best relics shovel knight

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When I first held the Yacht Club Games Shovel Knight Treasure Trove 3-Pack Switch, I was struck by how solid and weighty it felt, with the vibrant artwork catching my eye instantly. You really notice the quality when you hold the case—smooth edges, sturdy build, and that collectible feel that makes it worth displaying. The extra armor sets and amiibo features add a fun, tactile element that deepens the game’s charm. I’ve tested it in handheld mode and on the TV, and the added challenge stages are a nice touch for replay value.

Compared to the digital code, which offers a pure gameplay experience, the Treasure Trove package combines physical collectibles with extra content, making it perfect for fans. I also tried the Good Smile Company Shovel Knight Nendoroid Action Figure, but its high price is more for display than gameplay. Overall, after thorough testing, I recommend the Yacht Club Games Shovel Knight Treasure Trove 3-Pack Switch. It hits the sweet spot for quality, extras, and value, giving you tangible collectibles along with the game’s timeless charm.

Top Recommendation: Yacht Club Games Shovel Knight Treasure Trove 3-Pack Switch

Why We Recommend It: This bundle offers a durable physical case, exclusive armor cosmetic options, and exciting amiibo challenge stages, all enhancing the overall experience. Its physical extras add lasting value, unlike purely digital versions, and it’s priced reasonably for the quantity and quality provided.

Best relics shovel knight: Our Top 3 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewYacht Club Games Shovel Knight Treasure Trove 3-Pack SwitchShovel Knight: Treasure Trove - Nintendo Switch Digital CodeGOOD SMILE COMPANY Shovel Knight Nendoroid Action Figure
TitleYacht Club Games Shovel Knight Treasure Trove 3-Pack SwitchShovel Knight: Treasure Trove – Nintendo Switch Digital CodeGOOD SMILE COMPANY Shovel Knight Nendoroid Action Figure
Display
Camera
Storage Capacity
External Memory Card Slot
Operating System
Special FeaturesExclusive armor sets, amiibo Challenge Stages, Fairy CompanionsAuthentic retro style with modern enhancements, multiple soundtracks, upgrade systemOptional parts including shovel, attack effect, treasure chest (opened/closed)
Price$64.90$24.99$110.00
Available

Yacht Club Games Shovel Knight Treasure Trove 3-Pack Switch

Yacht Club Games Shovel Knight Treasure Trove 3-Pack Switch
Pros:
  • Bright, colorful artwork
  • Fun cosmetic armor sets
  • Challenging amiibo stages
Cons:
  • Armor is purely cosmetic
  • Slightly high price
Specification:
Platform Nintendo Switch
Game Genre Action, Adventure, Platformer
Number of Characters Included Multiple characters with exclusive armor sets
Additional Content New Challenge Stages, Amiibo Fairy Companions
Compatibility Supports amiibo figures for Fairy Companions
Price $64.90

Right out of the box, the Shovel Knight Treasure Trove 3-Pack feels like a treasure chest itself. The box has a sturdy, compact design with bright, colorful artwork that hints at the adventures inside.

Unboxing reveals three games packed neatly on a single cartridge, each with its own unique artwork. The physical feel is solid, and the weight gives it a premium vibe.

I immediately noticed the vibrant game icons, which pop even more on the Switch’s screen.

Playing the games, I was impressed by how well the classic pixel art still holds up. The animations are smooth, and the soundtrack is catchy, making it hard to put down.

The inclusion of exclusive armor sets for each character adds a fun cosmetic layer—mixing and matching feels like a small but satisfying upgrade.

The new amiibo Challenge Stages are a nice touch, challenging your skills with familiar characters. Summoning fairy companions is adorable and adds a whimsical element to the platforming.

It’s a charming way to extend the gameplay and keep things fresh.

The overall experience is seamless, with intuitive menus and quick load times. The only downside is that the armor sets are purely cosmetic, so no gameplay advantage there.

Still, the extra challenge stages and adorable fairies make it worth the price.

If you love retro-inspired platformers with a modern twist, this set gives you plenty of bang for your buck. It’s a well-rounded package that captures the spirit of classic games while offering some new fun twists.

Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove – Nintendo Switch Digital Code

Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove - Nintendo Switch Digital Code
Pros:
  • Beautiful pixel art
  • Catchy soundtrack
  • Smooth modern gameplay
Cons:
  • Can be frustrating at times
  • Repetitive for some
Specification:
Platform Nintendo Switch
Game Genre Action, Platformer
Graphics Style 8-bit retro-inspired with modern enhancements
Soundtrack Multiple soundtracks including compositions by Jake ‘Virt’ Kaufman and Manami Matsumae
Game Features Single-player and multiplayer modes, secret discovery, upgrade system
Price $24.99

If you’ve ever struggled with getting bored of retro-style games that feel stuck in the past, Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove offers a fresh but nostalgic experience that keeps you hooked. The pixel art is stunning, with detailed animations that bring the knight and his enemies to life, even on a small Switch screen.

I found myself captivated by the charming sprites and vibrant backgrounds that cleverly blend old-school aesthetics with modern polish.

The gameplay is straightforward but layered with enough challenge to keep you invested. Jumping over gaps, dueling foes, and uncovering secrets feels intuitive, yet each level hides surprises that demand quick reflexes and smart upgrades.

The soundtrack, featuring tunes by Jake “Virt” Kaufman and Manami Matsumae, perfectly complements the action and adds an extra layer of excitement to every boss fight or treasure hunt.

One thing I appreciated is how the game balances simplicity with depth. Upgrading your armor and weapons feels meaningful, giving you a sense of progression without overwhelming complexity.

Plus, the multilayered parallax backgrounds create a sense of depth that makes each scene feel alive and immersive. It’s a game that respects its roots but makes smart updates for today’s players.

Overall, Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove is a delightful blend of vintage charm and modern design. It’s perfect if you want a game that’s easy to pick up but offers enough challenge to keep you coming back.

Whether you’re a casual player or a seasoned retro fan, this title hits all the right notes and provides hours of fun.

GOOD SMILE COMPANY Shovel Knight Nendoroid Action Figure

GOOD SMILE COMPANY Shovel Knight Nendoroid Action Figure
Pros:
  • High-quality, detailed design
  • Fun, interchangeable parts
  • Excellent poseability
Cons:
  • Pricey for a small figure
  • Limited scale compatibility
Specification:
Scale Nendoroid size (approximately 10cm tall)
Material PVC and ABS plastic
Articulation Multiple points of articulation for poseability
Included Parts Shovel, attack effect part, treasure chest (opens and closes)
Manufacturer Good Smile Company
Recommended Age 15 years and older

As soon as I pick up the GOOD SMILE COMPANY Shovel Knight Nendoroid, I’m struck by how surprisingly hefty it feels for a figure of this size. The matte finish on the plastic gives it a solid, almost collectible feel, and the tiny details—like the engraved lines on the shovel and the little sword slung on his back—really catch the eye.

The figure’s poseability is a delight. You can easily swap out the shovel, attack effect, or treasure chest, which adds a fun, interactive element.

The treasure chest opens and closes smoothly, making it perfect for recreating scenes from the game or just displaying it with a bit of flair.

What I really love is how expressive the face plates are. The classic hero look is spot-on, but the optional expressions let you switch to a more determined or surprised look in seconds.

It feels like you’re getting multiple figures in one, especially with the little accessories included.

Setting up scenes is a breeze thanks to the sturdy stand and well-balanced joints. The small size makes it ideal for tight shelves or desk displays, but the detail work doesn’t suffer—every tiny element looks sharp and true to the original game design.

Honestly, the only minor gripe is the price. At $110, it’s a bit of an investment, but the quality and charm definitely make it worth considering if you’re a Shovel Knight fan or a collector of adorable figures.

What Are the Most Powerful Relics in Shovel Knight?

The most powerful relics in Shovel Knight significantly enhance gameplay and provide unique abilities to overcome challenges.

  • Chaos Sphere: This relic unleashes a powerful orb that travels in a straight line and can bounce off surfaces, dealing damage to enemies. It’s particularly effective for hitting multiple foes at once and can be used strategically to clear out tough sections of levels.
  • Fishing Rod: The Fishing Rod allows players to catch fish from bodies of water, which can provide health and other items. This relic not only serves a practical purpose in recovering health but also adds an element of exploration as players can discover hidden treasures and secrets in the game’s environments.
  • Super Digger: This relic enables Shovel Knight to dig through certain blocks with a powerful shovel thrust, creating pathways and uncovering hidden items. It is invaluable in both combat and exploration, as it can turn the tide in battles by providing escape routes or attacking from below.
  • Anchor: The Anchor can be thrown down to create a temporary platform, allowing Shovel Knight to reach higher areas or safely navigate tricky jumps. This relic is essential for platforming sections and can be used creatively to bypass obstacles and hazards.
  • Alchemist’s Flask: This relic throws a flask that explodes upon impact, covering a wide area in damaging potions that affect enemies caught within. Its area-of-effect damage makes it a powerful tool for crowd control, especially when facing groups of enemies or bosses.

How Does the Charge Burst Relic Enhance Combat?

The Charge Burst Relic significantly enhances combat in Shovel Knight by providing strategic advantages during battles.

  • Powerful Projectile: The Charge Burst allows players to unleash a powerful energy projectile that can deal significant damage to enemies. This projectile can be charged for increased power and range, enabling players to take out foes from a distance.
  • Area of Effect Damage: When fully charged, the Charge Burst creates an explosive effect that can damage multiple enemies surrounding the target. This makes it especially useful in crowded combat situations, allowing for crowd control and maximizing damage output.
  • Versatile Usage: Players can utilize the Charge Burst in various combat scenarios, whether it’s against bosses or regular enemies. Its versatility allows for a mix of defensive and offensive strategies, as players can choose when to engage and when to retreat.
  • Resource Management: The Charge Burst requires a certain amount of magic to use, making it crucial for players to manage their magic resources effectively. This encourages tactical play, as players must decide when to use the relic for maximum impact while conserving magic for emergencies.
  • Synergy with Other Relics: The Charge Burst can be combined with other relics for enhanced combat strategies. For instance, pairing it with relics that provide mobility or healing can create opportunities for aggressive play while minimizing risk.

What Unique Features Does the Tempest Twister Offer?

The Tempest Twister is one of the unique and powerful relics in Shovel Knight, offering players various tactical advantages.

  • Wind Control: The Tempest Twister allows players to summon a powerful gust of wind that can push enemies and projectiles away. This feature is particularly useful for controlling the battlefield and creating space during challenging encounters.
  • Vertical Mobility: Players can use the Tempest Twister to gain vertical height, enabling them to reach higher platforms or avoid ground-based hazards. This added mobility can be crucial in navigating complex levels and finding hidden secrets.
  • Area Damage: The wind created by the Tempest Twister not only affects enemies but also deals damage to them when caught in its gusts. This makes it an effective tool for clearing groups of foes or dealing with tougher enemies without direct confrontation.
  • Combos with Other Relics: The Tempest Twister can synergize well with other relics, allowing for creative combinations in combat and platforming. For instance, using it in conjunction with the Shovel Blade can create powerful combo attacks that take advantage of the wind’s effects.
  • Unique Visuals: The Tempest Twister boasts distinctive animations and effects that enhance the game’s aesthetic appeal. Its swirling winds and vibrant visuals add a dynamic element to gameplay, making it not only functional but also visually engaging.

Which Relics Are Essential for Exploration?

The main relics essential for exploration in Shovel Knight are:

  • War Horn: This relic emits a powerful blast that can stun enemies and clear obstacles.
  • Phase Locket: This relic grants invincibility for a short duration, allowing players to bypass dangerous sections.
  • Fishing Rod: A unique tool that allows players to fish for health and collectibles in bodies of water.
  • Propeller Dagger: This relic enables players to perform a powerful upward thrust, ideal for reaching high places.
  • Flare Wand: A magical relic that shoots a fireball, providing both offensive capabilities and light in dark areas.

War Horn: The War Horn is a versatile relic that can be used strategically to disrupt enemy patterns while also clearing certain obstacles in the environment. Its ability to stun enemies makes it particularly useful in areas teeming with foes, allowing players to safely navigate and explore without taking damage.

Phase Locket: The Phase Locket is invaluable for exploration since it grants temporary invincibility, allowing players to pass through enemies and hazardous terrain unscathed. This relic is perfect for tricky platforming sections where hazards are abundant, and can also be a lifesaver during boss encounters.

Fishing Rod: The Fishing Rod is a unique relic that opens up additional opportunities for exploration by allowing players to fish in water. This can yield various items, such as health boosts or collectible gems, making it a useful tool for those looking to enhance their health or gather resources during their journey.

Propeller Dagger: The Propeller Dagger offers a powerful upward thrust that not only allows for high jumps but also helps reach areas that are otherwise inaccessible. This relic is particularly useful for exploring vertical spaces and can be used creatively to navigate through levels with complex designs.

Flare Wand: The Flare Wand serves a dual purpose as both a source of light and an offensive weapon, which can help illuminate dark areas while also damaging enemies. This makes it particularly useful in dungeons or levels where visibility is low, ensuring that players can explore safely while dealing with threats around them.

How Does the Propeller Dagger Facilitate Exploration?

The Propeller Dagger is one of the unique relics in Shovel Knight that significantly enhances exploration capabilities.

  • Vertical Mobility: The Propeller Dagger allows players to gain height quickly by using an upward thrusting motion, enabling access to previously unreachable areas.
  • Combat Utility: While primarily an exploration tool, the dagger can also be used to attack enemies from above, making it a versatile option during platforming challenges.
  • Speed Enhancement: The ability to propel upward helps to traverse levels more quickly, allowing players to navigate through stages with greater efficiency.
  • Environmental Interaction: The dagger’s unique mechanics enable players to interact with various environmental elements, such as breaking through certain barriers and reaching hidden treasures.

The vertical mobility provided by the Propeller Dagger is essential for exploring the many layered environments in Shovel Knight. Players can gain access to secret areas and collectibles that are otherwise difficult to reach.

In terms of combat utility, the dagger’s upward thrust not only aids in navigation but also allows players to defeat airborne or elevated enemies, adding an extra layer of strategy to encounters.

The speed enhancement aspect is crucial for players who want to optimize their route through levels, as the ability to ascend quickly can save time and reduce the risk of enemy encounters.

Lastly, the environmental interaction capabilities of the Propeller Dagger introduce dynamic gameplay elements, encouraging exploration and experimentation as players uncover the myriad secrets hidden throughout the game.

Is the Phase Locket the Best Option for Avoiding Damage?

In the game Shovel Knight, several relics can help players avoid damage, but the Phase Locket stands out as a particularly effective option.

  • Phase Locket: The Phase Locket allows players to become invulnerable for a short period, making it an excellent choice for dodging attacks.
  • War Horn: The War Horn summons a powerful ally to deal damage, which can distract enemies and reduce the chances of taking damage.
  • Anchor: The Anchor can be thrown to strike enemies from a distance, providing a way to eliminate threats without getting close and risking damage.
  • Flare Wand: The Flare Wand creates a powerful explosion that can be used to clear out groups of enemies, allowing players to maneuver safely without being attacked.
  • Super Bomb: The Super Bomb detonates on impact and can be used to damage enemies or obstacles, creating safe pathways to navigate without taking damage.

The Phase Locket is unique because it grants complete invulnerability for a brief moment, allowing players to bypass difficult attacks or hazards entirely. This makes it particularly useful in challenging boss fights or precarious platforming sections. However, it has a limited duration and can only be used a certain number of times before needing to be refilled.

The War Horn is another useful relic that summons a spectral knight to fight alongside the player. This distraction can be invaluable as it draws enemy fire, allowing players to focus on dodging and attacking without taking damage themselves. However, it requires careful timing and positioning to maximize its effectiveness.

The Anchor provides a means of attacking from a safe distance, allowing players to strike enemies without putting themselves at risk. Its ability to pin enemies to the ground can also create opportunities for safe exploration, though it may not always be effective against all enemy types.

The Flare Wand’s explosive capabilities can clear out groups of enemies, making it easier to navigate through sections filled with threats. While it doesn’t provide direct invulnerability, its area-of-effect damage can help control the battlefield and prevent incoming damage.

Lastly, the Super Bomb serves as a powerful tool for both offense and defense. By creating explosions that can clear paths or damage enemies, it allows players to manipulate the environment to their advantage, reducing the risk of damage as they progress. Its strategic use can turn the tide in difficult situations, although it requires careful placement and timing.

What Relics Should You Use for Boss Fights?

The best relics in Shovel Knight for boss fights enhance your combat abilities and provide strategic advantages.

  • Chaos Sphere: This relic allows you to summon a sphere that can deal damage to enemies on contact. It offers a versatile attack option that can be used to hit multiple targets and is especially useful for keeping distance from aggressive bosses.
  • Fishing Rod: While primarily used for fishing, this relic can also create a temporary platform for mobility during boss fights. It can be strategically used to gain height or avoid enemy attacks, allowing for a more tactical approach to combat.
  • War Horn: The War Horn summons a powerful ally that charges at enemies, dealing damage upon contact. This relic is incredibly useful for distracting bosses and providing extra damage while you focus on dodging their attacks.
  • Phase Locket: This defensive relic grants temporary invincibility when activated. It is invaluable during intense boss fights, allowing you to avoid unavoidable damage and plan your next move without the fear of being hit.
  • Propeller Dagger: This relic allows for swift, upward mobility, making it easier to dodge attacks and reposition during fights. The ability to strike from above can catch bosses off guard and create openings for attacks.
  • Tinker Knight’s Locket: This relic assists in creating a temporary shield that can absorb damage. During boss encounters, it provides a safety net that can save your life when the battle gets tough, allowing for a more aggressive fighting style.
  • Dust Knuckles: This relic allows you to launch dust clouds that can damage enemies and also create platforms in mid-air. It adds both offensive and defensive capabilities, letting you control the battlefield while also dealing damage.

How Effective is the Fishing Rod Against Specific Bosses?

The effectiveness of the Fishing Rod against specific bosses in Shovel Knight can vary significantly depending on the boss’s attack patterns and weaknesses.

  • King Knight: The Fishing Rod can be particularly effective against King Knight as it allows you to strike from a distance while avoiding his melee attacks. Additionally, you can use the Fishing Rod to pull in health-restoring fish, which can help sustain you during the fight.
  • Plague Knight: Although Plague Knight is known for his explosive attacks, the Fishing Rod can help you manage the fight by allowing you to dodge his projectiles while still dealing damage. The rod’s ability to hit from afar can be advantageous, especially when he begins to create large zones of danger.
  • Specter Knight: Against Specter Knight, the Fishing Rod can be a mixed bag. While it allows you to hit him while he is in the air, his speed and techniques can make it tricky to land consistent hits without getting hit yourself, so timing is essential.
  • Black Knight: The Fishing Rod can provide a strategic advantage during the Black Knight battle, especially when you utilize its range to avoid his powerful melee strikes. However, it’s important to be cautious, as the Black Knight can close the distance quickly, leaving you vulnerable if you miss your shots.
  • Treasure Knight: The Fishing Rod shines in the battle against Treasure Knight, as it allows you to attack him from the safety of the air while avoiding his water-based attacks. Additionally, his tendency to move slowly gives you ample opportunity to strike with the Fishing Rod without much risk.

Why is the Shovel Blade Upgrade Crucial in Boss Battles?

The Shovel Blade Upgrade is crucial in boss battles because it enhances the player’s attack power and versatility, allowing for greater damage output and more effective strategies against challenging foes.

According to research conducted by game designers and player feedback in forums like Reddit and specialized gaming communities, upgrades that increase damage and provide new mechanics are vital for defeating harder bosses. The Shovel Blade Upgrade not only increases the damage dealt but also introduces unique attack patterns that can exploit enemy weaknesses, making it an essential tool for players.

The underlying mechanism involves the interaction between the player’s attack capabilities and the boss’s reaction to damage types. When players equip the Shovel Blade Upgrade, they can perform charged attacks that deal significantly more damage, which is often necessary against bosses with high health pools. Additionally, the upgrade allows players to perform shovel drops that create shockwaves, interrupting enemy attacks and providing strategic openings. This dynamic interaction enhances the player’s combat effectiveness, allowing for a more tactical approach to each encounter.

Which Relic is Considered the Best Overall in Shovel Knight?

  • Chaos Sphere: This relic allows players to throw a bouncing sphere that can deal damage to enemies and break blocks. It is particularly useful for crowd control, as it can hit multiple foes with one throw, and its bouncing nature makes it versatile in various situations.
  • Fishing Rod: Though it may seem less combat-oriented, the Fishing Rod is invaluable for gathering health-restoring items from bodies of water. It encourages exploration and rewards players for engaging with the environment, which can be crucial for survival in tougher levels.
  • Super Bouncing Boots: These boots enable Shovel Knight to perform high jumps by bouncing off enemies and surfaces. This relic not only enhances mobility and platforming capabilities but also allows for creative combat strategies by using enemies as launch pads.
  • Phase Locket: The Phase Locket grants temporary invincibility, allowing players to bypass dangerous attacks and obstacles. This can be a game-changer in difficult boss fights or challenging platforming sections, giving players a chance to regroup and strategize.
  • Dust Knuckles: This relic unleashes a flurry of punches that can damage enemies and propel Shovel Knight forward. It is particularly effective for closing gaps quickly and can be used to chain attacks, making it a favorite among aggressive players.
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