EX Attack Prioritization

Master Cuphead's EX attacks. Learn weapon-specific strategies, prioritize damage vs. utility, and manage your Super Meter for maximum effectiveness.

EX attacks in Cuphead are powerful, meter-consuming abilities that can turn the tide of a difficult boss fight. Prioritizing when and how to use them is a key aspect of advanced strategy. Understanding the strengths of each weapon's EX move and the flow of a boss battle will maximize your damage output and survival.

What are EX Attacks?

EX attacks are special, enhanced versions of your primary weapon's projectiles. They are activated by pressing the EX button (usually mapped to a shoulder button) while firing. Each weapon has a unique EX attack with different properties. You build meter for EX attacks by dealing damage and parrying pink objects.

Prioritizing EX Usage: Damage vs. Utility

The decision to use an EX attack often boils down to whether it's for raw damage or for its utility:

• Damage Amplification: Some EX attacks deal significantly more damage than standard shots. These are best used when you have a clear opening and want to quickly deplete a boss's health bar, especially during vulnerable phases.
• Utility and Defense: Other EX attacks offer defensive benefits or unique effects. For example, the Peashooter's EX attack creates a shield that can block projectiles, while the Charge Shot's EX attack can clear a screen of smaller enemies.

Weapon-Specific EX Prioritization

The optimal EX usage varies greatly depending on the weapon you have equipped:

• Peashooter: The EX attack is a short-range, damaging projectile. It's good for burst damage up close, but its utility is limited. Prioritize using it when you're close to the boss and have a safe window.
• Spread: The EX attack is a large, damaging burst that hits in a wide area. Excellent for dealing massive damage to a single target at close range or clearing out multiple small enemies. Prioritize using it when the boss is stationary or when you're right next to them.
• Chaser: The EX attack is a series of homing projectiles that deal moderate damage. It's less about burst damage and more about consistent, safe damage. Prioritize using it when you need to focus heavily on dodging and can't afford to aim precisely.
• Lobber: The EX attack is a large, bouncing projectile that deals high damage. It's excellent for hitting enemies from a distance or when they are in a predictable position. Prioritize using it when you can land multiple hits with the bouncing projectile.
• Charge: The EX attack is a rapid-fire burst of shots. It's fantastic for dealing high damage quickly when the boss is vulnerable. Prioritize using it when you have a clear shot and can unleash the full barrage.
• Roundabout: The EX attack is a large, piercing projectile that travels forward and then returns. It's great for hitting enemies from behind or dealing damage through multiple targets. Prioritize using it when you can hit the boss on both the forward and return path.

When to Use Your Super Meter

While EX attacks are powerful, don't forget about your Super Arts. These consume the entire Super Meter and offer even greater effects. Generally, EX attacks are for smaller bursts of damage or utility during the fight, while Supers are reserved for critical moments, such as clearing a screen of dangerous projectiles, dealing massive damage during a boss's vulnerable phase, or when you're about to lose your last HP.

Strategic Considerations

Boss Phases: Some bosses have phases where they are more vulnerable or have specific attack patterns that make them ideal targets for EX attacks. For example, during Grim Matchstick's final phase, using a charged EX attack from the Charge weapon can quickly end the fight.

Meter Management: Don't waste your meter. If you have a full meter and are about to enter a new phase or a particularly dangerous section, consider using an EX attack to get a head start or ensure survival.

Charm Synergy: Charms like Coffee can help you build meter faster, allowing for more frequent EX usage. If you're relying heavily on EX attacks, consider equipping Coffee.

Weapon	EX Attack Priority	Reason
Peashooter	Situational Damage/Defense	Close-range burst, projectile shield
Spread	High Close-Range Damage	Massive burst, clears small enemies
Chaser	Consistent Safe Damage	Focus on dodging, auto-aim
Lobber	Strategic Bouncing Damage	Predictable targets, distance
Charge	High Vulnerable Target Damage	Clear shots, rapid barrage
Roundabout	Piercing/Rear Damage	Damage through targets, return path