Absolum offers an array of formidable bosses, with The Underking standing out as one of the most challenging. This massive foe wields a weapon that combines a scythe and a gun, and he’s determined to entrap you within his lavish tomb, filled with riches.
The Underking serves as the first significant hurdle for players embarking on their journey, and you’ll encounter him repeatedly in your quest. As the ultimate boss of Grandery, he poses a serious threat, requiring you to come equipped and ready every time if you wish to defeat him.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the optimal route to reach The Underking and provide effective strategies for countering his diverse attack patterns. Despite his large size and somewhat sluggish movement, he delivers devastating blows, and a single error may lead to your undoing, sending you back to square one.
Navigating the Best Route to The Underking
Although any path will eventually lead to The Underking, there exists a preferable route that better prepares you for the encounter. This route includes a hidden passageway containing an additional foe, the Mushtroll, whose defeat will grant you a powerful upgrade during your run.
Engaging the Mushtroll is manageable; simply head to the bottom of your starting area and break the rock obstructing the passage. You will face some mushroom enemies and dogs within.
Once you vanquish the Mushtroll, you will unlock an inspiration ability specific to your character. This is not only invaluable for your showdown against The Underking, but you will also gain another inspiration after defeating Gazorg, Son of Zorg.
After defeating Gazorg, proceed towards the bottom of the camp area past the Mushtroll. This route offers your character ample opportunities to recuperate health at the nearby waterfall. At the end of the mists, you will be able to acquire trinkets before arriving at The Underking’s lair. Only then must you prepare yourself to defeat him and advance to Jaroba.
Strategies for Defeating The Underking
The battle against The Underking will test your skills to the fullest. His sweeping attacks keep you on the defensive, creating distance that he can exploit. Players can expect two distinct phases in this fight, each requiring meticulous strategy and awareness.
Errors during this encounter can be costly, often leading to instant failure, so preparation is crucial.
Phase One: The Initial Encounter
During the first phase, The Underking employs a limited arsenal of attacks. Strategic positioning is key, as you’ll need to engage him closely while taking calculated risks in order to progress through this phase efficiently.
The following table outlines his attacks in this phase, along with guidance for dodging or deflecting them:
|
Attack |
Description |
Dodge, Deflect, or Clash |
|---|---|---|
|
Boomerang Throw |
The Underking hurls his weapon forward, which returns to him along the same trajectory. |
Deflect first and then dodge the return path. |
|
Triple Swing |
A series of wide sweeps followed by an overhead strike and another sweep. |
Deflect the attacks. |
|
Fire Away |
He yells, forcing you to one side before unleashing large fireballs across the battlefield. |
Take cover behind large rocks. |
Expect the transition to Phase Two to occur after he performs the “Fire Away” attack, typically when he’s at around half health.
Phase Two: The Real Challenge
Phase Two ramps up the difficulty considerably. The Underking employs all his previous attacks but enhances some to include red indicators, signifying their increased power and the inability to deflect without being stunned.
Below is an updated moves list highlighting the changes in this phase:
|
Attack |
Description |
Dodge, Deflect, or Clash |
|---|---|---|
|
Rock Drop |
The Underking slams his weapon into the ground, causing rocks to fall and summoning additional enemies. |
Dodge the falling rocks. |
|
Triple Swing |
Similar to Phase One but incorporates a powerful overhead swing that activates a red indicator. |
Deflect and then dodge. |
|
Swipe Shot |
A sidelong swipe followed by a projectile shot from his weapon. |
Deflect and then dodge. |
|
Fire Away |
A repeat of the earlier fireball barrage. |
Again, take cover behind large rocks. |
|
Spin Attack |
He pulls his weapon in, spinning around him thrice. |
Deflect all three spins. |
His attacks are formidable; therefore, maintaining a safe distance when necessary is advisable. While he struggles to close the distance, his sweeping strikes can make getting in close a challenge.
Essential Tips and Tricks
As you confront The Underking, you’ll encounter one of your first substantial challenges. Here are some strategies to enhance your chances of defeating him while minimizing damage taken. While these tips may not guarantee success on every run due to the game’s inherent variability, they provide a foundational approach applicable across different character builds.
- Know When to Retreat — The Underking unleashes a series of powerful combos, making it essential to maintain a safe distance and only strike during his downtime.
- Be Aggressively Passive — Generate pressure on him to seize control of the fight, attacking relentlessly until you absolutely must withdraw.
- Consider Hiring a Friend — For 50 gold, you can recruit an ally to assist you, especially helpful for surviving the initial phase.
- Maximize Your Build — Utilize upgrades for your primary attack confidently; neglecting your strongest tools may hinder your effectiveness.
Rewards for Defeating The Underking
Defeating The Underking yields a unique reward unlike other bosses: a new ability to equip in your alternate slot, adding an extra mana chunk alongside a vital ability boost.
The Underking represents just one of many challenges within this indie title, so brace yourself for numerous encounters. The roguelike aspect of the game ensures that each run will require you to overcome these bosses repeatedly, encouraging experimentation with various strategies at every opportunity.
Leave a Reply