How to Get Artifacts in Risk of Rain 2: Unlock Guide

Unlocking Artifacts in Risk of Rain 2

Artifacts are powerful game modifiers in Risk of Rain 2 that significantly change gameplay mechanics, such as enabling friendly fire (Artifact of Chaos) or allowing players to choose their own items (Artifact of Command). To unlock these, you must find their specific codes hidden throughout the game's various environments and input them at the Compound Generator.

The primary location for inputting these codes is the Sky Meadow (Stage 5). The generator is situated in a lower area beneath the map. Once you input the correct sequence using the square, circle, triangle, and diamond symbols, you must interact with the nearby laptop to spawn a portal to a hidden realm: Bulwark's Ambry.

How to Complete the Trial of Artifacts

Once inside Bulwark's Ambry, the trial for your selected artifact begins. An Artifact Key will spawn on an elevated block in front of the Artifact Reliquary. You must pick up this key and interact with the Reliquary to start the boss encounter.

• Combat Mechanics: During the trial, the artifact you are trying to unlock will be active.
• Keys: Additional keys will drop randomly from enemies during the fight. These keys are consumed upon interaction with the Reliquary, preventing players from hoarding them.
• Success: After destroying the Reliquary, the artifact will drop, and a portal back to a First Stage will appear.

Tip

Community Shortcut: Some players have reported a trick where you can position your character's camera to clip inside the Artifact Reliquary, allowing you to pick up the artifact without defeating the boss. However, be aware that you must still complete the combat encounter if you intend to finish the run and return to the main game loop.

Important Artifact Codes

Most artifacts require a specific input sequence of 3x3 symbols. While these codes are found on stone tablets throughout the game, here are some commonly sought sequences:

Note: For a full list of codes and their exact hidden locations, such as the Abyssal Depths or the Abandoned Aqueduct, always check the official Risk of Rain 2 Wiki for the most up-to-date information.

Considerations for DLC Content

Some artifacts, such as the Artifact of Prestige (from the Alloyed Collective expansion) or the Artifact of Rebirth (from Seekers of the Storm), are tied to specific DLC packs.

• Availability: This content is only accessible if the corresponding DLC is enabled when you start your run.
• Pooling: In multiplayer, artifact unlocks are pooled among all lobby members. If your party members have previously unlocked an artifact, you can enable or disable it for the group even if you have not unlocked it personally.

FAQ

Why can't I see the Compound Generator? If you are playing with specific DLCs enabled, the Compound Generator can sometimes appear in alternative locations, such as the Helminth Hatchery (Stage 5). Ensure you are on the correct map for your game version.

Do artifacts affect my character stats? Most artifacts modify game rules rather than raw stats, though some like the Artifact of Glass (500% damage, 10% health) drastically alter your effective health pool. Always check the item descriptions carefully before starting a run.

What happens if I die during the trial? If you die in Bulwark's Ambry, the run ends just like a standard death. Be prepared for a challenging fight, as the trial forces you to play with the very modifier you are attempting to unlock.