Road to Central Command

Learn the best strategies to defeat the Dragon Zombie and Guardian mini-bosses on the Road to Central Command in Bravely Default. Includes tips for Phoenix Down trick and party buffs.

Alright, you've made it to the Road to Central Command! This path isn't just a straight shot; it's got a couple of nasty surprises waiting for you. Let's get you through them.

Boss: Dragon Zombie

This guy looks imposing, but there's a cheeky way to take him down fast. If you're feeling sneaky, you can try using a Phoenix Down or casting Raise on the Dragon Zombie right at the start of the battle. If you Brave twice and use it, there's a good chance (about 75%) it'll instantly defeat him. If it fails, don't worry, he'll just revive with full HP anyway. Just use the trick again, and you'll be golden!

Stats / Weaknesses:

• Level: 44
• HP: 25,000
• Weak to: Fire, Light, Undead, Dragon

If you'd rather go toe-to-toe, or the trick doesn't work out, make sure everyone in your party is rocking a Star Pendant. The Dragon Zombie's Poison Breath can really wear you down and inflict poison, so those pendants are key. With poison neutralized, focus on fire-based attacks. Just remember, he *will* revive with full HP after you defeat him the first time, so be ready for a second round.

Strategy:

• Equip Star Pendants to resist Poison Breath.
• Pile on fire-based attacks.
• Be prepared for the Dragon Zombie to revive with full HP.

After dealing with the Dragon Zombie, head back to the crossroads before Eternian Central Command and take the path leading down. If you just beat the Dragon Zombie head-on, you might want to pop into Eternia or Gravemark Village to rest up. Another tough mini-boss is waiting for you below, and it's a good time to check if you can afford any gear upgrades too.

Boss: Guardian

This mechanical menace is similar to the Automatons you fought back at Grapp Keep. Expect its signature Rocket Punches and Limiter Rescission, which boosts its attack but lowers its defense. The real kicker is Assist Attack, which hits your whole party for about 1500 HP every third turn. Keep a mental count of your turns so you can heal up right before it unleashes this devastating blow.

Stats / Weaknesses:

• Level: 45
• HP: 90,000
• Weak to: Lightning

To improve your odds against the Guardian, consider using the Performer's Got Your Back ability to boost your party's defense. You can also use the Pirate's Defang or the White Mage's Dispel to lower the Guardian's attack power. Keeping track of the turns is crucial to survive its big hits.

Strategy:

• Use Performer's Got Your Back to increase party defense.
• Use Pirate's Defang or White Mage's Dispel to lower Guardian's attack.
• Keep track of turns to prepare for Assist Attack.
• Exploit its weakness to Lightning.

Once you've dealt with the Guardian, you're almost at your destination. Head due north towards the orange exclamation mark – Eternian Central Command awaits!