Portal 2 spoiler-free tips: better than a story-ruining walkthrough guide

Written by Alex Roth on May 10, 2011

Specials: You'll be GlaDos with Alex Roth for his spoiler-free pointers for Portal 2 whether you're playing the game on Xbox 360, PS3 and the PC. Read on.

Does GlaDos have you grinding your teeth? Solving Portal 2's puzzles is it's own reward, but so is uncovering the game's story. Don't blow the surprises by resorting to a full-fledged walkthrough - try some of these tips first.

Keep moving!
If you're stumped, you need to see the problem from a new perspective, literally. Run around the room and you might see something you missed.

Listen up!
When you're on the right track, you'll notice a change in the score. It's a musical version of telling you if you're hot or cold. If the music chimes in, you're getting close.

Move your portals
Obscure angles and exact timing are never the answer. Try putting your portals somewhere else.

Where can I go, what can I portal?
To solve any puzzle, you've got to know two things: 1) Where is the exit and 2) what surfaces can I portal? Once you've identified that, you're on your way.

Line ?em up
Most surfaces in Portal 2 have tiles. Use them like a grid, count out your shots to line up portals, laser beams, etc.

Two heads are always better
A teammate on the couch always helps, even in single player. It doesn't matter if they've never touched the game, a fresh set of eyes can be illuminating.

Take a break
If you're burned out, frustrated, or just in need of a nap, put down the portal gun and come back later. You'll be surprised how quick it goes when you're fresh.

You haven't blown it
There's no way to ?break,? or make unsolvable, a test in Portal 2. Even if you drop a cube or lose an important portal, there's still hope. Don't go offing yourself and lose valuable progress!

Not enough for you? Need to have Portal 2's inner most secrets spoiled? Head over to Kotaku and get the big dirt.