Tiamat Boss Guide in Final Fantasy 16

Tiamat is a simpler boss fight in Final Fantasy XVI compared to Shiva. Learn Tiamat's attacks and the best strategy to defeat this dragon-like Eikon.

Alright, so you've made it to Tiamat in Final Fantasy XVI. If you found Shiva's Dominant a bit tough, you'll be relieved to know Tiamat is generally much easier. This boss doesn't have a huge move set, and most of its attacks are pretty straightforward to dodge. You'll actually see most of Tiamat's skills right from the start of the fight, with only one new move appearing later on. As always, it's a good idea to play a bit defensively at first, just to get a feel for its attack patterns before going all out.

Stats / Weaknesses:

• Tiamat is a dragon-like Eikon.
• Its attacks are generally easy to dodge.
• Can block player attacks; back off if damage numbers don't appear.

Phases:

1. Phase 1: Tiamat uses its standard set of attacks.
2. Phase 2 (approx. 50% HP): Tiamat gains the Enruin attack.

Strategy:

• General Approach: Stay mobile and focus on learning Tiamat's attack patterns. Don't get greedy with your attacks, especially when Tiamat is blocking.
• Magic Projectile: Tiamat fires a straight-line projectile with a short charge. It's easy to see coming and dodge. Be ready for a potential follow-up.
• Dashing Slice: When at a distance, Tiamat will dash and slice with its sword. Dodge sideways or backward to avoid this.
• Dashing Slice Magic Combo: This is a variation of the Dashing Slice. Tiamat will dash and slice, then follow up with a short-range magic burst. You can spot this combo because Tiamat's offhand will glow blue before the magic burst. Dodge the initial slice, then be ready to evade the magic.
• Sword One-Two Combo: If you're close to Tiamat, it will perform two quick sword swipes. Keep an eye out and dodge accordingly.
• Enruin (Phase 2): Once Tiamat's health drops to about 50%, it gains this new move. Tiamat coats its sword in magic and unleashes a four-hit combo: two quick swings, a third with a slight delay, and a final stab. It's best to disengage and focus purely on dodging during Enruin. Don't try to attack during this sequence; just wait for it to finish.
• Blocking: Pay attention to whether your attacks are landing. If you don't see damage numbers, Tiamat is blocking. Back off to avoid being pushed back too much.