Orcs Must Die! 2 adventure archiveOrcs Must Die! 2GUIDES
Orcs Must Die! 2 / Skulls & modes

Orcs Must Die! 2 skull upgrades, replay goals and Endless mode

Improve a focused loadout and revise it for the next map.

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Edition covered

Original Orcs Must Die! 2 campaign and core systems. DLC-only traps, maps and enemies are not required; mechanics from Orcs Must Die! 3 and Deathtrap are excluded.

Separate map currency from skulls

The Sorceress fires purple magic through a trap-lined corridor.
The Sorceress fires purple magic through a trap-lined corridor.

The money earned within a map buys placements during that run. Skulls support persistent purchases and upgrades between runs, so spending one does not serve the same purpose as saving the other.

Progression resources
Resource or goalUseDecision
In-map moneyPlace defenses in the current runSpend on the next wave's needs
SkullsPersistent unlocks and upgradesImprove a coherent loadout
Level ratingMeasures completion performanceReplay after fixing the weak point
ScoreRewards effective kills and combosPursue after the layout survives

Upgrade the core of the layout

Invest in the traps and weapons that do most of the work on the next map. A broad collection of unupgraded tools may be less effective than a smaller loadout with a clear plan and the necessary special-enemy counters.

Mode planning
Mode or goalFocusPreparation
CampaignComplete the level's wavesLearn its doors and enemy types
Co-opCoordinate two heroesAgree on lanes and shared trap plan
NightmareHandle a harder challengeUse a practiced efficient setup
EndlessSurvive escalating wavesPlan heavy-enemy and air coverage

Replay with a specific improvement

Use a replay to fix the route that leaked, improve timing or pursue a better rating. Compare the actual result rather than changing every trap simultaneously and losing track of what helped.

Build Endless defenses for maintenance

Long runs expose weak anti-air, heavy-enemy damage and barricade protection. Keep the layout readable and leave the hero a route between threatened lanes so later waves do not trap you away from the rift.

References
Guide references
ReferenceWebsite
Publisher game and edition listingstore.steampowered.com
Robot Entertainment game referencerobotentertainment.com