How Slay the Spire 2 Multiplayer Works

After mastering the single-player fundamentals of Slay the Spire 2, players can dive into its multiplayer mode. While the addition of co-op to this deckbuilding roguelite was initially surprising, its implementation is straightforward and well-executed.

Multiplayer maintains the core appeal of solo runs while offering an engaging co-op experience with friends. This guide details how Slay the Spire 2 multiplayer functions, including game setup and key system adjustments.

How to start a Slay the Spire 2 co-op game

To initiate a co-op game in Slay the Spire 2, one player acts as the host, creating a multiplayer save. Up to three additional players can then join via the main menu. All participants must be Steam friends with the host, as there are no password-protected lobbies or matchmaking features.

Currently, local co-op is not available. Setting up a Slay the Spire 2 multiplayer game involves a few simple steps:

Setting up a co-op save

1. Choose a save profile with the character you would like to use unlocked.
2. Select ‘Multiplayer‘ from the main menu.
3. One player will select ‘Host‘ and set up a lobby; others click ‘Join‘.
4. Everyone chooses a character to play (yes, you can all be The Silent).

While getting started is simple, co-op mode in Slay the Spire 2 introduces several distinct mechanics and considerations for managing multiplayer saves.

How do Slay the Spire 2 co-op save files work?

Understanding how co-op save files function in Slay the Spire 2 is crucial before beginning a new ascent. A key point to remember is that players cannot join a campaign already in progress.

Save files: Profiles, hosting, and parties

• Every player has (3) profiles, each can host (1) campaign at a time.
• New profiles only have access to Ironclad and must unlock the rest again.
• The Host owns the save; it’s tied to their respective profile.
• You’ll have to abandon the save to host another game with new players.
• All players must be present from the beginning; you cannot add a player later.
• You can quit at any time, but all players must be present to continue playing.

How does Slay the Spire 2 multiplayer work?

Multiplayer campaigns in Slay the Spire 2 operate similarly to traditional RPG parties: players form a cohesive unit, making collective decisions regarding pathing. However, each player maintains their individual inventory, gold, and personal card choices.

That’s the big picture, but here are more granular Slay the Spire 2 multiplayer rules:

Battle mechanics: Enemies, Energy, and rewards

• Enemy stats scale and change based on your party size.
• Enemy attacks hit the entire party.
• Energy is not shared between players; everyone has their own pool.
• Players can spend their Energy at any time during the party’s turn.
• All players must select ‘End Turn’ for the match to continue.
• On death, players are revived after the battle if the party wins.
• Loot (relics, items, gold, cards) is not shared; everyone gets their own.
• Special multiplayer cards also appear while playing in co-op.

Map mechanics: Ancients, relics, and events

• Everyone has their own, separate inventory for relics, items, cards, and gold.
• Players can agree on the same path, or disagree and let RNG decide.
• Ancients give every player their own random options and let them choose.
• Random events also let players make different choices with different outcomes.
• Campfires add the option to Mend (restore 30% of one ally’s HP).
• The Shopkeeper offers different items, cards, and prices to each player.
• Treasure Chests have one reward per player; players pick which they want
  • If two players pick the same reward, RNG decides who gets what.

How does Ascension work in Slay the Spire 2 multiplayer?

Multiplayer Ascension progression in Slay the Spire 2 is independent of single-player unlocks. Players must start a fresh Ascension climb in co-op mode, unlocking levels by defeating all three acts as a team of 2-4.

Multiplayer Ascension

• Single-player and multiplayer Ascension levels are independent systems.
• Multiplayer Ascension levels can be earned with separate groups.
• Ascension levels are also unlocked for all characters in multiplayer.
• The game uses the Ascension level of the lowest player in the party
  • If you want to play at Ascension Level 4, everyone must unlock it.