Bowser in the Fire Sea

Learn how to defeat Bowser in the Fire Sea, the second Bowser encounter in Super Mario 64, with this Super Mario 3D All-Stars walkthrough guide.

Stats / Weaknesses:

• Bowser — Weak to being thrown onto mines.

Phases:

1. Bowser starts by jumping, causing the platform to tilt. Keep moving to stay balanced. He'll do this if you're far away.
2. Bowser can teleport short distances, usually when you're close. Avoid getting in his path.
3. He'll also run directly at you with some tracking.
4. Bowser shoots fireballs that slightly track you.
5. Grab Bowser's tail after his attacks (platform tilt and running are good opportunities) and throw him onto a mine.

Strategy:

• Don't stand still! Bowser's initial jump attack tilts the platform, and you'll want to keep your balance.
• His teleport move is mostly a visual cue; just don't be directly in his teleport path.
• When Bowser runs at you, his turn radius is pretty good, so you might need to wait for him to finish his charge before you can safely grab his tail. The platform tilt and his running attack leave him vulnerable for a moment afterward.
• The goal remains the same: grab his tail, spin him around, and toss him onto one of the mines scattered around the arena.
• One successful hit on a mine is enough to defeat him and earn the key needed to access the higher levels of the castle.