Comprehensive Guide to Macro Itemization and Management in Risk of Rain 2

Introduction

A frequent question I get is: “Why didn’t you pick up that item?” The answer lies in macro itemization—understanding the long game of loot management. This advanced guide dives into the strategies that optimize your inventory, manipulate RNG, and increase your odds of powerful, consistent runs in Risk of Rain 2. This is not a beginner’s walkthrough, but a deeper look into deliberate and strategic item handling.

Core Tools: Scrappers, Printers, and Recyclers

Scrappers

Convert unwanted items into scrap of the same tier.
Essential for protecting valuable items when using printers—only scrap will be consumed.

Printers

Allow you to convert any item of the same rarity into the one displayed.
Use only after scrapping to prevent loss of important components.

Recyclers

Reroll any item into a random one of the same rarity.
Use to convert unhelpful or run-breaking drops into something build-friendly.

Situational Decision-Making: Evaluate Before You Act

Scenario 1: Valuable Printer, No Scrap

Think First: Is the item worth gambling your current gear?
Solution: Fully scout the stage for a scrapper. Don’t risk high-value items for a random gain.
Goal: Preserve essentials while capitalizing on the printer’s value.

Scenario 2: Red Item Drop (e.g., Aegis)

Ask: Does it match your current build?
Approach:
- Delay picking it up.
- Search for a recycler to try for a better-suited legendary like Clover or Behemoth.
Result: Greater long-term potential at the cost of momentary power.

Scenario 3: Multi-Shop Terminal

Objective: Maximize value from a limited-choice shop.
Strategy: Look for an equipment barrel with a card (e.g., Executive Card) before purchase to buy all options.
Benefit: Efficiency and item value without waste.

Using Macro Tools Like a Pro

Printer Efficiency

Avoid picking up new white items until after you’ve scrapped.
Example: If a Tri-Tip Dagger printer is on the stage and a Paul’s Goat Hoof drops, scrap the junk first—then collect the hoof after printing.

Cauldrons (Bazaar Between Time or Moon)

Fill your inventory with scrap or undesired items before interacting.
Tip: Use white scrap to prevent losing green or red tier items.

Void Cradle / Key Box Timing

Delay opening the Void Key box until you’ve collected multiple Encrusted Keys.
Reason: When opened later, you’ll duplicate more keys for exponentially better rewards.

Advanced Itemization Techniques

Equipment Re-Roll Cycling

Equipment slots lock after a roll, but positions don’t.
How-To:
- Drop or move equipment, recycle a new one, and repeat to cycle efficiently.
- Ideal for finding specific use-case equipment like Royal Capacitor or Gnarled Woodsprite.

Delayed Void Item Pickups

Pick up void items last on the map.
Why: If you collect corrupted items early, it limits your scrapping options for future void corruption management.

Macro Playstyle Tips

Always Scout First
- Explore the entire map before making major pickup or scrap decisions.
- Identify scrappers, printers, and recyclers early to plan effectively.
Use Multi-Shops Smartly
- Wait to buy from multi-shops until you secure an Executive Card or cleared shop plan.
- Don’t rush—rushing costs efficiency.
Adapt to RNG, Don’t Submit to It
- Use macro tools to reduce randomness and shape builds around what’s available—not what’s ideal.
Be Patient with Void Items
- Delaying their pickup helps manage corrupted counterparts.
- Scrapping before touching void cradles ensures you don’t lose key gear unexpectedly.
Play Long-Term
- Forgo short-term boosts if it means securing core synergy items later.
- Patience and preparation often lead to game-winning builds.

Conclusion

Mastering macro itemization is about control, not chance. Every scrap, printer, or recycler is a tool to shape your run. With practice, patience, and foresight, you’ll be able to navigate RNG-heavy runs with confidence, turning potential chaos into a structured, optimized build.

Happy looting—and may your runs be legendary.