Boss: Death
Death, Dracula's loyal right-hand man, is a formidable foe who will strip you of your precious gear at the beginning of the game. This encounter is unavoidable and serves as a narrative device rather than a true boss battle. However, you will face him again later in the game, and this guide will prepare you for that true confrontation.
Initial Encounter (Unwinnable)
You first meet Death in the Alchemy Laboratory shortly after starting your adventure. This battle is designed to be lost, as Death will steal all your equipment, leaving Alucard with only his fists. Do not waste healing items or special attacks here; simply let the cinematic play out. You cannot defeat him at this stage.
Second Encounter (True Battle)
The real fight against Death occurs much later, in the Catacombs area of the castle. This is a multi-phase battle that requires careful movement and strategic attacks.
Recommended Preparation
- Level: Aim for at least Level 25-30.
- Weapon: A fast, high-damage weapon is ideal. The Alucard Sword or Muramasa (if you've been grinding it) are excellent choices.
- Armor: Equip the best defensive gear you have. The Alucard Mail or Dragon Mail are strong contenders.
- Accessory: The Necklace of J can provide a useful defense boost.
- Sub-Weapon: The Cross is incredibly effective against Death, especially when used with the Item Crash. The Axe can also be useful for hitting his head in the first phase.
- Healing Items: Stock up on Potions and High Potions. Elixirs are a good emergency option.
Battle Strategy: Phase 1
Death begins by floating around the arena, summoning various scythes and projectiles. His primary attacks in this phase include:
- Sickle Storm: Death throws multiple small sickles that home in on Alucard. These can be destroyed with your weapon.
- Large Scythe: He summons a massive scythe that sweeps across the screen. This is telegraphed and can be dodged by ducking or jumping over it.
- Skull Projectiles: Death will occasionally summon skulls that float around and then shoot towards you.
Tactics:
- Target the Head: Death's head is his weak point. Jump and attack him whenever he is within range.
- Use Sub-Weapons: If you have the Cross, use it. An Item Crash with the Cross (Up, Down, Forward + Attack) can deal massive damage and clear the screen of projectiles.
- Stay Mobile: Constantly move and jump to avoid his attacks. The arena has platforms; utilize them to your advantage for dodging and attacking.
- Destroy Sickles: Prioritize destroying the smaller sickles to prevent them from overwhelming you.
Battle Strategy: Phase 2
Once you've dealt enough damage, Death will transform. His body will become larger, and he will gain new, more aggressive attacks. He will also be accompanied by two floating scythes that orbit him.
- Scythe Orbit: The two large scythes will continuously spin around Death, acting as a shield and dealing damage if you touch them.
- Energy Blast: Death will charge up and fire a large, slow-moving energy projectile that tracks Alucard.
- Scythe Throw: He will occasionally throw one of his orbiting scythes directly at you.
Tactics:
- Focus on Death's Body: His head is no longer the primary target; aim for his main body.
- Dodge the Orbiting Scythes: These are a constant threat. Time your attacks carefully to avoid contact.
- Utilize the Cross Item Crash: The Cross Item Crash remains incredibly effective here, hitting Death multiple times and often clearing the orbiting scythes temporarily.
- Hit and Run: Get in a few hits when you see an opening, then retreat to avoid his counter-attacks and the orbiting scythes.
- Manage Healing: If you get hit by the energy blast or the scythes, don't hesitate to use a Potion.
Stay persistent and keep up the pressure. Death has a large health pool, but with careful dodging and well-timed attacks, you will eventually prevail. Defeating Death will grant you significant experience and open up new areas of the castle.