This page of the IGN Bloodstained Wiki Guide and Walkthrough contains information on how to complete the Zangetsu boss encounter, located in the Entrance area.

For information on how to reach Zangetsu, be sure to check out our Entrance and Garden of Silence area walkthroughs. For general advice on how to proceed through Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night, check out our Tips and Tricks page, and for all the key items you need before beginning the Zangetsu encounter, check out the IGN Wiki page on The Best Items In Each Area Of Bloodstained.

ZANGETSU

Zangetsu is a boss encounter located in the upper right corner of the Entrance area, and can be accessed through the Garden of Silence area. Entering the boss arena and walking left will initiate a short introductory cutscene, after which Zangetsu will attack the player.

STRATEGY

Zangetsu is a relatively fast-moving boss, but he still clearly telegraphs his attacks, and none of them are particularly difficult to avoid. Because of his movement style, we recommend using quick weapons, such as maces or swords.

Because Zangetsu can counter with a rising slash attack if you approach from the air, it is recommended you instead focus on countering his attacks and taking advantage of his openings, instead of being overly aggressive during this fight. Dodge his attacks, retaliate with one or two slashes or a spell, then backdash and wait for your next opening.

RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT: True Arrow, Morganstern, Sword Expertise, Gale Crawler

PHASE ONE

During the fight, Zangetsu will use a variety of basic attacks (which are quick and less clearly telegraphed) and several special attacks (which have longer wind-ups, longer recovery times, and leave him more open for counterattacks).

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During his basic attacks, Zangetsu will run up to Miriam and attack by slashing his katana horizontally and vertically, or he will throw a kunai across the screen in a lightly arcing path. To counter these attacks, jump or backdash, then retaliate with spells or long-range weapons.

One of Zangetsu’s primary special attacks is a echo-moving back attack. Zangetsu will wind up for the attack by moving in a quick, stuttered flurry of movements. During the attack, his movements will become blurred and he will position himself behind the player before striking.

Wait until he flutters through you, then jump behind him to avoid the attack. Land a jumping attack or cast your most damaging close-range spell (True Arrow, if you have it) to deal as much damage as possible before he retreats or begins his next attack.

Another echo attack Zangetsu will use is his jumping slash attack. Zangetsu will jump towards the player, blurring his movement, and remain stationary for a moment after landing with a downward slash, so dodge the attack, then quickly approach and punish this opening with True Arrow or your main weapon.

If Miriam is hit by the slash while airborne, she will be thrown backwards and Zangetsu will close the gap. Be sure to give Zangetsu a wide berth during this attack, as the strike zone is larger than it may appear.

Throughout the fight, Zangetsu will taunt Miriam, then adopt a defensive stance. If you attack during this animation, he will block your attack, then counter with an attack of his own. During this time he will only attack if countering Miriam, so wait him out or take this opportunity to attack him from behind.

PHASE TWO