How Many Isaac Characters Are There in Repentance? A Comprehensive Guide

The Binding of Isaac: Repentance, the definitive edition of the acclaimed roguelike, boasts a substantial roster of playable characters. The simple answer is that there are 34 playable characters in The Binding of Isaac: Repentance. This impressive figure comes from the fact that there are 17 standard characters, each with a unique starting item, stats, and playstyle, and each of these 17 characters also has a variant or “B-Side” version. These B-Side characters often offer significant twists to gameplay, effectively doubling the character roster. This extensive lineup provides players with a wealth of options, ensuring high replayability and diverse experiences with every run.

The Evolution of Isaac’s Character Roster

The journey to 34 characters is a long and fascinating one, starting with the original The Binding of Isaac and its numerous expansions. The initial release of The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth featured 11 characters, a modest beginning that would grow exponentially with subsequent DLCs. Afterbirth added two more characters, bringing the total to 13, and Afterbirth+ introduced a final character, reaching 14. However, the game-changer was Repentance. This DLC not only included all previous content but also introduced the concept of B-Side characters. With the introduction of the two brand new standard characters, Bethany and Jacob & Esau, Repentance effectively doubled the roster, bringing us to the 34 characters we know today.

Standard Characters vs. B-Side Characters

Understanding the difference between the standard and B-Side characters is crucial. The standard characters are the core protagonists, each offering a fundamentally different way to approach the game. From the base character Isaac with his balanced stats, to the high damage Azazel, to the fragile but versatile Eve, each character presents unique challenges and advantages. B-Side characters, on the other hand, offer twists on these classic characters. These variants are often unlocked by completing specific challenges and completely change how each character is played, for example Tainted Isaac can hold 8 items but they are in a constant state of flux. These aren’t mere palette swaps but rather new takes on characters that demand players to adapt.

New Characters in Repentance: Bethany and Jacob & Esau

Repentance notably added two entirely new characters to the standard roster: Bethany and Jacob & Esau.

• Bethany: Bethany is a character that uses a unique soul heart mechanic. Instead of losing soul or black hearts when damaged, she gains the ability to use powerful spells and effects by converting those hearts. This makes her a strong, almost glass cannon-like character if played correctly.
• Jacob & Esau: This character is actually two characters controlled simultaneously. They each have their own health, but items can only affect Jacob, adding an extra layer of difficulty to controlling them. These twin brothers are one of the most challenging characters in the game.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many standard characters are in The Binding of Isaac: Repentance?

There are 17 standard characters in The Binding of Isaac: Repentance. Each of these characters also has a B-Side variant, bringing the total to 34.

2. What are “B-Side” characters?

B-Side characters are variants of the standard characters, each with a unique gameplay mechanic and unlock condition. They significantly change how a run is approached and offer a fresh perspective on the character.

3. How do you unlock B-Side characters?

B-Side characters are unlocked by defeating Mother as the corresponding standard character. Mother is a late-game boss that requires specific conditions to be met, and players must have beaten The Witness as the character first.

4. Are all characters unlocked at the start of the game?

No, only Isaac is available at the start. The other standard characters must be unlocked through specific achievements and challenges.

5. How do you unlock Blue Baby?

Blue Baby, also known as ???, is unlocked by completing the game 10 times. After that, Isaac will find him locked in a chest during the ending cutscene.

6. Who is considered one of the best characters in Repentance?

While character preferences vary, Azazel is often considered one of the best due to his early flight and powerful short-range Brimstone attack. Isaac is also considered strong due to his versatile and balanced nature.

7. Is Repentance the last DLC for The Binding of Isaac?

Yes, Edmund McMillen has stated that Repentance is the “final” DLC for The Binding of Isaac, making it the definitive version of the game.

8. How do you unlock Azazel?

Azazel is unlocked by making three Devil deals in a single run. His powerful starting items makes him very strong right off the bat.

9. Does Repentance include all content from previous DLCs?

Yes, Repentance includes all content from Rebirth, Afterbirth, and Afterbirth+, making it the most complete version of the game.

10. How do you unlock Apollyon?

Apollyon is unlocked by defeating Mega Satan for the first time. He also has a B-Side version that can be unlocked.

11. What are some of the new features in Repentance?

Repentance includes hundreds of new features, including new bosses, items, enemies, challenges, and quality-of-life improvements. It also introduces the B-Side characters.

12. How many hours does it take to complete The Binding of Isaac: Repentance?

Completing the main objectives might take around 12 hours, but achieving 100% completion can take upwards of 595 hours. It’s a very difficult and complex game.

13. What is the most recent version of The Binding of Isaac?

The Binding of Isaac: Repentance is the most recent and definitive version of the game, including all previous content and additional new content.

14. How many bosses are there in Repentance?

There are a total of 102 bosses and 20 mini-bosses in The Binding of Isaac: Repentance, offering a huge variety of challenging encounters.

15. What is the true ending and how do you unlock it?

The true ending in Repentance is reached by acquiring the Knife item and defeating the final boss, known as The Beast. This ending shows Isaac finally escaping his tortured existence.

Conclusion

The Binding of Isaac: Repentance provides an incredibly deep and varied experience, largely thanks to its impressive roster of 34 playable characters. The introduction of B-Side characters, along with new standard characters like Bethany and Jacob & Esau, ensures that the game remains fresh and challenging. Whether you’re a veteran player or just diving in, the sheer variety of characters offers countless hours of replayability and enjoyment. Understanding how to unlock and play each character is key to mastering The Binding of Isaac: Repentance.