Blackjack II

Learn how to beat the powerful Cranes in Final Fantasy VI. This guide covers their attacks, weaknesses, and the best strategies to overcome them.

Alright, let's talk about the Cranes you'll face in Final Fantasy VI. These guys can hit pretty hard, so it's good to know what you're up against. They've got a few tricks up their sleeves, but nothing we can't handle together.

Stats / Weaknesses:

• Attacks: Wrecking Ball (enhanced basic attack), Thundara, Fira, Magnitude 8, Magitek Barrier (Protect/Reflect).
• Left Crane Specific: Thunder, Gigavolt (absorbs Lightning/Thunder).
• Right Crane Specific: Fire, Firaga (absorbs Fire).
• Elemental Absorption: You must hit a Crane with its absorbed element (Fire for the right, Lightning for the left) before it can use its powerful Firaga or Gigavolt attacks on you.
• Special Interaction: Every three times you damage a Crane, it will use Fira or Thundara on the *other* Crane to charge up its Firaga or Gigavolt.
• HP: Very low.

Phases:

1. The Cranes have distinct attack patterns based on their elemental specialties and the absorption mechanic.
2. They will use Fira/Thundara on each other to power up their ultimate elemental spells.

Strategy:

• Party Setup: Bring Espers like Kirin, Shiva, and potentially Ifrit or Ramuh. Kirin is great for healing with Cure/Cura.
• General Approach: Focus on dealing damage quickly. Don't be afraid to use your Espers, but be mindful if you bring Ifrit or Ramuh, as they can trigger the Cranes' special attacks.
• Healing: The user with Kirin should be ready to cast Cure or Cura as needed to keep your party healthy.
• Character Actions:
  • Locke: Steal the Debilitator from the Right Crane, then attack.
  • Edgar: Use his Chainsaw or Drill.
  • Sabin: Use the Aura Cannon Blitz.
  • Cyan: Use his #1 or #4 Bushido.
  • Setzer: Attack normally.
• Elemental Magic: If you have party members who can cast Fire or Thunder/Thundara, use those to exploit the Cranes' weaknesses. This is a high priority, along with using Espers and healing.
• Elemental Defense: While you can use elemental attacks, be cautious. If you don't hit them with their absorbed element first, they can still hit you hard with Firaga or Gigavolt. Having a party-wide Reflect status can be very helpful if you plan on using elemental attacks yourself.
• After the Battle: Once you've defeated the Cranes, you'll return to Zozo via your airship and a scene will play out.