Spelunky 2: How to Use Shortcuts & Skip Levels

Like its Forebear, Spelunky 2 can be a punishingly difficult game. Hours can be spent grinding through the same zone’s levels over and over again, leaving you frustrated at not being able to progress through other parts of the game. Fortunately, there are shortcuts that can help you bypass these headaches, and we’re here to help you find them with a guide on how to use Shortcuts and skip levels in Spelunky 2.

How to Use Shortcuts and Skip Levels in Spelunky 2

To use Shortcuts and skip levels in Spelunky 2, you’ll first need to complete all four levels of the zone you intend to skip at least three times.

This is because the NPC who opens up Shortcuts for you, known as Terra Tunnel, only appears and offers to create one once you’ve completed the zone. She’ll then require specific resources and items to complete three different stages of building the Shortcut, which can range from a monetary donation to a certain number of bombs or ropes.

Once you’ve done this though, the Shortcut will be opened up and made available at your Camp. It can be found to the left side of the area, and will be marked with where it leads. For example, the first one leads to the end of level 1-4, dropping you right next to the entrance for level 2-1.

Are There Penalties for Using Shortcuts and Skipping Levels?

However, it’s worth noting that there are certain penalties for skipping levels in Spelunky 2.

For starters, you won’t be able to earn any trophies tied to completing Zones or Levels in the game. These can only be earned by playing through full runs without the use of shortcuts, and will be locked off until you restart your run and complete every level therein.

Likewise, you’ll have to enter whichever area you skip to without the bonuses you would earn by playing through the preceding Zone. This includes money for buying items, gear that could help you progress through latter parts of the game and so forth.

Keep this in mind, and weigh your options carefully before deciding where you want to start your run from.

That’s everything there is to know about how to use Shortcuts and skip levels in Spelunky 2. For more on the game, check out some of our other guides. They have tips, tricks and info tied to hot topics like how to get more health and how long the game takes to beat.