In Soul Hackers 2, Soul Level (SL) is a crucial mechanic that influences your progression, especially when aiming for the coveted True Ending and tackling the Soul Matrix. Understanding how Soul Level works, particularly in relation to New Game+ (NG+), is vital for a complete and satisfying playthrough. This guide will delve into the essentials of Soul Level in Soul Hackers 2, helping you optimize your gameplay and unlock all the game has to offer.
To achieve the True Ending in Soul Hackers 2, you must consistently choose the “I don’t” dialogue option throughout key moments in the story. Conversely, the Normal Ending is obtained by selecting a mix of “I do” and “I don’t” responses based on your preferences. A strategic approach to experiencing both endings in a single playthrough involves creating a save file before engaging with any souls in the 24th Ward final level, “Bones.” This allows you to reload and witness both outcomes without replaying the entire game.
While the specific triggers remain somewhat unclear, completing all available side quests (excluding non-canon DLC content) and unlocking all Soul Matrix floors up to F5 is generally recommended before pursuing the endgame. Access to further depths of F5 within the Soul Matrix is initially restricted by a Soul Level gate of 125, a threshold typically unattainable during your first playthrough.
New Game+ in Soul Hackers 2 offers significant advantages for progression. While elements like enemy data, map completion, and the compendium carry over, Soul Levels do not. However, NG+ introduces exponential Soul Level gains through dialogue choices, enabling you to reach Soul Levels close to 200 by the later stages of the game. This accelerated progression is essential for unlocking deeper levels of the Soul Matrix and achieving 100% completion.
Completing the Demon Compendium to 100% necessitates venturing into New Game+. The compendium contains demons exclusively found in the deeper levels of Soul Matrix F5, specifically Mot, Garuda, and Sraosha. Acquiring these demons requires progressing through NG+ and re-engaging with the Soul Matrix content to its fullest extent.
Achievements related to Hangouts and Meals demand thorough exploration throughout your playthrough. Missable meal opportunities exist, such as after defeating the boss in the W Shipping District. Hangout achievements often require specific items dropped by demons encountered during demon scout missions. The achievement is typically unlocked upon obtaining the necessary item from a demon scout in the 24th Ward.
Finally, certain achievements are specifically tied to New Game+, most notably “Soul Matrix Transcension” and “Compendium Completionist.” All other achievements can be earned within a single playthrough if you are diligent in your exploration and progression.
In summary, mastering Soul Level in Soul Hackers 2 is key to unlocking the True Ending, maximizing your potential in the Soul Matrix, and achieving full game completion. New Game+ is an integral part of this process, offering accelerated Soul Level growth and access to content required for 100% compendium completion and specific achievements.
