Boss: Barbon (Stage 7)
Barbon, the mohawked punk boss of Stage 7, "Hydro-Assembly Plant," is a returning fan-favorite from previous Streets of Rage titles. He's a fast and aggressive opponent who can quickly overwhelm unprepared players. This guide will help you understand his attack patterns and provide strategies to take him down efficiently.
Pre-Fight Preparations
Before engaging Barbon, ensure you've collected all available health and weapons. As you progress through the final section of Stage 7 leading up to the boss arena:
- Health: There's usually a Roasted Chicken or Apple hidden in breakable objects (like barrels or crates) just before the boss door. grab it if your health is low.
- Weapons: Keep an eye out for weapons dropped by enemies. A Pipe or Baseball Bat can be incredibly useful for dealing quick damage and maintaining distance. If you have a character with strong weapon proficiency, even better.
Barbon's Attack Patterns
Barbon has a predictable, yet dangerous, set of moves. Learning to recognize them is key to victory:
- Dash Punch: Barbon will often charge across the screen with a powerful punch. This move is telegraphed by a brief wind-up animation.
- Grab and Knee: If you get too close, Barbon will attempt to grab you and deliver a series of knee strikes. This can be devastating if you don't break free quickly.
- Jump Kick: He occasionally performs a jumping kick, especially if you're trying to maintain vertical distance.
- Ground Pound (Rare): Less common, but he might perform a small ground pound if you're directly above him.
Strategies for Victory
The core strategy against Barbon revolves around hit-and-run tactics, exploiting his recovery frames, and using your special moves wisely.
1. Maintain Distance and Bait Attacks
Barbon is at his most dangerous up close. Your primary goal should be to keep some distance and bait out his Dash Punch. When he charges, quickly move out of the way (up or down on the screen) and then counter-attack as he recovers.
2. Counter-Attacking Opportunities
- After Dash Punch: This is your best opening. Once he dashes past you, immediately move in and land a quick combo. Avoid over-committing, as he recovers relatively fast.
- After Jump Kick: If he misses a jump kick, he'll have a brief moment of vulnerability when he lands.
- Special Moves: Don't hesitate to use your character's special attacks (defensive or offensive) when you have a clear shot or need to break out of a tight spot. Remember that offensive specials consume a small portion of your health, but this can be recovered by landing subsequent hits.
3. Weapon Usage
If you managed to bring a weapon into the fight, use it! Weapons like the Pipe or Baseball Bat allow you to deal significant damage from a safer distance, interrupting his attacks and creating openings. Throwing a weapon can also stun him, giving you a chance to close in for a combo.
4. Avoid Grabs
Barbon's grab is punishing. If he gets close, prioritize moving away or using a defensive special to avoid being caught. If you are grabbed, mash your attack buttons to break free as quickly as possible to minimize damage.
5. Utilize the Environment (If Applicable)
While Barbon's arena is relatively simple, always be aware of your positioning. Try to keep him on one side of the screen, allowing you more room to maneuver and dodge his charges.
6. Character-Specific Tips
- Axel Stone: His Grand Upper (forward + special) can be a great counter after dodging a Dash Punch.
- Blaze Fielding: Her speedy combos and dive kick can be effective for quick hits and retreats.
- Adam Hunter: His dash attack and powerful combos are excellent for punishing Barbon's openings.
- Cherry Hunter: Her incredible speed and air combos make her fantastic for hit-and-run tactics.
- Floyd Iraia: His powerful grabs and charged attacks can deal massive damage, but his slower movement requires more precise dodging.
By understanding Barbon's patterns and applying these strategies, you'll be able to defeat him and continue your journey through the Hydro-Assembly Plant!