Boss 10: Ridley [LB10]

Master the Ridley boss fight in Metroid: Other M with this guide. Learn his attacks, weaknesses, and the best strategies to overcome this dangerous foe.

Stats / Weaknesses:

• Vulnerable to Plasma Beam during normal attacks.
• Vulnerable to Super Missile when hide darkens (invulnerable to other weapons).
• Can be Lethal Struck when on the ground after taking sufficient damage.

Phases:

1. Phase 1: Standard Attacks
   Ridley uses dash attacks (Sense Move to dodge, counter with Charge Beam), claw attacks (dodge repeatedly), firebreath and tailwhips (Sense Move right), and airborne attacks (fireball shockwaves to jump over, tail skewers to dodge multiple times and punish with charge shots). Continuously fire Plasma Beam while dodging.
2. Phase 2: Vulnerable Hide
   When Ridley takes enough damage, his hide darkens and becomes invulnerable to most weapons. Fire Super Missiles at this point. If you miss the Super Missile opportunity, use the Fast Super Missile trick. Landing a Super Missile removes his armor, allowing you to use the Plasma Beam again.
3. Phase 3: Lethal Strike Opportunity
   When Ridley takes enough damage, the camera may zoom in. If this happens while he is on the floor, run over and Lethal Strike him. Avoid damaging him too much in the air unless it's to finish him.

Strategy:

• Pay close attention to Ridley's actions and be ready to avoid every attack.
• Do not fire unless you are sure you won't get hit.
• Use Sense Move to dodge his fast dash attack and counter with a Charge Beam.
• Dodge firebreath and tailwhips by Sense Moving right.
• For airborne attacks, jump over shockwaves and dodge tail skewers multiple times before punishing with charge shots.
• While dodging, continuously fire your regular Plasma Beam.
• When his hide darkens, use Super Missiles. Use the Fast Super Missile trick if you miss the initial window.
• Prioritize Lethal Striking him when he is on the ground and vulnerable.
• Use Concentration sparingly, perhaps not while he is flying, to replenish missiles.

Post-Fight:

• Use the Grapple Point to exit.
• Open the Super Missile door.
• Climb up, shoot the switch, and proceed through the opening.
• Enter the Morph Ball slot, shoot the Sovas, take the door to the right, and use the elevator to reach the Main Sector.
• Use Concentration to replenish any missiles.