Launch verified Updated Sep 27, 2026
Beating The Physicist lets you pick Spike or Astral Rebuke. Both apply Astralized, which speeds how other statuses (Burn, Infected, Weaken) stack.
Quick pick
- Astral Rebuke — default for melee-forward runs: one button to lift a grounded target and open a punish window.
- Spike — take it if you like summons / off-screen pressure (attacks for you; can knock down on re-use).
Spike
Summons a chaotic Astral orb that attacks enemies and builds Astralized. Direct it again to strike / knock down a focus target. Best when Dylan is busy elsewhere in the arena.
Astral Rebuke
Homing spike launches a grounded enemy upward (Lifted) and applies Astralized. Simple disrupt. Weaker when the enemies that hurt you are already airborne most of the fight.
Build notes
Pair either with Burn or Infected kits so Astralized accelerates those stacks. Wrong choice → Reset Item at The Gap Mural, or a Resonant Token from Pope later.
Related: Spore Burst vs Growth · Abilities · Combat