Spelunky was one of the most groundbreaking roguelike games ever released. The seamless combination of roguelike mechanics with the side-scrolling platformer genre makes for an unforgettable and iconic experience that has shaped many other games in the genre as well. Spelunky is a masterclass in video game design, and the entertainment from this title can be improved even further with mods.

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Players who want to spice up their playthrough of Spelunky should definitely check out the following mods. They might not do much to overhaul the entire experience, but these mods are still a great way to make each and every playthrough of Spelunky all the more refreshing.

10 Pikachu

Pikachu in Spelunky

Exploring a cave with the default characters in Spelunky can get really old, really quick. Thankfully, there are various mods that add new characters to the game to freshen up the proceedings.

Out of all these custom-made characters, playing as Pikachu is bound to be a treat for Pokemon fans. Just remember that this version of Pikachu can't electrocute enemies, so be wary of the game's enemies if you have no means of protection.

9 Worm Boggy B

Worm Boggy B mod for Spelunky

The Worms franchise is easily one of the most iconic tactical video games around. Controlling a bunch of battle-trained worms as they fight to the death is surprisingly entertaining.

Given how fragile these worms are, it's only fitting that they are modded into Spelunky as well. The tough and unforgiving nature of the game means that players controlling these worms definitely won't be surprised when they keep dying over and over again.

8 Spelunky Classic

Spelunky Classic

The classic version of Spelunky is definitely quite outdated at this point. However, there are still some players that have a soft spot for this version of this now-iconic title.

Players who want the avatar from Spelunky Classic in Spelunky HD can definitely opt for this mod. It adds the classic sprite to this new title, allowing players to take a trip down nostalgia lane while playing the modern version of this game.

7 Soda Drinker Pro Playable Character In HD

Soda Drinker Pro

Players who are well-versed with the weirder side of video gaming know about Soda Drinker Pro. This hilarious title has etched its name in the annals of video game history due to its surreal and side-splitting gameplay.

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Players who are huge fans of this legendary title can add the soda sprite as a playable character in Spelunky HD! It's easily one of the strangest mods for the game, but a treat nevertheless.

6 Gir HD

Gir from Invader Zim

Invader Zim is one of the best Nickelodeon shows that aired during its heyday. The characters of the show were quite memorable, with the robot Gir being a great example of the same.

Players who are huge fans of the show — and this character, especially — should definitely download the Gir HD mod. It adds this beloved character as a Spelunker in the game.

5 Changing Room Mode

Changing Room mod for Spelunky

One of the rather novel aspects of Spelunky Classic was the ability to switch out the sprites of the man and the damsel in distress. Thankfully, this mod brings back the Changing Room for Spelunky HD.

Now, players can switch out the sprites for the Guy Spelunker and the Damsel at a moment's notice. The addition of custom animations is also quite appreciated as well!

4 Isaac Mod BUT HD?????

Binding of Isaac picking up the Holy Mantle cross item

The Binding of Isaac is easily one of the best roguelike titles of all time. So, it's only fitting that the main character from this game is represented in Spelunky — another popular and iconic roguelikethrough a mod!

Playing as Isaac in Spelunky is quite a novel experience indeed, and the lack of disturbing imagery is a huge positive. However, changing games doesn't alter how fragile Isaac is, who will go down at a moment's notice if the player isn't diligent enough.

3 Finn

Finn in Adventure Time

Given how disappointing most recent games have been, it's honestly refreshing to see just how much of a phenomenon Adventure Time really is. Cartoon Network has definitely stumbled about a classic show that they won't be letting go of anytime soon.

Fans of Adventure Time will definitely have a great time controlling Finn in Spelunky. This mod is a great way for fans of the show to play Spelunky with a familiar face... and perhaps compel them to be more careful while controlling this character as well!

2 Mario For Spelunky HD

Mario in Spelunky

A side-scrolling mod-friendly platformer that doesn't feature Mario as a fan-made playable character is akin to committing a crime in the gaming world. So, it shouldn't be a surprise at all that Mario is a playable character for Spelunky HD.

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Watching this iconic Italian plumber explore the caves of Spelunky is bound to be a treat for fans of this character. The high quality of this custom character is one of the major reasons why it's one of the most popular mods on the list.

1 Spelunky 2 Textures Mod

Spelunky 2 riding turkey
Spelunky 2 riding turkey

Any Spelunky player will attest to the fact that the graphics are the last reason why they'd play the game. After all, it's the addictive gameplay loop of the title that's the major reason why so many people absolutely adore this experience.

However, players who still miss the updated textures from this game's sequel can download this mod to integrate the same into Spelunky HD. It might be a small change, but a much-needed one for perfectionists who want their gaming experience to be near-perfect.

Next: Most Useful Items in Spelunky 2