The scale armor was augmented for evasion; not even the scorpions could hit me. I waltzed through the demon halls without worries.
I also had a RoW +1 and a robber's armband, and at some point had more than 10,000 gold. I had never had more than 3,000 before. Overall, I collected almost 21,000 gold; all my previous wins hovered around 14,000.
There are three (!) stones of enchantment, not even in hidden rooms. And five experience potions!
Ascended with a score of 242,000, my best yet.
Seed: BSC-DPD-VGR
I have yet to ascend without the HoP, upgraded WoR, or the chalice. Before augmenting your scale, did you just survive on food drops and huntress dew?
Yes, just food drops, potions of healing and dew. This particular seed has an ample supply of food as well. In general, I used to struggle with food management, but lately I've improved this aspect of the game and seldom run out of food. Some ideas:
Great tips, thanks! I almost always toss the bland fruit for space.
If you're struggling with food without Horn of Plenty, have you tried consistently letting yourself starve to somewhere between 50-80% of your max health before eating?
I have but on those runs my death rate jumps through the roof. My health, at least until I get chainmail or get lucky with +2 weapon, is always somewhere between 50-80%. Maybe I play too haphazardly.
It might just be a matter of being more efficient with your route, or occasionally letting go of rooms if you're already hungry to move on a little quicker.
You're definitely right I need to plan routes better. Maybe just playing slower and more methodically. Thanks!