Selecting the right Keepsakes in Hades 2 can make the difference between a failed escape and a successful run through the Underworld. With a wide variety of items gifted by gods and allies, players can customize Melinoë's stats, gain immediate combat bonuses, or force specific Olympic Boons to appear. Understanding how each Keepsake ranks and functions allows you to build stronger synergies for any playstyle.
S-Tier Keepsakes for Maximum Impact
The top tier features items that fundamentally alter your run and offer massive advantages. Powerful options like the Jeweled Pom boost the level of incoming Boons significantly, providing an immediate power spike from the start. The Silken Sash offers incredible early-game survival by adding substantial armor that continually replenishes between locations.
Another top-tier selection is the Engraved Pin, which gives players temporary invulnerability upon taking fatal damage. This brief window allows you to output massive damage to bosses without fear of dying instantly. Combining these powerful options ensures steady progression through difficult biomes.
A-Tier Keepsakes for Strong Utility
Items in the A-tier provide reliable benefits that fit well into most strategies and character builds. The Luckier Tooth acts as a dependable safety net by giving Melinoë an extra revival during tough encounters. Meanwhile, Olympian keepsakes like Zeus's Cloud Bangle allow players to target specific god abilities early in the night.
For players struggling against specific bosses, the Evil Eye provides a direct damage boost against whichever foe defeated you in your previous run. The Experimental Hammer is another excellent utility pick, granting temporary weapon upgrades from Daedalus. These items offer dynamic tactical advantages tailored to current run conditions.
Situational and Niche Picks
Lower-tier Keepsakes often require specific setups or carry notable drawbacks during a run. The Concave Stone grants an extra Boon, but its randomized selection can ruin carefully planned elemental synergies. Similarly, Gold Purse provides a quick cash injection early on, but its value pales in comparison to late-game alternatives.
While these options are less universally effective, they still find purpose in specialized builds or early progression. Players focusing on specific Arcana Cards or resource farming can still make good use of them. Knowing when to swap them out between regions is key to maximizing their potential.
How to Choose the Best Keepsake for Your Run
The optimal strategy involves switching Keepsakes between regions based on your current needs. Starting with a god Keepsake or Jeweled Pom helps set up your core build during early biomes. As you move toward the final boss, transitioning to defensive items like Luckier Tooth or Knuckle Bones maximizes your chances of survival.
Adapting your loadout to match your current health, gold, and weapon aspect ensures consistent victories. Experimenting with different combinations helps uncover powerful hidden synergies across every run. Mastering the Keepsake system remains one of the most rewarding aspects of navigating the Underworld.
