Stage 5: England - The Clock Tower
Welcome to the Clock Tower, a stage that will test your platforming precision and patience. This area is notorious for its intricate gear mechanisms, pendulum traps, and relentless enemies. Keep your whip or spear ready, and be prepared for some challenging vertical ascent.
Initial Ascent and Gear Room
- Starting Point: You'll begin at the base of the Clock Tower. Immediately move right, dealing with any Fleamen or Medusa Heads that appear.
- First Gear Platform: Jump onto the first rotating gear platform. These platforms move in predictable patterns, so time your jumps carefully.
- Candles and Items: Look for candles strategically placed on ledges and above gears. These often contain Hearts, Money Bags, or even a crucial Sub-Weapon like the Axe or Cross. The Axe is particularly useful here for enemies above you.
- Enemy Encounter - Axe Armors: As you ascend, you'll encounter Axe Armors patrolling static platforms. Use your whip/spear's extended reach to hit them from a safe distance, or jump and attack quickly if they are on a lower platform.
- Hidden Item: On one of the higher static platforms in the initial gear room, look for a breakable wall section on the right. Inside, you'll find a Pot Roast for a significant health boost.
Pendulum Alley
This section is characterized by large, swinging pendulums that can knock you into pits or off platforms. Timing is everything here.
- Observation is Key: Before attempting to cross, observe the pendulum's arc. They often swing in pairs or sequences.
- Platforming Strategy: Jump onto a platform immediately after a pendulum has swung away from your path. If a pendulum is blocking your way, wait on a safe platform for it to pass.
- Enemy Encounter - Harpies: Harpies will fly in from the edges of the screen, often carrying Fleamen. Prioritize taking out the Harpies first to prevent being overwhelmed. The Cross sub-weapon can be very effective here.
- Staircase Ascent: After navigating the pendulums, you'll reach a long staircase. Be wary of Bone Pillars at the top, firing projectiles. Approach cautiously and destroy them from below.
The Cogwheel Gauntlet
This is arguably the most challenging part of the Clock Tower, featuring numerous interlocking cogwheels that serve as platforms.
- Rotating Cogwheels: These platforms rotate, making precise jumps difficult. Always aim for the center of the cogwheel to maintain your footing.
- Moving Platforms: Some cogwheels are attached to larger mechanisms that move horizontally or vertically. Anticipate their movement.
- Enemy Encounter - Medusa Heads: Expect a constant stream of Medusa Heads throughout this section. They can be a major nuisance, especially when trying to make precise jumps. Use your whip/spear's rapid attack or a well-timed Axe to clear them.
- Item Location: Keep an eye out for a hidden candle containing a Rosary on a small, isolated platform near the top of the cogwheel gauntlet. This can be invaluable for clearing the screen of enemies before a tricky jump.
- Reaching the Top: The final ascent involves a series of closely spaced, fast-moving cogwheels. Take your time, and don't rush. A single misstep can send you plummeting to the bottom.
Boss: The Clockwork Golem
At the very top of the Clock Tower, you'll face the formidable Clockwork Golem.
- Boss Arena: The battle takes place on a large, circular platform with a few smaller, raised platforms around the perimeter.
- Attack Patterns:
- Ground Pound: The Golem will occasionally jump and perform a ground pound, sending out shockwaves. Jump over these shockwaves.
- Gear Projectiles: It will detach gears from its body and hurl them at you. These can be destroyed with your whip/spear.
- Spin Attack: The Golem may spin rapidly, moving across the arena. Stay clear of its path during this attack.
- Strategy:
- Weak Point: The Golem's head is its primary weak point.
- use Platforms: Use the raised platforms to gain height and strike the Golem's head with your whip/spear.
- Sub-Weapon Usage: The Axe is highly effective here, as its arc allows you to hit the Golem's head even when it's on the ground. The Cross can also deal good damage if you can land multiple hits.
- Dodge and Weave: Focus on avoiding its attacks while continuously chipping away at its health. After defeating the Clockwork Golem, the path to the final stages will open!