How To Beat Lagiacrus In Monster Hunter Wilds A Complete Guide
Lagiacrus, the iconic Leviathan from the Monster Hunter series, is making a triumphant return in Monster Hunter Wilds. This electrifying beast is known for its aggressive attacks, powerful lightning abilities, and imposing presence. Defeating Lagiacrus requires a strategic approach, a solid understanding of its attack patterns, and the right equipment. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and tactics needed to emerge victorious against this formidable foe.
Understanding Lagiacrus: Strengths, Weaknesses, and Attack Patterns
Before diving into the hunt, it's crucial to understand Lagiacrus's strengths and weaknesses. This knowledge will inform your weapon choice, armor selection, and overall strategy. Lagiacrus is primarily a water-based monster, utilizing its aquatic environment to its advantage. It's also adept at close-quarters combat and long-range electric attacks. Therefore, hunters must be prepared for a multifaceted battle.
Elemental Weaknesses and Resistances
Lagiacrus is particularly vulnerable to Fire element attacks, making Fire weapons an excellent choice for this hunt. It also has a moderate weakness to Dragon element. Conversely, Lagiacrus is highly resistant to Water and Thunder element attacks, so avoid using weapons with these elemental properties. Ice element is moderately effective, but Fire remains the optimal choice.
Weak Points
Targeting Lagiacrus's weak points is essential for maximizing damage output and securing a faster hunt. The head is Lagiacrus's primary weak point, taking significant damage from most weapon types. The chest and back are also vulnerable, although to a lesser extent. Aiming for these areas will help you stagger the monster, inflict more damage, and potentially break parts for valuable rewards.
Key Attack Patterns
Lagiacrus boasts a diverse range of attacks, including physical strikes and electrical discharges. Recognizing these attack patterns is crucial for evading damage and creating opportunities to strike.
- Electric Ball: Lagiacrus fires a ball of electricity that travels in a straight line. This attack can be dodged by sidestepping or using a well-timed dodge roll.
- Electric Discharge: Lagiacrus emits a burst of electricity from its body, damaging hunters in close proximity. This attack is often preceded by a visible charge-up animation, giving you a window to move away.
- Tail Swipe: Lagiacrus swings its tail in a wide arc, knocking hunters back. This attack can be blocked or dodged by rolling through the tail.
- Body Slam: Lagiacrus slams its body onto the ground, causing a tremor and damaging hunters in the immediate area. Staying mobile and avoiding close proximity when Lagiacrus rears up can help evade this attack.
- Charge Attack: Lagiacrus charges forward, dealing significant damage to anything in its path. This attack is telegraphed by Lagiacrus lowering its head and building momentum, allowing you to prepare for a dodge or reposition.
Preparing for the Hunt: Gear and Equipment
Proper preparation is paramount for a successful hunt. Selecting the right gear and equipment can significantly increase your chances of victory against Lagiacrus.
Weapon Selection
As mentioned earlier, Fire element weapons are highly effective against Lagiacrus. Weapons like the Rathalos Sword and Shield, Agnaktor Hammer, or Teostra Greatsword can deal substantial damage. Alternatively, if you prefer a different weapon type, consider using a weapon with high raw damage and good sharpness, as this will still be effective against Lagiacrus's weaker points. For ranged hunters, Fire element Bows and Bowguns are excellent options.
Armor Selection
Choosing the right armor is just as important as weapon selection. Prioritize armor sets that offer high defense and resistance to Thunder element. Skills such as Thunder Resistance, Evade Window, and Evade Extender can be invaluable for surviving Lagiacrus's electric attacks and maintaining mobility. Armor sets like the Zinogre armor or a customized set with Thunder Resistance jewels can provide the necessary protection.
Essential Items
Carrying a well-stocked inventory is crucial for any hunt. Be sure to bring the following essential items:
- Potions and Mega Potions: For healing damage.
- Antidotes: To cure poison, as some of Lagiacrus's attacks can inflict this status ailment.
- Nulberries: To remove elemental blights, such as Thunderblight.
- Shock Traps and Pitfall Traps: To immobilize Lagiacrus and create opportunities for attack.
- Flash Bombs: To temporarily blind Lagiacrus, providing a brief window for attacks or escape.
- Well-Done Steaks or Rations: To maintain stamina.
- Armor and Power Charms/Talons: To boost defense and attack power.
Battle Strategies and Tactics
Once you're geared up and ready to face Lagiacrus, it's time to employ effective battle strategies and tactics.
Staying Mobile and Positioning
Lagiacrus is a highly mobile monster, so staying on your toes is crucial. Avoid staying in one place for too long, and constantly reposition yourself to evade attacks. Pay attention to Lagiacrus's movements and telegraphs, and be ready to dodge or block incoming attacks. Positioning yourself strategically can also help you capitalize on openings and target Lagiacrus's weak points.
Capitalizing on Openings
Lagiacrus's attacks often leave it vulnerable for a short period. After performing an Electric Ball or a Body Slam, Lagiacrus will pause momentarily, giving you a chance to strike. Learn to recognize these openings and exploit them to deal significant damage. Traps and Flash Bombs can also create openings by immobilizing or blinding Lagiacrus.
Utilizing the Environment
Monster Hunter Wilds features dynamic environments that can be used to your advantage. Look for opportunities to use ledges for jump attacks, or to lure Lagiacrus into areas where you have more room to maneuver. Environmental hazards, such as falling rocks or explosive plants, can also be used to inflict additional damage.
Breaking Parts
Breaking Lagiacrus's parts not only yields valuable rewards but also weakens its attacks. Focus on breaking the head to reduce the power of its electric attacks, and the chest to reduce its overall defense. Breaking the tail can also limit its tail swipe attacks.
Managing Thunderblight
Lagiacrus's electric attacks can inflict Thunderblight, which increases the likelihood of being stunned. If you are afflicted with Thunderblight, use a Nulberry to remove the status ailment. Alternatively, Evade Window can make dodging attacks easier, reducing your chances of being hit by electric attacks.
Advanced Tips and Tricks
For experienced hunters looking to optimize their strategy, here are some advanced tips and tricks for fighting Lagiacrus:
- Use the Clutch Claw: The Clutch Claw can be used to grapple onto Lagiacrus, allowing you to deal damage or tenderize its hide, making it more vulnerable to attacks. Grappling onto the head and performing a weapon attack can be particularly effective.
- Utilize the Slinger: The Slinger can be used to fire various ammo types, such as Scatternuts or Crystalburst, which can stagger Lagiacrus and create openings for attack. The Slinger can also be used to trigger environmental traps.
- Coordinate with your Team: If hunting with a team, coordinate your attacks and roles. Designate one hunter to focus on drawing Lagiacrus's attention while others deal damage. Using communication tools to call out attack patterns and openings can significantly improve your team's efficiency.
Conclusion
Lagiacrus is a challenging but rewarding monster to hunt in Monster Hunter Wilds. By understanding its strengths, weaknesses, and attack patterns, preparing the right gear, and employing effective strategies, you can emerge victorious. Remember to stay mobile, capitalize on openings, and utilize the environment to your advantage. With practice and perseverance, you'll be able to conquer this electrifying Leviathan and claim your hard-earned rewards. Happy hunting!