👹 Boss Basics & Mechanics

Understand boss fights before you step into the arena. These fundamentals apply to every encounter.

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The Boss Fight Framework

Every boss has:

Element	What It Means
Qi Shield (Blue Bar)	Boss's defense layer. Must break to deal real damage.
Attack Pattern Set	Each boss has 4-7 attack types. Learn them.
Exhausted Window	After Qi break, boss is stunned. Your DPS window.
Enrage (Red Glow)	Low HP → faster, stronger attacks. Be ready.

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Universal Boss Strategy

Phase 1 (Shielded):
  → Block/Dodge attacks
  → Break Qi shield with heavy attacks + Mystic Arts

Phase 2 (Exhausted, Qi broken):
  → DUMP ALL BURST
  → Debuff the boss (Vulnerable, bleed)
  → Before Qi regenerates: reposition

Phase 3 (Enrage, low HP):
  → Play safe
  → Use defensive cooldowns
  → Chip away, don't greed

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Boss Attack Types

Attack	Tell	Response
Light Combo	Quick windup, no glow	Block (tank) or dodge (DPS)
Heavy Slam	Slow windup, weapon raised	Perfect Dodge → counter
Grab	Red glow, lunging animation	Dodge sideways. Do NOT block.
AoE Explosion	Circle expanding on ground	Dodge out. Do NOT block.
Projectile	Ranged attack, visible projectile	Block or sidestep
Charge	Boss repositions, linear path	Sidestep. Don't be in the line.

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Party Role Tips

Role	Priority
Tank	Face boss away from party. Block, don't dodge. Taunt during Exhausted.
Melee DPS	Flank the boss. Never stand in front. Save burst for Exhausted.
Ranged DPS	Stay at max range. Kite if targeted.
Healer	Position between tank and DPS. Heal proactively — before damage, not after.

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Wipe Prevention Checklist

Dying too much? Check:

• [ ] Is my gear at appropriate tier for this boss?
• [ ] Am I blocking/dodging the right attacks? (red glow = don't block)
• [ ] Am I wasting burst on shielded boss?
• [ ] Am I standing in AoE indicators?
• [ ] Is my healer in range?
• [ ] Have I upgraded my Inner Arts?

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Golden rule: Dead DPS deals zero damage. Survive first, optimize damage second.