Into The Depths Speedrun Guide: Tips & Routes

Introduction to Speedrunning Into The Depths

Speedrunning in Into The Depths is about more than just moving quickly. It requires a deep understanding of the game's Roguelite mechanics, resource management, and procedural generation to shave minutes off your run. Whether you're aiming for a personal best or a world record, this guide will provide the foundational strategies you need. The goal is to reach the deepest caverns and secure the "Abyss Wealth" before the game's escalating threats overwhelm you.

Before diving into advanced techniques, ensure you have a solid grasp of the basics. Check out our Beginner Guide for core mechanics and our Mechanics Guide for a deeper dive into the game's systems.

Core Speedrunning Principles

Successful speedruns rely on a few core principles that differ from a standard playthrough.

Prioritize Speed Over Safety

In a speedrun, you must take calculated risks. Avoid unnecessary fights and resource gathering. Only collect what you need for immediate survival and your next upgrade.

Understand the Progression System

Your run's pace is dictated by the Progression System. Focus on unlocking the essential upgrades that provide the best time-to-value ratio. Early upgrades that increase movement speed or mining efficiency are paramount.

Master the Restart

Don't be afraid to restart if the initial cave layout is unfavorable. A bad seed can cost you minutes. The Restart Guide offers tips on identifying a good start quickly.

Optimal Route and Early Game Strategy

The first 10 minutes of a run are the most critical. Your route should be aggressive and efficient.

Phase 1: The First Settlement

Upon spawning, immediately locate the nearest source of wood and stone. Your first goal is to construct a basic shelter and a workshop. Do not overbuild. You need just enough to craft a pickaxe and a weapon. Refer to the Crafting Guide for the most efficient recipes.

Phase 2: The First Descent

Once equipped, descend immediately. Your goal is to find the first "portal" or "shrine" that offers a permanent upgrade. Prioritize upgrades that increase your carrying capacity or allow you to move faster. Avoid side caves unless they guarantee a critical upgrade like a movement ability.

Phase 3: Resource Tunneling

Instead of clearing every room, learn to "tunnel" directly towards your objective. Use your environment to your advantage. Look for cracks in walls or natural bridges that can save you time.

Key Upgrades and Loadout for Speedrunning

Your choice of upgrades and loadout can make or break a speedrun.

Essential Upgrades

Focus on these Upgrades in order of priority:

• Movement Speed: The single most important stat for a speedrun.
• Mining Efficiency: Reduces the time spent breaking walls and ores.
• Carry Capacity: Minimizes trips back to your base.
• Light Radius: Allows you to see further, helping you navigate faster.

Optimal Loadout

For a speedrun, mobility is king. Use light armor and a weapon that offers a balance of damage and speed. The "Swift Blade" class is often a top-tier choice for speedrunning. For more on classes, see our Class Guide.

Advanced Strategies and Enemy Management

As you delve deeper, efficient enemy management becomes crucial.

Skipping Fights

Not every enemy needs to be killed. Learn to dodge and sprint past non-threatening foes. Use terrain to block their path. Only engage when an enemy blocks a critical pathway or drops a key item.

Elite Enemies

Elite Enemies can be run-ending. Learn their attack patterns to avoid damage. If an elite enemy is not on your critical path, skip it. The time spent fighting it is rarely worth the reward.

Boss Encounters

Bosses are mandatory, but you can optimize them. Study the Boss Guide to learn the fastest strategies for each boss. Use burst damage items and focus on the weak points to end the fight quickly.

Final Tips and Practice Routines

Speedrunning is a skill that requires practice.

Practice Specific Sections

Use the game's save system to practice difficult sections like a boss fight or a tricky jump. The Save File Guide can help you set up practice scenarios.

Watch and Learn

Study runs from top players to learn new routes and strategies.

By mastering these strategies, you'll be well on your way to setting new personal records in Into The Depths. Good luck, and may your descent be swift!