Stage 5': The Sunken City

Stage 5': The Sunken City

Welcome to Stage 5', the alternate route from Stage 4. This underwater labyrinth demands careful movement and strategic use of your sub-weapons. Be prepared for a slower pace and enemies that thrive in the aquatic environment.

Initial Descent and First Encounters

• As you begin, you'll be plunged into the water. Movement here is slower, and your whip attacks have a slightly reduced range.
• Immediately, you'll encounter numerous Fishmen. These enemies are agile in the water and will spit projectiles. Prioritize taking them out from a distance with your whip or a well-aimed sub-weapon.
• Look for breakable blocks on the seabed. The first few often contain hearts or small money bags.
• Proceed downward, navigating the submerged ruins. You'll encounter more Fishmen and occasionally a larger, slower Giant Fishman that takes more hits.

Navigating the Sunken Passages

• Continue your descent. The path will lead you through several narrow corridors and open areas.
• Sub-Weapon Recommendation: The Knife or Axe can be very effective here. The Knife travels quickly through water, making it excellent for distant Fishmen, while the Axe's arc can hit enemies above or below you in tight spaces. The Holy Water is less effective due to its short range and the water physics.
• Keep an eye out for hidden passages. There's a section where you can drop down a seemingly dead-end shaft. If you fall through, you'll find a small alcove with a Large Heart.
• You'll soon reach a more open area with crumbling pillars. Here, Mermen will swim in patterns. Their attacks are predictable, but their numbers can be overwhelming.

The Water Current Challenge

• Further into the stage, you'll encounter a strong upward water current. This section requires precise platforming and timing.
• The current will push you upwards. You need to whip enemies like Fishmen and Mermen as you ascend, or they will knock you back down.
• There are small ledges and platforms you can briefly land on to catch your breath or deal with enemies. Use these opportunities wisely.
• At the top of this current, you'll find a small platform with a Rosary. Grab it to clear the screen of any remaining minor enemies.

The Sunken Shipwreck

• After the current, you'll enter a section dominated by a large, decaying shipwreck. This area is teeming with enemies.
• Expect to face more Fishmen, Mermen, and the occasional Ghost that floats through the wreckage.
• Secret Item: Inside the shipwreck, near the stern, there's a breakable wall that reveals a hidden passage. Follow this path to find a 1-Up. This can be a lifesaver!
• Navigate through the ship's interior, which often involves tight squeezes and enemies appearing from all directions.

Boss: The Water Dragon

• The boss arena is a large, open underwater chamber. The Water Dragon is a massive serpentine creature that swims in a figure-eight pattern.
• Strategy:
  • The Water Dragon's primary attack is spitting large bubbles that travel slowly but deal significant damage.
  • It also has a charge attack where it lunges across the screen.
  • Your best strategy is to stay in the middle-to-upper section of the arena. When the Water Dragon passes, whip its head.
  • The Axe sub-weapon is incredibly effective here, as its arc can hit the dragon's head even when it's slightly above or below you.
  • Dodge the bubbles by swimming around them. When the dragon charges, try to position yourself so it passes over or under you.
  • Maintain consistent damage on its head. It takes a good number of hits, so patience is key.
• Once defeated, collect the Orb to complete Stage 5'. Congratulations on navigating the perilous Sunken City!