Tatanga, the alien invader from the original Super Mario Land, returns as the boss of the Space Zone. He pilots a flying saucer and attacks by shooting projectiles. The battle takes place in an open space with a few small platforms. To defeat Tatanga, you need to jump on his head three times.
Phases & Attacks:
- Projectile Barrage: Shoots multiple projectiles in various patterns.
- Dive Attack: Occasionally dives down, bringing his head within jumping range.
- Flight Pattern: Flies around the screen, often staying high.
Weakness:
Tatanga's head. Three stomps are required.
Recommended Power-up:
Superball Flower: Highly effective. You can hit Tatanga with Superballs from a distance, even when he's higher up, making the fight much safer and quicker. Three Superball hits will defeat him. Bunny Mario (Carrot): The low gravity combined with Bunny Mario's float gives you excellent air control to dodge projectiles and precisely land on Tatanga's head during his dives.
Strategy:
- Utilize Low Gravity: Use the low gravity to your advantage for high jumps and controlled descents to dodge projectiles.
- Wait for the Dive: Tatanga will periodically dive down. This is your primary opportunity to stomp on his head.
- Superball from Afar: If you have Superballs, keep firing them. You can often hit him even when he's higher up, speeding up the fight.
- Stay on Platforms: Use the small platforms to gain elevation and avoid falling into the void below.
Reward:
Golden Coin #4