completing these events will often reward you with unique items or weapons.
- Replay Value: Always revisit dungeons and events you've completed before, as many have alternate solutions that unlock different loot. For example, the Infested Abyss dungeon has three different possible endings, each with unique rewards.
2. Enemy Types, Bosses, and Modifiers
Remnant 2 has a wide variety of enemies ranging from standard mobs to elite enemies, and a tougher class known as Aberrations. Aberrations are stronger enemies that spawn with random modifiers.
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Bosses: There are three types of bosses in the game:
- Lesser Bosses: Found in mandatory storyline dungeons.
- World Bosses: These are fixed bosses for each world (e.g., Ravager in the Forbidden Grove).
- Dungeon Bosses: These spawn in randomly-generated dungeons and come with their own set of random modifiers.
Some bosses have alternate kills or endings that yield different loot, so experiment with different methods to get all possible rewards.
3. Loot System: Fixed vs RNG
Loot in Remnant 2 comes in two forms: fixed and random.
- Fixed Loot: Certain items are always found in the same locations. For example, a particular ring might always appear behind a locked door in a specific dungeon. This loot won’t change on future playthroughs, though the dungeon itself might not always appear.
- Random Loot: Some items are part of the RNG loot pool. For instance, when you find a glowing purple item on a corpse, it’s randomly pulled from the loot pool of that world. You’ll only find Sci-Fi rings on the Sci-Fi planet, for example.
Picking up an item you already own automatically converts it into scrap or other materials. And don't worry—merchants won’t sell you items you already own, unless you can carry multiples like consumables. So if Cass is selling a ring, it’s a new item for you.
4. Build Diversity and Early Game
Build diversity is one of the most exciting aspects of Remnant 2. There are countless combinations you can create, from space wizards to gun-slinging cowboys. The Prism System and Relic Fragments (added in the DLCs) further expand on this, giving players even more flexibility in their builds.
- Early Game: The early game can be challenging since players don’t yet have the items needed for a cohesive build. Many recommend starting with the Handler archetype, as the dog companion draws aggro and can fend off multiple enemies.
Don’t be afraid to level up your starter weapons, either—some, like the Bulldog Shotgun or the Iron Greatsword, are more than viable even in the endgame.
5. Apocalypse Difficulty
Apocalypse difficulty is designed as an extra challenge for players who want to push themselves. If you can beat Nightmare, the community already considers you competent, and Survivor is the intended difficulty for most players. Apocalypse is purely for personal accomplishment, so don’t feel pressured to jump into it until you’re ready.
6. Archetypes and Relics
Your Prime Archetype determines your Prime Perk, so choose your archetype combo wisely. You get to mix and match two Archetypes, each with its own skills, perks, and team utilities. Some Archetypes, like Handler, shine early game, while others, like Challenger, grow stronger later.
- Relic Fragments provide bonus stats (e.g., +15% Health) and can be slotted into any relic for extra customization. The Prism system adds more depth, allowing you to grind out stat boosts and legendary bonuses as part of the endgame progression.
7. Starter Tips
- Replay Dungeons: Always revisit dungeons and events you’ve completed, as many have alternate solutions that yield different loot. Some dungeons, like Postulant’s Parlor, only have specific events that will always spawn.
- Simulacrum Drops: Simulacrums, used for upgrading to the final tier, can drop from bosses and large enemies in later areas.
- Scrap is Scarce: Scrap (currency) can be hard to come by, so don’t waste it on unnecessary purchases or crafting in the early game.
- Experiment with Items: There are many interactions between items and environments. For example, certain rings or amulets trigger events or grant bonuses when used in specific areas.
- Multiplayer Required: Some parts of the game require multiplayer to complete, like Postulant’s Parlor and Endaira’s End.
- Merchant Stock: Cass’s stock updates based on milestones (e.g., after defeating bosses or exploring new areas). Check her shop often.
- Dog Animation (fun): If you're running the Handler archetype, look out for the special animation your dog does whenever you level up!
- Regenerate HP for Perks: Using a relic to heal yourself counts towards the Medic’s prime perk.
Conclusion
Remnant 2 is all about exploring, experimenting, and building your character. From replaying dungeons to uncover hidden loot, to mastering builds with the new Prism and Relic Fragment systems, there’s always something new to discover. Take your time, enjoy the process, and don’t be afraid to try different combinations. Happy hunting, and good luck!