Kraid
The gargantuan Space Pirate general, Kraid, makes a terrifying return in Metroid Fusion, albeit in an X-Parasite infected form. This battle takes place in Sector 4 (AQUA) and requires precise movement and powerful attacks to overcome. Ensure you have a good stock of Missiles and Energy Tanks before engaging.
Preparation
Before heading into Kraid's lair, it's highly recommended to have the following upgrades:
- Varia Suit: Essential for mitigating damage from Kraid's attacks and the lava in the arena.
- High Jump: Crucial for reaching the higher platforms to target Kraid's weak point.
- Missile Tanks: The more, the better. Aim for at least 60-70 Missiles for a comfortable fight. Explore Sector 4 thoroughly for any missed upgrades.
- Energy Tanks: Maximize your health. There are several hidden throughout Sector 4.
Locating Kraid
Kraid is found deep within Sector 4 (AQUA). Follow these steps to reach his chamber:
- From the Navigation Room in Sector 4, head left through the main shaft.
- Descend into the water and navigate through the submerged corridors.
- You'll eventually reach a large, vertical shaft with several doors. Take the bottom-most right door.
- Proceed through a series of rooms, often involving navigating through water and defeating aquatic enemies.
- You'll encounter a room with a large, destructible block on the floor. Use a Power Bomb to clear it, revealing a path downwards.
- Continue downwards and to the right. The next large chamber will be Kraid's lair.
Battle Strategy
Kraid is a multi-stage boss fight that demands quick reflexes and accurate aiming. The arena consists of a large pool of lava at the bottom, a central platform, and two higher platforms on either side.
Phase 1: Belly Shots
Kraid will emerge from the lava, revealing his upper body. His primary attack in this phase involves spitting projectiles from his mouth and occasionally launching his claws.
- Target: Kraid's exposed belly.
- Movement: Stay on the central platform. When Kraid spits projectiles, jump over them or duck under them. If he launches his claws, either jump to avoid them or quickly move to the other side of the platform.
- Attack: Fire Missiles directly into his belly. Each hit will cause him to recoil slightly.
- Environmental Hazard: The lava below is damaging. Avoid falling in.
Phase 2: Head Shots
After taking enough damage to his belly, Kraid will sink slightly, and his head will become the primary target. He will continue to spit projectiles and launch claws, but now he might also try to swipe at you with his hand if you're on the central platform.
- Target: Kraid's head.
- Movement: This is where the High Jump is crucial. Jump onto one of the higher platforms. This will give you a clear shot at his head and keep you safer from his claw swipes.
- Attack: From the higher platforms, unleash Missiles into Kraid's head. Charge your Beam if you run low on Missiles, but Missiles are far more effective.
- Countering Claws: If Kraid's claws reach your platform, quickly jump to the other high platform or drop to the central one to avoid damage.
Phase 3: Final Assault
Once Kraid's head has taken significant damage, he will sink further into the lava, and his mouth will open wide, revealing a glowing core. This is his ultimate weak point.
- Target: The glowing core inside Kraid's mouth.
- Movement: Continue to utilize the high platforms. Kraid will still spit projectiles, but his claw attacks might become more aggressive.
- Attack: This is your chance to deal massive damage. Fire a continuous stream of Missiles directly into the glowing core. If you have any Power Bombs left, a well-placed Power Bomb can also deal significant damage, but save them for emergencies or if you're struggling to hit the core with Missiles.
- Patience: Keep up the pressure. This phase requires sustained fire. Don't get discouraged if he doesn't go down immediately.
Post-Battle Reward
Upon defeating Kraid, the X-Parasite will be released and absorbed, granting you the Plasma Beam. This powerful upgrade allows your beam to pierce through multiple enemies and certain types of barriers, making future combat and exploration much easier. You'll also gain a significant health refill from the absorbed X-Parasite.