How to conquer the Gold-Masked One in Phantom Blade Zero

The Gold-Masked One is a recurring, lethal opponent in Phantom Blade Zero, found at various Long Pillars throughout the game. According to a guide published by GamesRadar+, this boss serves as a significant reflex test, requiring mastery of the game’s core combat mechanics. Because the Gold-Masked One is a skilled swordsman, overcoming him requires precise timing and defensive awareness.

Preparation and strategy

Before engaging the boss, it is recommended to equip specific accessories to increase your survivability. The Ancient Armor Fragment, found near Crimson Manor in Weeping Creek Valley, provides damage resistance based on your current health levels. Additionally, completing the ‘Apprentice Healer’ quest for Yu’er awards the Medicine Case, which increases the potency of your medicine. Using these items together makes the encounter more forgiving.

To effectively defeat the Gold-Masked One, follow these steps:

• Master the defensive cycle: The fight centers on your ability to react to his rapid sword combos. Identify his blue and red-flash attacks: parry the blue attacks and dodge the red ones. After executing these, move in to attack to wear down his Sha-Chi guard.
• React to grab attacks: The boss uses a high-damage red-flash grab attack that is difficult to telegraph. Avoid this move at all costs, as it will rapidly deplete your health and force you to use medicine frequently.
• Avoid Phantom Edge attacks: These moves are often too slow to be effective. Notably, the Gold-Masked One can attack through your Phantom Edge animations, so avoid using them while his guard is still intact.
• Adapt to evolving mechanics: While these core tips apply to all encounters, note that the boss gains new moves at each subsequent Long Pillar. For example, at the second Long Pillar, he will utilize Sha-Chi draining strikes, which will require you to master switching weapons on the fly.

Why it matters

The Gold-Masked One serves as a recurring benchmark for a player’s combat proficiency. Because the boss introduces new mechanics, such as Sha-Chi draining, at each encounter, players must remain adaptable and keep their defensive skills sharp throughout the game. Success at these pillars provides rewards, such as the Counterstrike Bracers which offer a damage buff after parrying, and advances the narrative regarding the mysterious warrior’s identity.

As noted by GamesRadar+, each victory against this boss provides players with incremental upgrades and insights into the game’s lore. Players who find themselves struggling should prioritize securing the mentioned accessories in Weeping Creek Valley before attempting the fight again.