Skip to content
World 3
Spelunky 2

World 3

Defeat Olmec in Spelunky 2's World 3. Learn strategies for all three forms, find the Ankh, and unlock shortcuts.

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

Defeat Olmec in Spelunky 2's World 3. Learn strategies for all three forms, find the Ankh, and unlock shortcuts.

Walkthrough
  1. 1
    Enter Olmec's Lair. Olmec is introduced immediately. There is no ghost (a spectral enemy that pursues the player) on this level, allowing for a more relaxed pace.
  2. 2
    To damage Olmec in his first form, stay close and deliberately trigger his crushing attack. When you pass underneath him, he pauses briefly before slamming down. Use this moment to move past him. Guide Olmec back and forth, using his crushing attack to destroy the floor until he falls to the next level.
  3. 3
    On the right side of the level, a ladder may lead to the Par sisters if you rescued them in the Jungle. The top of the level contains chests, gold, Monty, and item boxes.
  4. 4
    Upon reaching the second floor, Olmec enters his second form. He hovers side-to-side and attacks by firing Bombs from both sides in sets of three when you are below him. You can stand on his head while he attacks.
  5. 5
    The exits on the second floor lead to Tide Pool (upper) and Temple of Anubis (lower). A push block may obstruct the path to the exits.
  6. 6
    To defeat Olmec's second form, damage the two hover gadgets on his underside. A running jump whip attack is effective for hitting both simultaneously. Escape to his other side before he falls. If Olmec falls over a push block, the resulting hole will be offset, allowing you to create a safe path downwards.
  7. 7
    Alternatively, wait under Olmec while he fires Bombs, as it is usually safe unless they bounce off walls. Damage his floaters when he is positioned over a hole. Ropes can also damage him.
  8. 8
    On the bottom floor, Olmec enters his third form if he doesn't fall into the lava. He performs two crushing attacks followed by releasing UFOs (flying saucers). Dispatch UFOs with basic attacks. Landing on a UFO's left side causes it to fall right, and vice versa.
  9. 9
    Continue using Olmec's attacks against him until he falls into the lava. You can enter backroom entrances by landing on his head before he sinks, even if he falls between doors.
  10. 10
    The backroom contains gold, Bats, and clay pots. At the top, you will find the golden Ankh, which resurrects you once and is part of a chain for a secret ending.
  11. 11
    A one-way door and an item box with a Parachute are in the upper right of the backroom.
  12. 12
    A hidden doorway can be accessed by bombing your way in (two Bombs are sufficient) on the top floor of Olmec's arena. Inside, Waddler offers to transport items to later stages he appears in.
Tips
  • Olmec's sight range begins when half his face is visible on the screen. He leaps 8 blocks, so do not undercommit to dodging.
  • The second form's Bombs can create holes all the way to the bottom of the stage.
  • The exits on the second floor are useful for unlocking shortcuts.
  • The Ankh is a good item to pause the game with, as the backroom has no time pressure.
  • The hidden doorway in the arena leads to Waddler, who can transport items to later stages.
  • Completing World 3 puts you halfway through Spelunky 2.

The Second Shortcut:

Terra requires the following for the second shortcut:

  • One Rope
  • Any weapon (consider dropping it during the first Olmec form to prevent it from being crushed)
  • Any mount (consider leaving it somewhere safe until the second floor)

Using this shortcut starts you on the second floor with Olmec alive above. You can Rope up to the ceiling to lure him through the floor, practicing his second and third forms or creating a path to the bottom floor exit.

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