Thalamus is a crucial resource in Hades 2, especially if you’re aiming to brave the surface world. This unique crafting material might seem elusive compared to others, but with the right guidance, you’ll be cultivating it in no time. Thalamus is your key to enduring the punishing environments of the later stages of the game, and understanding where to find it is essential for progression.
To embark on your Thalamus hunt, you’ll first need to unlock access to Chaos Gates. These swirling vortexes of darkness are your gateway to the Chaos realm, a familiar location for those who played the first Hades. Alongside this, ensure you’re equipped with the Silver Shovel, as this tool is vital for unearthing the seeds that grow into Thalamus.
Currently, Thalamus primarily serves one vital purpose in Hades 2, but its significance in that role is undeniable for late-game survival. As Hades 2 is still in early access, it’s quite possible that more uses for Thalamus will emerge as the game evolves.
Locating Origin Seeds in the Realm of Chaos
Hades 2 Thalamus Origin Seed location in Chaos Realm, highlighting Chaos boon
Image showing where to find Origin Seeds for Thalamus in the Realm of Chaos in Hades 2, with a Chaos boon visible.
The journey to acquire Thalamus begins in the Realm of Chaos. Thalamus isn’t directly found; instead, you need to cultivate it from Origin Seeds. These seeds are predominantly located within the Chaos realm, accessible through Chaos Gates. Keep an eye out for these distinctive circular openings emitting black smoke, which appear randomly in different regions. Be warned, entering a Chaos Gate typically requires you to sacrifice some health, adding a risk-reward element to your seed hunting. However, you can circumvent this health cost by activating a Well of Charon with gold beforehand, forcing a gate to appear.
Chaos Gates generally start appearing after you have successfully defeated the first major boss at least once and have spent a reasonable amount of time exploring Erebus in multiple runs. Once you enter the Realm of Chaos, your objective is to find mounds of dirt. These are interactive spots where you can use your Silver Shovel to dig up Origin Seeds. Collect these seeds, as they are the starting point for growing Thalamus.
Cultivating Thalamus at The Crossroads
Hades 2 soil plot at the Crossroads with Thalamus plant growing
Image depicting a soil plot at The Crossroads in Hades 2 with a Thalamus plant growing, ready for harvest.
With Origin Seeds in your possession, return to The Crossroads, your main hub. To plant and grow Thalamus, you first need to unlock designated soil plots. This is achieved by performing the “Flourishing Soil” Incantation at the Cauldron. Once you’ve unlocked the soil plots, interact with them to plant your Origin Seeds.
Growing Thalamus takes a bit of in-game time. Specifically, it requires seven completed stages during your runs for the Origin Seeds to mature into harvestable Thalamus. If you’re looking to expedite this process, spending time in the Hot Springs or the Taverna (if you have unlocked them) at The Crossroads will also advance the growth cycle. Upon harvesting, each Thalamus plant yields two Thalamus. Alternatively, you can receive an Origin Seed directly from Chaos himself as a reward for your initial foray to the surface.
Utilizing Thalamus for Surface Survival
Hades 2 Thalamus material icon shown in the Unraveling a Fateful Bond incantation recipe
Image showing the Thalamus crafting material icon in the “Unraveling a Fateful Bond” Incantation recipe in Hades 2.
The primary application of Thalamus in Hades 2 is to mitigate the persistent damage you suffer while on the surface. To achieve this, you need to perform the “Unraveling a Fateful Bond” Incantation at the Cauldron in The Crossroads. This crucial incantation requires two Thalamus to complete.
Currently, “Unraveling a Fateful Bond” is the sole use for Thalamus. The in-game item description hints at broader applications, stating that Thalamus is “mostly used with incantations involving birthright and creation.” While its current utility is focused, it’s wise to keep a stock of Thalamus, as Supergiant Games may introduce additional crafting recipes that utilize it as Hades 2 continues its early access development. Securing a reliable source of Thalamus will undoubtedly prove beneficial as you delve deeper into the game.
