Kotaro (Chapter 14) Strategy
Chapter 14 introduces Kotaro, a swift and elusive ninja who utilizes stealth and hit-and-run tactics. The map for this encounter often features a complex layout with numerous obstacles, such as walls and fog of war, which Kotaro leverages to his advantage. Kotaro himself is a highly mobile unit with excellent evasion and critical hit capabilities. He is typically accompanied by other agile units, such as Ninjas and Outlaws, who can also pose a significant threat. The challenge lies in pinning down Kotaro and his allies, who can quickly reposition themselves and strike from unexpected angles.
Kotaro possesses high Speed and Skill, making him difficult to hit and capable of landing critical blows. He often employs skills that enhance his evasion or allow him to strike multiple times. It is crucial to have units with high Accuracy and the "Certain Blow" skill to counteract his evasiveness. Characters like Xander or Camilla, with their strong offensive presence and ability to engage multiple enemies, can be effective. The "Pair Up" mechanic is particularly useful here, allowing you to pair a high-accuracy unit with a defensive unit to create a mobile offensive force that can withstand counterattacks. Consider using units with the "Shove" skill to manipulate enemy positions, pushing them into more advantageous spots for your attacks or pulling them away from vulnerable allies. The "Dragon Vein" ability, if present on the map, can be used to clear fog of war or create pathways, making it easier to track and engage Kotaro.
A common mistake when facing Kotaro is to underestimate the threat of his supporting units. While Kotaro is the primary target, his Ninjas and Outlaws can quickly flank your army and inflict significant damage, especially with their high critical hit rates. Prioritize eliminating these agile units before focusing solely on Kotaro. Utilize area-of-effect attacks, such as those from Tomes like "Bolganone" or skills like "Shove," to control enemy positioning and create openings. If possible, use units with the "Armored Blow" skill to further mitigate damage from Kotaro's powerful attacks, though his speed often makes him difficult to pin down. Remember to keep your units healed; having a dedicated healer like Elise or Sakura on the field is crucial for sustaining your army through the prolonged engagement. The "Rally Speed" command can provide a significant boost to the speed of nearby allies, helping them to double-attack Kotaro and his allies before they can retaliate.