Boss: Cerberus
Cerberus, the three-headed hound of the underworld, is a formidable early-game boss found in the Outer Wall. This beast primarily attacks with fire-based projectiles and charges. While challenging, a prepared Alucard can make short work of this infernal guardian.
Preparation
- Equipment:
- Weapon: The Bastard Sword or Broadsword are excellent choices if you've found them. Otherwise, your starting Alucard Sword will suffice.
- Armor: Equip the best defense you have. The Leather Shield can be useful for blocking projectiles, though dodging is often more effective.
- Accessory: The Beryl Circlet (found in the Long Library) offers a small defense boost and is a good option.
- Sub-Weapons:
- The Axe is highly recommended for its arc and damage, allowing you to hit Cerberus's heads from a safer distance.
- The Cross can also be effective due to its wide area of effect, especially if you can land multiple hits.
- Consumables: Bring a few Potions or High Potions if you have them. These can be purchased from the Librarian in the Long Library.
Strategy
Cerberus has a predictable attack pattern, making it vulnerable to a consistent offensive. The key is to stay mobile and exploit openings.
Phase 1: Fire Breath and Charges
At the start, Cerberus will typically alternate between two main attacks:
- Fire Breath: One of its heads will breathe a stream of fire directly forward.
- Charge: Cerberus will charge across the arena, attempting to ram Alucard.
Tactics:
- Stay Low: Most of Cerberus's fire breath attacks are aimed horizontally or slightly downwards. By staying close to the ground, you can often duck under these flames.
- Attack the Heads: The heads are Cerberus's weak points. Jump and strike with your sword, or use your Axe sub-weapon for consistent damage.
- Dodge the Charge: When Cerberus charges, jump over it. If you have the Double Jump ability (obtained after defeating the Minotaur and Werewolf), this becomes significantly easier. Otherwise, time your single jump carefully.
- Sub-Weapon Usage: Throw Axes or Crosses when Cerberus is stationary, especially during its fire breath attack, to maximize damage.
Phase 2: Triple Fireballs
As Cerberus takes more damage, it will introduce a new attack:
- Triple Fireballs: One head will launch three fireballs in a spread pattern. These can be tricky to avoid.
Tactics:
- Find the Gaps: When the triple fireballs are launched, look for the small gaps between them and move through. Sometimes, standing directly beneath the launching head can allow you to avoid all three.
- Shield Use: If you have the Leather Shield equipped, you can attempt to block these fireballs, though it's often safer to dodge.
- Aggression: Continue to attack relentlessly. The faster you defeat Cerberus, the fewer opportunities it has to use its more dangerous attacks.
Post-Battle Reward
Upon defeating Cerberus, you will receive the Soul of Bat relic. This invaluable ability allows Alucard to transform into a bat, granting him flight and access to previously unreachable areas. This opens up significant exploration opportunities in the castle.
break the crystal to the right of the arena for a full HP and MP restore before continuing your adventure!