Magitek Research Facility

Ifrit and Shiva: Begin by fighting Ifrit alone. Use Celes's Runic, Edgar's Chainsaw or Drill, Sabin's Raging Fist, and Locke for healing or attacking. Shiva will join the fight once Ifrit is damaged. The strategy remains similar, switching between fighting Ifrit and Shiva as they appear. After the battle, you will learn about other Espers and obtain Magicite.

Finding the Stoneblade: Save at the Save Point and proceed through the left door. Head up the staircases to the next room. In the southwestern tube, search to its left to find a hidden chest containing the Stoneblade.

Number 024: This boss has a wide array of attacks. Its elemental weakness changes based on its attacks; use the opposite element to exploit its weakness. For example, if it uses Blizzard, it will be weak to Fire. Use powerful attacks like Thundara, and Espers like Ifrit (Fire), Shiva (Ice/Blizzard), and Ramuh (Lightning/Thunder). Physical attackers like Edgar (Chainsaw/Drill), Sabin (Raging Fist), Locke (Attack), and Celes (Blizzard) should also be utilized. Heal as needed.

Esper Acquisition: After defeating Number 024, proceed north and flip a switch. You will obtain the Bismarck, Carbuncle, Catoblepas, Maduin, Phantom, and Unicorn Magicite.

Escape Sequence: Head to Cid on the elevator. You will face five consecutive battles followed by a boss fight without breaks. Heal up after the fifth battle before facing the final boss.

Number 128, Left Blade, Right Blade: Number 128 has several attacks, including Blood Feast and Blaster. The Left Blade and Right Blade have their own basic and special attacks. The blades are not essential to defeat as they respawn. Summon Kirin for Regen and have a dedicated healer. Use Edgar's Drill, Sabin's Blitzes, and Locke's Attack. Summoning Phantom for Invisibility and using Slow to counter Haste are also recommended. Thundara is effective against all three enemies. Focus attacks on Number 128 unless using multi-target spells.

Facility Exit: After the battle, you will reappear outside the Magitek Research Facility. Heal up and proceed south. You will meet Setzer and return to the Blackjack.