X-Kaliber 2097 (SNES) - First Boss (Tattoo)

X-Kaliber 2097 is a fairly brutal game. I make no claims to the contrary. But after watching the Game Grumps take it on, I thought I'd at least show that the first boss isn't as bad as they made him out to seem. Despite being sloppy in this attempt, I still only get hit once at the end when I get a bit too impatient going for the killing blow. When you fight Tattoo for the first time, he can seem like an impeneratable wall that randomly blocks almost everything you throw at him. In truth, his weakness is very simple and actually logical. He's got a long reach, but can't defend himself in close. He will block every attack unless you are very close to him or his back is turned. The easiest way to exploit this is to just walk up to him. It's that simple. Approach, being ready to block if he attacks before you reach him. When you're touching him, do a light attack and immediately block. His counter-attack will push you back outside of his reach. Rinse, repeat. Don't get greedy and try to slip two attacks in. You'll almost always get hit for your efforts. Likewise, jump attacks are risky. They'll get you in close, but his sword arcs high and there's no way to block it in air. If you're feeling adventurous, you can use heavy attacks on him when his back is turned, just so long as he's far enough away to knock out of reach of a counter-attack. Block immediately after, since he likes to counter heavy attacks with a vine whip from his chest. The vine attack is highly telegraphed, but heavy attacks leave you open for a moment. If you're too close, you might not have time to block. Best of luck and happy gaming!