In the ongoing development of Slay the Spire 2, the game’s Act 3 boss, Doormaker, was removed and replaced by a new character named Aeonglass. This change was part of a series of late-game reworks aimed at refining the gameplay experience. Developer Mega Crit has been actively updating the game during its early access phase, which is expected to last until at least 2027. The design process for Aeonglass involved extensive exploration of various concepts, including a multi-faceted pillar of death, before settling on the hourglass-inspired design that is visually striking and unique.
The design team, led by animator Chris Gortz, created multiple iterations of Aeonglass, ultimately choosing option B after discussions. The character's combat style was developed through doodles and concepts, leading to the idea of a large atom with blast and slice attacks. Art director Marlowe Dobbe influenced the design by suggesting that the contents of the hourglass should move like lava lamp goo, which prompted Gortz to utilize a smoke shader similar to that used for the Living Smog boss. This creative approach resulted in a visually compelling character that enhances the game's aesthetic.
As part of the ongoing development, the most recent beta patch has already made adjustments to Aeonglass, including nerfing its front-loaded damage and altering some animations. These changes indicate that the developers are committed to refining the character further, ensuring that it fits well within the game's balance and challenge. The continuous updates reflect Mega Crit's dedication to perfecting the gameplay loop and maintaining player engagement.
While it remains uncertain whether Aeonglass will be part of the final 1.0 version of Slay the Spire 2, the character's design and combat mechanics have generated excitement among fans. The game has already seen multiple iterations of its Act 3 bosses, and the introduction of Aeonglass marks another significant step in the evolution of the game. As the development progresses, players can expect more updates and potential changes to the character as Mega Crit works towards delivering a polished and enjoyable gaming experience.
