Launch-day player reports say yes: co-op runs can unlock characters. Treat the exact details as community-verified rather than officially exhaustively documented.
Unlock behavior in co-op is still a first-week FAQ, so the page uses the launch build's multiplayer interface as proof of scope.
Yes, based on launch-day player reports, co-op runs can unlock characters in Slay the Spire 2.
That answer is useful, but it needs the right confidence note. As of March 7, 2026, the official FAQ still does not provide a full written unlock matrix, so this should still be treated as community-verified launch information.
Verification note
Based on March 5-6, 2026 community reports on Steam plus secondary launch-week coverage. Mega Crit's public FAQ does not yet spell out every unlock edge case.
Before your next co-op run
Co-op questions usually start with one clean rule: can you do it, how do you set it up, and what counts for progression.
From there, the related links help your group move into matchmaking, unlocks, team comps, and any update that changes multiplayer play.
Get the direct co-op answer first, then branch into party strategy.
Follow the linked guides if the co-op question affects unlocks, class choice, or role division.
Check the update pages if co-op rules or progression details change.
What players are reporting
Steam discussion threads from launch day report that players can unlock characters while playing co-op. Those reports line up with secondary launch-week guides that describe the early unlock chain in active profiles rather than solo-only progression.
That is enough evidence to answer the practical reader question, but not enough to pretend every edge case is fully documented by the developer yet.
What the answer means right now
If your group wants to learn together, co-op should still advance roster progress based on current reports. That removes one of the biggest fears new groups have when deciding whether to start together or alone.
The important caveat is confidence: the answer is yes right now, but it is still worth checking the patch tracker and FAQ for any change or clarification.
What to keep in mind
This is one of those early-access questions where the honest answer is a blend of evidence and caution. Use the current answer, but keep an eye on official wording as patches and clarifications arrive.
