Master the New Slay the Spire 2 Patch: A Guide to the Boss Change and Bi-Weekly Updates

Introduction

Another patch has dropped for Slay the Spire 2, and this one brings significant changes that every player needs to know about. Developer Mega Crit has released version 0.105.0 on the beta branch, and with it comes the removal of the infamous Doommaker boss—much to the delight of those who struggled against him—replaced by a brand-new, undisclosed boss encounter. Alongside this shift, the patch schedule has also been adjusted from weekly to bi-weekly updates. This guide will walk you through exactly what to do to get the most out of this update, from updating your game to adapting your strategies for the new boss and the new patch rhythm.

What You Need

• Slay the Spire 2 (Early Access version) installed on your PC via Steam.
• Access to the beta branch—this patch is only available to beta testers as of now.
• A stable internet connection to download the update (approximately 200 MB).
• Basic knowledge of the game's mechanics and a willingness to experiment with decks and relics.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Update to the Latest Beta Patch

   First things first, ensure you're running the beta branch of Slay the Spire 2. To do this, open your Steam library, right-click on Slay the Spire 2, select Properties, go to the Betas tab, and choose the beta branch from the dropdown menu. Once selected, Steam will automatically download patch v0.105.0. If you already have beta access, simply launch the game and the update will apply. Check the version number on the main menu to confirm you're on the latest build.

2. Read the Full Patch Notes

   Before jumping into a run, take a few minutes to review the official patch notes. Mega Crit has shared the details on their blog and within the game's community channels. Key points include the removal of the Doommaker boss and the introduction of a new boss (name not yet revealed). Also note the change in patch cadence: as the developer states, "We're moving to patch every 2 weeks rather than weekly as outlined in our Early Access Disclaimer." Understanding these changes will help you set expectations for what's new and what might break your usual strategies.

3. Explore the New Boss Encounter

   With Doommaker gone, your runs will now culminate in a fight against a fresh boss—one that Mega Crit believes offers a more balanced and engaging challenge. Start a new run and make it to the final act (or use a save file close to the end) to encounter this new foe. Pay close attention to its attack patterns, debuffs, and special mechanics. Since the boss is new, there are no established counter-strategies yet, so treat this as a discovery experience. Document what works and what doesn't—you'll be ahead of the curve when the community starts sharing guides.

4. Re-evaluate Your Deck-Building Strategy

   The removal of Doommaker means that builds you previously relied on to counter his specific abilities may no longer be as effective. Conversely, the new boss may require different strengths—perhaps more block, more scaling damage, or specific relic synergies. Take a few test runs where you deliberately try new archetypes. For example, if you were a heavy poison user to beat Doommaker, experiment with a shiv or footwork build for the Silent. For the Ironclad, try a strength-scaling deck instead of a block-only approach. Mix in new relics that might shine against the unknown boss. The key is to remain flexible and not assume old formulas will work.

   

5. Adjust to the Bi-Weekly Update Cycle

   Mega Crit has shifted from weekly to bi-weekly patches, as they outlined in the Early Access disclaimer. This change means you'll have more time to master each patch before the next one arrives, but also that balance tweaks and bug fixes will come less frequently. Plan your play sessions accordingly: you now have two weeks to experiment with the same version before a new update potentially shakes up the meta. Keep an eye on official channels for patch announcements so you don't miss the next one.

Tips for Thriving After the Patch

• Back up your save files before updating—especially if you have an ongoing run you want to preserve. While patches rarely corrupt saves, it's better safe than sorry. Locate your saves in %appdata%\SlayTheSpire2\ and make a copy.
• Join the community discussion on the Slay the Spire 2 subreddit or Discord. Early findings from other players can give you a head start on countering the new boss. Share your own discoveries too.
• Use custom runs to test specific card combinations or relics against the new boss without the pressure of a full run. This is a low-risk way to gather data.
• Don't panic if you lose—the new boss is designed to be a learning experience. Each defeat teaches you something new about its mechanics. Treat it like a puzzle to solve, not a wall to break.
• Keep an eye on the patch notes for future updates—Mega Crit has hinted at more balance changes and content additions in the bi-weekly cycle. Subscribe to their newsletter or follow their Twitter account to stay informed.