Boss: Marbus
Marbus is a formidable demon and a recurring boss in Ninja Gaiden Black. This fight can be challenging, but with the right strategy and preparation, you'll emerge victorious.
Recommended Gear & Items
- Weapon: The Dragon Sword (upgraded to Level 3 or higher) or the Unlabored Flail are excellent choices for their speed and crowd control capabilities. The Lunar Staff can also be effective for its wide-sweeping attacks.
- Ninpo: Inferno Ninpo is highly recommended for its damage output and ability to interrupt Marbus's attacks. Art of the Fire Wheels can also provide a defensive barrier.
- Accessories: The Armlet of the Sun for increased attack power, or the Armlet of the Moon for defense, are both viable. The Talisman of Rebirth is a must-have for an emergency revive.
- Healing Items: Stock up on Great Devil Elixirs and Devil Elixirs. Spiritual Elixirs are also useful for replenishing Ninpo.
Phase 1: Ground Combat
Marbus begins the fight on the ground, utilizing a series of powerful melee attacks and a dangerous projectile.
- Observe his patterns: Marbus has a three-hit combo that ends with a wide sweep. He also has a lunging attack and a ground pound that creates a shockwave.
- Dodge and counter: The key here is to stay mobile. Use your Izuna Drop (X, Y, X, X, Y) or Flying Swallow (forward + Y) to close distances quickly and land a few hits. After he completes a combo, there's a brief opening for you to attack.
- Projectile attack: Marbus will occasionally charge up and unleash a large, slow-moving energy projectile. This can be dodged by rolling to the side or blocked (though blocking will still inflict some chip damage). If you have a fully charged Ultimate Technique ready, you can often absorb the projectile's damage while delivering a powerful counter-attack.
- Utilize Ninpo: If you find yourself overwhelmed or need to create some space, a well-placed Inferno Ninpo can stagger Marbus and deal significant damage.
Phase 2: Aerial Assault
Once Marbus takes enough damage, he will ascend into the air, making him harder to hit directly. He will also summon lesser fiends to assist him.
- Prioritize the adds: Marbus will summon groups of Imps or other minor demons. Eliminate these quickly to prevent them from distracting you or overwhelming you. The Unlabored Flail's wide-reaching attacks are excellent for this.
- Aerial attacks: Marbus will dive down with a powerful slam attack or shoot multiple projectiles from above. Dodge these by rolling or using your Wall Run to gain height and avoid the blast radius.
- Ranged attacks: While Marbus is airborne, your options for direct damage are limited.
- Bow and Arrow: If you have the Strong Bow or the Fiend's Bane Bow, charged shots can hit Marbus in the air. Aim for his head for critical damage.
- Ninpo: Inferno Ninpo is still effective here, especially if you can time it to hit him as he descends for an attack.
- Wind Path (Wall Run + X): If you can get close enough to a wall, a well-timed Wind Path can sometimes connect with Marbus as he flies by.
- Wait for openings: Marbus will eventually descend to the ground for a short period, often after a series of aerial attacks. This is your primary opportunity to unleash your most powerful combos and Ultimate Techniques.
General Tips for Success
- Stay mobile: Never stand still. Constant dodging and movement are crucial for avoiding Marbus's powerful attacks.
- Charge Ultimate Techniques: Whenever there's a brief lull in the fight, try to charge up an Ultimate Technique. The Dragon Sword's Level 3 UT is particularly devastating.
- Heal strategically: Don't wait until your health is critically low to use an Elixir. A timely heal can prevent a game over.
- Learn his tells: Pay close attention to Marbus's animations. He often has clear wind-ups for his attacks, giving you a precious moment to react.
- Don't get greedy: Land a few hits, then dodge. Trying to string together long combos when he's active will often result in taking unnecessary damage.
By following these strategies, you'll be able to defeat Marbus and continue your journey through Ninja Gaiden Black.