Location:
Imperial Stronghold (Main Scenario: Through the Maelstrom)
Weaknesses:
Vulnerable to fire (Ifrit abilities) in some phases.
Strategy:
The fight against Garuda has two main phases. In her human form (Benedikta), she is incredibly fast, using wind-based sword attacks and ranged projectiles. Focus on Precision Dodging her attacks. After a successful dodge, you'll have a brief window for a counter-attack. Use 'Rising Flame' and 'Scarlet Cyclone' from Phoenix. When she transforms into Garuda, the fight becomes more dynamic. Garuda uses large AoE wind attacks, including 'Deadly Embrace' (which can pull you in) and 'Storm of Fury'. Stay mobile, using Phoenix Shift to avoid her ground-based attacks. Use 'Deadly Embrace' (Clive's Garuda ability) to pull her down or interrupt her. Focus on building her stagger gauge. During stagger, unleash your most powerful abilities. Be prepared for quick-time events during cinematic attacks.
Rewards:
- Garuda Eikon Abilities
- Electrum
- Ability Points
Much like the duel with Rufus Shinra in Final Fantasy VII Remake, the first phase against Benedikta demands precise parrying to counter her rapid sword strikes.
While Benedikta relies on swift wind-based swordplay, her aerial dominance evokes the predatory nature of the Quezacotl summon found in Final Fantasy VIII Remastered.