You can acquire the Axatana in Mortal Shell 2 significantly earlier than intended by bypassing the game's combat encounters. To do this, you must unlock the Outskirts of Mammon Beacon and utilize Tiel’s Shadow ability to cloak yourself from enemies.

Route to the Axatana

  1. Start at the Beacon: Fast travel to the Outskirts of Mammon Beacon.
  2. Navigate to the Bone Gate: Head straight down the Road to Absolution and through the castle ruins. Run past any enemies until you reach the Bone Gate at the end.
  3. Bypass the Metal Meatball: Continue straight. If you encounter the metal meatball enemy, use Tiel’s Shadow ability to dodge or cloak past it.
  4. Turn at the Gate: When you reach the final locked gate, turn left.
  5. Follow the Bridges: Follow the wooden paths and bridges, staying to the left until you reach another Bone Gate.
  6. Use the Air Stream: Cross the gate and use the air stream on your left to ascend to the next level.
  7. Enter the Forgotten Tower: Head right, move up the ramps (right-left-right), and locate the Bone Gate leading to the Forgotten Tower. You will likely need to use your cloaking ability here to avoid detection.
  8. Locate the Weapon: Inside the building, take the first right, head up the stairs, and exit through the hole in the wall. Follow the path to the final Bone Gate to reach the Axatana room.
  9. Collect the Axatana: Activate the button to open the gate, enter the room, and dodge the enemy to grab the weapon. You can then use the Axatana to defeat the enemy if you choose.

Once the weapon is equipped, your primary task is to successfully navigate your way back to safety.