Ultimate Guide to Defeating Wiegraf and Belias in Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles revitalizes the beloved classic, bringing to light the notorious encounters that have frustrated players for decades, including some of the most challenging boss battles ever designed.

Among these battles, the confrontation with Wiegraf stands out as a particularly infamous challenge. Not only can it be excruciatingly tough, but it also poses a risk of soft-locking players if they save the game while unprepared within Riovanes Castle.

Reflecting on my experience from the late ’90s, I approached the Wiegraf fight with a single save file and inadequate preparation, resulting in a frustrating restart of the entire game. Fast forward twenty-five years, and I’m now confronting Wiegraf in high-definition, this time armed with strategies shared by fellow enthusiasts online.

This guide will focus on the version of Wiegraf found in The Ivalice Chronicles, though many of these tactics remain applicable to the original game as well.

Preparation for Riovanes Castle

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles Belias the Gigas

It is crucial to understand that the Wiegraf battle is notorious for good reason, and it is immediately succeeded by an equally formidable encounter. Since leaving Riovanes Castle results in the loss of progress, preparing for both confrontations is essential.

The third battle inside Riovanes Castle requires a specific strategy, character builds, and essential items. Moving forward, we’ll detail the approach to tackle the Wiegraf encounter properly.

Tactical Approach for the Wiegraf Encounter

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles Riovanes Castle

The battle against Wiegraf unfolds in two distinct phases. Initially, Ramza faces Wiegraf solo before the latter transforms into Belias, the Gigas, summoning demons to the fray as Ramza’s allies join the fight.

For the first solo phase, equipping Ramza with a Chameleon Robe is imperative. This can be acquired from any Outfitter in the game, as it significantly reduces Wiegraf’s Holy attack strength.

To simplify this fight, utilize Ramza as a Squire with the Tailwind ability. As a secondary, incorporate Martial Arts featuring Chakra and Aurablast abilities. Additionally, acquire First Strike and Lifefont from the Monk skill set, alongside Dual Wield from the Ninja class. Equip Ramza with the most powerful swords available, along with the Chameleon Robe, to maximize your chances of success.

Effective Strategies for Easing the Wiegraf Battle

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles Fighting Wiegraf

During the solo encounter, Wiegraf will refrain from using Holy attacks if he detects the Chameleon Robe. Instead, he may opt for weaker ranged martial arts or sword strikes. Focus on maintaining distance—never engage him directly. Use Tailwind each turn to increase your speed.

Each time you move, Lifefont will ensure your health recovery, and should your HP drop, utilize Chakra to replenish your vitality. Be cautious not to finish Wiegraf off too quickly; instead, continue employing Tailwind and evasive tactics to improve your turn order and speed while avoiding damage. Aim to reach a point where you can secure four to five actions in succession, as indicated on your turn list.

Once your turns stack up sufficiently, heal Ramza fully and then unleash a series of Aurablasts to bring Wiegraf to his critical state, initiating the second phase of the fight.

Conquering Belias, The Gigas

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles Fighting Belias

Belias presents a formidable challenge, employing Cyclops summons that inflict unavoidable non-elemental damage. Additionally, he will summon powerful demons capable of long-range attacks that can inflict significant harm.

Fortunately, the buffs gained from the previous phase endure into this one. Rush in with Ramza and unleash double sword attacks on Belias. Should he survive, employ ranged tactics with other party members to further weaken him. Agrias proves invaluable in this encounter, leveraging her holy sword attacks for high damage output from a safe distance.

Ignore the summoned demons; your objective should be solely Belias. The countdown to victory begins once Belias falls. Defeating him will unlock the path forward, allowing you to advance through the game, where yet another challenging boss awaits.

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