Learn how to defeat Garth Goyle in Dragon Quest IX. This guide covers his resistances, attacks, and the best strategy to overcome this lengthy boss battle.
Stats / Weaknesses:
- Resistances: Magic Barrier (high magic resistance), Kabuff (high defense).
- Attacks: Stomp (20-30 damage to one character or party), Psyche Up + Stomp (45 damage).
- Weaknesses: Physical attacks are more effective, especially when his Kabuff wears off.
Phases:
- Garth Goyle begins the battle by casting Magic Barrier and Kabuff, significantly increasing his resistance to magic and his physical defense.
- He acts twice per turn and can repeat actions for two turns consecutively.
- His direct attacks, like Stomp, are not overly threatening, dealing around 20-30 damage to a single target or the whole party. If he uses Psyche Up beforehand, the damage can reach about 45.
- The primary challenge is dealing damage due to his high resistances, especially after double Kabuff.
Strategy:
- The most effective strategy involves physical attacks. Wait for Garth Goyle's Kabuff buff to wear off before launching your assault.
- A Warrior using the 'Egg On' skill to build up to 100 tension is highly recommended. Unleash these high-tension attacks when Goyle's defenses are lowered.
- With three or four of these powerful tension attacks, Garth Goyle should be defeated.
- Reward: 4134 Experience Points, 1250 Gold Coins.
- Drops: Terrible Tattoo.
- Warning: The Terrible Tattoo is a cursed item. Once equipped, it can only be removed by visiting a church and performing a benediction ritual.
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