How to Beat Mindflayer

Learn how to defeat the tricky Mindflayer boss in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth. Discover its attacks, weaknesses, and the best strategies to pressure and stagger it.

Alright, so you've made it to the Junon region and you're ready to take on the Mindflayer? This isn't a regular enemy you'll stumble upon in the wild. You first need to clear out all four Expedition Intel points in the area. Once that's done, head to the island located near Expedition Intel 2: Castaway Lifespring. Make your way to the center of that island, and you'll get the option to challenge the Mindflayer. Before you dive in, take a quick look around the arena – you'll want to spot any objects you can use for cover, especially when it starts using its dreaded Psychotic Break attack.

Stats / Weaknesses:

• The Mindflayer has no specific weaknesses and is resistant to many attack types.
• Status effect Materia and spells of the same type are effective.

Phases:

1. The Mindflayer will warp around the battlefield, making it hard to pin down.
2. Focus on building Synergy between Cloud and Tifa to quickly pressure the boss.
3. Repeat the process of building Synergy, pressuring, and staggering until the Mindflayer is defeated.
4. Consider calling in a summon for extra damage.

Strategy:

• Party Composition: Cloud, Tifa, and Aerith are a solid choice, with Aerith handling healing. If you prefer evasion, swap Aerith for Red XIII. Barrett is also an option for a ranged approach. Bring plenty of Phoenix Downs, as Cloud's Cure might not be enough to fully restore HP.
• Dodging Attacks: Most standard attacks like Claw, Whip, Psychic Orbs, and Rock Throw can be dodged or blocked. Astral Apprehension requires you to avoid the marked impact zones. Eldritch Horror can be deflected if you're confident in your blocking. Use a boulder to block Accused Orb.
• Psychotic Break: This is the Mindflayer's most dangerous attack, capable of wiping out your party or leaving them with 10% HP. When it's about to activate, immediately dodge behind a boulder for cover. Even with cover, your party members might still need reviving. Keep extra healing items handy.
• Pressuring the Mindflayer: The best way to pressure the Mindflayer is by using Synergy Abilities. Focus on draining the ATB meters of Cloud and Tifa to quickly build up their Synergy. Unleash their combined attack to pressure the boss and get closer to staggering it.
• Warping: Be prepared for the Mindflayer to warp around the arena frequently. You'll need to constantly reposition yourself to keep up the pressure.
• Summons: Don't hesitate to call in a summon to deal extra damage and help speed up the fight.
• Rechallenging: Once defeated, you'll receive the Mindflayer Crown, useful for crafting items like the Psychic's Charm. You'll also get an intel point and Gil. You can rechallenge the Mindflayer anytime by returning to its spawn location.