Ninja Gaiden Black
Ninja Gaiden Black

How to Beat Awakened Alma

Conquer the challenging boss Awakened Alma in Ninja Gaiden Black. Master precise dodging and resource management with the Dragon Sword or Unlabored Flail.

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Boss: Awakened Alma

Prepare for one of the most challenging and visually striking encounters in Ninja Gaiden Black. Awakened Alma is a beast, combining raw power with devastating magical attacks. Success hinges on precise dodging, strategic offense, and excellent resource management.

Recommended Gear & Items

  • Weapon: Dragon Sword (Level 3) or Unlabored Flail (Level 2/3): The Dragon Sword offers a balanced approach, while the Unlabored Flail excels at crowd control and can deal significant damage if you can land its longer combos.
  • Ninjutsu: Inferno or Inazuma: Inferno is excellent for burst damage when Alma is grounded or stunned, while Inazuma can briefly stun her, creating openings.
  • Healing Items: Stock up on at least 3-4 Great Devil Elixirs and 2-3 Talismans of Rebirth. You will need them.
  • Spirit of the Devils: If you have any, these can provide a crucial attack boost during key damage phases.

Phase 1: Aerial Assault

Alma begins the fight in her winged form, primarily attacking from the air. Her attacks in this phase are fast and hit hard.

Alma's Attacks:

  • Pink Orbs: She will fire a volley of homing pink energy orbs. These are easily dodged by continuously rolling sideways. Do not try to block them, as they will break your guard and leave you vulnerable.
  • Dive Bomb: Alma will occasionally swoop down for a powerful physical attack. This is telegraphed by her briefly hovering in place before lunging. Dodge towards her as she dives to avoid the hit and potentially get behind her.
  • Grab Attack: If you get too close while she's grounded or recovering, she might attempt a grab that deals massive damage. Avoid staying directly in front of her for too long.

Strategy:

  1. Stay Mobile: Your primary goal in this phase is to survive and create openings. Continuously roll and run to avoid her orb attacks.
  2. Counter Dive Bomb: The Dive Bomb is your main opportunity. As she dives, roll towards her. If successful, you'll avoid the attack and she'll be briefly vulnerable on the ground.
  3. Punish Openings: When she's grounded after a Dive Bomb, unleash a quick combo (e.g., Dragon Sword's XXY or a short Flail combo). Do not get greedy; she recovers quickly.
  4. Ninjutsu Use: If you have a clear shot and enough Ki, a well-timed Inferno can deal good damage when she's grounded.
  5. Wall Attacks: Occasionally, Alma will perch on the arena walls. While she's there, you can try to hit her with a Flying Swallow or a well-aimed projectile (though this is less efficient than melee).

Phase 2: Grounded Fury

Once Alma has taken significant damage (approximately 50-60% of her health), she will lose her wings and become permanently grounded. This phase is more aggressive and requires precise dodging and counter-attacking.

Alma's Attacks:

  • Claw Combos: She will unleash a series of rapid, powerful claw swipes. These are often followed by a devastating overhead slam.
  • Charge Attack: Alma will charge across the arena, attempting to ram you. This is telegraphed by her crouching slightly before bursting forward.
  • Pillar Summon: She will occasionally summon large stone pillars from the ground. These deal damage if you're caught in their emergence zone.
  • Grab Attack (Enhanced): Her grab attack is even more dangerous now. Avoid staying in close proximity without actively attacking or dodging.

Strategy:

  1. Dodge and Counter: This phase is all about dodging her combos and immediately retaliating. Her claw combos usually have a brief recovery period after the final hit.
  2. Charge Attack Opening: The Charge Attack is a prime opportunity. As she charges, roll sideways. She will often be momentarily stunned or disoriented after missing, allowing for a quick combo.
  3. Utilize Ultimate Techniques (UTs): If you can charge a Level 1 or Level 2 UT with your chosen weapon, this is the time to use it. The Unlabored Flail's UTs are particularly effective here due to their wide area of effect.
  4. Ninjutsu for Damage/Breather: Inferno remains a strong option for direct damage. If you're overwhelmed, an Inazuma can briefly stun her, giving you a moment to heal or reposition.
  5. Environmental Awareness: Be mindful of the pillars she summons. They can block your movement or even damage you. Use the open spaces to your advantage.
  6. Prioritize Survival: Don't be afraid to use your Great Devil Elixirs. This is a battle of attrition, and staying alive to deal damage is paramount.

General Tips for Both Phases:

  • Keep Your Distance (Mostly): While you need to get in close to attack, avoid lingering. Hit and run tactics are very effective.
  • Audio Cues: Listen for Alma's grunts and roars; they often precede her more powerful attacks, giving you a split second more to react.
  • Camera Management: Keep Alma in view at all times. The camera can be your worst enemy if you lose track of her.
  • Patience: Do not rush. Alma punishes aggression. Wait for clear openings, land your hits, and then retreat.

Defeating Awakened Alma is a significant achievement. Stay focused, learn her patterns, and utilize your full arsenal. Good luck, Ninja!