Decoding the Beelzebub Transformation in The Binding of Isaac

The Beelzebub transformation in The Binding of Isaac is a powerful and visually striking alteration that dramatically shifts Isaac’s playstyle. When achieved, Isaac transforms into a fly-like entity, gaining a significant boost in damage potential by summoning swarms of flies to aid him in combat. More specifically, the transformation grants the player permanent orbital flies that mimic the behavior of the familiar Beelzebub boss. These flies orbit Isaac, periodically shooting tears at nearby enemies. This is not just a visual change – it adds an extra layer of offensive capabilities. Upon completing this transformation, Isaac’s appearance alters to that of a fly with black wings.

Understanding the Mechanics of the Beelzebub Transformation

The core of the Beelzebub transformation centers around the concept of item synergy within the game. Like all transformations in The Binding of Isaac, it’s triggered by collecting three unique items from a specific set. The items associated with the Beelzebub transformation are:

• Lord of the Flies: Spawns two blue flies every time Isaac takes damage.
• The Common Cold: Periodically releases a cloud of flies when Isaac takes damage or uses an active item.
• Infestation: Gives Isaac three blue flies upon picking it up.
• Infestation 2: Spawns 3-5 Blue spiders after getting hit, and upon transformation, the spiders turn into flies.
• Fly Jar: Spawns friendly blue flies after getting hit.

Once Isaac has obtained any combination of three items from this set, the Beelzebub transformation will activate.

Benefits of the Transformation

The primary benefit of the Beelzebub transformation is the constant offensive pressure it applies. The orbiting flies act independently, peppering enemies with tears, allowing Isaac to focus more on maneuvering through rooms and avoiding damage. These tears can be just as potent as Isaac’s, adding a significant increase in your overall damage output. Furthermore, the transformation indirectly increases the value of tear-affecting items due to the additional tears from the flies. Unlike standard fly companions, these orbital flies are more consistent in attacking enemies, offering reliable assistance in combat.

Potential Synergies

The power of the Beelzebub transformation is enhanced further when paired with specific items. Items that increase tear damage, such as Magic Mushroom, Polyphemus, or The Pact, will boost the damage dealt by both Isaac’s tears and the orbiting flies. Items that increase the tear rate of Isaac are also great, because while the orbital flies will not fire tears any faster, Isaacs increased rate allows him to more quickly get the items that spawn flies on taking damage. Furthermore, items that trigger fly spawns, such as Guppy’s Hairball and The Battery, can generate additional flies, thus increasing damage output. This is great when combined with some of the items within the set such as Lord of the Flies, and Fly Jar. Essentially, this transformation is often best used when combined with items that either increase fly output or increase tear damage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Beelzebub Transformation

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify the nuances and mechanics of the Beelzebub transformation in The Binding of Isaac:

1. How do I trigger the Beelzebub transformation? The Beelzebub transformation is triggered by collecting any three items from its specific set: Lord of the Flies, The Common Cold, Infestation, Infestation 2, and Fly Jar.
2. What does the Beelzebub transformation do? The Beelzebub transformation grants Isaac permanent orbiting flies that shoot tears at enemies, greatly increasing his damage output.
3. Do the flies from the transformation behave like the Beelzebub boss? Yes, they mimic the behavior of the Beelzebub boss, orbiting Isaac and firing tears at nearby enemies.
4. Can these orbiting flies be affected by tear modifying items? The orbiting flies are affected by tear-modifying items, such as damage multipliers, rate of fire, and tear effects like poison or burning.
5. Does the Beelzebub transformation give flight? No, the Beelzebub transformation does not grant Isaac flight.
6. How is this transformation different from other fly-related transformations like Guppy? Unlike Guppy, which spawns flies on hitting enemies, the Beelzebub transformation provides constant orbital flies. Guppy is mainly focused on fly spam, while Beelzebub is focused on additional tears.
7. Is the Beelzebub transformation a good transformation? Yes, the Beelzebub transformation is considered a very strong transformation, and is one of the best transformations for damage in the game.
8. Can multiple Beelzebub flies exist in addition to the orbital ones? Yes. Additional flies from items like Lord of the Flies, The Common Cold, and any other fly-spawning items can exist alongside the orbital flies from the transformation.
9. Does this transformation affect my character visually? Yes, Isaac will transform into a fly-like entity with black wings.
10. What are the best synergies with the Beelzebub transformation? The best synergies are with items that increase tear damage, tear rate, and those that spawn more flies, resulting in a huge increase in damage output.
11. Does the transformation make Isaac immune to fly based enemies? No, the transformation does not give Isaac any specific immunity to fly-based enemies or any other type of enemy.
12. Is there a downside to the Beelzebub transformation? There is no inherent downside to the transformation itself.
13. Does the transformation change other fly-related effects? No, other fly-related effects, like items that affect fly spawns or fly damage, function as they normally would.
14. Can the orbital flies be killed? No, the orbital flies from the Beelzebub transformation are invincible and will always orbit around Isaac.
15. How does the Beelzebub transformation rank compared to other transformations in the game? Beelzebub is considered one of the more potent transformations, primarily due to its consistent damage output. It is highly ranked for players seeking a reliable damage boost during their runs, and is often considered a powerful and consistent transformation.

Conclusion

The Beelzebub transformation in The Binding of Isaac is a powerful asset that dramatically shifts Isaac’s offensive capabilities. With permanent orbital flies and the potential for strong item synergies, this transformation can lead to extremely successful runs. Understanding the mechanics and benefits associated with this transformation is crucial for mastering the game. By focusing on collecting the required items and combining them with complementary items, players can unlock the true potential of the Beelzebub transformation and vanquish even the toughest foes.