Boss: Medusa
Medusa is the boss of the Sandy Grave portrait. This fight can be challenging due to her petrifying gaze and quick movements. Preparation is key to a smooth victory.
Pre-Fight Preparation
- Equipment: Equip any gear that boosts your DEF or CON stats. The
Medusa Shield (if you've found it) is incredibly useful here, as it nullifies petrification. - Sub-Weapons: The Cross is highly effective against Medusa due to its wide area of effect and consistent damage. The Axe can also work well if you're comfortable with its arc.
- Spells: If playing as Jonathan, consider equipping the Axe or Cross sub-weapon. For Charlotte, offensive spells like Fireball or Ice Needle are good choices.
- Healing Items: Stock up on Potions and High Potions. Having a few Anti-Stone items is also a good idea, just in case you get petrified.
- Partner Strategy: Set your partner's strategy to "Attack" to maximize damage output.
Battle Strategy
Medusa has a few distinct attacks you'll need to watch out for:
Phase 1: Head-on Assault
Medusa starts by flying around the arena, often swooping down to attack. Her primary attack in this phase is:
- Petrifying Gaze: Medusa will periodically stop and unleash a green beam from her eyes. If you are caught in this beam, you will be petrified, leaving you vulnerable to her follow-up attacks.
- Strategy:
- When you see her preparing the gaze, immediately duck or jump over her to avoid the beam.
- Use your sub-weapons (Cross or Axe) to deal damage while she's flying or preparing her gaze.
- If playing as Jonathan, use your whip's extended range. If playing as Charlotte, cast offensive spells from a safe distance.
- Keep your partner active and attacking. Use the "Dual Crush" ability whenever available for significant damage.
Phase 2: Snake Head Barrage
As Medusa takes more damage, she will start using her snake hair more aggressively:
- Snake Projectiles: She will launch several small snake heads that fly across the screen. These can deal moderate damage.
- Strategy:
- These snake heads can be destroyed with your attacks. Prioritize clearing them to avoid taking unnecessary damage.
- Continue to dodge her petrifying gaze as before.
- Maintain consistent pressure with your attacks and sub-weapons.
General Tips for Success
- Stay Mobile: Never stand still for too long. Medusa is fast, and staying on the move makes you a harder target.
- Utilize Partner Skills: use your partner's unique abilities. Charlotte's magic can be very helpful for ranged damage, while Jonathan's sub-weapons are excellent.
- Dual Crush: Save your Dual Crush for when Medusa is vulnerable or when you need a burst of damage.
- Healing: Don't be afraid to use your healing items if your HP drops low. It's better to use a Potion than to restart the fight.
Upon defeating Medusa, you will receive the Medusa Head soul, which grants you the ability to turn enemies to stone. You will also gain access to the next area of the Sandy Grave.