Boss: Minotaur
The Minotaur is typically the first major boss players will encounter in the game, located within the City of Haze portrait. While his attacks are straightforward, his sheer power can be daunting for unprepared adventurers. Focus on consistent damage and evasion to overcome this beast.
Recommended Setup
- Characters: Jonathan and Charlotte are both viable. Jonathan's whip attacks are strong, while Charlotte's magic can be effective if you have offensive spells.
- Sub-Weapons (Jonathan):
- Axe: Deals good damage and can hit the Minotaur's head if timed correctly.
- Cross: Can hit multiple times and offers decent damage.
- Bible: Provides continuous damage and can help keep the Minotaur at bay.
- Spells (Charlotte):
- Thunderbolt: A strong offensive spell if you've acquired it.
- Heal: Essential for recovery if you take too much damage.
- Equipment: Prioritize defense-boosting gear. Any armor, headgear, or accessories that increase your DEF stat will be beneficial.
- Consumables: Stock up on Potions and High Potions from the shop in the castle. Having a few Antidotes is also wise, though less critical for this fight.
Minotaur's Attacks and How to Evade Them
The Minotaur has a limited but powerful moveset. Learning to recognize and react to these attacks is key to victory.
- Axe Swing: The Minotaur will raise its large axe and swing it horizontally.
- Strategy: This attack has a decent wind-up. Duck under the swing or backdash away to avoid it. If you're close, you can often get a few hits in before it connects.
- Charge: The Minotaur will lower its head and charge across the screen.
- Strategy: This is its most dangerous attack. When you see it lower its head, immediately jump over it or backdash repeatedly to get out of its path. It often charges multiple times in a row.
- Ground Pound: The Minotaur will jump and slam down, creating a shockwave along the ground.
- Strategy: The shockwave travels along the floor. Jump over it to avoid damage. The jump itself can also deal damage if you're directly underneath.
Battle Strategy
The fight against the Minotaur is a test of patience and timing. Don't get greedy with your attacks.
- Initial Engagement: Start by summoning your partner (Charlotte or Jonathan) and positioning them strategically. Charlotte can cast spells from a distance, while Jonathan can provide additional melee pressure.
- Hit and Run: The most effective strategy is to hit the Minotaur a few times and then immediately prepare to dodge its next attack. Do not stand directly in front of it for extended periods.
- Targeting: Aim for the Minotaur's head for critical hits, though body shots are also effective. Jonathan's whip can reach its head with a well-timed jump attack.
- Partner Management:
- Charlotte (as partner): Have her cast offensive spells like Thunderbolt or Ice Needle from a safe distance. If you're low on HP, switch to her and cast Heal.
- Jonathan (as partner): He can provide consistent damage with his whip. Use the "Guard" command (down + Y/X) to protect him during the Minotaur's charge attacks.
- Exploiting Openings: After the Minotaur completes a charge or ground pound, there's a brief window where it's vulnerable. Use this time to unleash a few attacks before it recovers.
- Relic Usage: If you have the Martial Arts relic, using Jonathan's uppercut (up + attack) can deal significant damage and potentially hit the Minotaur's head.
- Stay Mobile: Always be moving. The Minotaur is slow but powerful. Constant movement makes you a harder target.
- Healing: Don't hesitate to use your Potions. It's better to heal early than to risk being defeated. If Charlotte is your active character, use her Heal spell.
Upon defeating the Minotaur, you will receive experience points and potentially some gold or common item drops. Continue your journey through the City of Haze!