While there are no traditional 'builds,' an optimal equipment progression path can significantly ease Simon's journey. Prioritizing certain items over others will make combat and exploration more efficient.
- Early Game (Jova):
- Leather Whip (50 Hearts): Absolute first priority. Essential for dealing damage.
- Oak Stake (Free): Given by a villager. Necessary for destroying Orbs.
- White Crystal (50 Hearts): Purchase if you have spare hearts after the whip. It's needed for Bodley Mansion.
- Mid Game (Veros/Aldora):
- Sacred Flame (150 Hearts): High priority. Excellent for crowd control and boss damage.
- Thorn Whip (200 Hearts): Next whip upgrade. Significant damage boost.
- Iron Shield (150 Hearts): Optional, but good if you have extra hearts.
- Late Game (Flem/Brahm):
- Blue Crystal (100 Hearts): Essential for Rover Mansion.
- Red Crystal (200 Hearts): Essential for Dracula's Ring.
- Flame Whip (300 Hearts): Highest priority. Max damage output for Dracula's Castle and the final boss.
- Magic Shield (250 Hearts): Optional, but provides the best defense.
Always prioritize whip upgrades and essential crystals. Sub-weapons like the Sacred Flame are also very important. Shields are beneficial but can be acquired later if hearts are tight. Grinding for hearts is a necessary part of this progression.