Is the Dog a Summon in Remnant 2? A Comprehensive Guide

Yes, the dog companion in Remnant 2, specifically tied to the Handler Archetype, definitively counts as a summon for various gameplay mechanics. This means that the dog benefits from and interacts with game systems in ways typically reserved for traditional summons in RPGs, making it a unique and powerful asset to the player. This single factor drastically alters how players approach the game, especially for solo runs or those looking to bolster their team with consistent support. Let’s dive deeper into how the dog functions as a summon and address some common questions that arise from this unique mechanic.

Understanding the Dog as a Summon

The Handler’s dog is more than just a friendly companion; it’s a core part of the class’s design, functioning effectively as a summon. This designation has several important implications:

• Amulet and Ring Interactions: The most direct confirmation of the dog being a summon comes from the way it interacts with Amulets and Rings that enhance summons. Any effect that states it modifies or enhances summons will generally affect the dog, impacting its damage, survivability, and other stats.

• Increased Health Per Difficulty: Much like other summons, the dog’s health scales with the game’s difficulty. This means that the higher the difficulty, the more resilient the dog becomes. This scaling health ensures that the dog remains useful and relevant even in more challenging gameplay scenarios.

• Trait Synergy: Traits like Blood Bond and Rugged, which are designed to enhance summons, will also apply to the dog. This means that as you invest in those traits, the dog becomes a more formidable ally. Blood Bond increases summon damage and Rugged increases summon armor and health, further cementing its role as a summon.

• Revival Mechanic: One of the dog’s most impactful summon-like abilities is its capacity to revive a downed player. When you are knocked out in battle, the dog can use a healing item to bring you back to your feet, showcasing the depth of its utility as a summon. This feature is crucial for both solo players and teams looking to push through difficult content.

• Skill Damage Amplification: As with other archetype summons, the dog benefits from skill damage perks and bonuses. The game treats it as a skill-based summon, and if you are using an archetype with summons (companions or turrets), it typically has skill damage as part of its damage perks which will increase the effectiveness of the dog.

How to Unlock the Dog Companion

To get access to the dog, you must unlock the Handler Archetype. The process is straightforward but does require a few steps:

1. Purchase the Old Whistle: You will need to visit Mudtooth in Ward 13 and purchase the Old Whistle from him.
2. Visit Wallace: Take the Old Whistle to Wallace, also located in Ward 13. He will use the Old Whistle to unlock the Handler Archetype and grant you your canine companion.

With that, you’ll be ready to embark with your four-legged friend and experience all the unique benefits it offers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Dog in Remnant 2

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about the dog in Remnant 2, offering further insight into its mechanics, features, and impact on the game:

1. Can the dog be damaged or killed?

Yes, the dog can take damage during combat. While it is generally resilient, it is not invincible and can be killed. However, it will respawn after a short period allowing you to re-summon it to the fray.

2. Does the dog’s health scale with player level?

Yes, in addition to scaling with difficulty, the dog’s health will also scale as you level up. This ensures that the dog remains relevant and useful throughout the game’s progression.

3. Does the dog benefit from skill crit bonuses?

Yes, the dog is affected by skill crit, so the dog’s damage will increase if your skill crit is increased.

4. Can other players in my lobby pet my dog?

Absolutely! Anyone in your lobby can pet your dog, and doing so will trigger its health regeneration bonus. This adds a nice communal element to the game, and encourages co-op play.

5. What happens if my dog is downed during a fight?

If your dog is downed, it will be temporarily out of action, but will respawn after a short period, allowing you to re-summon it.

6. Does the dog’s damage increase as I level up the Handler Archetype?

Yes, as you level up the Handler Archetype, the dog’s abilities and stats improve, making it an even more valuable asset in combat.

7. How does the dog’s revival work?

When you are downed, the dog will use a healing item to revive you. This feature is a significant advantage, especially in challenging situations. The dog revives you by using its ability not an actual consumable item.

8. Is the Handler Archetype good for solo players?

Yes, the Handler is considered an excellent choice for solo play thanks to its reliable dog companion which not only provides damage support but also provides utility and healing with its ability to revive.

9. Does the dog have its own specific abilities or skills?

Yes, the dog has a variety of skills including support skills that can be used in combat, but these are tied to your Handler Archetype skills.

10. Can I respec my Handler Archetype?

Yes, you can change your primary or secondary archetypes after you’ve unlocked 10 Trait points. You can re-equip it at any time, but the current level progress on the Handler Archetype would be kept for future use.

11. Is the dog more or less powerful than other summons?

The dog is not quite on par with the raw damage output of dedicated summoning archetypes like the Summoner, but it makes up for it with its utility and consistent support.

12. Are there any other summons besides the Handler dog in Remnant 2?

Yes, other archetypes like the Summoner can create a variety of summons which are distinct from the Handler’s dog.

13. What are the best traits to level up with a Handler dog?

Traits that benefit summons such as Blood Bond and Rugged are good starting points, but generally, all traits that benefit the player are useful.

14. What is the best gun in Remnant 2 to pair with the Handler class?

While weapon choice is subjective, the Nightfall is frequently cited as a great all-around choice because of its versatility and high damage output.

15. Is the dog in Remnant 2 the same as “Very Good Boy” from Remnant: From the Ashes?

No, Very Good Boy is a weapon mod from Remnant: From the Ashes, it is not a permanent companion. The dog from Remnant 2 is a permanent companion and a core component of the Handler archetype.

Conclusion

The dog in Remnant 2 is far more than just a cosmetic addition; it’s a fully realized summon that significantly impacts gameplay. By understanding the nuances of how the dog functions, including its interactions with amulets, rings, traits, and its ability to revive, players can leverage this powerful companion to its fullest potential. Whether you’re going solo or teaming up with friends, the Handler and its loyal canine companion will prove to be a reliable and valuable asset in your journey through the dangerous worlds of Remnant 2.