Hunting the Mythical Griffin in Final Fantasy XVI
The majestic yet ferocious griffin has captured adventurers‘ imaginations across fantasy worlds for ages with its imposing presence. As a mythical hybrid between lion and eagle, the griffin symbolizes both raw strength and regal nobility.
Final Fantasy XVI brings this icon of fantasy lore to life in the form of the boss monster Dozmare. As part of the "Blacksmith‘s Blues" side questline, hunting this griffin tests your battle prowess while rewarding you handsomely for succeeding. This guide covers everything you need to know to track down and triumph over Dozmare.
Decoding Dozmare‘s Mythology
Unlike generic monsters you‘ll commonly encounter, Dozmare has deep mythological roots tracing back to ancient Persian legends. As a physical embodiment of the sun‘s glory and punishment, the griffin‘s wrath could spell disaster if left unchecked.
In keeping with this lore, Dozmare plays an important role in Valisthea‘s history as a manifestation of the Mothercrystal‘s protective powers. Defeating it proves Clive worthy as the Dominant and future champion of Rosaria. Mastering the epic showdown with this legendary griffin represents a coming of age trial for Clive.
Optimal Party and Gear for Griffin Hunting
Dozmare‘s aerial attacks and devastating dive bomb warrant careful preparation beforehand. Having both melee and ranged options helps you adapt on the fly. A balanced setup includes:
- Clive as main damage dealer
- Eira as mage for healing/support spells
- Hugo providing tanking and disruption
Prioritize gear giving damage buffs, elemental resistances, and boosts to max HP/MP/TP. The Berserker‘s Ring offers a great counterattacking damage boost. Stock up on recovery items like Hi-Potions and Phoenix Downs before heading out too.
The Best Abilities to Use Against the Griffin
When it comes to abilities, wind-based spells and attacks fly you circles around Dozmare. Equip these abilities to pressure him into landing:
- Garuda‘s Gouge – chasing wind slash attack
- Garuda‘s Aerial Blast – mid-air explosive blast
- Aerora – moderate wind magic spell
Once grounded, hammer away with your hardest hitting melee combos and save Clive‘s Limit Break as the finisher. Hugo‘s Stone Wall and Eira‘s Protect spell help buffer damage from Dozmare‘s attacks too.
Quest Steps to Track Down Dozmare
With your party primed for action, here‘s how to pick up Dozmare‘s trail:
- Accept the “Blacksmith’s Blues” quest in The Hideaway tavern by talking to August
- Speak to Blackthorne to learn Dozmare damaged his forge
- Investigate further with Charon back at The Hideaway
- Check the hunt board for clues pointing towards Caer Norvent
- Traverse to Lostwing region and head west to the river gate
- Dozmare ambushes you atop the gate walls – brace for battle!
Analyzing Dozmare‘s Attack Patterns and Strategies
Now comes the true test against the legendary griffin himself. Dozmare mixes up high speed charges, whirlwind fakes, and devastating diving strikes to keep you off balance. Here‘s how to overcome his attacks:
Flying Charge: No wind trails – dodge last second
Aerial Vortex: Gust trails visible – double dodge the AoE blast
Noble Dive: Flying in circles – dodge theground impact
Master deflecting these routines through careful observation rather than panicked reactions. Patience pays off. Wait for clean openings to strike rather than overextending.
The real key is forcing Dozmare to land through constant wind spells interrupting his airborne advantage. Once downed, pummel him with chains of melee attacks before he takes off again. Repeat until victory.
Hard-Won Spoils from Slaying Dozmare
Emerging triumphant over such a storied adversary brings worthy compensation. Dozmare‘s hoard provides:
- 650 EXP
- 85 gil
- 20 renown
- 55 AP to spend
- Rare crafting materials
These rewards bolster your hero‘s progression markedly early in your journey. The materials, in particular Scarletite and Meteorite, become invaluable for later weapon/armor forging.
All that remains is returning the quest ramification item, Treated Leather, to Blackthorne‘s forge to complete the job. Quest and pride fulfilled!
Hunting Hints for Future Foes
Stacking the deck fully in your favor before showdowns with legend-class monsters like Dozmare sets you on the surest path to success in Final Fantasy XVI.
As you press onward to new challenges, remember these lessons when preparing to confront imposing foes:
- Scout enemy intel from local lore, hunt boards, etc.
- Fit your party and gear to target specific weaknesses
- Stock up on curatives/ingredients beforehand
- Analyze attack patterns for openings to exploit
- Master parry timing and retaliation windows
Implementing these tips empowers you to turn the tables and become the hunter rather than the hunted!
Up Next: Dominating the Throne of Fire Dragon
Slaying Dozmare serves as perfect practice for the true tests awaiting on Mount Magna Hydrae. The ferocity of dragons like Ifrit demand stringent preparations.
My next guide covers everything needed to topple Final Fantasy XVI‘s fire-breathing reptilian rulers. The journey continues as Clive pursues his destiny, with greater battles ahead!
