The Tarantula is a massive spider that guards the Macro Zone's Golden Coin. The battle takes place in a small arena with a few platforms. The Tarantula will move back and forth across the top of the screen, occasionally dropping smaller spiders (Spiderlings) or spitting webs. To defeat it, you need to jump on its head three times.
Phases & Attacks:
- Movement: Moves horizontally across the top of the screen.
- Spiderlings: Drops small spiders that crawl on the ground.
- Web Spit: Spits webs that fall and can trap Mario.
Weakness:
Tarantula's head. Three stomps are required.
Recommended Power-up:
Superball Flower: Highly recommended. You can hit the Tarantula from a distance, avoiding its web attacks and the Spiderlings. Three Superball hits will defeat it. Bunny Mario (Carrot): Useful for precise jumps onto its head and for dodging webs and Spiderlings with greater air control.
Strategy:
- Clear Spiderlings: Stomp or Superball any Spiderlings immediately to prevent them from becoming a nuisance.
- Dodge Webs: Observe the web patterns and jump over them. They can be tricky to avoid if you're focused solely on the boss.
- Time Your Stomps: The Tarantula will occasionally lower itself. Use this opportunity to jump on its head.
- Superball Safety: If you have Superballs, stand on a platform and fire them upwards. This allows you to stay away from the ground-based threats.
Reward:
Golden Coin #2