Skip to content
Isle I Overview & Progression — Cuphead Guide
Cuphead

Isle I Overview & Progression — Cuphead Guide

Want to unlock Cuphead's secret black and white mode? Follow our guide to find the turtle in World 3 and complete pacifist runs of platforming levels.

By ···10 min read·Multi-source verified
1 reading this guide  

Want to unlock Cuphead's secret black and white mode? Follow our guide to find the turtle in World 3 and complete pacifist runs of platforming levels.

Hey there! So you've jumped into the wild world of Cuphead and you're ready to tackle its challenges. This guide is all about helping you unlock a super cool secret mode that really leans into that authentic 1930s cartoon vibe. It's a fun little challenge that adds a whole new layer to the game, but be warned, there are some minor spoilers ahead!

If you're the type who loves to discover everything on your own, you might want to put this guide down and get back to the game. But if you're curious and want to know exactly how to get your hands on this awesome mode, stick around!

What's This Secret Mode All About?

The secret mode we're talking about is a black and white filter that makes Cuphead look like a genuine 1930s cartoon. On top of that, it comes with a bunch of audio filters that really amp up the vintage feel. It's a fantastic way to experience the game with a totally different aesthetic.

Finding the Key to the Secret Mode

Your journey to unlocking this mode begins in World 3. Once you reach the hub area, look for a turtle chilling out on the docks. This is your guy! He's got a special challenge for you, hinting that a cool bonus awaits if you can beat all the platforming levels without taking down any enemies. Think of it as a pacifist run!

Unlocking the Black and White Mode

Alright, mission accepted! To unlock the secret mode, you'll need to play through all six of Cuphead's platforming stages and complete them without firing a single shot at any enemies. These levels are:

  • Forest Follies
  • Treetop Trouble
  • Funfair Fever
  • Funhouse Frazzle
  • Perilous Piers
  • Rugged Ridge

When you successfully complete one of these levels without defeating any enemies, you'll notice the flag you raise at the end will have a 'P' on it. Keep this up for all six levels. Once you've done that, head back to the turtle in the World 3 hub, and he'll unlock the Black and White mode for you!

Don't Forget About the Fork!

While you're exploring, keep an eye out for another character: a dapper-looking fork wearing a monocle. You'll find him hanging out near the world's shop. He's on the lookout for

100% Human-Written. AI Fact-Checked. Community Verified. Learn how AntMag verifies content