How to Unlock Apollyon in Binding of Isaac: Repentance – A Comprehensive Guide
The enigmatic Apollyon is one of the most intriguing and powerful characters in The Binding of Isaac: Repentance. Unlocking him requires a specific in-game achievement, but once unlocked, he offers a unique and compelling playstyle centered around the Void item. This guide will delve into exactly how to unlock Apollyon, along with addressing frequently asked questions surrounding this fascinating character.
How to Unlock Apollyon in Repentance
The primary requirement for unlocking Apollyon is to defeat Mega Satan for the first time. This monumental task is the key to unlocking this character. Simply put, once you have triumphed against Mega Satan once, Apollyon becomes available for selection on subsequent runs.
Here’s a brief breakdown of how to reach Mega Satan:
- Defeat Mom: Successfully defeat Mom in the Basement.
- Defeat Mom’s Heart/It Lives: Progress further by defeating either Mom’s Heart or the It Lives boss.
- Acquire Key Pieces: Collect the two Key Pieces either in the Cathedral or Sheol.
- Enter the Dark Room/The Chest: Once you have the Key Pieces, enter either the Dark Room or The Chest.
- Defeat Mega Satan: At the end of the Dark Room/The Chest is the formidable Mega Satan boss, which you must beat to unlock Apollyon.
Once this condition is met, Apollyon will be available for your next playthrough. There are no further prerequisites, such as completing specific challenges or using particular characters. After your victory against Mega Satan, Apollyon will simply appear on the character select screen.
Frequently Asked Questions about Apollyon
1. What does Apollyon’s Void item do?
Apollyon’s unique starting item is the Void. This is an active item with a 6-charge usage. When used in a room containing a Pedestal Item, the Void will consume the item. In turn, Apollyon receives a random stat boost. This makes him incredibly versatile and adaptable, allowing him to convert unwanted items into potentially run-winning stat buffs.
2. What are some of Apollyon’s other unique features?
Besides the Void, Apollyon doesn’t have any other unique starting items or stats. His appeal is primarily in his versatile item interaction with the Void. Apollyon also starts with a base damage multiplier of 1.0 and a starting speed of 1.0.
3. Is Apollyon considered a strong character in The Binding of Isaac?
Yes, Apollyon is widely considered to be a very strong character. The ability to remove unwanted items while getting stat buffs makes him exceptionally adaptable. With a bit of luck and smart Void usage, Apollyon can quickly snowball into an incredibly powerful character.
4. Can you use the Void on active items to change what they do?
No. The Void only works on pedestal items that can normally be picked up. It will not affect active items or trinkets.
5. Does the Void have any special interactions with other items?
Yes. Several items have specific interactions with the Void, such as those from the Tainted Lost character pool, or those which usually affect character tears, like Lachryphagy. These can lead to powerful combinations. Experimenting with different item synergies is key to maximizing Apollyon’s potential.
6. How do you unlock Apollyon’s Greedier unlockable?
To unlock Apollyon’s Greedier unlockable, you must first unlock the Greedier mode by placing 500 coins into the Greed machine. Then, you must successfully beat Greedier mode as Apollyon. Greedier mode is a more challenging variant of the regular Greed mode.
7. What does Apollyon’s Greedier unlockable do?
Apollyon’s Greedier unlockable is the item Abyss. This is a powerful active item that, upon usage, consumes all pedestal items within the room, converting them into attack flies. It also gives you a random permanent stat boost every time it is used.
8. Who exactly is Mega Satan?
Mega Satan is a super boss found at the very end of either the Dark Room or The Chest. He is significantly more challenging than any of the regular bosses, sporting multiple phases and attacks that can be incredibly hard to avoid. Defeating Mega Satan is required to unlock various characters and items, including Apollyon.
9. What is the easiest way to get to Mega Satan?
The easiest route depends on the player’s skill and preference. However, a popular and reliable method involves consistently progressing to the Cathedral or Sheol, collecting the Key Pieces, and then entering the Dark Room. This route allows for a good balance of safety and reward.
10. What should I consider when fighting Mega Satan for the first time?
For your first fight against Mega Satan, try to ensure that you have a strong, balanced build. High damage output combined with any form of projectile shielding or range up is invaluable. Consider items that provide extra defense or movement. Try to learn his attack patterns and practice them.
11. Is there any other way to get the key pieces other than the Cathedral or Sheol?
Yes, there is an item called Dad’s Key, which can be found in item rooms and purchased from shops. This automatically opens the path to the Dark Room/The Chest without having to explore the Cathedral or Sheol for Key Pieces. Using Dad’s Key bypasses the requirement of reaching floor 6.
12. Can Apollyon fly?
Even though Apollyon has wings in his character portrait, he does not possess starting flight. This can be misleading to new players. You will need to find flight through other item sources.
13. What does Apollyon look like?
Apollyon’s in-game sprite depicts a being with dark, purplish skin, bat-like wings, a single eye, and small horns. His locked icon features a dark box with swirling dark energy.
14. What is considered “The Void” lore-wise?
In the context of the game’s lore, the Void is the abyss and represents a dark power that seeks to consume and transform everything it comes into contact with. Apollyon’s character is designed to reflect this, constantly absorbing power and making him a potent threat.
15. Is Apollyon a good character for beginners?
While Apollyon is a strong character, he might not be the best pick for absolute beginners. His unique style revolves around a complex understanding of item synergies and is not as simple as other starting characters such as Isaac or Cain. However, once you have a good basic knowledge of the game, Apollyon can be a great character to explore.
By following these guidelines and familiarizing yourself with these frequently asked questions, you will be well-prepared to unlock and master the powerful character that is Apollyon in The Binding of Isaac: Repentance. Happy gaming!