Mortal Shell 2 has arrived with its challenging gameplay and intricate upgrade systems that demand careful attention from players. Among the most crucial resources in the game are Tarcores, which are essential for fully leveling up your Tarstones. While obtaining these valuable items is surprisingly straightforward, many players find themselves confused about where to find them. The reason is simple: Tarcores don’t appear automatically in your inventory after you earn them, leading countless players to believe they’re missing out on a rare resource that’s actually been waiting for them all along.
The Mortal Shell franchise has built its reputation on being a challenging action RPG that draws inspiration from the Soulslike genre. Developed by Cold Symmetry, the original Mortal Shell released in 2020 and quickly gained a dedicated following for its unique shell-swapping mechanic and punishing combat. The sequel expands upon these foundations with new systems, including the Tarstone upgrade mechanic that serves as a cornerstone of character progression. Understanding how to properly utilize Tarcores is essential for anyone hoping to survive the game’s brutal encounters and reach their full potential.
Understanding the Tarcore Collection System
The key to acquiring Tarcores in Mortal Shell 2 lies in understanding the game’s unique collection mechanic. Unlike most RPGs where upgrade materials automatically populate your inventory, Tarcores must be physically collected from the Tarforge. Specifically, players need to visit the outlet located at the front of the Tarforge to retrieve their earned Tarcores. This design choice reflects the game’s commitment to immersive gameplay mechanics, but it has left many players scratching their heads when they can’t find the resources they need.
If you’ve already upgraded several Tarstones but your inventory shows zero Tarcores available for further upgrades, don’t panic. Simply return to Franz, the location housing the Tarforge, and check the mouth of the forge where your uncollected Tarcores have been accumulating. Many players have reported finding substantial quantities of the resource waiting for them after realizing they had never actually picked up their rewards. This mechanic, while initially confusing, adds an extra layer of engagement to the upgrade process and encourages players to return to the Tarforge regularly.
Planning Your Upgrade Path Strategically
One of the most important considerations when dealing with Tarcores is the mathematical reality of the upgrade system. Each Tarstone requires six Tarcores to reach level three, which represents the maximum upgrade tier. However, the game does not provide enough Tarcores in a single playthrough to fully upgrade all available Tarstones. This deliberate design decision forces players to make meaningful choices about which Tarstones to prioritize based on their preferred playstyle and build strategy.
For players determined to achieve complete mastery over all Tarstones, multiple playthroughs in New Game Plus mode are mandatory. This approach aligns with the Soulslike tradition of encouraging repeated runs through increasingly difficult versions of the game. Cold Symmetry has clearly designed Mortal Shell 2 with replayability in mind, giving dedicated players long-term goals to pursue beyond the initial campaign completion. Choosing which Tarstones to upgrade first becomes a strategic decision that can significantly impact your early game experience.
Maximizing Your Build Potential
Once you’ve secured your Tarcores and decided which Tarstones to upgrade, the next step is ensuring you’re pairing them with the optimal Shells. The Shell system remains a defining feature of the Mortal Shell franchise, allowing players to inhabit different bodies with unique attributes and abilities. The Genessa Shell, in particular, has emerged as a fan favorite that synergizes well with various Tarstone configurations. Players who haven’t yet acquired this Shell should prioritize doing so to unlock additional build possibilities.
For veterans embarking on subsequent playthroughs, the game offers additional challenges to keep the experience fresh. The Slayer Seal provides modified gameplay conditions that test even the most experienced players, while adjustable difficulty settings allow for customized challenge levels. These options ensure that collecting Tarcores across multiple runs remains engaging rather than repetitive, rewarding dedicated players who commit to mastering every aspect of the game’s deep progression systems.
Expert Opinion: The Tarcore collection mechanic in Mortal Shell 2 represents an interesting design philosophy that prioritizes player engagement over convenience. While initially frustrating for some, this system encourages regular interaction with the game’s hub area and creates natural pacing breaks. Players should expect future updates to potentially streamline this process, but for now, treating Tarforge visits as routine maintenance will ensure smooth progression throughout multiple playthroughs.
