Unlocking the City of Gold and the Cosmic Ocean in Spelunky 2 requires mastering the game’s mechanics and completing specific objectives. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you achieve these goals effectively.

Unlocking the City of Gold

1. Obtain the Udjat Eye:
– The Udjat Eye is essential for locating hidden passages and items within the game. You can acquire it by collecting all the gems in a level until it appears. Once obtained, the Udjat Eye will vibrate and turn yellow when you are near secret areas, guiding you to crucial locations for your goal of reaching the City of Gold.

2. Find the Golden Idol:
– In each of the main worlds, locate and carry the Golden Idol to the exit. This item is often found in the Jungle or the Ice Caves and is important for the unlocking process. Be cautious as attempting to carry it can trigger traps, like falling spikes or enemies.

3. Avoid Losing the Golden Idol:
– It is critical to reach the exit with the Golden Idol intact. If you take damage or drop it, you will need to start over in your next attempt to unlock the City of Gold. Plan your path carefully and anticipate any traps or enemies that could endanger your precious cargo.

4. Enter the City of Gold:
– After successfully bringing the Golden Idol through the initial worlds, make sure to access the hidden entrance at the Jungle exit or a specific location within the levels. The gateway will usually become visible once you meet the requirements. Prepare for the challenges awaiting you inside, including formidable enemies and lucrative treasure opportunities.

Unlocking the Cosmic Ocean

To access the Cosmic Ocean, you’ll need first to navigate through World 7 and accomplish certain prerequisites:

1. Reach World 7:
– Progress through the game to reach World 7 by defeating Tiamat at the end of World 6. Tiamat is one of the game’s bosses, and defeating her opens the pathway to World 7, where you’ll find further challenges.

2. Complete the Special World Requirements:
– In World 7, fulfill any objectives or challenges, which are typically mission-specific; these may involve collecting certain items or defeating specific enemies. Pay close attention to the environmental cues to progress deeper into the game’s secret areas.

3. Access the Cosmic Ocean:
– Once you meet the conditions in World 7, you will receive access to the Cosmic Ocean. This area is renowned for its unique challenges and can symbolize the ultimate test of your skills. Prepare yourself for one of the game’s most demanding environments, filled with tough enemies and rewarding treasures.

General Tips for Secret Objectives

– Explore Thoroughly: Do not rush through levels; take your time to investigate areas as secrets and hidden paths are abundant. Use the Udjat Eye to guide your search.

– Use the Right Items: Weapons and tools such as the Ankh or Kapala can significantly improve your chances of survival and help manage the complex environments. The Ankh grants an extra life, while the Kapala provides health boosts through blood collection.

– Master the Game Mechanics: Familiarize yourself with game mechanics including the use of bombs for breaking walls, ropes for ascension, and how different enemies behave. Understanding these will not only aid in exploration but also in avoiding fatal mistakes.

Following these structured steps and employing these tips will help you successfully explore the City of Gold and the Cosmic Ocean in Spelunky 2. Each journey is a mix of strategy, skill, and a bit of luck—good luck on your adventure!