Status Effects Guide for Slay the Spire

Updated 2026-10-15T00:00:00.000Z Source Community mechanics documentation; exact figures to be verified against the game's own data By Antewise Editorial

Data status: This page explains mechanics and decision rules. Where a precise number matters we say so and mark it, rather than guessing.

Buffs you give yourself

Strength adds damage to each attack you make. It stays for the fight and grows as you stack it.

Dexterity adds block to every block card. Against heavy hitters, a little Dexterity goes a long way.

Debuffs you stack on foes

Vulnerable makes the enemy take more damage from attacks. A few stacks turn a weak hit into a real one.

Weak lowers the enemy’s attack damage. It is a soft block that costs no energy to keep up.

Damage over time

Poison deals damage each turn and drops by one stack. It rewards long fights where the count climbs.

Other status such as Frail or lost Strength have their own rules. Read each card before you lean on it.

Next: Powers versus cards.

Frequently asked questions

What does Vulnerable do?

A vulnerable enemy takes more attack damage for a few turns. It is one of the strongest buffs you can apply.

What is the difference between Strength and Dexterity?

Strength raises the damage of your attacks. Dexterity raises the block you gain from cards. Both stack and persist.

What is the strongest status effect in Slay the Spire?

Vulnerable and Strength decide most fights. Vulnerable raises your damage, and Strength raises it every turn you attack.

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