An image of Magic Cave in Brighter Shores
Image via Destructoid

Brighter Shores Magic Cave guide: Which faction should you choose

All choices are good

The Magic Cave is perhaps the most important location you get to visit in the Hopeforest region of Brighter Shores, and it involves you picking between one of the three available functions.

Recommended Videos

As you begin your adventure, Hopeforest will remain locked. You’ll have to clear the quests in Hopeport before you can make your journey to the second region. Entering the Magic Cave will allow you to pick the faction you want, but before that, you’ll need to know where to find it in the first place.

How to go to Magic Cave in Brighter Shores

While opening the Magic Cave is relatively easy, reaching it will take you at least a few hours. Episode 1 must be complete, as you’ll need access to the Hopeforest region.

  • Once you reach Hopeforest, search for all your companions.
  • Go to the Dryad Glade and kill the Mutant Stag to save the Dryad.
  • As a thank you, you’ll get a Dryad Leaf.
  • Head northwest, and you’ll find the Thin Trail.
  • Go past the Narrow Path near Tangled Lane.
  • To open the Magic Cave, you’ll need the help of the Dryad. Use the Dryad Leaf to summon him.

Once the cave is opened, head inside to pick a faction.

Brighter Shores Kevin's ingredient stall
Screenshot by Destructoid

All factions in Brighter Shores

There are three available factions in Brighter Shores. All of them have their respective strengths and weaknesses, and you can pick only one of them.

FactionElement of useThreatWeapons
CryoknightCryonae (Ice Magic)Tempestae (Lightning Magic)Metal
GuardianArborae (Nature Magic)Cryonae (Ice Magic)Bone
HammermageTempestae (Lightning Magic)Arborae (Nature Magic)Stone

Which faction should you pick in Brighter Shores?

This is one decision you can make based on what you like. As I said, every faction counters one another – they will have a weakness against one and do extra damage to the other. Some of the enemies you come against in Hopeforest will do attacks of all three types mentioned in the table above. Simply put, all three factions will thrive against some and struggle against the rest.

Irrespective of your choice, always pay attention to the enemy attack types and their immunity. You’ll want to concentrate on their elemental weaknesses, as that will allow you to do extra damage. Concentrating on these decisions will be far more critical on most occasions, but having a faction that does favorable damage will be helpful.


Destructoid is supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission. Learn more about our Affiliate Policy
Author