Slay the Spire 2 brings back returning archetypes and introduces entirely new Slayers, each with distinct card pools, mechanics, and strategic identities. Here's everything confirmed so far.
Mega Crit confirmed that STS2 includes returning archetypes from the original game, reworked with new cards, mechanics, and updated move sets. The beloved characters from STS1 are back — evolved for the sequel.
The warrior archetype. Builds Strength to deal escalating damage, uses exhaust synergies to generate value, and can leverage self-damage for powerful effects. Forgiving for beginners, deep for veterans.
Playstyle: Aggressive, snowballing. Wants to get Strength high fast and overwhelm enemies.
Best for: New players learning the basics of offense and defense.
The rogue archetype. Poisons enemies for damage over time, generates rapid card draw and discard synergies, and floods the board with cheap Shiv attacks. Highly versatile.
Playstyle: Fast and flexible. Multiple viable archetypes within the same character.
Best for: Players who like variety and adaptability.
The robot mage. Channels elemental Orbs (Lightning, Frost, Dark, Plasma) that trigger at end of turn for various effects. Mastering orb management and Focus stacking is the key to this character.
Playstyle: Mechanical, high ceiling. Rewards players who understand the orb system deeply.
Best for: Experienced players wanting the highest skill ceiling.
The monk. Switches between Calm (defensive) and Wrath (2x damage, 2x damage taken) stances for extreme risk/reward gameplay. The most powerful character — and the most dangerous to play.
Playstyle: Explosive burst damage. Needs careful stance management to avoid dying.
Best for: Players comfortable with the basics who want high-risk, high-reward play.
Slay the Spire 2 introduces brand new Slayers with entirely original mechanics. Details are still being revealed — we'll update this page fully when Early Access launches.
Confirmed in the Early Access announcement trailer. Mega Crit teased "an additional new character to look forward to" beyond what's shown. Full details at launch.
Updated March 5, 2026 →
STS2's Early Access roadmap includes additional characters being added throughout development. The Spire grows over time — check back for updates as MegaCrit reveals more.
Updated as announced →
Start with the Ironclad. Straightforward mechanics, forgiving HP pool, and clear damage strategy. Best for learning the core game.
Try the Silent. More archetypes, more decision-making, and the poison/shiv builds are deeply satisfying when they click.
Go straight to the Defect or Watcher. Orb management and stance dancing are the hardest mechanics — and the most rewarding.
In STS2's new 4-player co-op mode, character combinations matter. Some early thoughts on team compositions: