Rabbit and Steel is a game built on precision, cooperation, and surviving increasingly unreasonable mechanics. But hidden beneath the chaos of bullet patterns, lunar suffering, and missed dodges lies a question far more important than damage numbers or clear rates:
Can you pet the shopkeepers?
Across Normal, Hard, and Lunar difficulties, players encounter different shopkeepers with very different attitudes toward being petted. Some welcome it. Some tolerate it. Some appear to reject the concept entirely. None of this is explained in-game, yet the option exists, and therefore must be understood.
This Rabbit and Steel Shopkeeper Petting Guide documents firsthand observations of shopkeeper petting behavior across all difficulties. It breaks down what happens when you attempt to pet each shopkeeper, how consistent the results are, and whether effort, technique, or sheer persistence changes the outcome.
Methodology
Petting was conducted using:
- Mouse: Hold Left Click
- Controller: Hold Left Trigger
Tests were repeated multiple times to confirm consistency. No external tools, mods, or lunar-induced hallucinations were used during testing.
NORMAL DIFFICULTY
SUBJECT 1: TASHA
Approach Phase
Tasha shows immediate positive engagement upon approach. Tail movement begins before contact is made, suggesting pre-emptive approval.
Pet Initiation
Petting succeeds regardless of:
- Hand angle
- Timing
- Commitment
- Emotional readiness
Result
PET SUCCESS – CONSISTENT
Observations
- Subject visibly brightens as the hand approaches
- No failed pet attempts observed
- Accepts chaotic, hesitant, or accidental petting
- Large, fluffy tail confirms approachability
Analysis
Tasha is the ideal entry-level shopkeeper. Recommended for:
- First-time petters
- Players testing keybinds
- Anyone needing emotional reassurance before a run
HARD DIFFICULTY
SUBJECT 2: ASHA
Approach Phase
Asha displays neutrality during approach. No tail movement, no visible anticipation. Subject is aware but reserved.
Pet Initiation
Petting succeeds, but response varies.
Result
PET SUCCESS – TECHNIQUE DEPENDENT
Observations
- Reaction changes based on how the pet is applied
- Overconfident or lazy petting produces muted response
- Deliberate, controlled petting yields better feedback
- Ears are small but highly expressive
Analysis
Asha rewards experience. This shopkeeper separates casual petters from committed ones.
Recommended for:
- Players who have pet before
- Those seeking mastery
- Anyone who respects boundaries
LUNAR DIFFICULTY
SUBJECT 3: SAYA
Approach Phase
Saya acknowledges your presence but does not invite interaction. The atmosphere becomes noticeably tense.
Pet Initiation
Petting does not succeed under normal circumstances.
Result
PET FAILED – REPEATEDLY
Observations
- No visible positive reaction
- Subject appears uninterested or actively disapproving
- Wings remain composed and dignified
- Persistence may be required (ten attempts noted by others)
Analysis
Saya does not reward petting in the traditional sense. Lunar difficulty reframes the act entirely.
This is not about joy.
This is about commitment.
Recommended for:
- Completionists
- Lore theorists
- Those willing to pet without expectation
Comparative
| Difficulty | Shopkeeper | Pet Outcome | Skill Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Normal | Tasha | Guaranteed Success | None |
| Hard | Asha | Conditional Success | Moderate |
| Lunar | Saya | No Immediate Success | Spiritual |
Important Notes
- Petting does not affect shop prices
- Petting does not alter item quality
- Petting does affect morale (yours)
- Lunar petting may not be rewarded, but it is still correct
Failure to pet may result in:
- Reduced run confidence
- Emotional instability
- Questioning your values