Welcome to the Nightmare [Catastrophe] Boss Guide.

The goal of this guide is to provide tips and strategies for beating every Boss in the game under Nightmare [Catastrophe] Time Attack conditions. It also acts as video proof that this is legitimately beatable -- barely.

The strategies described here can be applied to any difficulty setting. Though at lower difficulty settings, other strategies become viable (and possibly easier to pull off).

When fighting a Boss, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

• If you can't beat a Boss within 1 Hour, walk away for at least 10 Minutes and then try again. You'd be surprised what a slightly refreshed mind can do.
  
• Try not to focus on the HP Meters. While they are important, they can distract from actually fighting the boss.

Story Mode
Story Mode has numerous advantages compared to Time Attack.

• You can start a Boss fight with all Magic Gauges fully charged.
  
• You have choice in regards to equipped Accessories.
  
  • Some Accessory alternatives can make Boss fights significantly easier.
    
  • The [Galba Hand] can help to overcome nearly all Bosses when underlevelled, but only if you understand the Bosses really well.
• In [Standard] Mode, you can equip stronger Healing Items than those used in Time Attack.
  
• In [Catastrophe] Mode, you can sell the (overly numerous) [Capla Water] for Gold.
  
  • Use it to buy better equipment sooner.
    
  • Use it to buy Seeds when you've bought all the equipment.
• Grinding is unnecessary, but a viable option if a Boss turns out to be too challenging.
  
  • WARNING [1]: There is a Point of No Return, after which there are three bosses and no enemies to grind against. Make sure to keep a Save file BEFORE this point.
    
  • WARNING [2]: There is an EARLIER Event during which you will be unable to grind before fighting a Boss. Make sure to keep a Save file BEFORE this event.

Time Attack
Time Attack has one advantage over Story Mode; Adol will NEVER receive Critical Hits.

Accessory alternatives listed in this guide are modifications to Time Attack conditions. Theoretically, there are numerous possible accessory combinations available for use against each Boss. However, I only considered two types of accessory alternatives.

Type 1 - Provides considerable Advantage compared to Time Attack conditions, has NO Disadvantages.

Type 2 - Provides Advantages that significantly outway any resultant Disadvantages. The Disadvantages do not make the Boss unbeatable.

NOTES:
There were a couple of cases where a seemingly superior accessory combination turned out to have a hidden disadvantage that made the Boss far more challenging (sometimes unbeatable).

Many skills and abilities in Napishtim are non-intuitive. They are also, unfortunately, poorly explained in-game. Understanding the nuances of these abilities are extremely helpful (and in some cases required) for beating bosses at Nightmare [Catastrophe] Time Attack conditions.

Elemental Attacks become available after tempering a sword to Level [04].

When using an Elemental Attack, Adol is EXTREMELY vulnerable to damage. Elemental Attacks negate the grace period Adol receives after taking an attack, which can result in Adol receiving rapid, continuous damage form one or more attacks.

Normally: Adol takes damage only 2 times per second.
Elemental Attack in Use: Adol takes damage 4 times per second.

The Wind Element is an (up to) 8 hit combo. The first 3 are Basic Attacks. The last 5 are Wind Element Attacks with the fifth being a powerful finisher.

Attack 3 times using the Basic Attack, then press the Attack button up to 5 more times with the correct timing to unleash up to 5 Wind Element Attacks.

Timing:

By specifying a direction, Adol will move in that direction when unleashing a Wind Element Attack. If no direction is specified, Adol will remain nearly stationary when unleashing a Wind Element Attack.

NOTE: The fastest all 5 Wind Elements can be unleashed is about HALF the speed of [Livart] Swipes. The slowest is about a THIRD the speed of [Livart] Swipes.

WARNING: Adol is MOST susceptible to continuous attack damage while using the Wind Element Attack.

The Flame Element is a secondary attack of [Brillante].

While Adol is stationary, hold the Attack button, the Flame Element will charge (Adol will glow red). Adol will remain stationary while the Flame Element is charging. The directional controls are used to aim the attack. When the Flame Element is fully charged, a small stream of flame will shoot along the ground from [Brillante].

It takes about a second for the Flame Element to fully charge. However, the attack can be cut off mid-charge, unleashing a less powerful attack with significantly shorter range, but allowing Adol to move sooner.

Like all attacks, the Flame Element will not continuously fire by holding down the Attack button.

NOTE: The Flame Element can not be initiated while performing a Basic Attack combo. Holding down the Attack Button during a Basic Attack strike will do nothing.

IMPORTANT TIP: Coming to a stop and then pressing the Attack button may execute the Lunge Attack - most likely into damage. There are two possible ways to avoid this.

1. Hold the Attack Button while Adol is moving.
2. Turn Adol so he's facing the opposite direction, then turn him back while pressing the Attack Button.

WARNING: Adol is susceptible to continuous attack damage while the Flame Element is charging.

The Thunder Element is the finisher of a 6 (minimum) hit combo (5 Basic Attacks followed by the Thunder Element on the 6th).

Mash the Attach button as quickly as possible, a charge builds up (Adol glows yellow). On the final attack, Adol will charge forward with lightning surrounding him.

Unleashing Thunder Element in 6 attacks is the fastest it can be done. However, in general, it will usually take 7 attacks to use the Thunder Element.

NOTE: It is difficult to take continuous attack damage using the Thunder Element due to the speed of the attack. However, Adol is still susceptible while unleashing the Thunder Element.

Magic becomes available when a sword is tempered to Level [02].

Magic can only be used when the Magic Gauge is fully charged. The Magic Gauge charges as Adol damages enemies and receives damage from enemies. It will also automatically charge once a sword has been tempered to Level [08]. When a sword is tempered to Level [11], Magic will rapidly auto-recharge.

IMPORTANT TIP: Adol is INVULNERABLE to damage while discharging Magic. The ONLY exception is environmental damage (the Energy Pool in the [Ruins of Lost Time]).

Maelstrom Magic generates a whirlwind around Adol that damages any nearby enemies. The attack lasts considerably longer compared to other Magic, but it also deals out damage at a slower pace.

IMPORTANT TIP: Adol is restricted from jumping until just before the Maelstrom begins to dissipate, just as the invulnerability granted by the attack wears off.

Maelstrom Magic has the longest period of invulnerability.

Explosion Magic is fired from [Brillante], and travels along the ground in the direction that Adol was aiming. Explosion Magic is the ONLY Magic where aiming is required. However, a well aimed attack will deal significant damage to any enemies directly in front of Adol.

NOTE: Level [2] and Level [3] Explosion Magic can damage airborne enemies due to its size.

Explosion Magic has a short period of invulnerability.

Lightning Magic shoots out of [Ericcil] and seeks towards nearby enemies. Enemies are struck several times during the attack. However, no enemy will be struck twice unless all other nearby enemies have been struck. Therefore, more enemies means less damage per enemy, fewer enemies means more damage per enemy. A lone enemy will take ALL the damage, which is considerable.

NOTE [1]: Lightning Magic automatically targets enemies. However, there is no way to control which enemy will be hit by Lightning Magic.

NOTE [2]: Adol is pushed back slightly when discharging Lightning Magic. This can potentially push Adol into the path of an attack. By specifying a direction, Adol will be pushed backwards in the opposite direction when Lightning Magic is discharged.

Lightning Magic has a short period of invulnerability.

While stationary, tap a direction (within 90 degrees of the direction Adol is facing), and then quickly Attack. Adol will lunge forward while performing a powerful strike.

NOTE: The Lunge Attack can be used while Adol is turning, but ONLY if the change in direction is within 90 degrees of the original. As an Example, the Lunge Attack will not work while Adol is turning to face the opposite direction.

Tap a direction and Attack (to initiate the Lunge Attack), and then Jump just as Adol begins to lunge. Basically, Jump during a Lunge Attack. Ideally, the Jump should happen the instant after pressing the Attack Button, but it can happen almost anytime during the lunge.

Jumping late during the Lunge Attack results in a Delayed Dash Jump. This is a useful for escaping danger while dishing out the full damage of the Lunge Attack.

Welcome to the warmup boss. As you'd expect, the first boss of the game is the easiest.

There really isn't all that much difference between [Standard] and [Catastrophe] mode for this boss.

[Fountain of Prayer - Entrance]



You will likely encounter Demi-Galba while Adol is below Level [06]. You may find that Demi-Galba is beatable at Level [04] (possibly lower), without Healing Items, and with only 1HP.


The strategy for Demi-Galba is very simple.

1. Avoid the enemy attack.
   
2. Get in close to Demi-Galba.
   
3. Attack Demi-Galba's Stomach using Up-Thrusts.
   
   • Up-Thrusts do more damage than Basic Attacks.
4. Move towards the back of the arena.
   
5. Rinse and Repeat.

Killing Strike
Demi-Galba is probably the ONLY Boss where you need to keep an eye on the Boss HP.

1. Finish Demi-Galba with a Basic Attack.
   
2. Move out from under Demi-Galba as it falls.

You will always encounter Geis in Story Mode. Beating Geis, however, is completely optional.

Legendary Red Haired Swordsman: How the heck did THIS happen?!

[Basic Attack]

Advanced [Lunge Attack]

[Fountain of Prayer - Entrance]

You'll encounter Geis in the [Mythos Path] (behind the [Fountain of Prayer]), just after the [Blue Door] you open using [Livart].

From the Savepoint, go:
[North]
[Down] - Optional, but Convenient
[North]
[North]
[North]




If you're playing in [Standard] Mode and you've been conservative with your Healing Items, you will likely have enough [Honey] to use instead of the [Chito Nut]. It's a good way to compensate for being underlevelled and the fact that you have only one chance to beat Geis.


Level [08] is the limit on Nightmare. At Level [07], Adol can be felled in two strikes, too fast for even [Honey] to be effective.

In Story Mode, you only get ONE chance to fight Geis. There is NO retry for this boss (whether you win or lose, the fight ends and the game continues). If you plan on beating Geis, SAVE directly before the attempt. You'll have to reload an earlier Save in order to fight Geis again.

There's a good chance you'll encounter Geis below Level [09]. Use the Gilcha (bug enemies) found before the [Blue Door] to Level Up. There's a trick to attacking Gilcha: Down-Thrusts.



There is a [Seed of Vitality] you can get if you talk to Olha after obtaining [Livart] from Chief Ord.



Geis is all about patience and timing.

1. Guide Geis in one direction (left or right). Geis will attack with the Jump Slash.
   
   • You can use the South wall as guide.
2. Remain beyond the range of Geis' attack until you are ready to attack Geis (ideally before reaching the end of the hallway).
   
3. The moment Geis finishes an attack, move towards Geis. Geis will attack with a Horizontal Slash.
   
   • If Geis jumps away from you instead of attacking, do NOT chase him.
     
   • If Geis does NOT attack with a Horizontal Slash, jump over him and make some distance.
4. Jump directly up to dodge the Horizontal Slash. Geis will slide underneath Adol.
   
5. Attack Geis from behind (2 strikes).
   
   • If Geis has stopped moving, keep attacking until he guards.
6. Jump away from Geis.
   
   • Jump directly away from Geis if:
     
     • Geis is Guarding.
       
     • There is a good distance between Geis and Adol.
       
     • Geis is near Adol, but is facing away from him.
   • Jump overtop of Geis if Geis is near Adol and facing him.
7. Rinse and Repeat.

This is a more advanced strategy for dealing with Geis. Instead of using Basic Attacks, you attack Geis with the Lunge Attack. If successful, Geis will take serious damage, and is practically guaranteed to Guard.

1. Guide Geis in one direction (left or right). Geis will attack with the Jump Slash.
   
   • You can use the South wall as guide.
2. Remain beyond the range of Geis' attack until you are ready to attack Geis (ideally before reaching the end of the hallway).
   
3. The moment Geis finishes an attack, move towards Geis. Geis will attack with a Horizontal Slash.
   
   • If Geis jumps away from you instead of attacking, do NOT chase him.
     
   • If Geis does NOT attack with a Horizontal Slash, jump over him and make some distance.
4. Jump directly up to dodge the Horizontal Slash. Geis will slide underneath Adol.
   
   • Make sure you land facing Geis. Otherwise you will not be able to use the Lunge Attack.
5. Attack Geis from behind using the Lunge Attack.
   
   • If attack is successful, keep attacking until Geis guards.
6. Jump away from Geis.
   
   • Jump directly away from Geis if:
     
     • Geis is guarding.
       
     • There is a good distance between Geis and Adol.
       
     • Geis is near Adol, but is facing away from him.
   • Jump overtop of Geis if Geis is near Adol and facing him.
7. Rinse and Repeat.

If Adol is falling at approximately 10 meters (~33 feet) per second, and the boss fight takes approximatelly 10 minutes (600 seconds), Adol will have fallen 6 kilometers (~3.7 miles) by the end of the fight. Mount Everest is approximately 8 kilometers (~5 miles) above sea level at it's peak.

Being able to unleash all five Wind Element Attacks helps significantly.

[Grana-Vallis Mountain - Peak]




The [Wing of Alma] is found in the Grana-Vallis Mountains.

You can get a [Seed of Power] for completing a hidden sidequest.
(1) Get the [Wing of Alma]. This will make the quest much more convenient.
(2) Warp to the [Redhan Village - Entrance] and go to the bridge.
(3) Talk to Quval. He will give you a letter for Baslam.
(4) Warp to [Port Remorge] and enter Baslam's home.
(5) Talk to Baslam. You will give him the letter and he will give you gold. Quest Complete!
(6) Warp back to the [Redhan Village - Entrance] and go to the bridge.
(7) Talk to Quval. He will give you the [Seed of Power] for your assistance.

NOTE: The sidequest becomes unavailable after Zonplas is defeated.



This strategy works so long as you can keep clearing the arena of Eggs and Pyrus.

Zonplas is at Ground Level

1. Attack Zonplas with a two or three Up-Thrusts.
   
2. Move as far away from Zonplas as possible. Zonplas will use the Smash Attack.
   
3. Jump over the debris and move towards Zonplas.
   
4. Rinse and Repeat.

Zonplas Flies to the Arena Boundary (Spore Attack)

1. Attack Zonplas (if possible).
   
2. Zonplas prepares the Spore Attack.
   
3. Move to the opposite side of the Arena from Zonplas. Zonplas uses the Spore Attack.
   
4. Rinse and Repeat.

Zonplas Flies to the Arena Boundary (Eggs)

1. Attack Zonplas.
   
2. Zonplas lays eggs that bounce into the center of the arena.
   
3. Quickly swat the eggs off the edge of the arena using the Wind Element attack.
   
   • Mastery of the Wind Element will allow you to use 5 whirlwinds in succession.
4. If one or two eggs hatch, kill the Pyrus as quickly as possible.
   
5. Rinse and Repeat.

When you are no longer able to continue clearing the arena of eggs and Pyrus, ignore the eggs and attack the boss. A swarm will develop. However, there is a limit to the number of Pyrus that can hatch.

Zonplas is Airborn

1. Attack Zonplas. Ignore any eggs that Zonplas lays.
   
2. Run away when:
   
   • The Swarm gets too close.
     
   • Zonplas is about to use the Spore Attack.
3. Rinse and Repeat.

Zonplas is at Ground Level
The Swarm makes it near impossible to get safely close to Zonplas while Zonplas is at ground level.

• Avoid Zonplas.
  
• Avoid the debris from Zonplas' Smash Attack.
  
• Avoid the Swarm.
  
• Wait for Zonplas to return to being Airborn.

Technically more of a Mini-Mini-Boss.

Mini-Gaposdhala does not appear in:

• Time Attack
  
• Normal [Standard]
  
• Normal [Catastrophe]

As long as you get rid of the Klimfe first, dealing with the Mini-Gaposdhala is not too difficult.

[Port Rimorge - Coast]

Mini-Gaposdhala is located in the area just before the Bridge.

Directions
From the Savepoint, go:
[West]

If Mini-Gaposdhala appeared in Time Attack, these are the conditions that I'd expect to find. Obviously, conditions will vary somewhat depending on the situation.




[Brillante] is the most powerful weapon, and the Flame Element works best against the Klimfe.

[Livart] should only be used if it is at Level [06] as that would make it the more powerful weapon. Additionally, it should only be used for attacking the Mini-Gaposdhala. The Klimfe should still primarilly be dealt with using the Flame Element of [Brillante].


First try and get rid of the Klimfe, then deal with the Mini-Gaposdhala.

Klimfe
First, attract a Klimfe towards Adol. Once the Klimfe is a good distance away from the bridge, the Klimfe can be safely attacked without attracting the attention of the Mini-Gaposdhala.

1. Move just out of attack range of the Klimfe.
   
2. Attack the Klimfe with the Flame Element attack.
   
   • The Klimfe should move into range of the attack.
3. Move out of range of the Klimfe's attack.
   
4. Rinse and Repeat.

Mini-Gaposdhala

1. Run away from the Mini-Gaposdhala.
   
2. Avoid attacks from the Mini-Gaposdhala and any remaining Klimfe.
   
   • Ideally, the Klimfe will already be taken care of.
3. Attack the area just in front of the Mini-Gaposdhala.
   
   • Adol will be more-or-less out of range of the Chomp Attack.
4. Jump away from the Mini-Gaposdhala.
   
5. Rinse and Repeat.

Magic

1. The Magic Gauge becomes charged.
   
2. Move into a position where you can safely attack the Mini-Gaposdhala and any remaining Klimfe.
   
3. Discharge the Magic.
   
4. Jump away from the Mini-Gaposdhala.

It jumps! It spins! It has an amazing complection! ...That's all folks!
...For a guardian machine, this one seems to be - lacking - any sort of firepower. Maybe time didn't do it any favors?

Ud-Meiyu is all about efficiency. Ud-Meiyu is easilly beatable when attacking efficiently.

[Ruins of Lost Time - Depths]



NOTE: Time Attack conditions assume that one [Seed of Defense] has been used. The Seed is received from Olha for returning the first mirror fragement.


[Brillante] is the weapon of choice for this boss. The Flame Element attack does the most damage in the shortest amount of time.

[Livart] is too disadvantaged to use. The Wind Element attack will do significant damage. However, in order to attack Ud-Meiyu with it, you usually have to slide into the energy pool.

This leaves Up-Thrusts as the only alternative. However, Up-Thrusts are too inefficient. You'll likely run out of solid ground before defeating Ud-Meiyu.

Even with the [Eldian Orb], Maelstrom Magic can't compensate for these deficiencies.

The [Galba Hand] is actually a better alternative to using defense accessories. The Zenus (turrets) will die from one Down-Thrust, and Ud-Meiyu will die so quickly that you won't have to worry about running out of solid ground.

That said, you need to be VERY proficient at avoiding attacks in order to use the [Galba Hand].

Alternative 1
Swap out the [Wooden Bracelet] for the [Galba Hand].


Alternative 2
If you have the [Eldian Orb], you can swap out the [Heavy Belt] and [Sylphen Boots] for the [Galba Hand] and [Eldian Orb]. You'll be able to use Explosion Magic two or three times, but you'll have a severe Defense deficit.


Strategy Update
Zenus (turrets) will deal significant damage when using either Accessory Alternative, so taking them out is top priority. Feel free to go out of your way to do so. The extra attack power easilly makes up for any solid ground lost to Ud-Meiyu in the process.

It is completely possible for all solid ground to be destroyed by Ud-Meiyu.

The [Eldian Orb] is found in the [Ruins of Lost Time], in Majunun's Lair.


The focus of this strategy is efficiency. By being efficient, you should have more than enough solid ground to defeat Ud-Meiyu.

Start of the Fight

1. Immediately run to one of the Zenus (turrets).
   
2. Jump over the shockwave from Ud-Meiyu's Slam Attack.
   
   • Simultaneously attack the Zenus with a Down-Thrust.
3. Destroy the Zenus as quickly as possible.

Zenus (Turrets)
The Zenus can be destroyed in any order so long as you can destroy the Zenus before Ud-Meiyu catches up with it's Spin Attack.

1. Ud-Meiyu prepares to use the Spin Attack.
   
2. Run towards a Zenus on the opposite side of the arena and attack it with a Down-Thrust.
   
   • Ud-Meiyu will make chase with the Spin Attack.
3. Continue attacking the Zenus until it is destroyed.
   
4. Avoid the last of Ud-Meiyu's Spin Attack.
   
5. Rinse and Repeat.

Ud-Meiyu
When you can't attack Ud-Meiyu due to a lack of nearby solid ground, you can use Adol's position to guide Ud-Meiyu to whatever location you wish the boss to land next (assuming it uses the Slam Attack).

1. Avoid Ud-Meiyu's attack.
   
2. Move as close to Ud-Meiyu as possible (on solid ground).
   
3. Attack Ud-Meiyu with the Flame Element attack.
   
   • Attack Ud-Meiyu as many times as possible.
4. Rinse and Repeat.

I guess Seymour's hybrid got tired of waiting. Welcome to the Little Meadow of Horrors!

Using [Ericcil] / [Brillante] combo is the best way to deal with Gaposdhala.

[Rehdan Village - Entrance]

Gaposdhala is located in the [Quateran Woods], [South] - [West] of [Windseeker Heights].

Directions
From the savepoint, go:
[West]
[North] - Over the Barrier
[North]
[West]


NOTE: When you encounter Gaposdhala in Story Mode, you will likely only have enough Emel to raise one sword to Level [07]. That said, Gaposdhala is (barely) beatable under Nightmare [Catastrophe] conditions with Swords at Level [06].


NOTE: Time Attack conditions assume that a [Seed of Power] has been used. The Seed is received from Olha for returning the second Mirror Fragement.


[Ericcil] Thunder Element does the most damage to Gaposdhala. However, attacks from non-boss enemies will interfere with the Thunder Element.

[Brillante] is best to use when the arena is filled with non-boss enemies. The Flame Element and Explosion Magic lets you attack at a distance, and does decent incidental damage to non-boss enemies.

[Livart] requires that you get close to Gaposdhala in order to attack, greatly increasing the odds of taking serious damage.


Use the Thunder Element of [Ericcil] to do significant damage to Gaposasura. Use the Flame Element of [Brillante] to when you can't use [Ericcil] due to non-boss enemies.

[Ericcil]
Use the Thunder Element to deal significalt damage to Gaposdhala. When non-boss enemies start interfering with the combo, switch to using [Brillante].

1. Gain distance from Gaposdhala.
   
   • Ideally, you want Gaposdhala to be just within Thunder Element striking distance.
     
   • Discharge Lightning Magic if the Magic Gauge is charged.
2. Charge up the Thunder Element attack (using a string of Basic Attacks) while maintaining distance from Gaposdhala.
   
   • NOTE: Switch to using [Brillante] when non-boss enemies significantly interfere with using the Thunder Element.
3. Attack Gaposdhala with the Thunder Element attack.
   • If near Gaposdhala, use the last Basic Attack to prevent Gaposdhala from using the Chomp attack.
4. Jump away from Gaposdhala if you're in range of the Chomp attack.
   
5. Pick up any dropped Healing Items.
   
6. Rinse and Repeat.

[Brillante] - Flame Element
Use the Flame Element to damage both Gaposasura and non-boss enemies. When the number of non-boss enemies is reduced significantly, switch back to using [Ericci].

1. Run away from Gaposdhala.
   
2. Gaposdhala uses an attack.
   
   • Gaposdhala uses the Chomp attack.
     
   • Gaposdhala stops in preparation for spitting Seeds.
     
     • Move so that Gaposdhala is just within range of the Flame Element attack.
3. Charge up the Flame Element attack, and unleash it on Gaposdhala.
   
   • Gaposdhala is about to use the Chomp attack.
     
     • Unleash the Flame Element attack early to stop the Chomp attack.
   • NOTE: Switch to using [Ericcil] if the number of non-boss enemies is significantly decreased.
4. Jump away from Gaposdhala.
   
   • Make sure you start moving away from Gaposdhala first, or you might end up jumping into the Chomp attack.
5. Pick up any dropped Healing Items.
   
6. Rinse and Repeat.

[Brillante] - Explosion Magic

1. The Magic Gauge becomes fully charged.
   
2. Move into the most strategic position.
   
   • Gaposdhala is the primary target.
     
   • You also want to damage as many non-boss enemies as possible.
3. Aim, then discharge the Explosion Magic at Gaposdhala.

[Livart]
If it's safe to do so (Gaposdhala is a good distance away), kill any nearby blue-glowing enemies with [Livart].

There isn't a hive big enough to house this bee. No, seriously, where does this thing live?!

Piana-Pius VS [Ericcil] the Bug Zapper (it even sounds a bit like some sort of spray).

[Port Rimorge - Plains]

Piana-Pius is located in the [Canaan Plain], [South] - [West] of the [Grana-Vallis Mountain].

Directions
From the Savepoint, go:
[North]
[North]
[West]
[North]


NOTE: When you encounter Piana-Pius in Story Mode, you will likely only have enough Emel to raise one sword to Level [08].

WARNING: The Magic Gauge does NOT automatically charge until a sword is at Level [08].


WARNING: [Galba Armor] will [POISON] Adol unless the [Silver Armlet] is equipped.


[Ericcil] is the best weapon to use against Piana-Pius. The Lightning Magic does crippling damage and it won't miss.

[Brillante] is a mediocre alternative to Ericcil. Explosion Magic requires you to aim, and Piana-Pius is not an easy target to hit. However, you can attack at a distance and the damage is practically instantaneous.

[Livart] is too disadvantaged to be of use. Maelstrom Magic takes too long to dish out damage, and Piana-Pius can easilly charge out of danger.

WARNING: All Elemental attacks are practically useless against Piana-Pius.

It's actually better to swap out the [Heavy Belt] for the [Galba Hand]. You will die several time faster, but so will Piana-Pius, meaning you won't have to dodge as much.

You could also swap out the [Sylphen Boots] with the [Eldian Orb] (if available) to speed up the charge rate of [Ericcil]. However, one of Piana-Pius attacks will inflict [HEAVY] if it connects.


SPOILER: When you beat Piana-Pius, a treasure chest will appear. The chest contains the [Bell of Silence], which is extremely useful for the second half of the [Limewater Cave].


Attack Piana-Pius with Lightning Magic until it's defeated. The rest is just timing, and maybe getting in some regular attacks (if you're willing to take the risk).

Lightning Magic

1. The Magic Gauge becomes fully charged.
   
2. Wait for the right opportunity:
   
   • Piana-Pius is at Ground Level.
     
   • Piana-Pius is NOT about to ascend (it becomes invulnerable the moment it starts to ascend).
3. Discharge the Lightning Magic.

Piana-Pius is at Ground Level [Defensive]

1. Piana-Pius uses the Sting attack.
   
2. Move out of the path of the attack.
   
3. Rinse and Repeat.

Piana-Pius is at Ground Level [Aggressive]

1. Lure Piana-Pius to charge into nearby arena boundary.
   
   • Ideally, Piana-Pius will be within Adol's attack range when the arena boundary stops it.
2. Attack Piana-Pius with a Down-Thrust.
   
   • WARNING: Using the Down-Thrust is dangerous.
3. Jump away immediately after. Avoid any incoming attack.
   
4. Rinse and Repeat.

Piana-Pius is Airborne
Piana-Pius is invulnerable when airborne. Wait till it returns to ground level.

• Try and stay away from Piana-Pius as long as possible.
  
  • The boss won't fire the Stinger if you're far enough away.
• Don't get trapped by the swarm (if possible).
  
  • It's more difficult to dodge the Pisckel when they're nearby.
    
  • The Pisckel can become an obstacle to dodging the Stinger.

Is it a Slime or a Jellyfish? Neither it's a Dollon (???).

Noodollon is one of the easiest bosses in the game (even on [Catastrophe] mode).

[Brillante]

[Livart]

[Ericcil]

[Limewater Cave - Midpoint]

Noodollon is located in the latter half of the [Limewater Cave].

Directions
From the Savepoint, go:
[North]
[East]
[North]
[North]
[North]
[West]
[West]
[South] - Don't Fall
[South]



WARNING: [Galba Armor] will [POISON] Adol unless the [Silver Armlet] is equipped.

NOTE: Time Attack conditions assume that a [Seed of Defense] is used. The Seed is found in a Chest in the latter half of the [Limewater Cave].


[Brillante] does the most damage, and Explosion Magic is great for getting rid of the smaller Dollon and damaging Noodollon.

[Livart] is slightly weaker than [Brillante]. However, Maelstrom Magic is almost guaranteed to hit both Noodollon and the smaller Dollon (if positioned correctly).

[Ericcil] does the least damage, and the Lightning Magic tends to disperse due to the number of enemies. And Noodollon is completely beatable despite these deficiencies.

There are several far better alternatives to the [Rainbow Fragment], the best of which being the [Bloody Nail], the [Runed Earring], or the [Eldian Orb].


Or, if you're confident in your ability to evade attacks, you can swap in the [Galba Hand] instead. You'll die faster, but so will Noodollon. The [Galba Hand] works best with [Brillante].



Stand in the lower areas to the right and top-left of Noodollon. Just after Noodollon attacks, run across the slightly raised platform and attack Noodollon with a Down-Thrust.

1. Avoid Noodollon's attack.
   
2. Run across the slightly raised platform.
   
3. Attack Noodollon with a Down-Thrust.
   
4. Avoid the regular Dollons (as much as possible).
   
5. Rinse and Repeat.

Confusion Status
If one of the Dollon afflicts Adol with [CONFUSION], run around the outer arena wall until the status wears off. Try and move up and down the various ring levels. This will help throw off Noodollon's attacks.

Magic
Before using Magic, let the smaller Dollon accumulate beneath Noodollon.

Explosion Magic

1. The Magic Gauge becomes fully charged.
   
2. Avoid Noodollon's attack.
   
3. Move into a position where you can guarantee that the Explosion Magic will hit Noodollon and smaller Dollon (if aimed correctly).
   
4. Quickly discharge the Explosion Magic at Noodollon.

Maelstrom Magic

1. The Magic Gauge becomes fully charged.
   
2. Wait until Noodollon is about to attack.
   
3. Discharge the Maelstrom Magic during (or just after) Noodollon's attack.

Lightning Magic

1. The Magic Gauge becomes fully charged.
   
2. Avoid Noodollon's attack.
   
3. Discharge the Lightning Magic (you won't have much control over what it hits).

Orjugan is an ancient stone guardian. Unfortunatelly, whatever it was guarding probably sank into the ocean after the the land changed in the far past. (Napishtim Origin maybe?)

Orjugan is the 3rd most challenging boss in the game.

[Limewater Cave - Lake]



WARNING: [Galba Armor] will [POISON] Adol unless the [Silver Armlet] is equipped.


[Brillante] Explosion Magic is the only means by which to do consistent direct damage to Orjugan.

[Ericcil] Lightning Magic does OK direct damage when it doesn't disperses due to the Miggun.

[Livart] can only be used to attack indirectly via Miggun for minor damage.

Swap out the [Wooden Bracelet] for the [Galba Hand]. If you can avoid critical damage, Orjugan will go down VERY quickly.



The most efficient way to beat Orjugan is by using Explosion Magic.

1. Destroy one of Orjugan's hands as FAST as possible to charge the Magic Gauge.
   
   • If the Magic Gauge is nearly charged, attack the most undamaged hand.
2. Attack Orjugan directly with Explosion Magic.

Start of the Fight
Orjugan will ONLY attack with Miggun until it takes direct damage. Charge the Magic Gauge, then damage both of Orjugan's hands to just before the Breaking Point.

NOTE: If you have patience, you can charge all three Magic Gauges.

Orjugan's Right Hand (Left Side of Arena)

1. Circle counter-clockwise around the area near Orjugan's hand.
   • WARNING: Never circle into range of the Laser Cannon attack.
2. Attack Orjugan's hand from behind (at the wrist) when you circle into range.
   • During a break in Orjugan's attacks, continuously attack the hand from the back right at Adol's greatest range.
3. Rinse and repeat until the hand is destroyed.
   • This completely charges the Magic Gauge.

Explosion Magic

1. The Magic Gauge becomes fully charged.
2. Move towards the front center of the arena.
   • WARNING: Quickly move to safety if Orjugan begins charging the Laser Cannon attack.
3. Discharge the Explosion Magic towards Orjugan.
   • If Orjugan is about to swipe, time the discharge so you are invulnerable when Orjugan's attack connects.
4. Quickly move out of the center of the arena.

Orjugan's Left Hand (Right Side of Arena)

1. Only attack this hand while Orjugan's Right Hand is destroyed.
2. Use the same strategy as with Orjugan's Right Hand.
   • Circle clockwise around the area near Orjugan's hand.
3. Return to attacking Orjugan's Right Hand after it regenerates.

Birandi Mimic

• Destroy it as quickly as possible.
• Avoid Orjugan's other attacks.

Lanaluna is a giant Toad from Afroca. Afroca is the continent on which Xandria is located. Xandria is the town which is the setting of Ys V. Ys V is a giant Toad.

Being cautious tends to work better than being aggressive.

[Romun Flagship - Hold]



WARNING: [Galba Armor] will [POISON] Adol unless the [Silver Armlet] is equipped.

NOTE: Time Attack conditions assume that one [Seed of Power] has been used. The Seed is received from Terra at the [Port Remorge] dock.
Unobtainable after seeing Olha.


[Ericcil] Thunder Element does the most damage to Lanaluna, but can result in Adol sliding into acid plumes.

[Brillante] does the least damage, but the Flame Element can be used with minimal sliding.

[Livart] does mediocre damage, and encourages sliding into acid plumes.

Lanaluna can be beaten underlevelled by swaping out the [Wooden Bracelet] for the [Galba Hand].



Switch between [Ericcil] and [Brillante] to attack Lanaluna.

[Ericcil]
Use [Ericcil] when there are almost NO acid plumes in the arena.

1. Move into position to attack Lanaluna.
   • Avoid Lanaluna's attacks.
   • Avoid slime and acid plumes.
2. Attack Lanaluna with the Thunder Element.
   • NOTE: Switch to [Brillante] if you can't use Thunder Element safely due to acid plumes.
   • Attack Lanaluna from the sides, underneath the shell.
   • If attacking from the front (almost inside Lanaluna), aim the attacks at Lanaluna's sides.
3. Rinse and repeat.

[Brillante]
Use [Brillante] when acid plumes make using the Thunder Element dangerous.

1. Move into position to attack Lanaluna.
   • Avoid Lanaluna's attacks.
   • Avoid slime and acid plumes.
2. Attack Lanaluna with the Flame Element.
   • NOTE: Switch to [Ericcil] if the risk from Acid Plume damage is minimal.
3. Rinse and repeat.

Ghargil
When Ghargil are present, use [Brillante] to kill them.

1. Move into position to attack the Ghargil.
   • Avoid slime, acid plumes, and Lanaluna's attacks.
2. If the Magic Gauge is charged, attack the Ghargil and Lanaluna with Explosion Magic.
3. Attack the Ghargil with the Flame Element.
4. Rinse and repeat until all Ghargil are destroyed.

This time it's musical.

The more vicious version of Gaposdhala.

[Ruined City of Kishgal - Entrance]

Gaposasura is located in the [Quateran Woods], [South] - [West] of [Windseeker Heights].

Directions
From the Savepoint, go:
[Up] - Out of the [Ruined City of Kishgal]
[South] - Into the [Quateran Woods]
[West]



WARNING: [Galba Armor] will [POISON] Adol unless the [Silver Armlet] is equipped.


[Ericcil] Thunder Element does the most damage to Gaposasura. However, attacks from non-boss enemies interfere with the Thunder Element.

[Livart] Maelstrom Magic and Wind Element are perfect for clearing the arena of non-boss enemies.

[Brillante] does less damage than the Thunder Element, and is mediocre for clearing the arena of non-boss enemies.

It is likely that Level [47] will be achieved only after reaching the end of the [Ruined City of Kishgal]. In doing so, you will pick up the [Emelas Shield], [Accessory Slot 5], and a [Seed of Vitality]. As such, Time Attack conditions don't make sense in Story Mode.

NOTE [1]: Equip the [Wooden Bracelet] in [Accessory Slot 5] for an easy improvement over Time Attack conditions.

NOTE [2]: Equipping the [Emelas Shield] improves defense, but sacrifices the attack power bonus of the [Galba Shield].

NOTE [3]: Equipping the [Emelas Shield] AND the [Galba Hand] (in [Accessory Slot 5]) achieves Time Attack conditions plus extra attack power.

SPOILER: When you beat Gaposasura, a treasure chest will appear. The chest contains the [Emelas Crown], which is practically mandatory for the endgame bosses.


Use the Thunder Element of [Ericcil] to do significant damage to Gaposasura. Use the Maelstrom Magic of [Livart] to clear the arena of non-boss enemies.

[Ericcil]
Use the Thunder Element to deal significalt damage to Gaposasura. When non-boss enemies start interfering with the combo, switch to using [Livart].

1. Gain distance from Gaposasura.
   • Ideally, you want Gaposasura to be just within Thunder Element striking distance.
   • Discharge the Lightning Magic if the Magic Gauge is charged.
2. Charge up the Thunder Element attack (using a string of Basic Attacks) while keeping your distance from Gaposasura.
   • NOTE: Switch to using [Livart] when non-boss enemies significantly interfere with using the Thunder Element.
3. Attack Gaposasura (and non-boss enemies) with the Thunder Element attack.
   • If near Gaposasura, use the last Basic Attack to prevent Gaposasura from using the Chomp attack.
4. Jump away from Gaposasura if you're in range of the Chomp attack.
5. Pick up any dropped Healing Items.
6. Rinse and Repeat.

[Livart] - Down-Thrust
Use [Livart] to both attack Gaposasura and clear out the non-boss enemies. When there are almost no non-boss enemies, return to using [Ericcil].

1. Run away from Gaposasura.
   • If you can safely do so, kill any non-boss enemies along the way.
2. Gaposasura uses the Chomp attack or prepares to spit Seeds.
3. Attack Gaposasura with a Down-Thrust.
4. Jump away from Gaposasura.
5. Rinse and Repeat.

[Livart] - Maelstrom Magic
The best use of Maelstrom Magic is to clear the arena of non-boss enemies.

1. The Magic Gauge becomes charged.
2. Guide Gaposasura towards the largest group of non-boss enemies.
3. Discharge Maelstrom Magic while moving into the non-boss enemies, AWAY from Gaposasura.
   • This will clear the arena of most non-boss enemies.
   • Gaposasura should still take damage from Maelstrom Magic.
   • Moving away from Gaposasura helps to avoid the Chomp attack.
4. Jump away from Gaposasura.

[Brillante]
If it's safe to do so (Gaposasura is a good distance away), kill any nearby red-glowing enemies with [Brillante].

Kishcarin is a killer door knocker.

Under Nightmare [Catastrophe] Time Attack conditions (it's very specific for a reason), beating Kishcarin is plain and simple luck. Fortunately, it's a short fight.

[Ruined City of Kishgal - Entrance]

In Story Mode, you'll encounter Kishcarin twice before the [Ruined City of Kishgal - Midpoint] Savepoint.

The first time you encounter Kishcarin is through the first archway, which you will find at the bottom of the stairs from the first Savepoint.

The second time you encounter Kishcarin is right before the Midpoint Savepoint. You will find the second Kishcarin in the third archway. Just before the archway, you will need to traverse [West] down an open hallway. There will be a Varion (saw-bladed robot) at each diamond shaped section of the hallway.



WARNING: [Galba Armor] will [POISON] Adol unless the [Silver Armlet] is equipped.


[Brillante] does the most damage with Down-Thrusts. That makes it the best weapon for dealing with Kishcarin.

[Livart] does less damage than [Brillante], but the extended protection when using Maelstrom Magic makes it a passable alternative.

[Ericcil] does the least damage, and Lightning Magic doesn't help all that much.

NOTE: In this fight, Magic is only useful for the brief moment of invulnerability it provides.

In Story Mode, you NEVER encounter Kishcarin under Time Attack conditions.


Time Attack conditions takes the second encounter with Kishcarin as the first encounter. This is why the Time Attack Kishcarin is so much more challenging than its Story Mode counterparts.

In Time Attack, Kishcarin (Boss 11) is listed after Gaposasura (Boss 10) in the boss list. However, based on Time Attack conditions, Kishcarin (Adol at Level [43]) should come BEFORE Gaposasura (Adol at Level [47]).

Kishcarin is one of the bosses where, if Adol is by the arena entrance, a critical hit may throw Adol right out of the arena.

Kishcarin is a mandatory boss. However, of all the boss fights in the game (barring one that's not listed in Time Attack), Kishcarin is the ONLY boss that I'd consider a Miniboss. Every other "Miniboss" feels like a full fledged boss fight (and should be treated as such).


The strategy for Kishcarin is very simple (there's no other way to deal with this boss).

Kishcarin is Outside Adol's Attack Range
When Adol is distant from Kishcarin, move into attack range.

1. Avoid any attacks from the Giron and Kishcarin.
   
2. Move to one side of the arena, just outside Kishcarin's attack range.
   
3. Wait for Kishcarin to use the Ground Pound attack.
   
4. Attack Kishcarin with a Down-Thrust just as the shockwave from the Ground Pound attack dissipates.

Dodge and Attack
Dodge Kishcarin's attacks while attacking with Down-Thrusts.

1. An attack is about to hit Adol.
   
   • Kishcarin is about to do the Ground Pound attack.
     
   • An energy bullit is heading towards Adol
2. Jump and attack the opposite side of Kishcarin with a Down-Thrust.

Kishcarin is Guarding
When Kishcarin is guarding and Adol is not in danger of taking an attack, continuously attack Kishcarin with Down-Thrusts.

Explosion Magic
Save Explosion Magic for when you need a moment of invulnerability.

1. Adol is about to be hit by a Ground Pound attack.
   
2. Discharge Explosion Magic just as the attack connects.
   
   • Adol will be invulnerable during the Ground Pound attack.

"My name is Deadollon. You killed my Ramen. Prepare to die-dollon."

Deadollon is much more challenging compared to Noodollon, but still relatively easy.

[Brillante]

[Livart]

[Limewater Cave - Midpoint]

Deadollon is located in the latter half of the [Limewater Cave].

Directions
From the Savepoint, go:
[North]
[East]
[North]
[North]
[North]
[West]
[West]
[South] - Don't Fall
[South]

This is the ONLY way to get to Deadollon.




Brillante] does the most damage, and Explosion Magic is great for getting rid of the smaller Dollon and damaging Deadollon.

[Livart] is slightly weaker than [Brillante]. However, Maelstrom Magic is almost guaranteed to hit both Deadollon and the smaller Dollon (if positioned correctly).

[Ericcil] does the least damage, and the Lightning Magic tends to disperse due to the number of enemies.

Replace the [Silver Armlet], [Sylphen Boots] and [Rainbow Fragement] with the [Winged God Emblem], the [Bloody Nail] and the [Eldian Orb]. You gain several advantages with zero deficit.


NOTE: The Accessory Alternatives for Noodollon apply to Deadollon if the [Winged God Emblem] is unavailable.

Most likely, you won't even reach Level [47] before finishing the [Ruined City of Kishgal]. In doing so, you will pick up a [Seed of Vitality] and enough Emel to raise at least one sword to Level [10].

SPOILER: When you beat Deadollon, a treasure chest will appear. The chest contains the [Emelas Guard], which is practically mandatory for the endgame bosses.


Stand in the lower areas to the right and top-left of Deadollon. Just after Deadollon attacks, run across the slightly raised platform and attack Deadollon with a Down-Thrust.

1. Avoid Deadollon's attack.
2. Run across the slightly raised platform.
3. Attack Deadollon with a Down-Thrust.
4. Avoid the regular Dollon (as much as possible).
5. Rinse and Repeat.

Confusion Status
If one of the Dollon afflicts Adol with [CONFUSION], run around the outer arena until the status wears off. Try and move up and down the various ring levels. This will help throw off Deadollon's attacks.

Magic
Before using Magic, let the smaller Dollon accumulate beneath Deadollon.

Explosion Magic

1. The Magic Gauge becomes fully charged.
2. Avoid Noodollon's attack.
3. Move into a position where you can guarantee that the Explosion Magic will hit both Deadollon and the smaller Dollon (if aimed correctly).
4. Quickly discharge the Explosion Magic at Deadollon.

Maelstrom Magic

1. The Magic Gauge becomes fully charged.
2. Wait until Deadollon is about to attack.
3. Discharge the Maelstrom Magic during (or just after) Deadollon's attack.

Interestingly, Piana-Pullus is the only wasp in the game. The swarm around Piana-Pullus consists of bees, not wasps.

The more vicious version of Piana-Pius.

[Port Rimorge - Plains]

Piana-Pullus is located in the [Canaan Plain], [South] - [West] of the [Grana-Vallis Mountain].

Directions
From the Savepoint, go:
[North]
[North]
[West]
[North]



NOTE: Time Attack conditions assume that one [Seed of Vitality] has been used. The Seed is found in a chest in the latter half of the [Ruined City of Kishgal].


[Ericcil] is the best weapon to use against Piana-Pullus. The Lightning Magic does crippling damage and it won't miss.

[Brillante] is a mediocre alternative to Ericcil. Explosion Magic requires you to aim, and Piana-Pullus is not an easy target to hit. However, you can attack at a distance and the damage is practically instantaneous.

[Livart] is too disadvantaged to be of use. Maelstrom Magic takes too long to dish out damage, and Piana-Pullus can easilly charge out of danger.

WARNING: All Elemental attacks are practically useless against Piana-Pullus.

At this point, there are numerous possible accessory combinations you can play with, two of which are listed here.

No Disadvantages
Replace the [Silver Armlet] and the [Sylphen Boots] with the [Winged God Emblem] and the [Eldian Orb].


Aggressive
If you can avoid taking damage, also replace the [Heavy Belt] with the [Galba Hand]. The fight will be much quicker, meaning less overall dodging.


SPOILER: When you beat Piana-Pullus, a treasure chest will appear. The chest contains the [Emelas Glove], which is practically mandatory for the endgame bosses.


Attack Piana-Pullus with Lightning Magic until it's defeated. The rest is just timing, and maybe getting in some regular attacks (if you're willing to take the risk).

Lightning Magic

1. The Magic Gauge becomes fully charged.
2. Wait for the right opportunity:
   • Piana-Pullus is at Ground Level.
   • Piana-Pullus is NOT about to ascend (it becomes invulnerable the moment it starts to ascend).
3. Discharge the Lightning Magic.

Piana-Pullus is at Ground Level (Defensive)

1. Piana-Pullus uses the Sting attack.
2. Move out of the path of the attack.
3. Rinse and Repeat.

Piana-Pullus is at Ground Level (Aggressive)

1. Lure Piana-Pullus to charge into nearby arena boundary.
   
   • Ideally, Piana-Pullus will be within Adol's attack range when the arena boundary stops it.
2. Attack Piana-Pullus with a Down-Thrust.
   
   • WARNING: Using the Down-Thrust is dangerous.
3. Jump away immediately after. Avoid any incoming attack.
   
4. Rinse and Repeat.

Piana-Pullus is Airborne
Piana-Pullus is invulnerable when airborne. Wait till it returns to ground level.

• Try and stay away from Piana-Pullus as long as possible.
  
  • The boss won't fire the Stinger if you're far enough away.
• Don't get trapped by the swarm (if possible).
  
  • It's more difficult to dodge the Pisckel when they're nearby.
    
  • The Pisckel can become an obstacle to dodging the Stinger.

Since the Original, there were flubs (Demi-Galba). But then there was refinement...

Even under Nightmare [Catastrophe] conditions, this Galbalan is MUCH easier than Adol's first Galbalan encounter.

[The Ark of Napishtim - Base]



NOTE: Time Attack conditions assume that one [Seed of Power] has been used. The Seed is found in a chest by the savepoint.


[Livart] is the best choice for Stage 1 of the fight due to the extended invulnerability of Maelstrom Magic.

[Brillante] does the most damage to Galba-Roa, which makes it the best choice for Stage 2 of the fight.

[Ericcil] does the least damage, and the Thunder Element requires too much time to be useful.

Equip the [Wooden Bracelet] and the [Eldian Orb] in place of the [Sylphen Boots] and [Heavy Belt]. The Magic Gauge will charge significantly faster, providing better defense from the Tail Swipe attack.


It's nearly impossible to reach Galba-Roa at Time Attack conditions. If you beat all three optional bosses, you will most likely reach Galba-Roa at Level [49].


Use [Livart] during this stage of the fight.

1. Move into attack range of Galba-Roa's legs.
   • Avoid Galba-Roa's attacks (as best as possible).
   • NOTE: The safest place to attack from is behind Galba-Roa's right leg.
2. Attack Galba-Roa's legs.
   • If the Magic Gauge is NOT charged, attack cautiously using Basic Attacks (and maybe one Wind Element attack).
     • Galba-Roa may use the Tail Swipe attack during the delay after using the Wind Element.
     • NOTE: If Galba-Roa is Moving, feel free to use the Wind Element.
   • If the Magic Gauge IS charged, attack Galba-Roa's legs using the Wind Element.
3. Rinse and repeat.

Leap Attack

1. Galba-Roa leaps into the air.
2. Run towards Galba-Roa.
   • The faster you close the distance from Galba-Roa, the less chance Galba-Roa has to use the Fire Plume attack.
   • ADVANCED: You can use the Dash Jump to help close the distance from Galba-Roa.
3. Jump over the shockwave when Galba-Roa lands.
4. Return to attacking Galba-Roa.

Maelstrom Magic

1. The Magic Gauge becomes charged.
2. Wait for Galba-Roa to use the Tail Swipe attack.
   • Continuously attack Galba-Roa using the Wind Element while waiting.
3. Galba-Roa prepares to use the Tail Swipe attack.
4. Discharge the Maelstrom Magic during the attack.

Use [Brillante] during this stage of the fight.

1. Avoid Galba-Roa's attack.
2. Move into attack range.
3. Attack the jewel on Galba-Roa's forehead using Up-Thrusts.
4. Rinse and Repeat.

Explosion Magic

1. The Magic Gauge becomes charged.
   
2. Wait until Galba-Roa is preoccupied with an attack.
   
   • Preparing to use the Shockwave attack.
     
   • Recovering from using the Hand Swipe attack.
3. Discharge Explosion Magic at Galba-Roa.

"Take up your sword, Adol the Red! Fall to a power beyond that of the Gods!"

Time Attack conditions plus the [Daylight Stone].

[The Ark of Napishtim - Throne]




[Livart] allows the most movement when attacking. Ernst is a fight where you cannot afford to remain still.

[Brillante] does the most damage, but using the Flame Element leaves Adol a sitting duck.

[Ericcil] does the least damage. The Thunder Element takes too long to use.

Replace the [Lucky Coin] with the [Daylight Stone]. Ernst becomes considerably more beatable under [Catastrophe] conditions.


Knocking out Jue, Sera, or Xisa earns Experience points. If you're close to leveling, you can Level Up mid-fight, completely restoring Adol's HP in the process.


Agressively attack Ernst with the Wind Element.

1. Avoid every attack.
2. Attack Ernst when there's an opening.
   • Only Ernst is attacking.
3. Attack Ernst with the Wind Element.
   • Abandon the attack if required to avoid critical damage.
4. Rinse and Repeat.

Wind Element
When attacking with the Wind Element:

• CRITICAL: Use all five Wind Elements AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE!
• If Ernst is moving, aim the Wind Element AWAY from Ernst.
  • Ernst will attack into the Wind Element, possibly without harming Adol.
• If Ernst is Guarding, cautiously ram the Wind Element into Ernst.

Down-Thrust
If Ernst is stationary near a wall, cautiously attack Ernst with a Down-Thrust. Ernst will be sandwiched against the wall and take continuous damage.

Maelstrom Magic

1. The Magic Gauge becomes charged.
2. Wait for a good opportunity.
   • Wait till Ernst is about to attack.
   • Ideally, attack Ernst and a vulnerable fairy simultaneously.
3. Discharge Maelstrom Magic.

Fairies
When you can't attack Ernst (and aren't being bombarded by attacks), try and attack the fairies, ideally using the Lunge Attack.

Achievement [Fake]: God-Mode Breaker
Beat Ernst on Nightmare [Catastrophe] Time Attack (aka. Ernst on God-Mode).

This is one of the most impossible things I've ever done in any video game.

NOTE: I just LOVE hearing the Level-Up jingle after beating a particularly challenging Boss.

To start with, Ernst is COMPLETEY beatable under Nightmare [Catastrophe] Time Attack conditions. The only thing required is mastery of the Lunge Attack, one of the most obscure, rarely-used abilities in Ys. And for good reason. It's not that it's not useful, it's just REALLY difficult to use effectively.

Conversely, the Wind Element, though certainly not easy to master, is MUCH easier to use than the Lunge Attack. The requirements to use the Wind Element are solid timing with the Attack Button.

In order to use the Lunge Attack, you need to stop moving, tap a direction, and then, with the right timing, quickly press the attack button. Also, if you're using a Keyboard Only setup, getting Adol to attack in a diagonal direction RARELY WORKS when you want it to. In addition to all this, if your tap turns Adol at an angle greater than 90 degrees from the direction he's facing, the Lunge Attack will fail.

Despite all the difficulties of it's use, Adol is FAR less likely to receive instant-kill damage using the Lunge Attack than using the Wind Element. In addition, like Geis, the Lunge Attack has a MUCH higher chance of making Ernst Guard. These two points admittedly make the Lunge Attack the best option for fighting Ernst.

NOTE: Any Strategy requiring the Lunge Attack is an Advanced Strategy since the Lunge Attack is decidedly an Advanced Technique.

Execution of the Dash Jump can occur any time during the Lunge Attack. If you jump near the end of the attack, it's a Delayed Dash Jump. This is not very useful in general, but it's extremely useful when fighting Ernst.

The Delayed Dash Jump allows you to deal the full damage of the Lunge Attack while also jumping out of the way of a potential attack. The downside is that you'll be out of position to perform another Lunge Attack.

[Brillante] is the strongest weapon. The Lunge Attack is a physical attack. Therefore, [Brillante] is the weapon of choice since [Brillante] is the weapon that will kill Ernst's HP Meter the fastest.

Attack Ernst aggressively using the Lunge Attack while avoiding as much damage as possible.

NOTE: If Ernst is against a wall, attack Ernst with the Lunge Attack if Ernst is Guarding. NEVER attack Ernst with the Down-Thrust.

Ernst is Attacking

1. Avoid enemy attacks.
   
2. Get into position to attack Ernst.
   
   • Ideally attack Ernst from behind.
     
   • NOTE: Make sure Adol is facing towards Ernst or the Lunge Attack may fail.
3. Attack Ernst with the Lunge Attack.
   
4. Jump just as the Lunge Attack is ending.
   
   • Jump over Ernst if he's about to attack.
5. Rinse and Repeat.

Ernst is Guarding

1. Ernst Guards.
   
2. Wait till Ernst is about to stop Guarding.
   
3. Attack Ernst with the Lunge Attack.
   
4. If Ernst doesn't Guard while being attacked, jump over Ernst.
   
   • Jump away from Ernst if Ernst is against a wall.
5. Rinse and Repeat until Ernst stops Guarding.

Explosion Magic

1. The Magic Gauge becomes fully charged.
   
2. Wait for an opportunity to use Explosion Magic.
   
   • Ernst isn't relentlessly attacking Adol.
     
   • Ernst is a good distance from Adol.
     
   • NOTE: Explosion Magic invulnerability is too short to be practically useful during this fight.
3. Move into position to attack Ernst.
   
   • Ideally, also aim the attack so it hits vulnerable fairies, though Ernst is the priority.
4. Discharge the Explosion Magic at Ernst.

Napishtim has a glowing 'eye' and lives in a big black obelisk. This leads to one logical conclusion; "What are you doing Dave?"

One of the easiest Ys Final Bosses.

[The Ark of Napishtim - Throne]


* NOTE: Time Attack conditions assume Napishtim is reached WITHOUT using ANY Seeds.



However, for Stage 2, [Brillante] is recommended for attacking and [Ericcil] for clearing out non-boss enemies.

[Brillante] Flame Element is the only way to consistently attack Napishtim.

[Ericcil] Lightning Magic efficiently cleans the arena of all non-boss enemies.

[Livart] Wind Element is too dangerous to use during Stage 2; you could slide into a lethal attack.


Destroy the Zeparos, then destroy the 3 glowing Orbs.

Start of the Fight
Jump over the Blue Laser on the left; the gap between Blue Lasers is larger, allowing more room to maneuver.

NOTE: Laser alignment may be initially different in Story Mode.

Zeparos
Initially, focus on destroying the Zeparos.

1. Wait until the Lasers force Adol into range of the Zeparos.
   • Avoid enemy attacks.
   • Attack Floating Orbs that pass.
2. Attack the Zeparos with the weapon they are vulnerable to.
   • Abandon attacking the Zeparos if the Lasers force you to. Finish the Zeparos on the next pass.
3. Rinse and Repeat.

Floating Orbs
When all 3 Zeparos are destroyed, focus on destroying the Floating Orbs.

1. Wait until the Floating Orbs rotate into range of Adol.
   • Avoid the Lasers.
2. Attack the Floating Orbs with the weapon they are vulnerable to.
   • NOTE: Destroy the last unprotected Floating Orb using Magic.
3. Rinse and Repeat.

When not attacking Napishtim, have [Ericcil] Lightning Magic charging.

Napishtim
When there are no non-boss enemies, attack Napishtim.

1. Switch to [Ericcil].
2. Move to the Upper Arena.
3. Wait for Napishtim to surface.
   • Ideally, stand still long enough for HP to regenerate.
4. Wait for Napishtim to fire the Laser Cannon at the Lower Arena.
   • Run towards Napishtim's Eye.
   • Avoid Napishtim's attacks.
5. Switch to [Brillante] and attack Napishtim's Eye with the Fire Element.
6. Rinse and Repeat.

Non-Boss Enemies
When there are non-boss enemies, avoid all attacks until Lighting Magic is charged.

1. Switch to [Ericcil].
2. Avoid enemy attacks.
3. The Magic Gauge becomes charged.
4. Wait for the right opportunity.
   • Napishtim has surfaced.
   • There's enough time to attack Napishtim before Napishtim descends.
5. Discharge Lightning Magic.
6. Return to attacking Napishtim.

Explosion and Maelstrom

1. The Magic Gauge becomes charged.
   
2. Napishtim fires the Laser Cannon at the Upper Arena.
   
3. Run beneath Napishtim's Eye and discharge the Magic at Napishtim.

Majunun is the Japanese pronounciation of the Arabic word Majnun, meaning insane.

This is the limit of what can be considered Reasonably Beatable.

[Ruins of Lost Time - Entrance]

Majunun is located about half way through the [Ruins of Lost Time].

Directions
From the Savepoint, go:
[West]
[West]
[East] - Go [North] across the gap in the Bridge - Follow the [East] path
[East]
[Down] - Jump Dash to a Group of Four Pillars - Drop through the center of the pillars
[North] - Jump Dash onto the invisible Platform - Jump through the entrance in the wall


NOTE: Time Attack conditions assume that the [Seed of Power] obtained for Galba-Roa is not used. The Seed is only obtainable when it is no longer possible to fight Majunun.



[Ericcil] Lightning Magic is instantaneous and doesn't require aiming.

[Brillante] Explosion Magic is powerful, but requires aiming.

[Livart] Maelstrom Magic requires getting close to Majunun, which is generally undesirable. The extra invulnerability time is useful though.

Replace the [Lucky Coin] with the [Daylight Stone]. Majunun becomes less about luck and more about skill under these conditions.



Wait for the Magic Gauge to charge, then attack Majunun with Lightning Magic.

1. Avoid Majunun's attacks.
   • Use the Dash Jump to help navigate the room.
2. The Magic Gauge becomes charged.
3. Wait for a good opportunity to use the Lightning Magic.
   • Using Lightning Magic won't result in Adol taking damage.
4. Discharge the Lightining Magic.
   • WARNING [1]: Lightning Magic discharge pushes Adol back slightly, and may push him into an incoming attack.
     • Don't press the Movement keys when discharging Lightning Magic. Adol will automatically aim towards Majunun, which will limit movement during discharge.
   • WARNING [2]: If Majunun is NOT visible, Lighning Magic may misfire, hitting nothing.
5. Rinse and Repeat.

Capla Water
In [Standard] Mode, try and save the [Capla Water] for as long as possible.

1. Adol is about to die.
2. Use the [Capla Water].
3. Discharge all three Magics as opportunity allows.

NOTE: You can spam the [Capla Water] and Magic when Majunun is nearly dead.

Achievement [Fake]: The Luck that Killed the Devil
Beat Majunun (aka. The Devil) on Nightmare [Catastrophe] Time Attack (aka. 3 Capla Water worth of Luck).

Beating Majunun is more luck than skill. Despite that, it's completely possible to overcome the boundless misfortune that is Majunun under these conditions.

NOTE: Beating Ernst on Nightmare [Catastrophe] Time Attack is easier.

All the bosses in Napishtim have a very high luck factor since they were designed with Healing Items in mind. Majunun was designed with 3 Capla Water in mind; Capla Water that fully heals Adol and fully charges all three Magic Gauges.

Put another way, Majunun is the boss with the highest luck factor in the entire game! Unlike every other boss, it's IMPOSSIBLE to overcome Majunun's luck factor on skill alone. The trick here is to try and optimise the luck factor in your favor.

There are two points that will make this battle much more favourable:

1. A Refined Strategy.
   
2. Killing Adol when you get unlucky early on.

When you get unlucky early on, kill Adol and try again. By doing this, you spend more time on more favourable runs rather than on runs that are most likely to end tragically; you could get really far due to some great luck only to die because Adol only had enough HP for 1 misstep.


Relying solely on Lightning Magic takes too much time. As such, getting in direct attacks during openings is MANDATORY. There are 3 goals:

1. Primarilly attack Majunun with Lightning Magic.
   
2. Attack Majunun with the Lunge Attack during very specific openings.
   
   • NOTE: Lightning Magic ALWAYS takes priority so long as it's safe to use.
3. Guide Majunun towards the arena corners as much as possible.
   
   • This will create more room to work with when attempting to dodge the Red Energy Beams.

Lightning Magic

1. Avoid Majunun's attacks.
   • Use the Dash Jump to help navigate the room.
2. The Magic Gauge becomes charged.
3. Wait for a good opportunity to use the Lightning Magic.
   • Using Lightning Magic won't result in Adol taking damage.
4. Discharge the Lightining Magic.
   • Don't press the Movement keys when discharging Lightning Magic. Adol will automatically aim towards Majunun, which will limit movement during discharge.
5. Rinse and Repeat.

Pulse Laser

1. Purple energy starts building within Majunun.
   
2. Run towards Majunun until Adol and Majunun are touching.
   
   • WARNING: Adol will take damage from the attack if he is not close enough to Majunun.
3. The Pulse Laser fires.
   
   • WARNING: Do NOT attack Majunun until the laser beams begin to dissipate.
4. The laser beams begin to dissipate.
   
5. Attack Majunun with the Lunge Attack.
   
6. Quickly move away from Majunun.

Pulse Laser - Magic Gauge is CHARGED!

1. Purple energy starts building within Majunun.
   
2. Run towards Majunun.
   
3. Attack Majunun with the Lunge Attack.
   
4. Discharge Lightning Magic JUST before Majunun's Pulse Laser attack fires.
   
   • This will likely be mid-Lunge Attack.
5. Quickly move away from Majunun.

Airquake

1. Majunun prepares to use the Airquake attack.
   
2. Get out of range of the attack either by running or by using the Dash Jump.
   
3. The Airquake attack fires.
   
4. Wait until the airquakes stop.
   
   • There are 10 airquakes in total.
5. Run towards Majunun just after the last airquake dissipates.
   
6. Attack Majunun with the Lunge Attack.
   
7. Quickly move away from Majunun.

Achievement [Fake]: Wandering Red-Haired Calamity
Beat Boss Rush on Nightmare [Catastrophe].

Boss Rush is completely beatable on ALL difficulty settings, including Nightmare [Catastrophe]. There's no achievement for specifically beating Boss Rush on Nightmare [Catastrophe], so doing this is for personal satisfaction only (I do wish there was an achievement though).

In order to have a chance at doing this, practicing against each individual boss is mandatory. However, there are several bosses that are particularly challenging and should be given extra attention. In order of difficulty (most difficult to least difficult), these bosses are:

1. Majunun
   
2. Ernst
   
3. Orjugan
   
4. Piana-Pullus / Piana-Pius
   
5. Lanaluna

NOTE: Ernst and Majunun are so challenging on Nightmare Catastrophe Time Attack that they make getting the [Caress of Steel] achievement in Ys Origin seem like a picnic.

Dying is an opportunity to take a break. When Adol dies, the Boss Rush time does not advance. Additionally, as long as you don't select "Return to Title", the Boss Rush run will not end.

When you need it, use the opportunity to take a break. This has helped me plenty of times during various Boss Rush runs (not limited to Napishtim).

After beating Boss Rush, there is an opportunity to access an Easter Egg.

In order to access the Easter Egg:

1. Start Boss Rush on any difficulty.
   
2. Get to Majunun.
   
3. Beat Majunun.
   
   • After beating Majunun, the time it takes for the Time Attack screen to appear is longer than normal. This period is the ONLY opportunity to gain access to the Easter Egg.
4. Immediately after beating Majunun,look for a distortion in the [Far Right] or [Far Left] corner of the arena. Run into the distortion to activate the Easter Egg.

NOTE: The full Easter Egg is only available by beating Boss Rush on Nightmare (Standard or Catastrophe Mode).

How to Access the Easter Egg
This video only shows how to access the Easter Egg.

The Easter Egg - SPOILER
This video shows the Easter Egg in its full glory!

I think this Easter Egg also deserves a Fake achievement (it's a bit of a missed opportunity by XSEED to continue a running joke):
Achievement [Fake]: Legendary Red-Haired Pervert
Olha encounters a Wandering Pervert.

There is a lot of difficulty crossover between [Standard] and [Catastrophe] modes, especially in Story Mode. Based on my understanding of Napishtim, I've created a table that shows the relative difficulty of each difficulty setting.


Napishtim is relatively easy in general. But there are moments where Napishtim is completely unforgiving and (to be honest) unfair. In addition to this, the difficulty of Napishtim can quickly flip-flop depending on three factors; accessories and accessory slots, sword levels, and healing items.

In addition to this, the two poorly placed Points-of-No-Return make it easy to end up in potentially unwinnable situations, even on Normal [Standard], especially if you only use 1 Save Slot. For example, fighting Ernst on Normal [Standard] at Level 47 with only the [Wooden Bracelet] and three [Blue Potion] is comparable to fighting Ernst on Nightmare [Catastrophe] Time Attack.

Unless you already know Napishtim inside and out, the degree of freedom that Napishtim offers makes it impossible to say how the experience will ultimately turn out.

There are four weapons available in Napishtim. Each weapon has its own statistics and characteristics.


Livart, Brillante and Ericcil can be levelled-up by bringing enough Emel to Leav. The Level of each weapon determines the available Attributes and Abilities.

Shields are mostly self-explanatory. However, some have a few extra abilities in addition to the basic defense upgrade.

Armor would be mostly self-explanatory if not for the negative attribute of the Galba-Armor.

The accessory system in Ys VI is much more complicated than in Oath in Felghana or Origin. Accessories (and even Armor) can have negative and positive effects. The negative effects of an accessory can be nullified by the positive effects of a different accessoriey; this is the cornerstone of the accessory systems.


Accessory Slots are REQUIRED in order to use more accessories.

In [Standard] Mode, Healing Items can be stocked and equipped. In [Catastrophe] Mode, Healing Items are used upon picking them up. In either case, it's very useful to know the function of each Healing Item.

There are no official Boss Stats available (that I am aware of). Boss Stats have been calculated based on Adol's Strength and Defense and the damage that Adol deals and takes.

NOTES:

• Assumptions were made with respect to how damage is calculated.
  
• Boss Stats are for Nightmare conditions ONLY.
  
• Adol's Stats are for Nightmare Time Attack conditions.
  
• Boss Strength and Boss Defense are approximate values (and likely not correctly calculated). I was unable to determine how to calculate these values exactly.

Adol's Base Stats are his stats before weapons, armor, accessories and seeds are applied. This is mainly for reference purposes.

Leveling up once is the (minimum) equivalent of buying three [Seed of Power], three [Seed of Defense], and one [Seed of Vitality]. Leveling up even once can make a huge difference.


NOTE: Just the [Seed of Power] and [Seed of Defense] Seeds are worth 150,000 Gold.

These are Adols Base Stats per Level - Without Seeds.

This is Version [1.5] of the Boss Guide. Some elements have been updated and refined. However, there are still a few things I'd like to do in the future.

Future Plans:

1. PRIORITY: Update Galba-Roa videos.
   
   Made a slight refinement to the strategy for beating Galba-Roa.
2. PRIORITY: Update the second Demi-Galba Video from [Standard] Mode Video to a [Catastrophe] Mode Video.
   
3. PRIORITY: Update the Lanaluna Videos.
   
   • After fighting (and beating) Lanaluna underlevelled at otherwise Time Attack conditions, I was able to further refine my strategy out of necessity.
4. PRIORITY: Upload a third video of beating Majunun on Nightmare [Catastrophe] Time Attack.
   
5. Add an [Alternate Strategy] section for Orjugan.
   
   • Refine both strategies / update original strategy and videos with refinements.
6. Break the [Skills and Abilities] section into sections.
   
   • Add Images (and other details) for better clarity.
     
   • NOTE: I've already reached the character limit for one section.
7. Create a section explaining the best places to grind in preparation for beating Majunun.
   
8. Add videos showing how to get to Optional Bosses.

Comments and Feedback are appreciated.

• Nihon Falcom
  
• XSeed