=------------------------------------------------------=
-=- Kingdom Hearts II: Paradox Cup Challenge -=-
--=-- Version IX (26 Pages) --=--
---=--- Started: Tuesday, May 16, 2006 ---=---
---=--- Last Updated: Wednesday, June 28, 2006 ---=---
--=-- Author: Ezekiel Lonewalker (PsychoZeke) --=--
-=- E-Mail:
[email protected] -=-
=------------------------------------------------------=
=----------------------=
=- Table of Contents: -=
=----------------------=
I. Introduction & Copyright [inc]
II. FAQ Backlog [ver]
III. Match Rundown [mrd]
IV. Rules [rls]
i. Level & Stats [lns]
ii. Healing Rule [rhr]
iii. Equipment [req]
iv. Drive Forms [rdf]
v. Customization [rcu]
vi. Miscellany [rmi]
V. Goals & Battle Report [aim]
i. Match Oriented Goals - Reaction Attack [rat]
ii. Boss Match Oriented Goals - Time Attack [tat]
iii. Cup Oriented Match Goals - Cup Rules [com]
iv. Battle Report [bar]
VI. Recommendations [rec]
i. Abilities [abs]
ii. Magic [mag]
VII. Paradoxical Challenge Rundown [pcr]
VIII. Report Card [rca]
IX. Credits [crd]
X. Final Words [fwd]
=-----------------------------=
=- Introduction & Copyright: -=
=-----------------------------=
Ctrl+F (F3): [inc]
This challenge came about mainly due to my competitive nature while I
was completing the Hades Paradox Cup for the first time; it was out of
a desire to beat my own initial score without the use of Summons,
seeing as Stitch and Peter Pan practically make Jiminy's Journal
requirements a breeze. As I pondered more about the challenge, I
layered different goals and regulations, and a "No Summon Paradox
Challenge" became a full-blown "Paradoxical Challenge". At the time
there were a couple of topics going around the Kingdom Hearts II
GameFAQs message board numbering different challenges, but some were
either too simple or unappealing. I felt that challenging the Paradox
Cup without any auxiliary methods and just with your own skills was
quite a test - a test of strengths.
The Hades Paradox Cup by far has proven its complexity, and challenging
it is the perfect way to test ones skills and resourcefulness.
In another matter, this guide was done mainly out of my free will and
time, not to make profit out of it. It's content herein is copyright
(©) of its author, PsychoZeke. This document is to be used strictly and
only by the public itself and cannot be sold. This FAQ is for the sole
purpose of being accessible to the web community and cannot be
reproduced, retransmitted, rewritten in any other form unless
acknowledged by its author; it cannot be edited by anyone else but the
author, PsychoZeke. As any other form of literature, this is a
brainchild, which is to be respected by any who has access to it.
As of now, this FAQ is only available to:
www.gamefaqs.com
www.cheathappens.com
www.1UP.com
www.neoseeker.com
http://psychozeke.tripod.com/
NOTE: I think it goes without saying that this guide may contain some
SPOILERS.
=----------------=
=- FAQ Backlog: -=
=----------------=
Ctrl+F (F3): [ver]
Version I - Tuesday, May 16, 2006: The birth and origin of the Paradox
Cup Challenge, introduced firstly in the Kingdom Hearts II GameFAQs
message board. As part of this guide's assembly and development, I
delved into the challenge to expand possible strategies, completing it
with satisfactory scores.
Version II - Saturday, May 21, 2006: I received a visit from Chibi Sari
and Maxen, whom I had spoken with regarding the challenge prior to
making it official in the Kingdom Hearts II GameFAQs message board.
Both took part in the challenge, completing it after a long-winded hour
with good score punctuations.
Version III - Monday, May 22, 2006: Gave a hiatus to the challenge due
to finals and other in-between personal baggage.
Version IV - Thursday, June 08, 2006: After completing my Gameplay
Strategies guide, began full work on the Paradox Cup Challenge FAQ.
Version V - Friday, June 09, 2006: Rules, Recommendations, Magic and
the Goals & Battle Report sections added, as well as their respective
subsections.
Version VI - Saturday, June 11, 2008: Added a section detailing the
enemies in each match, aptly called Match Rundown.
Version VII - Monday, June 12, 2006: Began work in the Paradoxical
Challenge Rundown section, completing the introduction and the Goddess
of Fate section.
Version VIII - Tuesday, 13-20, 2006: Added a detailed rundown of the
Titan Cup and the Pain & Panic Cup. Decided to take an "involuntary"
break.
Version IX - Friday-Wednesday, 23-28, 2006: Decided to finish this
guide to finally see the challenge in progress. Almost guessed the
amount of pages the guide would end up having, too - I lost...by one.
Oh well... :D
=------------------=
=- Match Rundown: -=
=------------------=
Ctrl+F (F3): [mrd]
The following section contains a complete Hades Paradox Cup digest with
each match and the enemies that appear in each in full detail.
The Hades Paradox Cup encompasses all the previous tournaments you've
participated in, and after exactly 10 matches, a new rule will be
prompted specifying what part of the cup you're in. These are as
follows:
Goddess of Fate Cup Rules - Matches 1-10: Sora can use Limits, Summons
and can also use Drive Forms while Donald and Goofy fight alongside
him.
Match 1: 3 Shadows & 3 Soldiers
Match 2: 2 Hook Bats & 4 Drill Moles
Match 3: 2 Surveillance Robots & 4 Rapid Thrusters
Match 4: 2 Creeper Plants & 5 Rabid Dogs
Match 5: (Boss) Volcanic Lord & 2 Soldiers (2)
Match 6: 3 Cannon Guns & 3 Silver Rocks
Match 7: 3 Icy Cubes & 4 Shadows -> 8 Minute Bombs
Match 8: 2 Silver Rocks & 3 Soldiers -> 5 Armored Knights -> 1 Large
Body
Match 9: 1 Samurai & 4 Creepers
Match 10: (Boss) Tifa & Yuffie
Titan Cup Rules - Matches 11-20: Sora fights alone, but can use Summons
to aid him in battle. The Titan Cup Rules also include the Damage Point
system where if they reach zero, the tournament ends.
Match 11: 3 Aeroplanes & 5 Rapid Thrusters
Match 12: 1 Magnum Loader, 2 Air Pirates & 4 Minute Bombs
Match 13: 2 Drill Moles & 3 Luna Bandits
Match 14: 2 Armored Knights, 2 Lancer Soldiers & 2 Tornado Steps
Match 15: (Boss) Blizzard Lord
Match 16: 2 Wight Knights & 4 Soldiers
Match 17: 3 Neoshadows & 4 Strafers -> 4 Aerial Knockers
Match 18: 2 Air Pirates & 2 Luna Bandits -> 3 Creeper Plants & 3 Wight
Knights
Match 19: 1 Dragoon, 2 Creepers & 2 Dusks
Match 20: (Boss) Pete
Pain & Panic Cup Rules - Matches 21-30: Sora fights alongside Donald
and Goofy, but cannot use Drive Forms; however, Limits consume less MP
than usual.
Match 21: 3 Gargoyle Knights & 4 Armored Knights
Match 22: 1 Aeroplane, 2 Fortunetellers & 2 Trick Ghosts
Match 23: 2 Creeper Plants, 2 Shamans & 2 Soldiers
Match 24: 3 Bulky Vendors
Match 25: (Boss) Cloud & Tifa
Match 26: 1 Neoshadow, 2 Bolt Towers & Hammer Heads
Match 27: 2 Gargoyle Warriors & 8 Rabid Dogs -> 4 Nightwalkers
Match 28: 2 Bookmasters & 2 Emerald Blues -> 4 Shamans -> 2 Emerald
Blues & 4 Silver Rocks
Match 29: 2 Gamblers & 2 Snipers
Match 30: (Boss) Hades
Cerberus Cup Rules - Matches 31-40: Sora fights alone during this part
of the tournament with his Drive Forms available for use.
Match 31: 1 Berserker, 2 Creepers & 2 Samurais
Match 32: 3 Dancers & 3 Water Notes
Match 33: 4 Samurais
Match 34: 2 Sorcerers
Match 35: Swarm of Rapid Thrusters
Match 36: 3 Berserkers
Match 37: 2 Snipers & 3 Assassins -> 4 Dragoons
Match 38: 6 Dusks -> 4 Dancers -> 5 Samurais -> 4 Gamblers -> 1
Sorcerer
Match 39: 4 Dragoons
Match 40: (Boss) Leon & Cloud
Hades Cup Rules - Matches 41-50: Sora is on his own, which means no
allies, Summons, and Drives. Magic becomes the best ally during this
portion of the Hades Paradox Cup.
Match 41: 2 Graveyards & 2 Toy Boxes
Match 42: 1 Living Bone & 2 Fortunetellers
Match 43: 2 Large Bodies & 2 Morning Stars
Match 44: 3 Living Bones
Match 45: 1000 Heartless Battle - Armored Knights & Surveillance Robots
Match 46: 1 Devastator & 2 Hot Rods
Match 47: 1 Bulky Vendor -> 1 Living Bone & 2 Lance Soldiers -> 2
Assault Riders & 2 Emerald Blues -> 3 Morning Stars & 5 Crescendos
Match 48: (Boss) Cerberus
Match 49: (Boss) Yuffie, Cloud, Tifa, & Leon
Match 50: (Boss) Red Hades
=----------=
=- Rules: -=
=----------=
Ctrl+F (F3): [rls]
The rules are simple: survive the Hades Paradox Cup solely with the use
of strength and magic. Hence, it is apt to point out that spells and
abilities can be used due to the survival aspect of the challenge;
however, there are certain parameters to follow, which consists of the
following:
--------------.
Level & Stats: \_
Ctrl+F (F3): [lns]
- Any level is acceptable, but due to the magnitude of this challenge,
level 99 is recommendable.
- Sora's max stats are 153 (Strength), 155 (Magic), 154 (Defense), and
166 (AP). Knowing this, aim to have Sora's stats at 100+, though the
challenge is possible to accomplish at lower stat levels.
-------------.
Healing Rule: \_
Ctrl+F (F3): [rhr]
- No Healing Items (NHI): No curative items can be used, meaning you'll
leave them all in your inventory, including those in your Item Slots.
This rule applies to Sora, Donald, and Goofy.
NOTE: This also includes MP restorative items.
- No Healing Spells (NHS): Healing magic must be unequipped, both Sora
and Donald's.
- Healing Round: During Match 47 of the Hades Paradox Cup, in the
fourth enemy set you will encounter 5 Crescendos where you can use
their Reaction Command, Heal Stomp, to your advantage.
----------.
Equipment: \_
Ctrl+F (F3): [req]
- No Armor (NA1): Self-explanatory.
- No Accessories (NA2): Self-explanatory. The lone exception in
Accessories is AP altering rings with NO other modifiers. This is, of
course, if you need an extra AP boost.
- Only Weak Weapons (OWW): Equip Donald and Goofy with the weakest
weapons possible to further ensure their "inactivity", mostly Goofy
given that he tends to damage enemies with his shield simply by running
through them.
- Only Weak Keyblades (OWK): Equip Sora with the weakest Keyblades.
Possible Keyblades to use include: Kingdom Key, Star Seeker, Hidden
Dragon, Follow the Wind, and Sweet Memories. However, if Sora's
strength and magic are around the 100+ (or at its max), then to make
the challenge fair, equip Sora with Sweet Memories.
------------.
Drive Forms: \_
Ctrl+F (F3): [rdf]
- No Drive Forms (NDF): This is particularly self-explanatory; however,
there is one instance where you can use a Form, and this is only when
short on MP. This tactic is best not used since by "Driving-Up" Sora
replenishes his HP. But if you are in an extremely, inescapably tight
situation, where you're low on HP and/or MP, you could "Drive-Up", but
it must be Final Form and you need to revert ASAP. Again, this being a
challenge with "No Healing" rules, this is a tactic best avoided, but
it could also be the exception if the situation REALLY deserves it.
NOTE: This rule obviously comes to play during the Cerberus Cup portion
of the Hades Paradox Cup.
--------------.
Customization: \_
Ctrl+F (F3): [rcu]
- Sora Attack Party (SAP): Have Donald and Goofy customized to Sora
Attack
- Red Arrow (RA): To further guarantee that Donald and Goofy don't
attack, set all their Action abilities to Rare (red arrow).
-----------.
Miscellany: \_
Ctrl+F (F3): [rmi]
- No Summons (NS): Self-explanatory.
- No Limits (NL): This means no use of Limits during the portions of
the Cup where you can use your allies' Combination Moves, as well as
the use of Trinity Limit to defeat the Final Fantasy characters during
Match 49.
- No Auto Abilities (NAA): Even though these aren't that appreciated,
they become quite handy whenever in a strenuous situation; however,
they don't play a role in this challenge. This applies mostly to the
Auto Form abilities.
=--------------------------=
=- Goals & Battle Report: -=
=--------------------------=
Ctrl+F (F3): [aim]
As you delve into the Paradox Challenge, there are various goals to
meet that will hone your proficiency and iron your place towards
victory. These goals also would mean your induction to the Paradox
Challenge Hall of Fame.
The following list numbers the goals for this challenge:
---------------------------------------.
Match Oriented Goals - Reaction Attack: \_
Ctrl+F (F3): [rat]
The Reaction Attack challenge consists of defeating a batch of enemies
while using an offensive Reaction Command on an entire set of enemies.
There is a determined amount of enemies to defeat using these Reaction
Commands, but one thing to properly emphasize is that this particular
part of the Paradox Cup Challenge is optional, though it serves to get
orbs - not to mention it could activate Double-Score Mode.
The following are Reaction Attack-based matches part of the Paradox Cup
Challenge:
1) Match 2: Enemies simultaneously defeated using Hook Bat's Reaction
Command, Bat Cry? 0/5
2) Match 3: Enemies simultaneously defeated using Rapid Thruster's
Reaction Command, Speed Trap? 0/6
3) Match 6: Cannon Guns simultaneously defeated using Silver Rock's
Reaction Command, Shift Shot? 0/3
4) Match 8: Soldiers simultaneously defeated using Silver Rock's
Reaction Command, Shift Shot? 0/3
5) Match 8: Armored Knights, including Large Body, simultaneously
defeated using the Rising Sun Reaction Command? 0/6
6) Match 11: Enemies simultaneously defeated using Rapid Thruster's
Reaction Command, Speed Trap? 0/8
7) Match 33: Samurais simultaneously defeated using Duel Stance? 0/4
----------------------------------------.
Boss Match Oriented Goals - Time Attack: \_
Ctrl+F (F3): [tat]
Time Attack challenges consist of defeating certain bosses or beating
certain mini-games in a pre-set amount of time - sort of like some of
Jiminy's Journal entries.
NOTE: Time Attack goals can be won with the combined use of magic
spells, excluding Reflect.
The following are Time Attack-based matches part of the Paradox Cup
Challenge:
1) Match 5: Volcanic Lord - 00secs/30secs
2) Match 10: Tifa & Yuffie - 00secs/45secs
3) Match 15: Blizzard Lord - 00secs/30secs
4) Match 20: Pete - 00secs/40secs
5) Match 25: Cloud & Tifa - 00secs/45secs
6) Match 30: Hades - 00secs/25secs
7) Match 40: Leon & Cloud - 00secs/55secs
8) Match 48: Cerberus - 0min:00secs/1min:20secs
9) Match 49: Leon, Yuffie, Cloud, & Tifa - 0min:00secs/1min:45secs
10) Match 50: Red Hades - 00secs/35secs
NOTE: These objectives require the use of a chronometer, which most
watches have built-in.
-------------------------------------.
Cup Oriented Match Goals - Cup Rules: \_
Ctrl+F (F3): [com]
The Cup Rules challenge consists of completing certain matches while
meeting a specific criterion, which are primordial parts of the Hades
Paradox Cup as-is.
The following are Cup Rules-based matches part of the Paradox Cup
Challenge:
1) Damage Points left during the Titan Cup Rules: 000/500
2) Time remaining during the Cerberus Cup Rules: 00:00/10:00
--------------.
Battle Report: \_
Ctrl+F (F3): [bar]
Other than the goals, the Battle Report will give more in-depth details
about how you handled the challenge. Some of these objectives require
the use of a chronometer, which most watches have built-in.
The Battle Report consists of the following:
1) Sora's Stats:
2) Keyblade:
3) Number of times Donald and Goofy were KO'd:
4) Max Combo:
5) Total Orb Score:
6) Remaining HP:
7) Most used Magic:
8) Times Final Form was used: 0/0
9) Orbs gained during Match 29?
10) Orbs gained during Match 45?
11) Healing Round (Match 47) needed?
12) Match 49 won with Reflect?
13) Hades Paradox Cup completed in 00min:00secs
Battle Report explanation:
1) Sora's Stats including his strength, magic, defense, and AP.
2) Keyblade used throughout the challenge. Remember, it has to be one
of the weakest.
3) Number of times Donald and Goofy were knocked-out during the
challenge.
4) Total number of combos.
5) Total number of orbs collected.
6) Remaining HP percentage construe - from 10%-100%.
7) Magic spell you used the most throughout the challenge.
8) Times you used Final Form during the portions of the Hades Paradox
Cup where it's available. Remember to read the NDF rules.
9) Amount of orbs collected if you gambled with the Gamblers during
Match 29. Use a calculator for this: simply take your initial orb score
before Match 29 begins, subtracting that amount with the one you'll
have once the match concludes.
10) Amount of orbs collected during Match 45. Use a calculator for
this: simply take your initial orb score before Match 45 begins,
subtracting that amount with the one you'll have once the match
concludes.
11) Did you use a Crescendo's Heal Stomp before concluding the match?
12) Did you use Reflect in order to defeat the Final Fantasy characters
in Match 49?
13) How long did it take you to complete this challenge?
NOTE: You'll need a chronometer and a calculator for some of these
requirements.
=--------------------=
=- Recommendations: -=
=--------------------=
Ctrl+F (F3): [rec]
The following are recommendations regarding Sora's Abilities and Magic
with brief descriptions of their use. Remember, they are simply that -
you can make your own strategies to accommodate to the challenge.
----------.
Abilities: \_
Ctrl+F (F3): [abs]
Since this challenge is basically a survival battle, equipping all the
abilities possible will help towards the end goal. Basically, the best
abilities are always the Support ones given that they always become
more than an auxiliary method and a necessity.
Recommended Abilities:
(Listed in the order they appear in the Abilities Menu.)
- Guard: Quite an underrated Ability by some members in the Kingdom
Hearts II GameFAQs message board. Guard greatly helps during various
matches, mostly when confronting the Final Fantasy characters. Overall,
Guard is a great ability to have equipped.
- Counterguard: Combined with Guard, Counterguard helps mostly during
the Final Fantasy-based matches. It's a formidable tactic to break
their attacks, specifically Tifa's punches.
- High Jump: An essential ability to help you dodge and reach certain
enemies.
- Quick Run: Essential to dodge on-ground attacks.
- Aerial Dodge: Like with Quick Run, but mostly for aerial
circumstances.
- Glide: A formidable ability, not only to avoid damage and attacks,
but also to stall enemies, mostly during the MP Charge phase.
- Scan: This ability isn't a necessity, but it helps to keep track of
how much to eliminating an enemy (it comes in handy during Paradox Boss
matches).
- Aerial Recovery: Helps to recover from attacks, helping you to
maneuver and avoid upcoming ones. This ability works best during
Paradox Boss matches, specifically in Match 49. Aerial Recovery is
really effective when combined with Glide.
- Combo and Air Combo Plus: Nothing more can be said that "plus" says.
These abilities help to extend your combos in order to activate Double-
Score Mode.
- Combo Boost: Again, an essential ability to help your combo
extensions.
- Air Combo Boost: Again, an essential ability to help your combo
extensions, but primordially air-based.
- Reaction Boost: Not only does it help during certain activated
Reaction Commands, but it also helps during Match 48 where you face
Cerberus.
- Finishing Plus: Great for finishers - the name says it all.
- Magic Lock-On: Perfect extension for Magnega and Thundaga.
- Fire/Blizzard/Thunder Boost: You could have them all equipped or just
the one you know you'll use more. Of the three, Thunder Boost will
prove the most beneficial, though you can never go wrong with Fire and
Blizzard altogether.
- MP Rage: Equipping both will certainly help to maintain a healthy MP
bar, mostly during Matches 35 and 45. Having Hidden Dragon would even
triple the MP recovering rate.
- MP Haste: An ability that serves its purpose well during tough
matches by stalling enemies with Glide. MP Haste is definitely a must
to have equipped.
- Defender/Second Chance/Once More: These three will become an
essentiality when Sora's HP is somewhat critical to critical. Of course
this doesn't mean he'll never fall, but will definitely aid you towards
the end. Obviously it's preferable to never reach a critical stage, but
they will surely serve their purpose.
Overall you will need an amount of 70+ AP if you want to equip all of
these abilities, or 60+ if you omit the Elemental Boosts; I personally
would at least equip Thunder Boost, though. The rest of the abilities
are up to you and your fighting style seeing as we all have personal
styles, which will roundup the needed AP to at least a 100+ if you also
equip the previous abilities, and a 90+ if you exclude the Elemental
Boosts.
Distribute AP wisely.
------.
Magic: \_
Ctrl+F (F3): [mag]
As noted in the Rules section, spells are part of the challenge and can
be used accordingly, aside from Cure of course. Customize the Shortcut
Command as you see fit, and following your fighting style. I'd like to
recommend a viable option, however:
[]: Firaga
X: Thundaga
O: Reflega
/\: Magnega
Firaga usually serves as a "ground control" spell; helping to disperse
enemies that surround or are about to encircle Sora, as well as it
serves as a "shield" of sorts.
Thundaga is a spell you can blindly rely on, mostly when trying to
activate Double-Score Mode; its shockwave radius is a formidable
addition when weak enemies abound.
Then we have Reflega, one spell that's totally unappreciated by many,
which can be a lifesaver during this challenge at 10 MP per casting.
Not only does it work by deflecting attacks or projectiles, but it also
damages those attacking Sora once the temporary shield fades away with
a volley of charged bursts powered by the amount of damage directed at
the temp barrier. Reflect is an amazing way to dispose of Berserkers,
and great against the Final Fantasy characters in Match 49.
And lastly there's Magnega which combined with Thundaga usually equals
instant victory. Magnega is better saved for matches with numerous
enemies where you easily can active Double-Score Mode. Magnega is best
used during matches where there are strong enemies, like Living Bones
and Morning Stars for example. However, one of the best uses for
Magnega within this Cup comes during Match 35 and 45.
This is of course a recommendation regarding the Shortcut, which is
totally up to you, specifically the customized order. Simply be sure to
take full advantage of magic spells since this, not only covers more
ground, but can confer higher orb punctuations.
=----------------------------------=
=- Paradoxical Challenge Rundown: -=
=----------------------------------=
Ctrl+F (F3): [pcr]
This section covers the Paradox Challenge as a whole, detailing each
match with succinct strategies.
Goddess of Fate Cup Rules - Matches 1-10: Starting from Match 1-10
gathering orbs isn't all that important seeing as the enemies are
somewhat weak, though that still doesn't mean you shouldn't aim to get
a good starting score.
Match 1: 3 Shadows & 3 Soldiers
This one is basically a straightforward match. However, activating one
or two of the Soldiers' Cyclone Reaction Command should be a nice
startup towards your orb score.
Match 2: 2 Hook Bats & 4 Drill Moles
This one is basically a straightforward match, almost similar to the
first.
Reaction Attack Goal: To complete the goal stay still and let the
enemies approach Sora. Once they're close enough, start to move amongst
them, parrying any attack if necessary, which will sometimes activate
the Hook Bat's Reaction Command. Once Bat Cry is prompted, rapidly use
it against all enemies maintaining Sora within their reach so that you
can defeat all simultaneously.
Match 3: 2 Surveillance Robots & 4 Rapid Thrusters
This one is basically a straightforward match.
Reaction Attack Goal: To complete the goal approach the enemies and
stay under the Rapid Thrusters, avoiding any possible attack from the
Surveillance Robots. This goal can be rather tricky since you could
accidentally activate and perform Snag/Sparkle Ray. If you accidentally
grab a Surveillance Robot, don't follow the Reaction Command and
continue to stall until a Rapid Thruster's Speed Trap is prompted.
Match 4: 2 Creeper Plants & 5 Rabid Dogs
Don't bash the enemies head-on as soon as the battle starts; instead
Quick Run or jump over the Rabid Dogs and strike once a Creeper Plant
to activate the Root Ravager Reaction Command for a good 260+ orb
points. Otherwise, you could also start the battle casting Magnega for
a good amount of orbs. Activating Double-Score Mode would be extremely
convenient, and fluky.
Match 5: (Boss) Volcanic Lord & 2 Soldiers (2)
Even though you're facing a boss, the battle is pretty much as
straightforward as the previous matches and similar to the encounter
with Volcanic Lord in Agrabah.
Commence your turn by approaching the Volcanic Lord to use the Firagun
Reaction Command in order to daze and properly attack him. You could
easily cut the Volcanic Lord's movements by bashing onto him with your
attacks; but be careful when he raises his staff not to get hit or
it'll send Sora flying - here's where Aerial Recovery comes in handy.
Two Soldiers will accompany the fire-based Heartless, and two more will
spawn each time the other two are defeated, which you should simply
ignore.
Time Attack Goal: The required time to beat is 30 seconds or less,
which is quite an easy time to beat if you simply button-smash with
good precision. Avoid the Soldiers and maintain Sora airborne. If you
combine attacks with Blizzard spells you should beat Volcanic Lord in
less than 30 seconds.
REMINDER: Reflega won't count towards the Time Attack goals, so play it
fair and don't cheat - be honest with yourself. The strategies provided
will ensure you victory without the need of said spell.
Match 6: 3 Cannon Guns & 3 Silver Rocks
Cannon Guns and Silver Rocks sometimes are tricky Heartless, more when
combined, but they can be easily disposed of.
Reaction Attack Goal: As soon as the match starts move forward, never
locking-on to either enemy. When the Shift Shot Reaction Command
prompts, lock-on to the Cannon Gun in the middle and use Shift Shot. If
you do it right, you'll take out the three Cannon Guns at the same
time.
Match 7: 3 Icy Cubes & 4 Shadows -> 8 Minute Bombs
This one is a straightforward match, similar to prior matches.
When you defeat the Icy Cubes and Shadows, maintain Sora in the center
of the arena and let the Minute Bombs approach him. These particular
Heartless are a great way to collect orbs if you activate their Self-
Destruct attack, although using Magnega or Reflega on them gives as
much, if not more orbs. Use Fire magic to light the fuse on their
heads.
Match 8: 2 Silver Rocks & 3 Soldiers -> 5 Armored Knights -> 1 Large
Body
Straightforward match: nothing out of the ordinary.
Reaction Attack Goal I: As soon as the battle starts, lock-on to the
Soldier in the middle while approaching it - the other Soldiers will
home in to Sora while the Silver Rocks prepare to teleport. As soon as
the Shift Shot Reaction Command activates, use it against the Soldier
you've lock-on. If done right, you will take out the whole Soldiers,
and even the other Silver Rock.
Reaction Attack Goal II: Once the Armored Knights spawn, lock-on to any
of them and stall by running around them. As soon as the Rising Sun
Reaction Command appears, use it and try to line up with the Armored
Knight to take them out in one to two strikes so that you can attack
the Large Body that will appear once the Armored Knights are defeated.
If you do this right, you should dispose of the Armored Knights and the
Large Body with only two to three Rising Sun strikes, acquiring a good
orb score at the same time.
Match 9: 1 Samurai & 4 Creepers
First match involving Nobodies. Not a difficult match, however.
Run towards the Samurai, ignoring the Creepers, and parry its sword
slash to activate Duel Stance. Defeating Samurais with the use of Duel
Stance confers more orbs, though defeating the entire batch of enemies
with Duel Stance will give even more. It's rather tricky to line up the
Creepers with the Samurai, but its possible to do. You can also use
Thundaga for this; it's all up to you.
Match 10: (Boss) Tifa & Yuffie
Surprisingly, this match is not that hard, though Yuffie does become a
nuisance. Make Tifa follow you and prepare to parry her punch following
with Counterguard - this will cancel her move and leave her open for
attack. Sometimes it will be a bit tricky to unleash a finisher on Tifa
since Yuffie tends to teleport and slash away, though sometimes she
tends to teleport in exactly when Counterguard is being performed
giving you enough time to release one or two finishers.
Time Attack Goal: To beat the 45 seconds requirement, simply stick to
your common strategy: let Tifa follow you. A good tactic after parrying
Tifa's attack is to Counterguard and follow with a Blizzard spell,
following that with a finisher since you can unleash one after using a
magic spell. Explosion usually comes out first, which is always the
best since it can hit both, Yuffie and Tifa.
REMINDER: Reflega won't count towards the Time Attack goals, so play it
fair and don't cheat - be honest with yourself. The strategies provided
will ensure you victory without the need of said spell.
Titan Cup Rules - Matches 11-20: After the Goddess of Fate portion of
the Paradox Challenge, be cautious and very defensive during the Titan
Cup portion to keep the damage points as high as possible.
Match 11: 3 Aeroplanes & 5 Rapid Thrusters
Straightforward match. As soon as the match begins jump and attack the
Rapid Thrusters, trying to balance Sora so that you can take the
Aeroplanes as he swiftly spins around.
Reaction Attack Goal: Completing this goal is really easy. Simply
approach the Rapid Thrusters and double jump and slowly descend (by
pressing Square). Not only does this protect Sora against the Rapid
Thrusters' Beak Rush, but it also does against Aeroplanes' Machinegun
Strafe attack - of course, if you maintain Sora airborne. Keep double
jumping and slowly descending until Speed Trap is prompted; use it
following it with Aero Blade. If done right, you will simultaneously
defeat all enemies, and collect a good orb score.
Match 12: 1 Magnum Loader, 2 Air Pirates & 4 Minute Bombs
Straightforward match. You could easily follow some Reaction Commands
in this match to get more orbs, but it's almost preferable to just
simply defeat them. Magnega or Thundaga work well here.
Match 13: 2 Drill Moles & 3 Luna Bandits
Straightforward match; don't bother too long.
Match 14: 2 Armored Knights, 2 Lancer Soldiers & 2 Tornado Steps
This one is a special match - Lance Soldiers are a great way to gather
orbs and usually an easy Double-Score Mode activator.
Strike a Lance Soldier once so that they begin their Reckless Lancing
attack to activate Reckless Lance and defeat the Armored Knights and
Tornado Steps with it; most likely you'll activate Double-Score Mode.
Match 15: (Boss) Blizzard Lord
This match is fairly similar to Match 5 where you confronted Volcanic
Lord.
Approach Blizzard Lord and use Blizzagun to daze and attack him. Keep
attacking him, but be careful not to get hit with his staff. This is
quite as straightforward as Match 5 was.
Time Attack Goal: After using Blizzagun, Aerial Dodge and Glide
straight at Blizzard Lord and start a combo using Firaga continuing
with attacks. Keep using Firaga at the end of each attack and more than
likely you'll hinder Blizzard Lord's movements.
REMINDER: Reflega won't count towards the Time Attack goals, so play it
fair and don't cheat - be honest with yourself. The strategies provided
will ensure you victory without the need of said spell.
Match 16: 2 Wight Knights & 4 Soldiers
Match 16 is as straightforward as the rest, with a few instances where
you could use Reaction Commands to your advantage. Magnega or Thundaga
remain as a great way to end the battle quickly.
Match 17: 3 Neoshadows & 4 Strafers -> 4 Aerial Knockers
Straightforward match. This particular match is quite versatile; you
can begin the match by casting Magnega or Thundaga, as well as you can
simply win it with a string of hits.
Match 18: 2 Air Pirates & 2 Luna Bandits -> 3 Creeper Plants & 3 Wight
Knights
Straightforward match. Air Pirates and Luna Bandits don't make for a
strong pair, so you can easily dispose of them. The Creeper Plant/Wight
Knight combination is quite interesting, though. Ignore the mummies and
head towards any of the plants - strike it once to activate Root
Ravager; it will confer enough orbs. You could also cast Magnega for
the same effect.
Match 19: 1 Dragoon, 2 Creepers & 2 Dusks
Another bout with some Nobodies, though this isn't as intimidating as
coming Nobody-based matches. Simply cast Thundaga or attack them head-
on.
Match 20: (Boss) Pete
Pete's match is relatively easy. You can use this particular match to
recharge MP so that you have a full bar for later matches. If the MP
bar is pink from the start, Glide around the arena waiting for it to
replenish, and if it's around 25% to 15% full, empty it by continuously
casting Reflega while airborne or out of Pete's reach and Glide around
the arena until it refills.
Admittedly, this match can basically be won by button-smashing, but
don't take it too seriously. Slide Dashing is the best way to approach
Pete, so try to be at a good distance from him to Slide Dash. Another
possible way is to land a strike while jumping towards Pete and connect
four Horizontal Slashes followed by the air finisher and the successive
blow after the finisher, which will bat Pete giving Sora good distance
for a Slide Dash. Even though Pete is relatively as easy as the
Elemental Lords, be cautious of his tantrum and explosive attacks.
Time Attack Goal: The 40 seconds requirement is more than enough to say
the least; but if you began the match to refill your MP bar, be sure
NOT to damage Pete while casting Reflega or you'll annul the Time
Attack Goal (basically you'll just initiate it).
To complete the 40 seconds Time Attack Goal, jump towards Pete and
attack him, followed by a combo making sure to bat Pete after the
finisher. Since the last aerial strike sends Pete flying, it will give
enough distance to perform Sora's Slide Dash, which can be followed by
a combo. After the long combo strike, Pete will cast Aura, so just
stand still and wait for the shield to go down to attack. Repeat the
combo assault and you'll beat him under 40 seconds or less for sure.
REMINDER: Reflega won't count towards the Time Attack goals, so play it
fair and don't cheat - be honest with yourself. The strategies provided
will ensure you victory without the need of said spell.
Pain & Panic Cup Rules - Matches 21-30: During this portion of the
challenge Donald and Goofy rejoin with Sora, which practically is more
of an impediment than a benefit. Magnega and Thundaga continue to be a
great way to defeat enemies, as well for gathering orbs.
Match 21: 3 Gargoyle Knights & 4 Armored Knights
Straightforward match. Maintain a defensive post with the Gargoyle
Heartless, as they tend to be very vicious with their spinning attacks.
Parrying the Gargoyles' attack will activate the Release Reaction
Command; so try to do so to get more orbs from them.
Match 22: 1 Aeroplane, 2 Fortunetellers & 2 Trick Ghosts
Straightforward match. Use Magnega or Thundaga to end the battle
quickly.
Match 23: 2 Creeper Plants, 2 Shamans & 2 Soldiers
Like with other matches involving Creeper Plants, you have two options:
striking a Creeper Plant to activate the Root Ravager Reaction Command
or Magnega. Both techniques confer enough orbs, so choose whichever you
prefer.
Match 24: 3 Bulky Vendors
This is a special match, so put a lock-on on a Bulky Vendor as soon as
it begins and wait for their HP to deplete, just like you would
normally do. However, sometimes it could be hard to defeat all three
during their Prime Capsule phase, so it's preferable to beat one during
the Limited Capsule phase. Still, have in mind that it is possible to
defeat them during the Prime Capsule phase, where you'll have to
emphasize on using Quick Run or trying to corner them.
Match 25: (Boss) Cloud & Tifa
This time around Tifa's with his hubby, which means you should
concentrate on defensive maneuvers instead of being all-out offensive.
The same strategy you used for Tifa during Match 10 applies for this
match, just that this time around you have to watch out for Cloud's
hectic sword lunges. Start the battle by retreating to the far back so
that both Cloud and Tifa follow you; prepare to parry any of the
forthcoming attacks (most likely Tifa's), and Counterguard followed by
a combo. Defeating Tifa first should be your goal since she's one
annoying force. Cloud is a heavy hitter, but can easily be defeated if
you parry and dodge his attacks - watch for his Warrior's Spirit
attack, though.
Time Attack Goal: To defeat Cloud and Tifa under 45 seconds, you can
easily combine your attacks with Blizzard spells since they are both
vulnerable* to it. Also, one quick way is to remain still as soon as
the match starts, parry Cloud's attack and Counterguard to hit both him
and Tifa, following with a combo on Tifa. After defeating her, go for
Cloud keeping a lookout on his attacks. Parrying and countering is the
best way to complete the 45 seconds goal, if not the quickest.
* Vulnerable as in a technical term.
REMINDER: Reflega won't count towards the Time Attack goals, so play it
fair and don't cheat - be honest with yourself. The strategies provided
will ensure you victory without the need of said spell.
Match 26: 1 Neoshadow, 2 Bolt Towers & Hammer Heads
This is a straightforward match, so don't waste much time in it unless
you're low on MP.
Match 27: 2 Gargoyle Warriors & 8 Rabid Dogs -> 4 Nightwalkers
A good amount of orbs can be obtained during this match, so begin by
casting Magnega and rapidly defeating the Gargoyles since they probably
won't be instantly KO'd with the Magnet spell. If done fast and right,
Magnega will still remain during the second Heartless batch of the
Nightwalkers.
Match 28: 2 Bookmasters & 2 Emerald Blues -> 4 Shamans -> 2 Emerald
Blues & 4 Silver Rocks
This match could be complicated, so be defensive tactics combined with
offensive maneuvers.
The match begins with 2 Bookmasters and Emerald Blues. The latter will
go towards Sora as soon as the battle begins, so take them out fast
with normal attacks so that they don't begin their tornado attack.
Bookmasters will surely cast fireballs, so deflect them or jump towards
them and take them out. Be careful with these two because they tend to
move away whenever you make an approach - using Quick Run works well
when cornered by these two, mostly if the Emerald Blues are still
around.
The second batch, the Shamans, is quite annoying. The best way to
dispose of these is by retreating and letting them follow you and once
they're relatively close to each other, cast Magnega. You can also take
them out using normal attacks, but it'll be a bit fiddly; but it isn't
impossible. Shamans are very imposing in the Paradox matches contrary
to their Pride Lands counterparts.
The third and final batch of Heartless is completely different to the
prior two and can be easily defeated. Simply use the Shift Shot
Reaction Command against the Emerald Blues, as well as the other Silver
Rocks. Not only is this an easy way to defeat enemies, but also great
for gathering orbs.
Match 29: 2 Gamblers & 2 Snipers
This is a special match comprised of gambling fun.
In this match you can easily win orbs by gambling with the Gamblers,
though it is preferable to defeat the Snipers first. Activating Double-
Score Mode is particularly beneficial; so try to use Warp Snipe against
both Snipers. Don't get frustrated if you don't activate it though, you
can easily get around 60 orbs by continuously playing each of the
Gamblers' game. The procedure for this is the same you would follow
during standard fights against a Gambler.
Battle Report Objective: Use a calculator for this: simply take your
initial orb score before Match 29 begins, subtracting that amount with
the one you'll have once the match concludes.
NOTE: It is possible to activate Double-Score Mode while gambling with
a Gambler, but it is EXTREMELY rare for it to happen.
Match 30: (Boss) Hades
Hades is still the same, just a bit more of HP. Start the match by
parrying his Firaga Ball attack progressing towards him in order to
attack him. Unleash a combo and put pressure on Hades by attacking him
again before he disappears. Be careful when Hades creates a firewall,
as well as his fire-based sweeps, and continue to apply pressure when
possible. Aerial combos are the best way to defeat Hades.
Time Attack Goal: The 25 seconds goal is tremendously easy. Simply
perform aerial assaults and apply pressure so that you can maintain
Sora align with Hades.
REMINDER: Reflega won't count towards the Time Attack goals, so play it
fair and don't cheat - be honest with yourself. The strategies provided
will ensure you victory without the need of said spell.
Cerberus Cup Rules - Matches 31-40: Sora fights alone during this part
of the tournament with his Drive Forms available. This particular
subdivision is mostly comprised of Nobodies, which sets a rather thorny
side of offensiveness, so be sure to use Guard and Reflect whenever
needed.
Match 31: 1 Berserker, 2 Creepers & 2 Samurais
The first Nobody batch, and quite a strong startup.
The Berserker will jump towards Sora as soon as the match begins, so
retreat to safety or simply use Reflect. Using Magnega and Thundaga
also work against these Nobodies, mostly with Magic Lock-On equipped.
Match 32: 3 Dancers & 3 Water Notes
During this round you'll have to destroy three water notes, reminiscing
Demyx's own. When the battle begins, remain still letting the three
Dancers approach Sora and as soon as they're within considerable reach,
use the Water Dance Reaction Command and you'll be able to take out
both, the notes and the Dancers. Not only will you save time, but you
will also receive a good orb score. However, you could defeat each by
conventional means and it will work equally, if not better.
Match 33: 4 Samurais
This particular match could turn ugly if prolonged, as well as it is
one of the few matches that give few orbs.
Start the match by casting Magnega followed by Thundaga and you will
take the Samurais with ease.
Reaction Attack Goal: To accomplish this goal, simply cast Magnega and
align Sora with the Samurais, and once they're released parry any of
their attacks to activate Duel Stance. Now, sometimes you won't defeat
all four in a single strike, but you'll probably defeat three
simultaneously. Defeating all four Samurais with a single Duel Stance
can be achieved by keeping Sora idle in the middle of the arena after
casting Magnega, and most likely they'll creep together to him.
Match 34: 2 Sorcerers
This match may seem easy, but if you're one of those gamers with rusty
evasive skills it'll probably prove its difficulty.
Start the match by either jumping and gliding towards the Sorcerers
followed by an aerial assault or by retreating to dodge the cubes in
order to cast Magnega on them. The latter is optional and a thing of
tastes, but usually the Sorcerers counterattack when casting Magnega
against them by smacking Sora with the cubes in a whip-like pattern.
Match 35: Swarm of Rapid Thrusters
During this match all you need to do is cast Magnega, nothing else.
Don't lock-on to a Rapid Thruster and don't even move; Magnega usually
lasts for about 6 seconds; so recast it after 5 seconds have passed.
Match 36: 3 Berserkers
Hit and run is how best this match can be described; however, Magnega
and Thundaga continue to be an undeniable advantage.
Start the match by retreating to the far back of the arena from where
Sora is, and cast Magnega from a safe distance; you can then either
rush towards the Berserkers and bash them with your Keyblade or use
Thundaga on them.
Match 37: 2 Snipers & 3 Assassins -> 4 Dragoons
If you're MP Bar is around 15% to 10% full, defeat the Snipers and cast
Reflega out of the Assassins' reach to recharge your MP. Afterwards,
defeat the Assassins with normal attacks, trying to keep your combos
clean without missing to try and activate Double-Score Mode. Now, a
good tactic is to lure the Assassins to the center of the arena so that
once they're defeated you can attack the Dragoons that will follow in a
single combo session. Still, if you miss to do this, don't falter, a
Thundaga should do the trick, as well as Learn/Jump.
Match 38: 6 Dusks -> 4 Dancers -> 5 Samurais -> 4 Gamblers -> 1
Sorcerer
This match's a full-on Nobody Melee, so be ready to be offensive and
defensive.
The Dusk batch is easily handled, not only because they're predictable,
but also because you can use the Reversal Reaction Command. Once the
Dancers appear, take them out one by one, being cautious of their Swing
Toss move. Samurais will follow afterwards, so alternate attacks with
evasive moves to properly defeat them. Then will come the Gamblers, and
even though you can gamble with them, it's best to avoid that to not
waste time; however, you can gamble with the four in order to stun
them. And finally, you'll encounter a Sorcerer, which you can defeat by
running counterclockwise waiting for an opening.
All in all, maintain a defensive post whenever a new Nobody appears and
remain in the center of the arena to lure them.
Match 39: 4 Dragoons
Ending the Nobody-based matches, try to defeat these Dragoons using
their Learn/Jump Reaction Command; deflecting their attacks usually
activates it.
As usual, you can rely on Magnega and Thundaga to win this round,
though.
Match 40: (Boss) Leon & Cloud
Continuing the Final Fantasy oriented matches, this one consists of
Leon and Cloud - two that can really end your winning streak if you're
not careful.
As the match begins, first thing you have to do is retreat to the far
back of the arena and be prepared to bounce Leon's fireball back at
Cloud. Maintain distance afterwards and try having both Leon and Cloud
follow Sora so that you can have a clean shot at both by parrying
Cloud's Sonic Rave. Parrying their attacks is the best way to defeat
them since by using Counterguard you can knock both Leon and Cloud and
have an opening for a combo that will most likely hit both if you can
pull Explosion. Of course, both Leon and Cloud have an elemental
weakness, which is Blizzard and Fire respectively so you can take
advantage of that, or you can use Reflect on them.
Time Attack Goal: Defeating Leon and Cloud in less than 55 seconds
could be a tough trick to pull off, but it is possible.
Jump and glide towards the two and make sure to land in the middle a
couple of feet away; if done right, Leon won't start the match casting
Firaga, but actually slashing through while Cloud does his Sonic Rave
move. Parry whichever attack seems the closer and perform Counterguard
rapidly so that it knocks Leon and Cloud, follow it up with a combo
making sure to put a lock-on to the one Sora hits first. Keep playing
the defensive but offensive role and you will take Leon and Cloud
pretty fast.
Now, if you happen to jump and glide towards the duo and Leon casts
Firaga still, don't worry about it. Simply parry the fireball, jump out
of harms way and prepare to parry any incoming sword thrusts.
As a final note, sometimes Leon will taunt Sora by saying, "I'm better,
give it up..." Don't waste this opportunity to attack him full on.
REMINDER: Reflega won't count towards the Time Attack goals, so play it
fair and don't cheat - be honest with yourself. The strategies provided
will ensure you victory without the need of said spell.
Hades Cup Rules - Matches 41-50: This is the last stretch of the
challenge, the main "juice" in other words. Sora's on his own, however,
which means no allies, Summons, and Drives. Here Magic becomes your
best ally, but try not to waste your MP unnecessarily.
Match 41: 2 Graveyards & 2 Toy Boxes
Start this match casting Magnega, which will most likely destroy all
the candleholders in the arena and leave the Graveyards weak enough.
Unfortunately, Graveyards can't be defeated with magic when they reach
1 HP, so make haste and unleash your best aerial assault.
This match could turn ugly, but you have space to move in case you're
cornered.
Match 42: 1 Living Bone & 2 Fortunetellers
Once again, cast Magnega as soon as the match begins. This will most
likely destroy the candleholders, but also gives you enough time to
rush to defeat the Living Bone and Fortunetellers.
Match 43: 2 Large Bodies & 2 Morning Stars
This may seem like an intimidating match, but it isn't actually easy.
Like with the last three matches, cast Magnega and take out the 2
Morning Stars. After that, empty your entire MP Bar and glide around
until it refills; try to destroy each candleholder with Thundaga. By
doing this you'll have enough MP for Match 45. Then, after your MP is
refilled, defeat the Large Bodies and proceed to Match 44.
Match 44: 3 Living Bones
As soon as Match 43 ends, press L1 and whichever Shortcut you have for
Magnega. In this particular match, Living Bones are aggressively
vicious, almost always - if not always - performing their Spinning Tail
attack when the match begins, which can be a real threat if your HP is
under 30%. After casting Magnega, don't cast another magic spell,
instead rush towards the Living Bones and quickly take them out.
Match 45: 1000 Heartless Battle - Armored Knights & Surveillance Robots
One of the greatest moments of the game has its very own niche in the
Hades Paradox Cup. Shame it's only a minute long...
During this match the best way to get orbs is by wasting Magnega and
using the Surveillance Robot's Snag/Sparkle Ray Reaction Command.
Combine the two: cast one Magnega spell and run around so that enemies
approach Sora and end up sucked by the magnet, then try to grab a
Surveillance Robot to take as many Armored Knights as possible.
Battle Report Objective: Use a calculator for this: simply take your
initial orb score before Match 45 begins, subtracting that amount with
the one you'll have once the match concludes.
NOTE: It is actually possible to destroy all the Heartless before the
minute expires; however, this is mostly possible with Magnega and a
couple of Ethers. This isn't the case, but have in mind that you can in
any other occasion.
Match 46: 1 Devastator & 2 Hot Rods
This is another one of those matches where you can easily end up
cornered, and two Hot Rods can actually intimidate.
Since your MP Bar will be in its recharge stage after the last match,
start by jumping towards the Devastator and unleash an aerial attack,
which most likely by the end of it (Aerial Finish) will take the two
Hot Rods. If not, then simply jump away and avoid their Flip-Dash move,
which could be used to your advantage by making them destroy the
candleholders. Guard and Counterguard work amazingly when Hot Rods go
berserk, so take note of that.
If you're not too fond of being suicidal and taking this batch of
Heartless head-on, then glide around until you're MP is refilled and
use Thundaga on them.
Match 47: 1 Bulky Vendor -> 1 Living Bone & 2 Lance Soldiers -> 2
Assault Riders & 2 Emerald Blues -> 3 Morning Stars & 5 Crescendos
You have finally reached the "Healing Round", but don't get too
excited; you need to reach the fourth and final enemy set in order for
Sora to get healed.
While the Bulky Vendor's HP depletes, your MP Bar will probably be in
its recharge phase, and most likely it will completely during its last
life bar.
After defeating the Bulky Vendor, and with a recharged MP Bar, cast
Magnega to ensnare the Living Bone and Lance Soldiers. But don't defeat
them; take advantage of the Lance Soldiers' Reckless Lance Reaction
Command to get more orbs.
Following the last batch, you have two options: recast Magnega or
retreat to take each enemy one by one. If you recast Magnega, you will
risk Sora's chance of getting healed by a Crescendo if you defeat the
enemies too soon. In this case, wait 2 to 3 seconds prior casting to
secure the last enemy set. Now, if you decide to take them one by one,
then move away the Assault Riders' reach and take the Emerald Blues
out, then take each Assault Rider with Thundagas or a combo.
Once you defeat the last batch, in comes the fourth enemy set: Morning
Stars and Crescendos. It will be a bit tricky, but simply retreat and
let the Morning Stars follow Sora in order to take them one by one -
don't protract or the Crescendos'll heal them. Most likely Sora's HP
will be under 15% by now, so be extra defensive and use Reflega.
Getting as far away from the Crescendos as possible is highly
recommendable so that Reflega doesn't hit any. Afterwards, you have all
the Crescendos for yourself, so use the Heal Stomp Reaction Command and
get as many orbs from them as possible.
Match 48: (Boss) Cerberus
Contrary to the Cerberus Cup match with, well, Cerberus, you can't use
Drive Forms in this one; though that's not entirely necessary. Also,
this bout with Cerberus is relatively similar to the first one, except
you're alone.
Time Attack Goal: Button-smashing comes in handy in this particular
match, but it won't always work with precision if you don't bother to
dodge and watch out Sora's HP. So, as soon as the match begins, jump
towards Cerberus and land a few strikes, then avoid its Jumping Crash
attack and its consecutive shockwave. Apply pressure to Cerberus by
unleashing aerial attacks, and use Retaliating Slash if he connects a
Bite. Dark Breath isn't much of a threat even though he spews a lot of
it, but it's wise to dodge a few whenever they seem to close. Wasting
Thundaga works mighty well from a distance, too.
For a dog its size, Cerberus is pretty much an easy target.
TIP: Let Cerberus capture Sora with his Trap move so that you can take
full advantage of the Evade/Jump!/Dog Paddle Reaction Command sequence.
REMINDER: Reflega won't count towards the Time Attack goals, so play it
fair and don't cheat - be honest with yourself. The strategies provided
will ensure you victory without the need of said spell.
Match 49: (Boss) Yuffie, Cloud, Tifa, & Leon
I call this match the Final Fantasy Melee, the one you probably were
left agape during your first play-through.
This could be considered an overawing match for the fact that you're
facing four seemingly tough characters, and the fact that their from
the Final Fantasy series adds more intimidation; but, this match is not
as hard as you could or might've envisioned. Basically all it needs is
complete attention, defensive strategies, and a third eye if you're low
on HP.
Begin the match by Quick Running to the far back of the arena, putting
a lock-on to either Cloud or Tifa to bounce Leon's Firaga; it's a
better tactic to bounce it back at Cloud to regress his footing while
he prepares to Sonic Rave. Be ready to parry whichever attack comes
first, though most of the time it'll be from Cloud or Tifa, and
Counterguard rapidly to swiftly deliver a combo. Sometimes Sora gets
cornered before he can actually unleash a finisher thanks to Leon or
Yuffie, but most of the time, due to the circumstances Sora's in,
Explosion comes out and hits everyone. Afterwards it's wise to jump and
get away and let them approach Sora and repeat the Guard/Counterguard
strategy, following with a combo of course. Blizzaga continues to be a
great way to single-handedly take Cloud, Leon, and Tifa out.
Now, each attack is easily readable when it comes to counterattacking,
but Yuffie's sometimes proves to be bothersome. If that's the case,
allow her to mope around and wait for her charged-up shuriken attack,
and once it ends you'll have an excellent opening for a combo. Usually
Yuffie's the last one standing of the Final Fantasy quartet.
The match seems overwhelming, but in truth it isn't, though it could be
the case if you prefer to be more on the offensive and aggressive side
than the defensive and cautious one.
Time Attack Goal: For this goal there's more than enough time, so try
to make most of it.
To finish this fight fast, parry Cloud's Sonic Rave as soon as the
match begins and use Counterguard but two seconds in delay, which will
more than likely hit all at once. Follow that with a combo on Tifa and
try to take her out fast. Jump and glide away, a couple of feet away
from Sora's original post. Take out Cloud next, then Leon ending with
Yuffie; of course, bouncing Leon's Firaga is still a great way to take
away HP from Cloud and Tifa when possible, so use that to your
advantage. Blizzaga also works its magic, so use it if needed.
REMINDER: Reflega won't count towards the Time Attack goals, so play it
fair and don't cheat - be honest with yourself. The strategies provided
will ensure you victory without the need of said spell.
Match 50: (Boss) Red Hades
Well, you've made it to the last round of the Hades Paradox Cup; most
importantly you have managed to survive this challenge. Now, you just
came from a match where you had to single-handedly defeat not two, but
four opponents at once, so defeating Hades - again - shouldn't be that
hard.
This match with Hades resembles the last brawl with him during the
second visit to Olympus Coliseum, where you'll have Hercules as an
ally.
When the match begins, knock an Aura Sphere at Hades and rush towards
him to unleash an aerial combo. Try to keep Sora aligned with Hades so
that once the combo finishes you can have an opening for another aerial
combo. When he disappears, stand still and slowly rotate the camera
until he reappears; put a lock-on and rush towards him, delivering an
aerial assault. Applying pressure to Hades continues to be the best way
to defeat him, mostly while Sora's airborne. Be cautious of his
attacks, mostly his Fire Wall where he engulfs himself with his red
flames.
Overall, Hades shouldn't be a problem, not even if Sora's HP is under
10%.
Time Attack Goal: The 35 seconds goal is tremendously easy. Knock an
Aura Sphere at Hades as soon as the match begins, following with aerial
assaults and applying pressure so that you can maintain Sora aligned
with Hades. Be careful with his attacks, and try to have the camera
aligned so that you can follow him when he disappears and reappears.
REMINDER: Reflega won't count towards the Time Attack goals, so play it
fair and don't cheat - be honest with yourself. The strategies provided
will ensure you victory without the need of said spell.
=----------------=
=- Report Card: -=
=----------------=
Ctrl+F (F3): [rca]
Congratulations! You've successfully completed and survived the Paradox
Challenge, proving your strength and resourcefulness. Now, take your
time to fill your goals and battle report, and send it to my email,
[email protected].
Your report could be inducted in a special 'Hall of Fame' page in my
Kingdom Hearts II dedicated site. Remember to fill your report card in
the order provided in the Goals & Battle Report section for a better
analysis.
To avoid scrolling up to the Goals & Battle Report section, hit Ctrl+F
and copy and paste this tag, Ctrl+F (F3): [aim], to quickly access it.
=------------=
=- Credits: -=
=------------=
Ctrl+F (F3): [crd]
Not many people to credit for this particular guide, outside of Disney,
Buena Vista Games, Square Enix, and Tetsuya Nomura for concocting this
great game; and you, of course, for reading and taking part of this
challenge.
=----------------=
=- Final Words: -=
=----------------=
Ctrl+F (F3): [fwd]
This concludes this challenge guide, brought to you by yours truly,
PsychoZeke. If you would like to host this guide in your site, all you
have to do is send me an email. This is the first and final version of
this guide, but it is still open for changes, editing and/or
supplementation.
All reports concerning the challenge can be sent to my email address or
you can access my site and post your report in the Q&A Page.
Email:
[email protected]
Site:
http://psychozeke.tripod.com/
Thanks for reading.
Copyright (©) 2006 Ezekiel Lonewalker (PsychoZeke)
End of Document...
