Quick tips for a smoother run
These tips collect the most useful advice from the in-game manual and turn it into a fast reference you can use while exploring. They cover burrowing, healing, combat spacing, secrets, and how to handle dead ends without wasting Bones.
Talk to everyone
Many characters have problems that need solving. Keep an eye out for their requests, since NPC dialogue often points you toward useful progress.
Safe to burrow?
If something is attached to the ground, burrowing into it might cause damage. If it has a shadow, you can usually burrow under it safely.
No items required
You will never need Trinkets or special equipment to progress along the main path.
Stuck? Change tactics
If progress feels difficult, try another area or gather Bones to level up, buy health, or purchase equipment.
Burrow in combat
Use burrowing to control combat spacing. Cross under enemies to dodge attacks and gain an advantage.
Become a Hollower
Burrowing is key. Dive underground to escape enemy attacks, move faster, jump farther, and uncover secrets.
Heal when you can
Your Plasma Vial heals all yellow health on your health bar. The easiest way to build yellow health is to strike enemies, since damage dealt becomes recoverable Plasma.
Spam those Sidearms
Get creative with Sidearms. They can be very powerful when combined with proper positioning.
Search for secrets
Sometimes what looks like a dead end is really a secret path. Try burrowing under or smacking suspicious walls and you might find a reward.
Use the screen
Enemies and hazards disappear and can reset when Mina leaves the screen and enters a new one. Use that to escape tough situations or reset an encounter.
Invincibility
After getting hit by an enemy or hazard, Mina flashes and becomes invincible for a moment. While invincible, quickly slip by difficult areas.
Enemy damage
When an enemy is flashing after being hit, they cannot hurt Mina. Use that window to slip by, reposition, or quickly follow up with another attack.
Shadows
The shadows under Mina, enemies, and objects help show their position and height. Shadows also flicker over pits, water, or lava to warn you about danger below.
Burrow after damage
Normally you can only burrow after your initial jump, but you can also burrow after getting hit. Use that to make a quick escape.