Introduction
The last category on this list is the Merchant% Speedrun. This is the best category for new speedrunners as it doesn't require much memorization and is very short and easy to learn. Time starts when you enter the dungeon and stops when you kill the Merchant Boss.
Initial Setup
To set up this run, you need to change a couple of things in settings and download a mod that helps time your Speedrun. Navigate over to the 'Resources' tab on the Ancient Dungeon Speedrun page and download the 'Speedrun Timer Helper' by DaBoss. Once this is done, go ahead and navigate to your system storage and place the mod in your ADVR mods folder. For those who are new to modding or don't know how to do this, visit RPGPenguin's video linked here for instructions.
Once all of this is complete, go ahead and boot up the game and head over to your settings. Enable only DaBoss's Speedrun Helper Mod and then head over to the screen that allows you to select your weapon right before entering the dungeon. Select whichever weapon combo you'd like to use (both are allowed for this run). Click on the dice icon on the top right, scroll down and select the 'Merchant%' option. Then proceed to the dungeon as normal.
Most of the tips from the Any% Speedrun also apply to the Merchant% Category, especially the "Don't Stop Moving" and minimap tips. This run is admittedly very RNG dependant and is dependant on the upgrades and orbs you get before entering the Merchant's Shop. With a combination of good upgrade, a good orb, and strategy, you should be able to easily achieve a sub-minute run with enough tries.
The Merchant Battle
Once you enter the Merchant's Shop, make sure to hit the Merchant as soon as possible to activate his transforming phase. This transformation takes a very long time at around 15 seconds, and there is currently no known way to skip this. Once the Merchant finishes his transformation, hit them with both your projectile and your main weapon (whether it be crossbow or sword) to do more damage. You should use this method for each time that you attack him do the max amount of damage possible.
The Merchant will teleport around the room each time you hit him and use a different attack. The Merchant has a few different attacks, including:
- Spawning either tiny merchants that fly around and hit you (similar to wisps) or the glass laser beam from the Forgotten Library
- Shooting a laser beam at you
- Protecting himself by using a shield (denoted by a dark blue tint around the Merchant) and then using an AOE attack after a couple of seconds
The Merchant will teleport quickly and erratically, so it is important to use your sound and quick reaction time to locate him as quickly as possible.
#Conclusion
By using these methods and practicing you should be able to get a competitive time. If you have any questions feel free to ask in the Discord. Happy speedrunning!
