Spiderling

Spiderling is a small parasitic enemy found across The Boneyard, Caves, Desert, Bunker, and The End chapters. With only 2 HP, 3 damage, and 4 movement, it is extremely fragile but fast enough to close in on targets quickly. Spiderlings are classified as small enemies and often appear in groups, sometimes spawning from elite enemies or from cats afflicted with the Infested status when they die.

The Spiderling's melee attack burrows into its victim, inflicting the Infested status effect. This costs the Spiderling 3 HP in self-damage as it digs in, which means a standard Spiderling kills itself in the process. The real danger is the Infested status it leaves behind: an infested cat may spawn additional Spiderlings when it takes damage or dies, potentially cascading into a swarm situation. If a Spiderling emerges from an elite enemy, it may inherit that enemy's elite buffs, making it far more dangerous than a regular spawn.

Ranged attacks are the cleanest counter, eliminating Spiderlings before they reach melee range. Fire tile effects are particularly effective since fire is easy to create and maintain on the battlefield, and Spiderlings have no resistances to exploit. Champion Spiderlings have 5 HP and 4 damage with 5 movement, making them durable enough to survive their own burrowing attack and potentially infest multiple targets. In encounters with Spider Kitten or other Spiderling-spawning enemies, controlling the infestation chain early prevents the situation from spiraling.