Unlocking hidden upgrades in Stray is an engaging part of the gameplay experience, allowing players to enhance their cat’s journey and open up new interactions within the game’s vibrant world. Here’s a detailed guide on how to effectively unlock these upgrades and collectibles:

B-12 Memories

Purpose:
B-12 Memories are essential for enhancing the abilities of B-12, the robotic companion of the cat. Collecting these memories not only enriches the game’s narrative but also facilitates gameplay improvements that enable the cat to interact with the environment in new ways.

Locations:
There are a total of 27 B-12 Memories scattered throughout various chapters of the game. Each memory requires players to engage with particular objects or areas within the game world. Once your inventory system is enabled (available from Chapter 3), it becomes easier to track your progress in collecting these memories.

Badges

Purpose:
Badges represent collectibles in the form of stickers that can be affixed to the cat’s backpack. While they do not confer new abilities directly, they add a layer of customization and contribute to achieving overall game completion.

Locations:
You can discover 6 Badges across the game, with the first being obtainable in Chapter 4. Each badge features a unique design, making it visually easy to identify which ones you have or need.

Other Collectibles and Interactions

– Sheet Music: Vital for completing the “Meowlody” trophy, players must find and return all Sheet Music pieces to a character named Morusque.

– Energy Drinks: Exclusively found in Chapter 4, these can be consumed for fun interactions, adding a quirky touch to the gameplay.

– Nuzzles: Interacting with robot characters through nuzzling contributes towards the “Cat’s Best Friend” trophy, encouraging players to engage with the world more relationally.

Upgrading Abilities

In Stray, traditional leveling up or skill trees are not the method for upgrading the cat’s abilities. Instead, the enhancement process is driven by story progression and the collection of B-12 Memories. These memories expand B-12’s capabilities, which in turn unlock key tools and interactions for the cat, allowing access to previously inaccessible areas and objects.

Tips for Unlocking Hidden Content

1. Utilize Chapter Select: Since none of the collectibles are missable, you can revisit any chapter post completion to search for and collect any items you missed. This feature is especially helpful for thorough exploration.

2. Track Your Progress: Regularly check your inventory for B-12 Memories, Sheet Music, and Energy Drinks. Keep an eye on your cat’s backpack for visible badges, helping you gauge what you still need.

3. Thorough Exploration: Take your time to explore every nook and cranny in each area. Often, hidden collectibles are tucked away in less obvious places, and thorough investigation can yield rewarding finds.

By following these strategies and making effective use of the Chapter Select feature, you can fully unlock all hidden upgrades and collectibles in Stray, enhancing both your gameplay experience and the journey of your feline protagonist. Enjoy the adventure!