Downwell

Hard mode is unlocked after beating the game once. For more information on Hard Mode, see Step 3 of the Roadmap.

The greatest difference here is spike traps now are always active, and will pop up at a set interval of time uninterruptedly, regardless of where or when you land. Also, skeletons tend to appear without any warning, and you might get hit by their bones.

Just like with Area 1, there are more enemies. Phantoms with the "angry eyes" variant appear more often, and they tend to pursue you for longer distances. There are also fewer caverns and safe havens.

Do not go for combos, as it's way too dangerous. Instead, go for a paced descend, carefully observing your surroundings, planing where and when to land. If you need to use a spiked trap floor, time your landing so you won't get hit. Ghosts work great to break your fall. Avoid shooting flying skulls at all costs. Generally there are more than one, and they will all chase after you, which will force you to go down faster, which, in turn, will make you more vulnerable to other enemies.

Some consider this the most difficult area (excluding the Boss). The trophy will unlock at the upgrade selection screen of Area 2-3.