Very Quick Tips: Shovel Knight: Plague of Shadows

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Much like Shovel Knight, the Plague of Shadows expansion was pretty top-notch.

Since the new anti-hero controls rather differently than the titular hero, I figured I’d share a few tips in regards to the changes.

General tips:

  • Although Plague Knight’s explosion is mostly meant for horizontal movement, you can actually trigger an up-explosion as well. It gives you a lot more control and is generally a whole lot safer.
  • Note your invincibility frames during your explosion attack. You can briefly avoid damage with the initial blast, but anything that hits you directly after is fair game. Don’t recklessly use the explosion to avoid constant damage.

    Additionally, getting hit allows you to start charging an explosion, and since Plague Knight flinches quite a bit, you’ll want to remember this. You can also charge during screen transitions and in-game animations.

  • The best time to use health potions is either the start of a level you are confident with, or right before a boss fight. Don’t waste precious temporary health slots on a blind run of a stage until you learn the layout. If you find a potion on the way to a boss and are at the maximum allotment, drink one to pick it up.
  • Attacking mid-air delays your descent, but you’ll need to attack more than once to cue the slow. You can also combo into more explosions to nudge over to a ledge or avoid enemies on the ground.
  • Collect the Cipher coins — seriously. If you avoid everything else, including cash, just get the Coins. They’re vital to opening up more upgrades in the shop. Though the standard equipment is enough to complete the entire game, the host of options available might suit your personal playstyle better.
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Chris Carter
Managing Editor - Chris has been enjoying Destructoid avidly since 2008. He finally decided to take the next step in January of 2009 blogging on the site. Now, he's staff!
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