iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
There is no confirmed universal rule to upgrade talismans before other gear—or the other way around—in Minecraft Dungeons II. Talismans provide passive bonuses and build customization, while the game’s published upgrade details specifically describe improving enchantments applied to gear. Choose based on the weakness your build needs to address and the effects available in your current game, rather than assuming talismans have a known upgrade advantage.
What talismans do compared with other gear
Minecraft describes talismans as a new equipment category that provides “passive bonuses and additional build customization.” Mojang Design Director Laura de Llorens likewise called them “passive boosts” in an official Xbox Wire podcast.
They are part of a broader equipment system. The official gameplay-systems overview describes combat slots expanding from six to twelve and armor being divided into four pieces: helmet, chestplate, leggings, and boots. Items can also have random effects. This gives players more ways to shape a build, but it does not establish that a talisman is inherently more valuable than a weapon, armor piece, or other gear.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallWhat the game confirms about upgrades
The published upgrade explanation concerns enchantments, not talisman item levels. Enchantment books add unique effects to a personal library; the Enchantsmith can apply those effects to a gear slot, and enchantments can be upgraded over time. The official systems overview does not say whether talisman items themselves can be upgraded, give comparative upgrade costs, or rank upgrades by their returns.
#1 Best Overall
- Minecraft Dungeons Ultimate Edition
Keep those mechanics separate: an enchantment upgrade is not proof that the equipment item carrying it has been upgraded, and it does not establish that talismans are upgradeable. Check the current in-game interface for the specific item and available action before spending resources.
How to decide what to upgrade first
Use this as a practical decision method, not a developer-prescribed ranking. Compare the actual upgrade options shown in your game against the problem your build needs to solve.
Rank #2
![Minecraft Dungeons Standard - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51Mbbs7dCvL._SL160_.jpg)
- 2020 Mojang Synergies AB. TM Microsoft Corporation.
- Identify your immediate weakness. If you are struggling to stay alive, prioritize an available effect that helps address survivability. If your issue is damage or control, look for an option that supports that need.
- Check build fit. Favor a passive bonus or gear effect that complements how you fight, rather than choosing a talisman simply because it is a talisman.
- Consider combinations. An effect may be more useful when it works with your other equipment or enchantments. Judge the combination in the context of your build; one reported demo setup is an example, not a universal recommendation.
- Compare the actual cost and result. Review the current upgrade screen and weigh the cost against the benefit shown for each option. The official sources do not publish a talisman-versus-gear cost comparison, so there is no sourced cost rule to apply across players.
What a reported demo example can—and cannot—show
An Xbox Wire hands-on report from June 2026 described three talisman slots in its demo and a bone talisman that summoned a dog companion, which attacked enemies and drew their attention. The report also described that talisman working alongside an enchantment that could create regeneration spots when enemies were killed. This illustrates how effects can complement one another; it does not prove that this combination is best, that the demo slot count is unchanged in the released game, or that every talisman works the same way.
What is still unknown
The official materials establish talismans’ role as passive bonuses and customization, and they explain how enchantments can be applied and improved. They do not provide a universal talisman-versus-gear upgrade order, a complete upgrade-cost comparison, or confirmation in the cited systems overview that talisman items themselves can be upgraded. Avoid treating advice from the original Minecraft Dungeons or vanilla Minecraft as a confirmed mechanic for Minecraft Dungeons II.
Rank #3
- Drop the pickaxe, grab a sword, and charge into a thrilling new adventure in the Minecraft Dungeons II Deluxe Edition
Minecraft announced September 29, 2026 as the release date in its date announcement. Its launch page lists Steam, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and Nintendo Switch 2. Upgrade actions and costs should be checked in the version you are playing.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Pre-order Minecraft Dungeons II today and get 2 hero skins, the Twisted cape, and the Twisted chicken pet! Minecraft Dungeons II Deluxe Edition includes the base game and the Soul Pack, featuring 4 hero skins, the Soul cape cosmetic item, the Blub pet companion, and DLC 1 & 2.*Requires initial content download. Online console multiplayer/co-op requires a platform specific online subscription (sold separately).
- Fight against a new, challenging threat that puts your combat skills to the test like never before.
- Craft the perfect hero with legendary gear, including a wide range of weapons, armor, and artifacts.
Rank #4
- Fight your way through an all action-adventure game, inspired by dungeon crawlers and set in the Minecraft universe
- Unite - up to four friends can play together or you can brave the dungeons alone
- Fight - use melee swings, hang back with ranged attacks or tank your way through shielded by heavy armour. Personalise your character and unlock distinct items and weapon enchantments for devastating special attacks
- Survive - explore the action-packed, treasure-stuffed levels - all in an epic quest to save the villagers and take down the evil Arch-Illager
- Includes the hero pass giving you access to a hero cape, two player skins and a chicken pet. It also includes two DLC packs, when they become available
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
