Kingdom of Loathing players: Ascension advice? (spoilers)

Cafe Society
1

I have been playing KoL for several months now (I’m currently a 14th level Disco Bandit), and I just beat the Naughty Sorceress, so apparently I have a lot of decisions to make. Some of the questions I have:

  1. Hardcore or softcore? I’ve heard a lot about speed runs, skills rollover, etc., but I can’t decide. Do I want to lose access to everything for an entire run of the game? OTOH, do I want to bust my butt going through a whole game only to not have access to the skills if I decided to go hardcore in the future?

  2. Oxygenarian, Boozetafarian, or Teetotaler? Not sure.

  3. Zodiac sign? I know they all get different content, and I’m sure they all have stuff to recommend them. Just looking for general commentary and opinions.

  4. Which familiar to bring? Lots of people say the volleyball or the sombrero. My personal favorite is the Cocoabo, which is what helped me beat the Sorceress and seems to be the most versatile.

  5. Miscellaneous tips and thoughts? I’ve stocked up on new bartender-in-a-box and chef-in-a-box (not installed yet, of course) and the parts for a meat maid, Untinkered my bitchin meat car, stocked up on food and drink, in case I go softcore in the future. Any other hot tips?

Thanks.

2

If it’s any help, my friend stopped playing after trying hardcore oxygenarian because it was, in his words, “Not the thrill I had been expecting.” And I think the moxie signs are the best, personally, regardless of what class you play. I can’t remember what the cocoabo does… does it help you fight? I think sombreros are the best pet but a good combat familiar is good too. G’luck.

3

I wonder what my mom would think if she read this thread.

4

Are you a member of the clan?
I took the cocoabo which was good at low levels. I might try the maple leaf this time. I’m still having fun playing it plain, although I might try hardcore next time.

5

Yeah. Krav Maga. It’s OK.

I was thinking of being a pastamancer this time, but I’m still stuck on whether or not to go hardcore. I might find it too frustrating and time-intensive. I already spend too damn much time on that silly game as it is.