Ribby and Croaks: Pugilistic Panic

Beat Ribby and Croaks in Cuphead. Learn their attack patterns, recommended loadouts, and strategies for this pugilistic frog boss.

Ribby and Croaks, the pugilistic frogs, present a unique challenge in Inkwell Isle Two. This boss fight tests your ability to react to rapid attacks and manage multiple threats simultaneously. From their spinning punches to their devastating finger-flick attack, these brothers demand precise dodging and strategic use of your weapons.

The Froggy Fisticuffs

Ribby and Croaks are a formidable duo residing in Inkwell Isle Two, offering a test of reflexes and pattern recognition. These pugilistic amphibians throw a barrage of punches and employ unique, challenging attacks that require players to stay on their toes and adapt their strategies on the fly. This fight is a significant step up in difficulty from the earlier bosses.

Phase 1: The Punching Pair

The fight begins with Ribby and Croaks side-by-side. Their primary attack is a rapid series of punches. They will wind up and unleash a flurry of blows. The key here is to observe their wind-up animation and dash or jump to safety. They also have a spinning attack where they transform into a tornado-like projectile; this can be dodged by staying low or jumping over them.

Phase 2: The Finger Flick Frenzy

After taking some damage, the frogs will split up. One frog will leap into the air and perform a devastating finger-flick attack. This involves them extending their fingers, which then shoot out as projectiles. These projectiles can be tricky to dodge as they spread out. You'll need to find the gaps between the projectiles. The other frog will continue to attack with punches or other projectiles.

Phase 3: The "Fly" Phase

In the next phase, one of the frogs will transform into a fly. This fly will hover around the arena and periodically spit out a series of projectiles. These projectiles can be difficult to avoid due to the fly's erratic movement. The other frog will remain on the ground, continuing to attack. This phase requires careful management of both threats.

Phase 4: The "Dragon" Breath

The final phase sees the frogs combining their efforts. One frog will breathe a stream of fire, similar to a dragon's breath, across the arena. This fire breath covers a significant portion of the screen and requires precise timing to dodge. The other frog will likely continue to attack with punches or other projectiles from the side. This is often the most challenging phase, demanding quick reactions and a clear understanding of safe zones.

Recommended Loadout

For Ribby and Croaks, a versatile loadout is recommended:

• Weapon 1: Peashooter - Good for consistent damage at range.
• Weapon 2: Spread - Excellent for dealing high damage when you're close to the bosses, especially during their punching attacks.
• Charm: Smoke Bomb - The invincibility frames during your dash can be a lifesaver for dodging their rapid punches and projectiles.

Strategies for Success

• Prioritize Dodging: Their attacks are fast and relentless. Focus on survival first, then look for openings to attack.
• Utilize the Smoke Bomb Dash: The invincibility frames from the Smoke Bomb are invaluable for getting through their tight attack patterns.
• Parry When Possible: Parrying the pink projectiles can help build your Super Meter, allowing for EX attacks or Super Arts.
• Learn the Finger Flick Gaps: In Phase 2, carefully observe the pattern of the finger-flick projectiles and find the safe spaces.
• Manage Both Threats: In later phases, don't let one frog overwhelm you while you're focused on the other.

EX Moves and Supers

An EX shot from the Peashooter can help clear out some of the projectiles. Super Art I (Energy Beam) can be used to deal significant damage during a lull in their attacks, while Super Art II (Invincibility) is perfect for surviving the onslaught of their final phase.