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Game:Vanitas: Difference between revisions

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(→‎Data Rematch: Adding some crucial info about punishing the slow fireball + slash attack. Also separating the teleport slash beam because it isn't part of the slow fireball attack as it was its own move.)
 
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  |KH3battlefile=Enter the Darkness -Vanitas- KHIII.ogg
  |KH3battlefile=Enter the Darkness -KINGDOM HEARTS III Version- KHIII.ogg
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  |KH3battlename=Enter the Darkness{{!}}Enter the Darkness (KHIII ver.)
  |KH3battlefile=Enter the Darkness -Vanitas- KHIII.ogg
  |KH3battlefile=Enter the Darkness -KINGDOM HEARTS III Version- KHIII.ogg
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'''[[Vanitas]]'''is a boss in ''[[Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep]]'', fought by [[Terra]], [[Aqua]], and [[Ventus]]. While he only faces Terra as an aid to [[Master Xehanort]] during their final battle, he battles Ventus in hopes of making him stronger and with the goal of fusing with him in the end to create the [[χ-blade]]. Should Ventus fail to serve his purpose, he wishes to use Aqua as his backup plan. Vanitas appears as a boss six times in ''Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep''.
'''[[Vanitas]]''' is a boss in ''[[Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep]]'', fought by [[Terra]], [[Aqua]], and [[Ventus]]. While he only faces Terra as an aid to [[Master Xehanort]] during their final battle, he battles Ventus in hopes of making him stronger and with the goal of fusing with him in the end to create the [[χ-blade]]. Should Ventus fail to serve his purpose, he wishes to use Aqua as his backup plan. Vanitas appears as a boss six times in ''Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep''.


In ''[[Kingdom Hearts III]]'', Vanitas also appears as a boss at the [[Land of Departure]] against Aqua in a bid to collect Ventus's body, and at the [[Keyblade Graveyard]] alongside [[Terra-Xehanort]] against [[Sora]], Ventus, and Aqua. A data replica of him is also a optional boss in ''[[Kingdom Hearts III Re Mind]]''.
In ''[[Kingdom Hearts III]]'', Vanitas also appears as a boss at the [[Land of Departure]] against Aqua in a bid to collect Ventus's body, and at the [[Keyblade Graveyard]] alongside [[Terra-Xehanort]] against [[Sora]], Ventus, and Aqua. A data replica of him is also a optional boss in ''[[Kingdom Hearts III Re Mind]]''.
==Abilities==
{{section-stub}}
*{{nihongo|'''Continuous Slash'''|連続斬り|Renzokukiri}}<!--Terra, Ventus 1, Ventus 2, Ventus 3, Aqua 1, Aqua 2, Ventus-Vanitas-->
*{{nihongo|'''Warp {{w|List of judo techniques|Kirioroshi}}'''|ワープ斬り下ろし|Wāpu Kirioroshi}}<!--Terra, Ventus 1, Ventus 2, Aqua 1, Aqua 2, Ventus-Vanitas-->
*{{nihongo|'''[[Dark Firaga]]'''|ダークファイガ|Dāku Faiga|lit. "Dark Figa"}}<!--Terra, Ventus 1, Ventus 2, Aqua 1, Aqua 2-->
*{{nihongo|'''Dark Thundaga'''|ダークサンダガ|Dāku Sandaga}}<!--Terra, Ventus 1, Ventus 2, Ventus 3, Aqua 1, Aqua 2, Ventus-Vanitas-->
*{{nihongo|'''Shadow Dive'''|シャドウダイブ|Shadou Daibu}}<!--Terra, Ventus 2, Aqua 2, Ventus-Vanitas-->
*{{nihongo|'''Keyblade Ride'''|キーブレードーライド|Kīburēdo Raidu}}<!--Ventus 2-->
*{{nihongo|'''X-Discharge'''|Xディスチャージ|X-Disuchāji}}<!--Ventus 3-->
*{{nihongo|'''[[Dark Splicer]]'''|ダークスプライサー|Dāku Supuraisā}}<!--Ventus 3-->
*{{nihongo|'''[[Dark Spiral]]'''|ダークスパイラル|Dāku Supairaru}}<!--Ventus 3-->
*{{nihongo|'''[[Dark Cannon]]'''|ダークキャノン|Dāku Kyanon}}<!--Ventus 3-->
*{{nihongo|'''Ultimate Charge'''|アルティメットチャージ|Arutimetto Chāji}}<!--Ventus-Vanitas-->
*{{nihongo|'''Grand Cross'''|グランドクロス |Gurando Kurosu}}<!--Ventus-Vanitas-->
<!--These are all made up names.
===Standard Form===
*'''Strike''': Simultaneously dashes and slashes the player, then finishes the attack with an upwards somersault slash. In later fights, his finisher launches a crescent blade of energy that homes in on the player.
*'''Afterimage''': At any point when the player strikes, he will quickly teleport away leaving behind an afterimage. He immediately appears either behind or above the player to retaliate.
*'''Sidestep''': Jumps to the side to avoid the player's attack.
*'''Flame (+ burst)''': Charges up and fires a fireball at the player. In later fights, the single fireball will split into three and home in on the player.
*'''Jumping (+ Blizzaga)''': Appears above the player following his Afterimage, and slashes down. In later fights, when he makes contact with the ground, he simultaneously casts Blizzaga.
*'''Dark Thundaga''': Jumps high in the air, and fires a dark [[Thundaga]] spell down at the ground.
*'''Eruption''': Jumps, then dives into the ground, stalking the player underneath. When he is right below the player, he jumps and attacks upwards. In later fights, he will repeatedly jump in and out, and finish off with a flurry of [[Firaga]] erupting from the ground.
*'''Storm of Keyblades''': Rides atop the whirlwind of [[Keyblades]] conjured by Master Xehanort. If Ventus comes into contact with them, he will be knocked away. A couple of good, clean long-range hits (ideally a Shotlock) will quickly knock him off.
*'''[[Blizzaga]]''': While riding atop the Storm of Keyblades, he will repeatedly assault the player with Blizzaga.
*'''Dark charge''': If knocked back, he will charge up and release dark energy around him. It is both used as a recovery ability, and knock-back.
===χ-blade Form===
*'''Strike''': Simultaneously dashes and slashes the player, then finishes the attack with an upwards somersault slash that launches a crescent blade of energy that homes in on the player.
*'''Dark Thundaga''': Jumps high in the air, and fires a dark Thundaga spell down at the ground.
*'''χ-blade combo''': Charges up the enormous energy found in the χ-blade, surrounding it and himself in an aura that can cause damage if close. Vanitas then performs a lunging forward slash, leaps up to slam the ground, causing an X-shaped shockwave, lunges in with another slash, then hops back and fires an X-shaped energy wave. Is incredibly damaging with extreme range—this can however be canceled out with a single good hit.
*'''Dark Spiral''': Spins the Keyblade, dashing multiple-times mid-air.
*'''Dark Splicer''': Repeatedly teleports and slashes at the player, leaving behind an Afterimage with each strike.
*'''Dimension Link''': When reduced to 1 [[HP]], he shatters the [[Station of Awakening]], forcing Ventus to [[D-Link]] with him. In this state, he can only be defeating by filling the [[Command Gauge]] and executing the finisher "[[Last Word]]", done by mimicking his three abilities, Dark Spiral, Dark Splicer and [[Dark Link]], successfully parrying them in the process.
*'''[[Dark Cannon]]''': His [[Shotlock]] ability. After locking onto Ventus, he fires a giant beam of dark energy from the χ-blade. Can be parried with either Dark Spiral, or the Dark Link shotlock.
-->


==Strategy==
==Strategy==
===''Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep''===
===''Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep''===
====Terra's scenario====
====Terra's scenario====
The only time Vanitas ever faces Terra in combat is during the final battle with Master Xehanort, during which Vanitas assists Master Xehanort in a battle against the young [[Keyblade wielder]]. During this battle, Terra has access to [[D-Link]]s, [[Shotlock]]s, and [[Command Style]]s. While clearing this boss fight without the use of these special powers and abilities is quite possible, it is recommended that Terra instead make full use of them.
The only time Vanitas ever faces Terra in combat is during the final battle with {{ns|Game|Master Xehanort}}, during which Vanitas assists Master Xehanort in a battle against the young [[Keyblade wielder]]. During this battle, Terra has access to [[D-Link]]s, [[Shotlock]]s, and [[Command Style]]s. While clearing this boss fight without the use of these special powers and abilities is quite possible, it is recommended that Terra instead make full use of them.
 
[[File:Versus Vanitas and Master Xehanort KHBBS.png|thumb|right|Master Xehanort and Vanitas battle Terra within the Keyblade Graveyard.]]
It is very important that Terra immediately go on the offensive against Vanitas at the start of the battle, as he has two powerful bosses attacking him simultaneously; fortunately, only Vanitas must be defeated to progress. Vanitas will not attack often and will mainly attempt to dodge the Terra's attacks, but certain abilities such as [[Chaos Rave]] will allow Terra to stay on him. When Vanitas vanishes, [[Slide]] out of the way; if Terra does not, he will fall victim to an downward strike from Vanitas with his Keyblade. When Vanitas sinks into the ground, only visible by a moving pool of [[darkness]], immediately chain Slides together. Otherwise, Terra will be bombarded with fireballs as the boss reemerges. Vanitas may leap into the air bombarding Terra with dark lightning, or he even may shoot a single, large fireball that later splits into three homing ones. Slide can be used to dodge these attacks, as well.
It is very important that Terra immediately go on the offensive against Vanitas at the start of the battle, as he has two powerful bosses attacking him simultaneously; fortunately, only Vanitas must be defeated to progress. Vanitas will not attack often and will mainly attempt to dodge the Terra's attacks, but certain abilities such as [[Chaos Rave]] will allow Terra to stay on him. When Vanitas vanishes, [[Slide]] out of the way; if Terra does not, he will fall victim to an downward strike from Vanitas with his Keyblade. When Vanitas sinks into the ground, only visible by a moving pool of [[darkness]], immediately chain Slides together. Otherwise, Terra will be bombarded with fireballs as the boss reemerges. Vanitas may leap into the air bombarding Terra with dark lightning, or he even may shoot a single, large fireball that later splits into three homing ones. Slide can be used to dodge these attacks, as well.


Once enough HP has been depleted from Vanitas, the battle will automatically end, regardless of how much of it currently remains, but in the 1.5 + 2.5 version, it will end when his health's completely gone. However, remember that Master Xehanort is also present during the battle, and he may strike Terra with his Keyblade or shoot a long-range, dark [[Blizzard]] spell in his direction. Master Xehanort may also combine the two attacks, assaulting Terra with a fast-paced physical combo and ending it with a Blizzard spell that can freeze Terra, leaving him open to both Vanitas and Master Xehanort's attacks.
Once enough HP has been depleted from Vanitas, the battle will automatically end, regardless of how much of it currently remains, but in the PS4 version, it will end when his health's completely gone. However, remember that Master Xehanort is also present during the battle, and he may strike Terra with his Keyblade or shoot a long-range, dark [[Blizzard]] spell in his direction. Master Xehanort may also combine the two attacks, assaulting Terra with a fast-paced physical combo and ending it with a Blizzard spell that can freeze Terra, leaving him open to both Vanitas and Master Xehanort's attacks.


====Ventus's scenario====
====Ventus's scenario====
=====First battle=====
=====First battle=====
Vanitas first fights Ventus in a two-part boss battle after luring him to the Keyblade Graveyard. The first will end only once enough HP has been depleted from Vanitas, the second beginning soon afterwards. However, in the second part of the battle, Ventus has the assistance of [[Mickey Mouse|King Mickey]]. He will also have access to Shotlocks, Command Styles, and D-Links, increasing the easiness of winning the battle along with Ventus's normal abilities.
[[File:Versus Vanitas (Ventus) 1 KHBBS.png|thumb|right|Vanitas battles Ventus within the Badlands.]]
Vanitas first fights Ventus in a two-part boss battle after luring him to the Keyblade Graveyard. The first will end once enough HP has been depleted from Vanitas, or if Vanitas depletes Ventus's HP to 0, while the second begins soon afterwards. However, in the second part of the battle, Ventus has the assistance of [[Mickey Mouse]]. He will also have access to Shotlocks, Command Styles, and D-Links, increasing the easiness of winning the battle along with Ventus's normal abilities.


Vanitas at first challenges Ventus with the goal of testing his power. During the first part of the two-part battle, Ventus should go on the offensive while also following a hit-and-run strategy, using both physical and magical attacks in a balanced manner before fleeing Vanitas's close combat attacks. Vanitas may disappear during the battle, but Ventus should immediately [[Dodge Roll]], or he will fall victim to his downward strike if they do not dodge. The boss may also shoot a single, large fireball at Vent that will soon separate into three smaller, homing fireballs after traveling forward in the his direction. Dodge Roll again can be used to avoid this attack. If Vanitas leaps into the air, he may strike Ventus with a dark lightning attack, which has a relatively long range. Dodge Roll is recommended in terms of avoiding it. lastly, Vanitas may perform a simple two-hit physical combo, an attack easily dodged with Dodge Roll.
Vanitas at first challenges Ventus with the goal of testing his power. During the first part of the two-part battle, Ventus should go on the offensive while also following a hit-and-run strategy, using both physical and magical attacks in a balanced manner before fleeing Vanitas's close combat attacks. Vanitas may disappear during the battle, but Ventus should immediately [[Dodge Roll]], or he will fall victim to his downward strike if they do not dodge. The boss may also shoot a single, large fireball at Ventus that will soon separate into three smaller, homing fireballs after traveling forward in the his direction. Dodge Roll again can be used to avoid this attack. If Vanitas leaps into the air, he may strike Ventus with a dark lightning attack, which has a relatively long range. Dodge Roll is recommended in terms of avoiding it. lastly, Vanitas may perform a simple two-hit physical combo, an attack easily dodged with Dodge Roll.


In terms of offensive tactics, [[Mine Square]] and [[Tornado]] are highly recommended for use, as they will deal great damage to the boss, as well as interrupt his attacks. Other good weaknesses to exploit are the boss's vulnerabilities to [[Magnet]], [[Aero]], and [[Gravity]] [[magic]]. Each of these spells temporarily hoist him into the air, leaving him open to major damage, although timing is key to successfully use these attacks on him. Note that this rule applies to all of his battles. Whatever physical attacks Ventus attempts should be the most powerful in his arsenal. Continuation to use powerful physical and magic attacks is the key to ending the first part of the two-part battle with ease and minimal damage.
In terms of offensive tactics, [[Mine Square]] and [[Tornado]] are highly recommended for use, as they will deal great damage to the boss, as well as interrupt his attacks. Other good weaknesses to exploit are the boss's vulnerabilities to [[Magnet]], [[Aero]], and [[Gravity]] [[magic]]. Each of these spells temporarily hoist him into the air, leaving him open to major damage, although timing is key to successfully use these attacks on him. This rule applies to all of his battles. Whatever physical attacks Ventus attempts should be the most powerful in his arsenal. Continuation to use powerful physical and magic attacks is the key to ending the first part of the two-part battle with ease and minimal damage.


Now that King Mickey has joined Ventus in his battle with his darkness, Vanitas is forced to eliminate them both. His HP will be the same as what it was depleted to in the first part of the battle, and will also use the same battle tactics. Ventus can follow the same strategies as in the last battle to defeat Vanitas this time. In terms of King Mickey fighting alongside Ventus, his physical attacks are strong, and there is no need to worry when his HP reaches 0. He will automatically revive himself in time. One major advantage to fighting with Mickey is that he will grant Ventus the usage of a powerful offensive ability, [[Burst of Faith]]. Again, continue using the same strategies as the first part of the battle, and take advantage of the King's presence.
Now that Mickey has joined Ventus in his battle with his darkness, Vanitas is forced to eliminate them both. His HP will be the same as what it was depleted to in the first part of the battle, and will also use the same battle tactics. Ventus can follow the same strategies as in the last battle to defeat Vanitas this time. In terms of Mickey fighting alongside Ventus, his physical attacks are strong, and there is no need to worry when his HP reaches 0. He will automatically revive himself in time. One major advantage to fighting with Mickey is that he will grant Ventus the usage of a powerful offensive ability, [[Burst of Faith]]. Again, continue using the same strategies as the first part of the battle, and take advantage of Mickey's presence.


=====Second battle=====
=====Second battle=====
Ventus initiates the second battle with the embodiment of his darkness, after Vanitas had attempted to eliminate Aqua by ambushing her. His HP has not increased since the two-part battle, but Ventus no longer has King Mickey to aid him. By now, Ventus should not need his presence. The only thing Ventus needs to worry about would be the new attacks added to Vanitas's arsenal.
Ventus initiates the second battle with the embodiment of his darkness, after Vanitas had attempted to eliminate Aqua by ambushing her. His HP has not increased since the two-part battle, but Ventus no longer has Mickey to aid him. By now, Ventus should not need his presence. The only thing Ventus needs to worry about would be the new attacks added to Vanitas's arsenal.


Vanitas will begin the battle by jumping onto a vortex of flying Keyblades. As he travels around the battlefield, he will cast dark Blizzard spells in Ventus's direction. These Blizzard spells have strong homing capabilities, but they can be dodged with relative ease. [[Fire Glide]], Shotlocks, and other magic attacks can be used to make Vanitas fall from the flying Keyblades. If Ventus doesn't knock him off the Keyblade vortex, when returning to the ground, he will imbue the [[Void Gear]] with darkness, strengthening his attack power. Vanitas also may sink into the ground once he dismounts the Keyblade storm, visible only as a mobile pool of darkness. Vanitas will travel to Ventus's location, so Dodge Roll to prevent being hit by several fireballs. Note that he may perform this attack up to three times in a row.
Vanitas will begin the battle by jumping onto a vortex of flying Keyblades. As he travels around the battlefield, he will cast dark Blizzard spells in Ventus's direction. These Blizzard spells have strong homing capabilities, but they can be dodged with relative ease. [[Fire Glide]], Shotlocks, and other magic attacks can be used to make Vanitas fall from the flying Keyblades. If Ventus doesn't knock him off the Keyblade vortex, when returning to the ground, he will imbue the [[Void Gear]] with darkness, strengthening his attack power. Vanitas also may sink into the ground once he dismounts the Keyblade storm, visible only as a mobile pool of darkness. Vanitas will travel to Ventus's location, so Dodge Roll to prevent being hit by several fireballs. He may perform this attack up to three times in a row.


Vanitas's other attacks are the same as those he used in the first encounter with him, save for his two-hit combo, which now adds a blue crescent-shaped wave of energy. Also, when he teleports behind Ventus, his downward strike now causes a large pillar of ice to erupt out of the ground. But they can be dodged the same way. As with the last battle, careful timing of Dodge Roll and a balanced use of physical and magic attacks are the key to winning this battle. However, it should be noted this battle can be won purely with Reprisals ([[Reversal Slash]], [[Counter Rush]], etc.) as almost all of his attacks can be countered this way.
Vanitas's other attacks are the same as those he used in the first encounter with him, save for his two-hit combo, which now adds a blue crescent-shaped wave of energy. Also, when he teleports behind Ventus, his downward strike now causes a large pillar of ice to erupt out of the ground. But they can be dodged the same way. As with the last battle, careful timing of Dodge Roll and a balanced use of physical and magic attacks are the key to winning this battle. However, this battle can be won purely with Reprisals ([[Reversal Slash]], [[Counter Rush]], etc.) as almost all of his attacks can be countered this way.


=====Third battle=====
=====Third battle=====
[[File:Versus Vanitas (Ventus) 3 KHBBS.png|thumb|right|Vanitas battles Ventus within Ventus's Mind.]]
The final battle with Vanitas has come; Vanitas has entered Ventus's heart, fusing with him and creating an incomplete version of the χ-blade. This tremendous weapon has not only increased the strength of his attacks and changed those he can use, but his HP has also increased a great deal. Ventus has access to D-Links, Shotlocks, and Command Styles during this battle, so make full use of them.
The final battle with Vanitas has come; Vanitas has entered Ventus's heart, fusing with him and creating an incomplete version of the χ-blade. This tremendous weapon has not only increased the strength of his attacks and changed those he can use, but his HP has also increased a great deal. Ventus has access to D-Links, Shotlocks, and Command Styles during this battle, so make full use of them.


Vanitas will first charge his weapon, surrounding it and himself in a damaging aura. The attack is indicated by the lines "Forge the χ-blade!", "What's yours is mine!", or "Show me anguish!" He will then proceed to lunge at Ventus with the massive weapon, slam the ground and create an X-shaped shockwave, perform another lunging slash, and even shoot a homing blast of energy in the shape of an "X" at Ventus. Dodge Roll can be used to avoid this attack. Note that if Vanitas is attacked while charging the χ-blade, the attack is cancelled, so [[Reversal Slash]] can be used to avoid damage altogether and cancel out the attack. The boss also still favors the dark lightning attack, and he still has the ability to vanish and appear behind Ventus. However, rather than performing a single, downward strike, Vanitas will use an attack called Dark Splicer, similar to [[Time Splicer]], wherein he will slash Ventus multiple times while teleporting around him to attack from all sides. Dodge Roll until he stops or, a more preferable option, block his attack. This leaves the boss open to damage from Counter Rush.
Vanitas will first charge his weapon, surrounding it and himself in a damaging aura. The attack is indicated by the lines "Forge the χ-blade!", "What's yours is mine!", or "Show me anguish!" He will then proceed to lunge at Ventus with the massive weapon, slam the ground and create an X-shaped shockwave, perform another lunging slash, and even shoot a homing blast of energy in the shape of an "X" at Ventus. Dodge Roll can be used to avoid this attack. If Vanitas is attacked while charging the χ-blade, the attack is cancelled, so [[Reversal Slash]] can be used to avoid damage altogether and cancel out the attack. The boss also still favors the dark lightning attack, and he still has the ability to vanish and appear behind Ventus. However, rather than performing a single, downward strike, Vanitas will perform [[Dark Splicer]], a similar attack to [[Time Splicer]], wherein he will slash Ventus multiple times while teleporting around him to attack from all sides. Dodge Roll until he stops or, a more preferable option, block his attack. This leaves the boss open to damage from Counter Rush.


Vanitas also may begin to utilize an attack called Dark Spiral, similar to [[Riku]]'s [[Dark Aura]], charging at Ventus at a fast pace multiple times, while the χ-blade cloaks him in dark energy. Dodge Roll can be used to avoid this. The attack can be predicted by the quotes "There's no escape!", or "Darkness waits!" While Ventus should continue to use a hit-and-run strategy, it is advised to use Tornado and Mine Square to interrupt Vanitas's combos while still dealing great damage to him. Physical attacks should not be used as the main offense, as this will open Ventus to Vanitas's attacks. Instead, utilize magic or other long-ranged attacks to the fullest.
Vanitas also may begin to utilize [[Dark Spiral]], a charging attack akin to [[Riku]]'s [[Dark Aura]], charging at Ventus at a fast pace multiple times, while the χ-blade cloaks him in dark energy. Dodge Roll can be used to avoid this. The attack can be predicted by the quotes "There's no escape!", or "Darkness waits!" While Ventus should continue to use a hit-and-run strategy, it is advised to use Tornado and Mine Square to interrupt Vanitas's combos while still dealing great damage to him. Physical attacks should not be used as the main offense, as this will open Ventus to Vanitas's attacks. Instead, utilize magic or other long-ranged attacks to the fullest.


It is impossible to fully deplete Vanitas's HP once Ventus deals an attack that should defeat him. Instead, Vanitas's HP will remain at 1, and he will then shatter the pillar on which he and Ventus are fighting on. Vanitas will then become a temporary D-Link, granting Ventus the attacks that are key to defeating him once and for all, which uses his own attacks against him. As the two Keyblade wielders float in a dark realm amidst shards of stained glass, Ventus can move to Vanitas's location and hit him with Dark Spiral or Dark Splicer. However, it is recommended to merely use Ventus's only available Shotlock, Dark Link. This will cause Vanitas to fire his own version of the attack, Dark Cannon, to counter. As the two beams of energy collide, rapidly tap a button or spin the analog stick to win the grapple. This method can also be done with the Dark Spiral and Dark Splicer attack. This must be repeated several times before the combo finisher, Last Word, can be activated. Once this is done, Ventus will surround Vanitas with three beams of crystallized [[light]]. He will then shatter them, defeating Vanitas once and for all. However, Ventus can miss when performing this attack, therefore timing is crucial. Ventus also cannot heal during this phase.
Once Vanitas's HP falls to 1, he will shatter the Station of Awakening he and Ventus are fighting on. The two Keyblade wielders now float in a dark realm amidst the remnants of the Station of Awakening. Ventus will then D-Link with Vanitas, copying Vanitas's Dark Splicer and Dark Spiral attacks, but cannot heal. Vanitas will gain access to a Shotlock called "Dark Cannon", in which he fires a beam of darkness; Ventus's Shotlock will also change to a light version of this attack called [[Dark Link]]. The only way to fill the D-Link's Command Gauge is to counter Vanitas's attacks with the D-Link's corresponding attacks:
* If Ventus and Vanitas both use Dark Splicer at the same time, Ventus must press the right buttons when prompted to dodge Vanitas and counter.
* If Ventus uses Dark Spiral when Vanitas uses Dark Cannon or Dark Spiral, Ventus must rotate {{button|lana}} counterclockwise to win the grapple.
* If Ventus uses Dark Link when Vanitas uses Dark Cannon or Dark Spiral, Ventus must rapidly tap {{button|x}}, {{button|c}} in Japan, to win the grapple.  
When the gauge is filled by repeated clashes, Ventus will gain access to the [[Last Word]] finish command, which he must use to finish Vanitas off once and for all. However, Ventus can miss when performing this attack, therefore timing is crucial.


====Aqua's scenario====
====Aqua's scenario====
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Aqua should go on the offensive while also following a hit-and-run strategy, using magical attacks as their primary source of dealing damage. Vanitas may disappear during the battle, so Aqua should immediately Cartwheel, or instead will fall victim to his downward strike. The boss may also shoot a single, large fireball at Aqua that will soon separate into three smaller, homing fireballs after traveling forward in the Aqua's direction. Cartwheel again can be used to avoid this attack. If Vanitas leaps into the air, he may strike Aqua with a dark lightning attack, which has a relatively long range. Cartwheel is recommended in terms of avoiding it. Vanitas may proceed to sink into the ground, visible only as a pool of darkness that will move to Aqua's location. Unless Aqua Cartwheels away, she will be hit by several fireballs. Lastly, Vanitas may perform a simple two-hit physical combo which now adds a homing, blue, crescent-shaped wave of energy, an attack easily dodged with Cartwheel. In terms of offensive tactics, Seeker Mine and Raging Storm are highly recommended for use, as they will deal great damage to the boss, also interrupting his attacks. Whatever physical attacks the Aqua attempts should be the most powerful in her arsenal.
Aqua should go on the offensive while also following a hit-and-run strategy, using magical attacks as their primary source of dealing damage. Vanitas may disappear during the battle, so Aqua should immediately Cartwheel, or instead will fall victim to his downward strike. The boss may also shoot a single, large fireball at Aqua that will soon separate into three smaller, homing fireballs after traveling forward in the Aqua's direction. Cartwheel again can be used to avoid this attack. If Vanitas leaps into the air, he may strike Aqua with a dark lightning attack, which has a relatively long range. Cartwheel is recommended in terms of avoiding it. Vanitas may proceed to sink into the ground, visible only as a pool of darkness that will move to Aqua's location. Unless Aqua Cartwheels away, she will be hit by several fireballs. Lastly, Vanitas may perform a simple two-hit physical combo which now adds a homing, blue, crescent-shaped wave of energy, an attack easily dodged with Cartwheel. In terms of offensive tactics, Seeker Mine and Raging Storm are highly recommended for use, as they will deal great damage to the boss, also interrupting his attacks. Whatever physical attacks the Aqua attempts should be the most powerful in her arsenal.
;Ventus's scenario (First battle), Aqua's scenario (First battle)
{{atk-o|bbs}}
{{atk|{{nihongo|'''Continuous Slash'''|連続斬り|<br>Renzokukiri}}|Physical|—|1.5 + 2.0|◯|Performs a rushing slash, followed by a spinning slash.}}
{{atk|{{nihongo|'''Warp Downslash'''|ワープ切り下ろし|<br>Wāpu Kirioroshi}}|Physical|—|1.5|◯|Warps above the opponent, leaving an afterimage, then swings his weapon down while falling.|Used as counterattack.}}
{{atk|{{nihongo|'''[[Dark Firaga]]'''|ダークファイガ|<br>Dāku Faiga|lit. "Dark Figa"}}|Fire|—|Main: 2.5<br>Split: 1.5 x5|△{{Note|The split fireballs will hit Ventus even after guarding.}}|Shoots a fireball that tracks the opponent. On the way, the fireball splits into 5 and start flying at high speed.}}
{{atk|{{nihongo|'''[[Dark Thundaga]]'''|ダークサンダガ|<br>Dāku Sandaga}}|Neutral|—|2.5|X|Jumps up and shoots lightning in a fan shape diagonally downward.}}
{{atk-c}}
{{rc|o|style=bbs}}
{{rc|{{nihongo|'''[[Burst of Faith]]'''|ホーリーバースト|<br>Hōrī Bāsuto|lit. "Holy Burst"}}|Neutral|1.5 x2 + 1.5 x4| +10|Only available during the first battle in Ventus's scenario. Can be used after pressing {{button|s}} near [[King Mickey]] while he charges energy. Stand back-to-back with King Mickey, create a shower of lights while spinning by pressing {{button|x}} ({{button|c}} in the Japanese version) when prompted, and finish by sending out a burst of sparks.}}
{{rc|{{nihongo|'''Avenger Rush'''|ラッシュカウンター|<br>Rasshu Kauntā|lit. "Rush Counter"}}|Neutral|2.5| +40|Only available during the first battle in Ventus's scenario. Can be used after successfully defending [[King Mickey]] from an attack. Counterattack with a flurry of blows.}}
{{rc|c}}
;Terra's scenario, Ventus's scenario (Second battle), Aqua's scenario (Second battle)
{{atk-o|bbs}}
{{atk-m|{{nihongo|'''Continuous Slash'''|連続斬り|<br>Renzokukiri}}|Weapon|Physical|—|0.5 + 1.0|◯|Performs a rushing slash, followed by a spinning slash. May also fire a crescent-shaped blade of darkness.||Blade of darkness|Physical|—|0.5|△}}
{{atk-m|{{nihongo|'''Warp Downslash'''|ワープ切り下ろし|<br>Wāpu Kirioroshi}}|Weapon|Physical|—|1.0|◯|Warps above the opponent, leaving an afterimage, then swings his weapon down while falling, simultaneously making a crystal of darkness thrust up from the ground.|Used as counterattack.|Crystal of darkness|Physical|—|0.5|△}}
{{atk|{{nihongo|'''[[Dark Firaga]]'''|ダークファイガ|<br>Dāku Faiga|lit. "Dark Figa"}}|Fire|—|Main: 1.5<br>Split: 1.0 x5|△{{Note|The split fireballs will hit Terra or Ventus even after guarding.}}|Shoots a fireball that tracks the opponent. On the way, the fireball splits into 5 and start flying at high speed.}}
{{atk|{{nihongo|'''[[Dark Thundaga]]'''|ダークサンダガ|<br>Dāku Sandaga}}|Neutral|—|1.5|X|Jumps up and shoots lightning in a fan shape diagonally downward.}}
{{atk-m|{{nihongo|'''Shadow Dive'''|シャドウダイブ|<br>Shadou Daibu}}|Weapon|Neutral|—|1.0|X|Swings down weapon and dives into the ground, follows the opponent, then jumps out of the ground while swinging his weapon, creating a shock wave. After doing this 1-3 times, sprays flames around him on the final jump out. The flames fly in a parabolic curve and create flame pillars when they hit the ground.||Jump out|Neutral|—|2.0|X|Shock wave|Neutral|—|0.5|X|Flames|Neutral|—|0.5|X|Flame pillar|Neutral|—|1.0|X}}
{{atk-m|{{nihongo|'''Keyblade Ride'''|キーブレードライド|<br>Kīburēdo Raido}}|Rush|Physical|—|1.5|△|Flies around on a bunch of Keyblades, either firing a set of 3 ice bullets, or rushing at the opponent.|Only used in Ventus's scenario, and always starts with this attack.|Ice bullets|Blizzard|—|0.5 x3|△}}
{{atk-c}}
;Ventus's scenario (Third battle)
{{atk-o|bbs}}
{{atk-m|{{nihongo|'''Continuous Slash'''|連続斬り|<br>Renzokukiri}}|Weapon|Physical|—|0.5 + 1.5|◯|Performs a rushing slash, a spinning slash, and fires a crescent-shaped blade of darkness.|Only used during normal combat.|Blade of darkness|Physical|—|0.5|△}}
{{atk|{{nihongo|'''[[Dark Thundaga]]'''|ダークサンダガ|<br>Dāku Sandaga}}|Neutral|—|1.5|X|Jumps up and shoots lightning in a fan shape diagonally downward.|Only used during normal combat.}}
{{atk-m|{{nihongo|'''X Discharge'''|Xディスチャージ|<br>X Disuchāji}}|Shock wave|Neutral|—|1.0 per hit|X|After releasing a shock wave from his body, he performs a spinning slash, followed by a jumping slash that releases shock waves in 4 directions, followed by another spinning slash, followed by an X-shaped slash which fires an X-shaped blade.|Only used during normal combat.|Spin Slash|Neutral|—|1.5|X|Jump Slash|Neutral|—|1.0|X|X-shape Slash|Neutral|—|2.0|X|X-shape Blade|Neutral|—|1.0|X}}
{{atk|{{nihongo|'''[[Dark Splicer]]'''|ダークスプライサー|<br>Dāku Supuraisā}}|Dark|—|1.0 - 1.5 per hit|◯|Warps to the opponent's side and performs several slashes one to several times. The warping itself also damages the opponent. The attack's power depends on the action used.|Can be used as a counterattack. During the phase after breaking the Station of Awakening, this attack is used either separately or at the same time as Ventus's Dark Splicer, which can be used to counter Vanitas's.}}
{{atk|{{nihongo|'''[[Dark Spiral]]'''|ダークスパイラル|<br>Dāku Supairaru}}|Neutral|—|2.0 x3|X|Rushes 3 times with the χ-blade held sideways.|During the phase after breaking the Station of Awakening, this attack can be countered with either Dark Spiral or Dark Link.}}
{{atk|{{nihongo|'''Dark Cannon'''|ダークキャノン|<br>Dāku Kyanon}}|Neutral|—|2.0 per hit|X|After locking-on multiple times, turns towards the opponent and fires a laser.|Only used after breaking the Station of Awakening. Can be countered with either Dark Spiral or [[Dark Link]].}}
{{atk-c|note=When at 1 HP, Vanitas becomes invincible while he breaks the Station of Awakening, giving Ventus access to his D-Link afterwards.<br>During that time, Vanitas can only use Dark Splicer, Dark Spiral or Dark Cannon. The D-Link's command gauge must be filled by winning clashes to get access to [[Last Word]], which is required in order to drop Vanitas's HP to 0.}}


===''Kingdom Hearts III''===
===''Kingdom Hearts III''===
====First battle====
====First battle====
[[File:Versus Vanitas KHIII.png|thumb|right|Vanitas battles Aqua within the Land of Departure.]]
Aqua battles Vanitas at the [[Land of Departure]]. Unlike Sora, Aqua does not have the ability to switch Keyblades nor use [[Link]]s. However, she does have access to [[Spellweaver]], Shotlocks and Grand Magic.
Aqua battles Vanitas at the [[Land of Departure]]. Unlike Sora, Aqua does not have the ability to switch Keyblades nor use [[Link]]s. However, she does have access to [[Spellweaver]], Shotlocks and Grand Magic.


Vanitas's moveset is nearly identical to how it was in ''Birth by Sleep''. He can perform a two-hit combo, the finisher sending out a shockwave, crash down on Aqua and summon an icicle in the process, and melt into the ground before emerging under a hail of fireballs. He also has the ability to cast Dark Firaga, which is either a slow-moving orb that splits into multiple fireballs, or a fast-moving fireball.  
Vanitas's moveset is nearly identical to how it was in ''Birth by Sleep''. He can perform a two-hit combo, the finisher sending out a shockwave, crash down on Aqua and summon an icicle in the process, and melt into the ground before emerging under a hail of fireballs. He also has the ability to cast '''Dark Firaga''', which is either a slow-moving orb that splits into multiple fireballs, or a fast-moving fireball. Vanitas generally doesn't stagger from attacks while attacking (exceptions may occur), cartwheeling, or backflipping. To get an opening on combo, either attack him while he is approaching Aqua or reprisal with [[Counter Blast]] at the end of his '''Shadow Dive''' and '''Downward Warp Slash''' attacks.
 
If Aqua is far away, he typically enacts any of the following actions: uses '''Dark Firaga''' and '''Shadow Dive'''; uses '''Shadow Dive''' four times (the fourth action may change into a '''Downward Warp Slash'''); runs up to Aqua; runs to a certain extent and then uses either '''Downward Warp Slash''' or '''Shadow Dive'''.


{{section-stub}}
If Aqua is nearby, he typically cartwheels around her and uses either '''Continuous Slash''' or '''Downward Warp Slash'''.


====Second battle====
====Second battle====
[[File:Versus Terra-Xehanort and Vanitas KHIII.png|thumb|right|Terra-Xehanort and Vanitas battle against Sora, Aqua, and Ventus within the Keyblade Graveyard.]]
Vanitas's final stand occurs at the Keyblade Graveyard, where he and Terra-Xehanort team up to decimate the Guardians of Light. Sora has Aqua and Ventus as [[party]] members.
Vanitas's final stand occurs at the Keyblade Graveyard, where he and Terra-Xehanort team up to decimate the Guardians of Light. Sora has Aqua and Ventus as [[party]] members.


In this fight, Vanitas's attacks generally remain the same. He has a new desperation attack in which he summons a Keyblade twister and rides on it, often barreling into the party or firing Blizzard salvos, the latter of which can be guarded or even deflected back at Vanitas at the right angle. Eventually, Vanitas will guide the twister towards the center and surround himself with the Keyblades, often sending then groups at a time at Sora. He is completely vulnerable while doing this, so it is possible to get up to Vanitas and pelt him with reprisal upon reprisal. Once this is done, he continues the fight as normal, though he does occasionally continue this attack.  
In this fight, Vanitas behaves almost exactly the same as in his first battle, however here he does not use '''Shadow Dive''' consecutively. If Terra-Xehanort is targeting Sora, Vanitas will typically target Ventus and Aqua (especially Ventus). However, he may still intervene if Sora is attacking Terra-Xehanort by attacking Sora with '''Downward Warp Slash''' and '''Continuous Slash'''.


It is recommended to defeat Vanitas first since Terra-Xehanort's desperation attack is even more dangerous to deal with when Vanitas is around. Vanitas and Terra-Xehanort will try to blindside Sora if he remains too occupied with either opponent so keeping them both within view is crucial. Bringing Vanitas into the air for an air combo is recommended to make sure Sora's attacks are not interrupted. Fending off Terra-Xehanort should be a priority if he is attacking Sora but it is important to make sure his health does not reach 50% because that will be the period he starts using his desperation move. When that happens using long ranged attack on Vanitas, such as magic or shotlocks, is useful for adding damage to him while Aqua and/or Ventus keep him pressured. As keeping an eye on both opponents is necessary, being an opportunist is important and taking whatever opening available is key. Should Aqua or Ventus catch Vanitas in an air combo, feel free to air step over and follow up with another air combo. Keep this up and Vanitas will fall, giving the party free reign to finish off Terra-Xehanort.
When Vanitas is reduced to 20% HP, or after Terra-Xehanort is defeated, he gains a new attack in which he summons a Keyblade twister and rides on it, often barreling into the party or firing Blizzard salvos, the latter of which can be guarded or even deflected back at Vanitas at the right angle. Eventually, Vanitas will guide the twister towards the center and surround himself with the Keyblades, often sending then groups at a time at Sora. He is completely vulnerable while doing this, so it is possible to get up to Vanitas with an Airstep and pelt him with reprisal upon reprisal. Once this is done, he continues the fight as normal, though he does occasionally continue this attack.  


{{section-stub}}
It is recommended to defeat Vanitas first since Terra-Xehanort's desperation attack is even more dangerous to deal with when Vanitas is around. Vanitas and Terra-Xehanort will try to blindside Sora if he remains too occupied with either opponent so keeping them both within view is crucial. Bringing Vanitas into the air for an air combo is recommended to make sure Sora's attacks are not interrupted. Fending off Terra-Xehanort should be a priority if he is attacking Sora but it is important to make sure his health does not reach 50% because that will be the period he starts using his desperation move. When that happens using long ranged attack on Vanitas, such as magic or shotlocks, is useful for adding damage to him while Aqua and/or Ventus keep him pressured. As keeping an eye on both opponents is necessary, being an opportunist is important and taking whatever opening available is key. Should Aqua or Ventus catch Vanitas in an air combo, feel free to air step over and follow up with another air combo. Keep this up and Vanitas will fall, giving the party free reign to finish off Terra-Xehanort.
{{Atk-o|KH3}}
{{Atk-m|col=5|{{nihongo|'''Continuous Slash'''|連続斬り|<br>Renzokukiri|}}
|(weapon)
|Physical
|—
|0.8 + 0.4
|△
|2
|Swings weapon downward while somersaulting, firing a shock wave directly forward.
|
|(shockwave)
|Physical
|—
|1.0
|△
|—
|
}}
{{Atk-m|col=5|{{nihongo|'''Warp Downward Slash'''|ワープ斬り下ろし|<br>Wāpu Kiri Oroshi|}}
|(weapon)
|Physical
|—
|1.0
|△{{note|Can be blocked from behind.}}
|2
|Warps directly over opponent and swings weapon downward as an icicle protrudes from below.
|
|(icicle)
|Blizzard
|—
|0.5
|△ (Risk Dodge{{Note|Only in the second fight. Can be blocked from behind in both fights.}})
|2{{Note|3 in the second fight}}
|
}}
{{Atk-m|col=5|{{nihongo|'''Dark Firaga'''|ダークファイガ|<br>Dāku Faiga|lit. "Dark Figa"}}
|(before split)
|Fire
|—
|1.0
|△
|2
|Launches a homing fireball; it advances slowly, then splits into five fireballs that move at high speed.
|
|(after split)
|Fire
|—
|0.3 per hit
|△
|—
|
}}
{{Atk-m|col=5|{{nihongo|'''Shadow Dive'''|シャドウダイブ|<br>Shadou Daibu|}}
|(weapon)
|Physical
|—
|0.25
|△
|2
|Dives underground, then leaps out while swinging his weapon and scatters fireballs around himself.
|
|(fireball)
|Fire
|—
|0.4{{Note|0.3 in the second fight.}} per hit
|△
|—
|
}}
{{Atk-m|col=5|{{nihongo|'''Keyblade Ride'''|キーブレードライド|<br>Kīburēdo Raido|}}
|(ice projectiles)
|Blizzard
|—
|0.3 per hit
|◯
|2
|Rides upon a mass of Keyblades and attacks in the following sequence: fires a barrage of homing ice projectiles → charges opponents three times → causes the Keyblade mass to swirl around himself and launches 10 masses of them at opponents.
|Only used in the second battle, when at low HP and at the start of the fight if he is the only remaining target.
|(charge)
|Physical
|—
|1.0 per hit
|△
|—
|(launched bundles)
|Physical
|—
|1.2 per hit
|△
|2
|
}}
{{Atk-c}}


===''Kingdom Hearts III Re Mind''===
===''Kingdom Hearts III Re Mind''===
====Keyblade Graveyard====
====Keyblade Graveyard====
Vanitas's first battle in ''Re Mind'' is a revisit of his and Terra-Xehanort's battle from the base game. For the first part of the fight, the player plays as Aqua with Ventus as a party member. Once Sora joins the battle, the player can choose to play as either Sora or Aqua. When playing as Aqua, she and Ven can use the [[Icy Slider]] [[Team Attack]].
Vanitas's first battle in ''Re Mind'' is a revisit of his and Terra-Xehanort's battle from the base game. For the first part of the fight, the player plays as Aqua with Ventus as a party member. Once Sora joins the battle, the player can choose to play as Aqua with {{button|l2}} or Sora with {{button|r2}}. When playing as Aqua, she and Ven can use the [[Icy Slider]] [[Team Attack]].


====Data Rematch====
====Data Rematch====
Vanitas's data serves as a boss in the Limitcut Episode. His moveset has been heavily upgraded. He constantly melts into the ground and emerges with a cluster of fireballs multiple times. He will sometimes follow the fireball cluster with a teleporting downward slash that leaves an ice cluster that breaks Sora's guard. He also can fire multiple sword beams with his Keyblade which can be parried. Every slash throws a sword beam and the last slash throws a regular sword beam and a slower spiraling sword beam. He will follow by carthweeling to his left and performing another sword beam combo before backflipping. A new combo he has gained is him performing three teleporting downward strikes, with the last strike leaving an ice cluster that breaks Sora's guard. Another combo is a teleporting slash combo. Vanitas will teleport to Sora's left and slash him and teleport again to his right to slash him. Then he will follow with a teleporting upper slash that knocks Sora into the air and follow with a teleporting downward slash. Then Vanitas will teleport to the ground, cartwheel, then teleport to Sora for another upper slash and then for another teleporting downward slash. Another new attack is a combo of Dark Firaga. Vanitas will start by firing two Dark Firaga balls. One of them is fast and will hit Sora first and the second is slower and will split into multiple smaller fireballs. Vanitas will teleport and fire another duo of Dark Firaga balls that function the same as the first duo. A second after firing the second duo, Vanitas will teleport five times and fire a single fast Dark Firaga. Then he will teleport close to Sora and fire another fast Dark Firaga.  Then he will teleport twice, staying close to Sora and fire a slower Dark Firaga ball. Finally, he will cartwheel to his right and fire a fast Dark Firaga ball. Like in previous fights, he will retaliate from combos with a teleporting downward strike. Unlike the story, the retaliating slash will not leave an ice cluster and break Sora's guard. Periodically, he will summon and ride of twister of Keyblades like in his ultimate attack in the story. Unlike his ultimate attack in the story, he will fire Blizzard salvos three times, the first two being three Blizzard shards and the last being six. The salvos will have a purple glow and be unblockable and he will end the attack by throwing the twister at Sora and jumping off. The twister of Keyblades is unblockable whenever they glow purple. This attack can be cancelled by attacking him as he summons the Keyblade twister.  
[[File:Versus Vanitas's Recreated Data KHIIIRM.png|thumb|right|Vanitas's recreated data engaging in combat against Sora's data.]]
Vanitas's data serves as a boss in the Limitcut Episode, where his moveset has been heavily upgraded. Several of Vanitas' attacks can Freeze Sora, so it is recommended to equip Freeze Protection through equipment such as the [[Snowman Rosette]] armor or the [[Crystal Snow]] Keyblade. Due to some of Vanitas's openings that involve teleporting can only be obtained through the use of a well-timed pre-launch Aero, it is essential to have it assigned on the shortcut men. Aerora and Aeroga are preferrable here due to their larger range. Using accessories like [[Rune Ring]] and [[Flanniversary Badge]] to ensure that you have enough magic to exploit this opening, especially when fighting Vanitas with all pro codes on. Having [[Block Replenisher]] support ability equipped can help greatly in this matter since you can block a lot during this fight and avoid going into MP recharge. As far as reprisal goes, [[Counter Slash]] or [[Counter Kick]] are preferrable as they had longer forward reach compared to [[Counter Impact]].
 
If Vanitas appears in the air above Sora, he is doing his triple downward slash combo. He will do three downward slashes, with the last breaking Sora's guard and leaving a cluster of ice on the ground. If Sora is hit by this third strike, he may get frozen. Block each strike, risk dodge after Sora's guard is broken, and attack. If Sora is in the air when blocking the third strike, he can perform a normal reprisal and still hit Vanitas for the punish.
 
If Vanitas dives into a red circle on the ground, he is doing his Fire fountain combo. He will dive and approach Sora, then rise out of the ground, raining down several Fire spells. He will repeat this two more times - dodge roll towards Vanitas' red circle as it approaches each time. Depending on the height of his first two jumps, Vanitas will then end the combo in one of two ways:
* If he rises very high for all 3 jumps, Vanitas starts falling after the third fountain, he will land on the ground and be open to attack - Airstep to him and strike. Be careful not to Airstep too early, or Sora will be above Vanitas and will miss.
* If the first and second jump was shorter than his third jump, Vanitas disappears quickly after the third fountain and re-appears above Sora, he will perform a guard-breaking downward slash that leaves a cluster of ice. Block, then risk dodge after the guard break, and attack. If Sora is caught in the air when he guards, performing a normal reprisal will still hit Vanitas and leave him open to attack.
 
If Vanitas cartwheels some distance away and casts two Fire spells, he is doing his Fire combo. For each set of two shots, the lower fireball is fast while the upper fireball is slow and will break into smaller ones after a brief moment. He will cast two sets of these, then will rapidly teleport 5 times on the left, then right, left, right, and finally left before casting one fast Fire spell. Afterwards, he will cast a quick Fire up close, teleport twice and shoot a slow-moving Fire, shoot a fast-moving Fire, do a cartwheel, and cast one final Fire spell. Block the first two sets of Fire spells, and when he starts his five-teleport sequence, keep an eye on the left and count three teleports. Just before he casts his Fire, dodge roll towards him and attack. It is also possible to block and then Airstep to him to attack instead. If this fails, quickly block the next Fire, wait a moment to guard the slow Fire and the fast one, wait for the cartwheel, and then block the final Fire.


His ultimate attack has him ride a twister of Keyblades before converging at the center, forming a shell of Keyblades and a shell of darkness and continuously firing Keyblades while using copies of himself akin to the [[Vanitas Remnant]]. This attack can also be cancelled by attacking him as he summons the Keyblade twister. Unlike in the story, Vanitas is completely invulnerable during this attack. The Keyblade twisters used in this attack are unblockable. He will start by shooting two Keyblade twisters at the ground to the left and right. Two copies of himself will ride the twisters and rebound off them and fly at Sora to slash at him. A third copy will fly from Vanitas and perform an upper slash to knock Sora into the air. Then Vanitas will fire a Keyblade twister at Sora. Afterwards, Vanitas will send seven copies to fly at and attack Sora. There is a slight pause between copies coming at Sora, so wait for the copies to come to you before blocking. Vanitas will follow with three Keyblade twisters. Then he will follow with three consecutive copies slashing followed immediately by two Keyblade twisters. Then he will fire two twisters into the ground that send two copies at Sora and then send a third copy that performs a downward slash. Vanitas will conclude with a Keyblade twister and one last copy performing a downward slash before his dark shell and Keyblades dissipate and he falls back to the ground. Dodge only when Vanitas throws a Keyblade twister at Sora to avoid getting hit by the Keyblade twisters Vanitas fires into the ground.
If Vanitas cartwheels to the side and fires white beams at Sora, this is his white beam combo. He will fire three beams, with the third spinning. He will then repeat the three-beam combo, and backflip away. Guard the first beam, then use Counter Kick to close the distance and attack. It is common to get hit by the first couple of hits unexpectedly, but it is very possible to recover and block the remaining hits.  


In his second phase after his ultimate attack, his teleporting slash combo changes and he gains a new Dark Firaga and teleporting slash combo. His teleporting slash combo starts with a slash that throws a flurry of Keyblades, than two more teleporting slashes that throw flurries of Keyblades. Then Vanitas will teleport close to Sora for an upper slash to knock him into the air, then follow with another teleporting slash that throws a Keyblade flurry and finally teleporting and rising into the air throwing keyblades like in his fireball cluster attack. His new Dark Firaga and teleporting slash combo is initiated by him teleporting twice before firing a slow Dark Firaga ball. He will follow with a teleporting upper slash and then the Dark Firaga ball will split into multiple smaller fireballs. Then he will follow with a teleporting slash, then a teleporting fast Dark Firaga ball. Then he will use another teleporting fast Dark Firaga ball, a teleporting upper slash, and finally two teleporting slashes that throw sword beams followed by a cartwheel to his left and a final sword beam.
If Vanitas appears far away but instantly teleports before materializing (essentially, a black ball in the distance), he will do his six-hit combo. He will perform four quick flashes at Sora with the fourth being a downward slash, then he will cartwheel on the ground, and follow up with two more hits. Guard immediately when Vanitas teleports at the start, block the first four hits, wait for the cartwheel, and then block the last two hits. To get the opening for this move, you must cast Aerora/Aeroga before he starts this attack and stay near the wind but not too close to the centre to avoid Sora going into a jump animation. If you are next to a wall, launching Aerora/Aeroga to the outside of the wall can prevent the jumping animation from happening.


All of his attacks are initiated by him teleporting back into the arena. Vanitas will seldom be in the arena, and such, players have to know when to punish him before he teleports away and initiates another attack. His fireball cluster attack is initiated by him diving from the air into the ground. His teleporting downward slash combo is initiated by him teleporting and then appearing above Sora. His teleporting slash combo is initiated by him teleporting but not resurfacing immediately. His sword beam combo is initated by him cartwheeling to his right after teleporting. His Dark Firaga combo is initiated by him carthweeling backwards after he teleports into the arena. He will use his sword beam combo after his teleporting slash combo and his Dark Firaga combo. He will start the fight either with his sword beam combo or his teleporting downward slash. In his second phase, he will follow his new teleporting slash combo with a sword beam combo or his teleporting downward slash combo. He will also follow his Dark Firaga and teleporting slash combo with a sword beam combo. During his sword beam combo, Vanitas is vulnerable after the first slash, during and after his second slash and when he backflips backwards. He is vulnerable after his fireball cluster attack if he doesn't follow with a downward slash and if he follows with a downward slash, he is vulnerable if Sora dodges, guards while using a FormChange or guards and uses Risk Dodge. This is the same for his teleporting downward slash combo. During his Dark Firaga combo, he is vulnerable when he fires his Dark Firaga ball after firing two duos of Dark Firaga balls. Vanitas is vulnerable after his Keyblade twister and ultimate attack.
When Vanitas' revenge value is hit, he will teleport above Sora and perform a single downward slash, which can be blocked.
{{Stub}}
 
Vanitas has two type of patterns that he will follow for the 1st phase and he may cycle through the other pattern if he doesn't perform his ultimate attack.
 
'''Pattern A'''
 
Triple Downward Slash Combo -> Fire fountain Combo + Downward Slash -> Six-hit Combo -> White Beam Combo -> Fire Combo
 
'''Pattern B'''
 
White Beam Combo -> Fire fountain Combo -> Fire Combo -> White Beam Combo -> Six-hit Combo
 
If Vanitas appears on the opposite side of the stage with a dark portal, he is performing his ultimate attack. A cloud of Keyblades will emerge from the portal, and Vanitas will ride on it. From here he will fire three Blizzards, perform a blue-tinted dash at Sora, fire another three Blizzards, blue dash, fire six Blizzards, and finally perform a pink dash. The blue dashes are blockable, however the Blizzards and the pink dash are unblockable. When he starts this move, Doubleflight into the air and glide away from Vanitas, which should make the Blizzards miss. When he blue dashes, Air Slide or block to avoid it. After dodging the pink dash, enter focus and Airstep to Vanitas as he lands to attack. Alternatively, it is also possible to cancel this entire move by hitting Vanitas with Thunder when the dark portal is still visible - just keep an eye on the far edge of the stage to know when to cast.
 
When Vanitas has about six bars of HP left, he will perform a variation of his ultimate attack. He will summon his cloud of Keyblades again, but this time form a large orb around himself. Streams of Keyblades and Vanitas shadows will fly out of the orb - the Vanitas shadows can be blocked, however the Keyblades cannot be blocked since they are glowing pink. The shadows will come from the sides while the keyblades will appear from the centre of the core.
There is a recurring pattern where if 2 shadows attack at once and then comes a third shadow or if the 3 shadows came out fast and hit you one at a time, the next attack will be the keyblades streams. He will perform the following combos in sequence:
* First combo: Two streams will go into the ground and two Vanitas shadows will attack, then a third will appear. Block the first two shadows, pause, and block the third.
* Second combo: One pink stream of Keyblades will approach, then four Vanitas shadows will strike in a slow sequence with the last one having a large white flash on its strike. Three Vanitas shadows will appear and attack in a quick sequence. Dodge the stream, carefully block the four slow shadows, then block the three quick shadows.
* Third combo: Three sets of pink Keyblade streams will approach, then three Vanitas shadows will strike in a quick sequence, and one pink Keyblade stream will approach. Dodge the first stream, block the three shadows, and dodge the second stream.
* Fourth combo: One pink Keyblade stream will approach, two Vanitas shadows will attack, pause, a third will strike with a white flash, another pink stream of Keyblades will approach, and one final Vanitas shadow will strike with a white flash. Dodge the stream, block the two shadows, pause, block the one shadow, dodge the stream, pause, and block the last shadow.
 
Due to the frequent pauses, it is usually safer to wait for the shadows to approach instead of guarding their attacks too early.
 
This Keyblade cloud move can be cancelled the same way as before, with a Thunder while the dark portal is still visible. Since he will use the move at about six HP bars remaining, watch his HP carefully and prepare a Thunder cast when he is close to the threshold.
 
After the variant of his ultimate attack (whether it was cancelled or not), Vanitas will be in his second phase and will gain some new attacks. The opening for these attacks can only be exploited through the use of a well timed Aerora/Aeroga while Sora is stationary. If you case Aero while moving Sora will end up going into the spring board or out of the hitbox range to force Vanitas out of the teleport.
* If Vanitas fires a single slow Fire before disappearing, he will do his fireball-plus-Teleport Slashes combo. He will appear with an upward slash while the fireball is still far away, then the fireball will break into pieces and approach, and Vanitas will follow with a quick slash. Vanitas will then shoot two fast Fires, do an upward slash. If Vanitas retaliate from the previous opening, wait around two seconds after he vanished before casting Aerora/Aeroga in the opposite direction of the camera, then guard when you see the second yellow cursor from afar to guard his teleport slash and he will be knocked out of the teleport. While he can be knocked and punished right there, the fireball attack will split and hit Sora so be sure to guard and reprise that unless you use Counter Kick for the I-frames from the previous guard. You could technically get the opening with Aerora/Aeroga after you block the split fireball attacks but the timing is quite strict so its better to just prepare for its early windows of punish. If Sora unleashed aero anywhere that is considered front angle for this particular move, Vanitas will not get knocked out after the guard whether he move backwards within the wind hitbox.
* He will do three white beams with a teleport in between each starting from the left. He will perform a cartwheel just before the last white beam.
* If Vanitas flings a stream of Keyblades from his hand, he is doing his Keyblade flurry combo. He will fling two streams, pause, fling a third stream, perform an upward slash, pause, fling another stream, and finally spiral into the air with a fountain of Keyblades. Carefully time a block for each attack, keeping the pauses in mind if you had no MP to use. To get the opening here, dodge roll the first two Keyblade streams, cast Aero as soon as the second keyblade stream fully launched (no more keyblade came out from the tip of Void Gear) then guard the 3rd Keyblade stream and guard his upward slash before reprising and punishing him.  
 
Like phase 1, he has two type of pattern for phase 2 after his second variation ultimate attack that goes as follows. If you didn't beat Vanitas when both pattern C and D are out, he may do another Keyblade Flurry combo at the end of any two pattern or if you are a few hits away from defeating Vanitas before doing the second variant of his ultimate attack again.
 
'''Pattern C'''
 
White Beam Combo -> Fire Fountain Combo + Downward Slash -> Fire Combo -> White Beam Combo -> Keyblade Flurry Combo
 
'''Pattern D'''
 
Triple Downward Slash Combo -> Fireball-Plus-Teleport Slashes Combo -> White Beam Combo (2nd variation) -> Fire Combo -> Keyblade Flurry Combo


==Videos==
==Videos==
<center>  
<center>  
{|class="video"
{| class="video"
|style="border-radius:10px"|'''Vanitas and Xehanort – ''Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep'' (Terra)'''
! Vanitas and Xehanort – ''Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep'' (Terra)
|style="border-radius:10px"|'''Vanitas I – ''Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep'' (Ventus)'''
! Vanitas I – ''Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep'' (Ventus)
|style="border-radius:10px"|'''Vanitas II – ''Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep'' (Ventus)'''
! Vanitas II – ''Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep'' (Ventus)
|-
|-
|style="border:1px solid #C0C0C0"|{{#widget:YouTube|id=0KSzVavuKhk|width=320|height=240}}
| {{#widget:YouTube|id=0KSzVavuKhk|width=320|height=240}}
|style="border:1px solid #490081"|{{#widget:YouTube|id=nO8sMi0McnU|width=320|height=240}}
| {{#widget:YouTube|id=nO8sMi0McnU|width=320|height=240}}
|style="border:1px solid #490081"|{{#widget:YouTube|id=yKrzEFjxGMk|width=320|height=240}}
| {{#widget:YouTube|id=yKrzEFjxGMk|width=320|height=240}}
|-
|-
|style="border-radius:10px"|'''Vanitas I – ''Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep'' (Aqua)'''
! Vanitas I – ''Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep'' (Aqua)
|style="border-radius:10px"|'''Vanitas II – ''Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep'' (Aqua)'''
! Vanitas II – ''Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep'' (Aqua)
|style="border-radius:10px"|'''Vanitas I – ''Kingdom Hearts III'''''
! Vanitas I – ''Kingdom Hearts III''
|-
|-
|style="border:1px solid #490081"|{{#widget:YouTube|id=rm9YKePzzFo|width=320|height=240}}
| {{#widget:YouTube|id=rm9YKePzzFo|width=320|height=240}}
|style="border:1px solid #490081"|{{#widget:YouTube|id=Ia6vhYsbNhc|width=320|height=240}}
| {{#widget:YouTube|id=Ia6vhYsbNhc|width=320|height=240}}
|style="border:1px solid #490081"|{{#widget:YouTube|id=TiMgRauULmw|width=320|height=240}}
| {{#widget:YouTube|id=TiMgRauULmw|width=320|height=240}}
|-
|-
|style="border-radius:10px"|'''Vanitas and Terra-Xehanort – ''Kingdom Hearts III'''''
! Vanitas and Terra-Xehanort – ''Kingdom Hearts III''
|style="border-radius:10px"|'''Vanitas – ''Kingdom Hearts III'''''
! Vanitas – ''Kingdom Hearts III''
|style="border-radius:10px"|'''Vanitas and Terra-Xehanort – ''Kingdom Hearts III Re Mind'''''
! Vanitas and Terra-Xehanort – ''Kingdom Hearts III Re Mind''
|-
|-
|style="border-radius:10px"|{{#widget:YouTube|id=VoQvbOt_qBk|width=320|height=240}}
| {{#widget:YouTube|id=VoQvbOt_qBk|width=320|height=240}}
|style="border-radius:10px"|{{#widget:YouTube|id=57sM3pagb34|width=320|height=240}}
| {{#widget:YouTube|id=57sM3pagb34|width=320|height=240}}
|style="border-radius:10px"|{{#widget:YouTube|id=hS2Lvas9iHs|width=320|height=240}}
| {{#widget:YouTube|id=hS2Lvas9iHs|width=320|height=240}}
|-
|-
|style="border-radius:10px"|'''Vanitas's Recreated Data – ''Kingdom Hearts III Re Mind'''''
! Vanitas's Recreated Data – ''Kingdom Hearts III Re Mind''
|-
|-
|style="border-radius:10px"|{{#widget:YouTube|id=LeO4c43ZlSg|width=320|height=240}}
| {{#widget:YouTube|id=LeO4c43ZlSg|width=320|height=240}}
|}
|}
</center>
</center>
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{{KHBossDirectory}}
{{KHBossDirectory}}
[[Category:Gameplay]]

Latest revision as of 00:05, 1 November 2024

The Masked Boy

Vanitas KHBBS.png

Japanese 仮面の少年
Rōmaji Kamen no Shōnen
Game Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep
Variations
• Ventus
• Ventus-Vanitas
• Vanitas Remnant
Themes Header.png

KHBBS tracks
Battle theme - Enter the Darkness
Location HP EXP Strength Defense
Keyblade Graveyard 550 0 14 6
Physical Fire Blizzard Thunder Dark Other
x1.0 x1.0 x1.0 x1.0 x1.0 x1.0
Stun Freeze Mini Blind Ignite Confuse
x1.0 x1.0 x0 x0 x1.0 x0
Bind Poison Slow Stop Sleep Death
x0 x1.0 x0 x0 x1.0 x0
Zero Gravity Magnet Warp
x1.0 x1.0 x0

Rewards
Maximum HP UP, Mickey's D-Link
World(s)
Keyblade Graveyard
Location HP EXP Strength Defense
Radiant Garden 550 0 14 6
Physical Fire Blizzard Thunder Dark Other
x1.0 x1.0 x1.0 x1.0 x1.0 x1.0
Stun Freeze Mini Blind Ignite Confuse
x1.0 x1.0 x0 x0 x1.0 x0
Bind Poison Slow Stop Sleep Death
x0 x1.0 x0 x0 x1.0 x0
Zero Gravity Magnet Warp
x1.0 x1.0 x0

Rewards
Deck Capacity +1
World(s)
Radiant Garden
Vanitas

Vanitas KHBBS.png

Official Render of Vanitas (KHIII) wearing his iconic outfit from Birth By Sleep

Japanese ヴァニタス
Rōmaji Vanitasu
Games Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep
Kingdom Hearts III
Variations
• Ventus
• Ventus-Vanitas
• Vanitas Remnant
Themes Header.png

KHBBS tracks
Battle theme - Enter the Darkness
Battle theme - Black Powder
KHIII tracks
Battle theme - Enter the Darkness (KHIII ver.)
Battle theme - Dawn of Hope
Location HP EXP Strength Defense
Keyblade Graveyard 550 0 26 15
Physical Fire Blizzard Thunder Dark Other
x1.0 x1.0 x1.0 x1.0 x1.0 x1.0
Stun Freeze Mini Blind Ignite Confuse
x1.0 x1.0 x0 x0 x1.0 x0
Bind Poison Slow Stop Sleep Death
x0 x1.0 x0 x0 x1.0 x0
Zero Gravity Magnet Warp
x1.0 x0 x0

Rewards
Maximum HP UP
World(s)
Keyblade Graveyard
Location HP EXP Strength Defense
Keyblade Graveyard 600 0 26 15
Physical Fire Blizzard Thunder Dark Other
x1.0 x1.0 x1.0 x1.0 x1.0 x1.0
Stun Freeze Mini Blind Ignite Confuse
x1.0 x0 x0 x0 x0 x0
Bind Poison Slow Stop Sleep Death
x0 x0 x0 x0 x0 x0
Zero Gravity Magnet Warp
x0 x0 x0

Rewards
Maximum HP UP
World(s)
Keyblade Graveyard
Location HP EXP Strength Defense
Neverland 550 0 23 14
Physical Fire Blizzard Thunder Dark Other
x1.0 x1.0 x1.0 x1.0 x1.0 x1.0
Stun Freeze Mini Blind Ignite Confuse
x1.0 x1.0 x0 x0 x1.0 x0
Bind Poison Slow Stop Sleep Death
x0 x1.0 x0 x0 x1.0 x0
Zero Gravity Magnet Warp
x1.0 x0 x0

Rewards
Maximum HP UP
Ghost Drive, Peter Pan's D-Link, Pixie Petal
World(s)
Neverland
Location HP Strength Defense EXP
Land of Departure 2600 63 32 0
Keyblade Graveyard 2600 59 30 0
Physical Fire Blizzard Thunder Water
×1.0 ×1.0 ×1.0 ×1.0 ×1.0
Aero Dark Neutral Rapid-fire
×1.0 ×1.0 ×1.0 ×0.5
Freeze Electrify Stun Hunny
✕ ✕ ✕ ✕
Reaction
Endurance 		Revenge
Value 		Attraction
Magnification 		Damage
Limit
0[1]/5[2] 6 —[3]/×0.5[4] 24

Rewards
Sora: Max MP +5 (Keyblade Graveyard)[5]
World(s)
Land of Departure, Keyblade Graveyard
Vanitas

Vanitas (Unmasked) KHBBS.png

Japanese ヴァニタス
Rōmaji Vanitasu
Game Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep
Variations
• Ventus
• Ventus-Vanitas
• Vanitas Remnant
Themes Header.png

KHBBS tracks
Battle theme - Unbreakable Chains
Location HP EXP Strength Defense
Keyblade Graveyard 700 0 26 15
Physical Fire Blizzard Thunder Dark Other
x1.0 x1.0 x1.0 x1.0 x1.0 x1.0
Stun Freeze Mini Blind Ignite Confuse
x0 x0 x0 x0 x0 x0
Bind Poison Slow Stop Sleep Death
x0 x0 x0 x0 x0 x0
Zero Gravity Magnet Warp
x0 x0 x0
World(s)
Keyblade Graveyard
Vanitas's Recreated Data

Official Render of Vanitas (KHIII) wearing his iconic outfit from Birth By Sleep

Japanese ヴァニタスの再現データ
Rōmaji Vanitasu no Saigen Dēta
Translation Vanitas's Recreated Data
Game Kingdom Hearts III Re Mind
Variations
• Ventus
• Ventus-Vanitas
• Vanitas Remnant
Themes Header.png

KHIII tracks
Battle theme - Enter the Darkness (KHIII ver.)
Location HP Strength Defense EXP
Radiant Garden
(Garden of Assemblage) 		3000 0
Physical Fire Blizzard Thunder Water
×1.0 ×0.5 ×0.5 ×0.5 ×0.5
Aero Dark Neutral Rapid-fire
×0.5 ×0.5 ×0.85 ?
Freeze Electrify Stun Hunny
✕ ✕ ✕ ✕
Reaction
Endurance 		Revenge
Value 		Attraction
Magnification 		Damage
Limit
? 6.5 — ?

Rewards
AP Boost
World(s)
Radiant Garden

Vanitas is a boss in Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep, fought by Terra, Aqua, and Ventus. While he only faces Terra as an aid to Master Xehanort during their final battle, he battles Ventus in hopes of making him stronger and with the goal of fusing with him in the end to create the χ-blade. Should Ventus fail to serve his purpose, he wishes to use Aqua as his backup plan. Vanitas appears as a boss six times in Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep.

In Kingdom Hearts III, Vanitas also appears as a boss at the Land of Departure against Aqua in a bid to collect Ventus's body, and at the Keyblade Graveyard alongside Terra-Xehanort against Sora, Ventus, and Aqua. A data replica of him is also a optional boss in Kingdom Hearts III Re Mind.

Strategy[edit]

Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep[edit]

Terra's scenario[edit]

The only time Vanitas ever faces Terra in combat is during the final battle with Master Xehanort, during which Vanitas assists Master Xehanort in a battle against the young Keyblade wielder. During this battle, Terra has access to D-Links, Shotlocks, and Command Styles. While clearing this boss fight without the use of these special powers and abilities is quite possible, it is recommended that Terra instead make full use of them.

Vanitas and Master Xehanort fought together.
Master Xehanort and Vanitas battle Terra within the Keyblade Graveyard.

It is very important that Terra immediately go on the offensive against Vanitas at the start of the battle, as he has two powerful bosses attacking him simultaneously; fortunately, only Vanitas must be defeated to progress. Vanitas will not attack often and will mainly attempt to dodge the Terra's attacks, but certain abilities such as Chaos Rave will allow Terra to stay on him. When Vanitas vanishes, Slide out of the way; if Terra does not, he will fall victim to an downward strike from Vanitas with his Keyblade. When Vanitas sinks into the ground, only visible by a moving pool of darkness, immediately chain Slides together. Otherwise, Terra will be bombarded with fireballs as the boss reemerges. Vanitas may leap into the air bombarding Terra with dark lightning, or he even may shoot a single, large fireball that later splits into three homing ones. Slide can be used to dodge these attacks, as well.

Once enough HP has been depleted from Vanitas, the battle will automatically end, regardless of how much of it currently remains, but in the PS4 version, it will end when his health's completely gone. However, remember that Master Xehanort is also present during the battle, and he may strike Terra with his Keyblade or shoot a long-range, dark Blizzard spell in his direction. Master Xehanort may also combine the two attacks, assaulting Terra with a fast-paced physical combo and ending it with a Blizzard spell that can freeze Terra, leaving him open to both Vanitas and Master Xehanort's attacks.

Ventus's scenario[edit]

First battle[edit]
Vanitas fights against Ventus for the first time.
Vanitas battles Ventus within the Badlands.

Vanitas first fights Ventus in a two-part boss battle after luring him to the Keyblade Graveyard. The first will end once enough HP has been depleted from Vanitas, or if Vanitas depletes Ventus's HP to 0, while the second begins soon afterwards. However, in the second part of the battle, Ventus has the assistance of Mickey Mouse. He will also have access to Shotlocks, Command Styles, and D-Links, increasing the easiness of winning the battle along with Ventus's normal abilities.

Vanitas at first challenges Ventus with the goal of testing his power. During the first part of the two-part battle, Ventus should go on the offensive while also following a hit-and-run strategy, using both physical and magical attacks in a balanced manner before fleeing Vanitas's close combat attacks. Vanitas may disappear during the battle, but Ventus should immediately Dodge Roll, or he will fall victim to his downward strike if they do not dodge. The boss may also shoot a single, large fireball at Ventus that will soon separate into three smaller, homing fireballs after traveling forward in the his direction. Dodge Roll again can be used to avoid this attack. If Vanitas leaps into the air, he may strike Ventus with a dark lightning attack, which has a relatively long range. Dodge Roll is recommended in terms of avoiding it. lastly, Vanitas may perform a simple two-hit physical combo, an attack easily dodged with Dodge Roll.

In terms of offensive tactics, Mine Square and Tornado are highly recommended for use, as they will deal great damage to the boss, as well as interrupt his attacks. Other good weaknesses to exploit are the boss's vulnerabilities to Magnet, Aero, and Gravity magic. Each of these spells temporarily hoist him into the air, leaving him open to major damage, although timing is key to successfully use these attacks on him. This rule applies to all of his battles. Whatever physical attacks Ventus attempts should be the most powerful in his arsenal. Continuation to use powerful physical and magic attacks is the key to ending the first part of the two-part battle with ease and minimal damage.

Now that Mickey has joined Ventus in his battle with his darkness, Vanitas is forced to eliminate them both. His HP will be the same as what it was depleted to in the first part of the battle, and will also use the same battle tactics. Ventus can follow the same strategies as in the last battle to defeat Vanitas this time. In terms of Mickey fighting alongside Ventus, his physical attacks are strong, and there is no need to worry when his HP reaches 0. He will automatically revive himself in time. One major advantage to fighting with Mickey is that he will grant Ventus the usage of a powerful offensive ability, Burst of Faith. Again, continue using the same strategies as the first part of the battle, and take advantage of Mickey's presence.

Second battle[edit]

Ventus initiates the second battle with the embodiment of his darkness, after Vanitas had attempted to eliminate Aqua by ambushing her. His HP has not increased since the two-part battle, but Ventus no longer has Mickey to aid him. By now, Ventus should not need his presence. The only thing Ventus needs to worry about would be the new attacks added to Vanitas's arsenal.

Vanitas will begin the battle by jumping onto a vortex of flying Keyblades. As he travels around the battlefield, he will cast dark Blizzard spells in Ventus's direction. These Blizzard spells have strong homing capabilities, but they can be dodged with relative ease. Fire Glide, Shotlocks, and other magic attacks can be used to make Vanitas fall from the flying Keyblades. If Ventus doesn't knock him off the Keyblade vortex, when returning to the ground, he will imbue the Void Gear with darkness, strengthening his attack power. Vanitas also may sink into the ground once he dismounts the Keyblade storm, visible only as a mobile pool of darkness. Vanitas will travel to Ventus's location, so Dodge Roll to prevent being hit by several fireballs. He may perform this attack up to three times in a row.

Vanitas's other attacks are the same as those he used in the first encounter with him, save for his two-hit combo, which now adds a blue crescent-shaped wave of energy. Also, when he teleports behind Ventus, his downward strike now causes a large pillar of ice to erupt out of the ground. But they can be dodged the same way. As with the last battle, careful timing of Dodge Roll and a balanced use of physical and magic attacks are the key to winning this battle. However, this battle can be won purely with Reprisals (Reversal Slash, Counter Rush, etc.) as almost all of his attacks can be countered this way.

Third battle[edit]
Vanitas fights against Ventus for the final time, without the mask.
Vanitas battles Ventus within Ventus's Mind.

The final battle with Vanitas has come; Vanitas has entered Ventus's heart, fusing with him and creating an incomplete version of the χ-blade. This tremendous weapon has not only increased the strength of his attacks and changed those he can use, but his HP has also increased a great deal. Ventus has access to D-Links, Shotlocks, and Command Styles during this battle, so make full use of them.

Vanitas will first charge his weapon, surrounding it and himself in a damaging aura. The attack is indicated by the lines "Forge the χ-blade!", "What's yours is mine!", or "Show me anguish!" He will then proceed to lunge at Ventus with the massive weapon, slam the ground and create an X-shaped shockwave, perform another lunging slash, and even shoot a homing blast of energy in the shape of an "X" at Ventus. Dodge Roll can be used to avoid this attack. If Vanitas is attacked while charging the χ-blade, the attack is cancelled, so Reversal Slash can be used to avoid damage altogether and cancel out the attack. The boss also still favors the dark lightning attack, and he still has the ability to vanish and appear behind Ventus. However, rather than performing a single, downward strike, Vanitas will perform Dark Splicer, a similar attack to Time Splicer, wherein he will slash Ventus multiple times while teleporting around him to attack from all sides. Dodge Roll until he stops or, a more preferable option, block his attack. This leaves the boss open to damage from Counter Rush.

Vanitas also may begin to utilize Dark Spiral, a charging attack akin to Riku's Dark Aura, charging at Ventus at a fast pace multiple times, while the χ-blade cloaks him in dark energy. Dodge Roll can be used to avoid this. The attack can be predicted by the quotes "There's no escape!", or "Darkness waits!" While Ventus should continue to use a hit-and-run strategy, it is advised to use Tornado and Mine Square to interrupt Vanitas's combos while still dealing great damage to him. Physical attacks should not be used as the main offense, as this will open Ventus to Vanitas's attacks. Instead, utilize magic or other long-ranged attacks to the fullest.

Once Vanitas's HP falls to 1, he will shatter the Station of Awakening he and Ventus are fighting on. The two Keyblade wielders now float in a dark realm amidst the remnants of the Station of Awakening. Ventus will then D-Link with Vanitas, copying Vanitas's Dark Splicer and Dark Spiral attacks, but cannot heal. Vanitas will gain access to a Shotlock called "Dark Cannon", in which he fires a beam of darkness; Ventus's Shotlock will also change to a light version of this attack called Dark Link. The only way to fill the D-Link's Command Gauge is to counter Vanitas's attacks with the D-Link's corresponding attacks:

  • If Ventus and Vanitas both use Dark Splicer at the same time, Ventus must press the right buttons when prompted to dodge Vanitas and counter.
  • If Ventus uses Dark Spiral when Vanitas uses Dark Cannon or Dark Spiral, Ventus must rotate Left Stick counterclockwise to win the grapple.
  • If Ventus uses Dark Link when Vanitas uses Dark Cannon or Dark Spiral, Ventus must rapidly tap X, Circle in Japan, to win the grapple.

When the gauge is filled by repeated clashes, Ventus will gain access to the Last Word finish command, which he must use to finish Vanitas off once and for all. However, Ventus can miss when performing this attack, therefore timing is crucial.

Aqua's scenario[edit]

First battle[edit]

Vanitas first challenges Aqua in the Radiant Garden. While his attacks are the same as in the early battles of Ventus's scenario, keep in mind that Aqua favors magic, which calls for a change in strategy. Aqua has access to D-Links, Command Styles, and Shotlocks in this battle, and they should be used if possible to gain the upper hand in battle.

Aqua should go on the offensive while also following a hit-and-run strategy, using magical attacks as her primary source of dealing damage. Vanitas may disappear during the battle, so Aqua should immediately Cartwheel, or fall victim to his downward strike if she does not dodge the assault. Vanitas may also shoot a single, large fireball at Aqua that will soon separate into three smaller, homing fireballs after traveling forward in the her direction. Cartwheel again can be used to avoid this attack. If Vanitas leaps into the air, he may strike Aqua with a dark lightning attack, which has a relatively long range. Cartwheel is recommended in terms of avoiding it. Lastly, Vanitas may perform a simple two-hit physical combo, an attack easily dodged with Cartwheel. In terms of offensive tactics, Seeker Mine and Raging Storm are highly recommended for use, as they will deal great damage to the boss, also interrupting his attacks. The Sleep magic command works great as it inflicts sleep status, leaving Vanitas at Aqua's mercy. Whatever physical attacks Aqua attempts should be the most powerful in her arsenal.

Second battle[edit]

Vanitas next challenges Aqua in Neverland. Aqua has access to D-Links, Command Styles, and Shotlocks in this battle, and they should be used if possible to gain the upper hand in battle.

Aqua should go on the offensive while also following a hit-and-run strategy, using magical attacks as their primary source of dealing damage. Vanitas may disappear during the battle, so Aqua should immediately Cartwheel, or instead will fall victim to his downward strike. The boss may also shoot a single, large fireball at Aqua that will soon separate into three smaller, homing fireballs after traveling forward in the Aqua's direction. Cartwheel again can be used to avoid this attack. If Vanitas leaps into the air, he may strike Aqua with a dark lightning attack, which has a relatively long range. Cartwheel is recommended in terms of avoiding it. Vanitas may proceed to sink into the ground, visible only as a pool of darkness that will move to Aqua's location. Unless Aqua Cartwheels away, she will be hit by several fireballs. Lastly, Vanitas may perform a simple two-hit physical combo which now adds a homing, blue, crescent-shaped wave of energy, an attack easily dodged with Cartwheel. In terms of offensive tactics, Seeker Mine and Raging Storm are highly recommended for use, as they will deal great damage to the boss, also interrupting his attacks. Whatever physical attacks the Aqua attempts should be the most powerful in her arsenal.

Ventus's scenario (First battle), Aqua's scenario (First battle)
Technique Element Status Power Block?
Continuous Slash (連続斬り
Renzokukiri?) 		Physical — 1.5 + 2.0 ◯
Performs a rushing slash, followed by a spinning slash.
Warp Downslash (ワープ切り下ろし
Wāpu Kirioroshi?) 		Physical — 1.5 ◯
Warps above the opponent, leaving an afterimage, then swings his weapon down while falling.
Used as counterattack.
Dark Firaga (ダークファイガ
Dāku Faiga?, lit. "Dark Figa") 		Fire — Main: 2.5
Split: 1.5 x5 		△Symbol - Crown.png
Shoots a fireball that tracks the opponent. On the way, the fireball splits into 5 and start flying at high speed.
Dark Thundaga (ダークサンダガ
Dāku Sandaga?) 		Neutral — 2.5 X
Jumps up and shoots lightning in a fan shape diagonally downward.
Guard/Block: △ = Can be blocked; O = Can be blocked and interrupted (melee) or deflected back (projectile); X = Cannot be blocked.
Special Commands
Special Command Element Power Command Gauge Description
Burst of Faith (ホーリーバースト
Hōrī Bāsuto?, lit. "Holy Burst") 		Neutral 1.5 x2 + 1.5 x4 +10 Only available during the first battle in Ventus's scenario. Can be used after pressing Square near King Mickey while he charges energy. Stand back-to-back with King Mickey, create a shower of lights while spinning by pressing X (Circle in the Japanese version) when prompted, and finish by sending out a burst of sparks.
Avenger Rush (ラッシュカウンター
Rasshu Kauntā?, lit. "Rush Counter") 		Neutral 2.5 +40 Only available during the first battle in Ventus's scenario. Can be used after successfully defending King Mickey from an attack. Counterattack with a flurry of blows.
Terra's scenario, Ventus's scenario (Second battle), Aqua's scenario (Second battle)
Technique Element Status Power Block?
Continuous Slash (連続斬り
Renzokukiri?) 		Weapon Physical — 0.5 + 1.0 ◯

Blade of darkness Physical — 0.5 △
Performs a rushing slash, followed by a spinning slash. May also fire a crescent-shaped blade of darkness.
Warp Downslash (ワープ切り下ろし
Wāpu Kirioroshi?) 		Weapon Physical — 1.0 ◯

Crystal of darkness Physical — 0.5 △
Warps above the opponent, leaving an afterimage, then swings his weapon down while falling, simultaneously making a crystal of darkness thrust up from the ground.
Used as counterattack.
Dark Firaga (ダークファイガ
Dāku Faiga?, lit. "Dark Figa") 		Fire — Main: 1.5
Split: 1.0 x5 		△Symbol - Crown.png
Shoots a fireball that tracks the opponent. On the way, the fireball splits into 5 and start flying at high speed.
Dark Thundaga (ダークサンダガ
Dāku Sandaga?) 		Neutral — 1.5 X
Jumps up and shoots lightning in a fan shape diagonally downward.
Shadow Dive (シャドウダイブ
Shadou Daibu?) 		Weapon Neutral — 1.0 X

Jump out Neutral — 2.0 X
Shock wave Neutral — 0.5 X
Flames Neutral — 0.5 X
Flame pillar Neutral — 1.0 X
Swings down weapon and dives into the ground, follows the opponent, then jumps out of the ground while swinging his weapon, creating a shock wave. After doing this 1-3 times, sprays flames around him on the final jump out. The flames fly in a parabolic curve and create flame pillars when they hit the ground.
Keyblade Ride (キーブレードライド
Kīburēdo Raido?) 		Rush Physical — 1.5 △

Ice bullets Blizzard — 0.5 x3 △
Flies around on a bunch of Keyblades, either firing a set of 3 ice bullets, or rushing at the opponent.
Only used in Ventus's scenario, and always starts with this attack.
Guard/Block: △ = Can be blocked; O = Can be blocked and interrupted (melee) or deflected back (projectile); X = Cannot be blocked.
Ventus's scenario (Third battle)
Technique Element Status Power Block?
Continuous Slash (連続斬り
Renzokukiri?) 		Weapon Physical — 0.5 + 1.5 ◯

Blade of darkness Physical — 0.5 △
Performs a rushing slash, a spinning slash, and fires a crescent-shaped blade of darkness.
Only used during normal combat.
Dark Thundaga (ダークサンダガ
Dāku Sandaga?) 		Neutral — 1.5 X
Jumps up and shoots lightning in a fan shape diagonally downward.
Only used during normal combat.
X Discharge (Xディスチャージ
X Disuchāji?) 		Shock wave Neutral — 1.0 per hit X

Spin Slash Neutral — 1.5 X
Jump Slash Neutral — 1.0 X
X-shape Slash Neutral — 2.0 X
X-shape Blade Neutral — 1.0 X
After releasing a shock wave from his body, he performs a spinning slash, followed by a jumping slash that releases shock waves in 4 directions, followed by another spinning slash, followed by an X-shaped slash which fires an X-shaped blade.
Only used during normal combat.
Dark Splicer (ダークスプライサー
Dāku Supuraisā?) 		Dark — 1.0 - 1.5 per hit ◯
Warps to the opponent's side and performs several slashes one to several times. The warping itself also damages the opponent. The attack's power depends on the action used.
Can be used as a counterattack. During the phase after breaking the Station of Awakening, this attack is used either separately or at the same time as Ventus's Dark Splicer, which can be used to counter Vanitas's.
Dark Spiral (ダークスパイラル
Dāku Supairaru?) 		Neutral — 2.0 x3 X
Rushes 3 times with the χ-blade held sideways.
During the phase after breaking the Station of Awakening, this attack can be countered with either Dark Spiral or Dark Link.
Dark Cannon (ダークキャノン
Dāku Kyanon?) 		Neutral — 2.0 per hit X
After locking-on multiple times, turns towards the opponent and fires a laser.
Only used after breaking the Station of Awakening. Can be countered with either Dark Spiral or Dark Link.

When at 1 HP, Vanitas becomes invincible while he breaks the Station of Awakening, giving Ventus access to his D-Link afterwards.
During that time, Vanitas can only use Dark Splicer, Dark Spiral or Dark Cannon. The D-Link's command gauge must be filled by winning clashes to get access to Last Word, which is required in order to drop Vanitas's HP to 0.
Guard/Block: △ = Can be blocked; O = Can be blocked and interrupted (melee) or deflected back (projectile); X = Cannot be blocked.

Kingdom Hearts III[edit]

First battle[edit]

When retrying against Vanitas
Vanitas battles Aqua within the Land of Departure.

Aqua battles Vanitas at the Land of Departure. Unlike Sora, Aqua does not have the ability to switch Keyblades nor use Links. However, she does have access to Spellweaver, Shotlocks and Grand Magic.

Vanitas's moveset is nearly identical to how it was in Birth by Sleep. He can perform a two-hit combo, the finisher sending out a shockwave, crash down on Aqua and summon an icicle in the process, and melt into the ground before emerging under a hail of fireballs. He also has the ability to cast Dark Firaga, which is either a slow-moving orb that splits into multiple fireballs, or a fast-moving fireball. Vanitas generally doesn't stagger from attacks while attacking (exceptions may occur), cartwheeling, or backflipping. To get an opening on combo, either attack him while he is approaching Aqua or reprisal with Counter Blast at the end of his Shadow Dive and Downward Warp Slash attacks.

If Aqua is far away, he typically enacts any of the following actions: uses Dark Firaga and Shadow Dive; uses Shadow Dive four times (the fourth action may change into a Downward Warp Slash); runs up to Aqua; runs to a certain extent and then uses either Downward Warp Slash or Shadow Dive.

If Aqua is nearby, he typically cartwheels around her and uses either Continuous Slash or Downward Warp Slash.

Second battle[edit]

Retrying against Terra-Xehanort and Vanitas.
Terra-Xehanort and Vanitas battle against Sora, Aqua, and Ventus within the Keyblade Graveyard.

Vanitas's final stand occurs at the Keyblade Graveyard, where he and Terra-Xehanort team up to decimate the Guardians of Light. Sora has Aqua and Ventus as party members.

In this fight, Vanitas behaves almost exactly the same as in his first battle, however here he does not use Shadow Dive consecutively. If Terra-Xehanort is targeting Sora, Vanitas will typically target Ventus and Aqua (especially Ventus). However, he may still intervene if Sora is attacking Terra-Xehanort by attacking Sora with Downward Warp Slash and Continuous Slash.

When Vanitas is reduced to 20% HP, or after Terra-Xehanort is defeated, he gains a new attack in which he summons a Keyblade twister and rides on it, often barreling into the party or firing Blizzard salvos, the latter of which can be guarded or even deflected back at Vanitas at the right angle. Eventually, Vanitas will guide the twister towards the center and surround himself with the Keyblades, often sending then groups at a time at Sora. He is completely vulnerable while doing this, so it is possible to get up to Vanitas with an Airstep and pelt him with reprisal upon reprisal. Once this is done, he continues the fight as normal, though he does occasionally continue this attack.

It is recommended to defeat Vanitas first since Terra-Xehanort's desperation attack is even more dangerous to deal with when Vanitas is around. Vanitas and Terra-Xehanort will try to blindside Sora if he remains too occupied with either opponent so keeping them both within view is crucial. Bringing Vanitas into the air for an air combo is recommended to make sure Sora's attacks are not interrupted. Fending off Terra-Xehanort should be a priority if he is attacking Sora but it is important to make sure his health does not reach 50% because that will be the period he starts using his desperation move. When that happens using long ranged attack on Vanitas, such as magic or shotlocks, is useful for adding damage to him while Aqua and/or Ventus keep him pressured. As keeping an eye on both opponents is necessary, being an opportunist is important and taking whatever opening available is key. Should Aqua or Ventus catch Vanitas in an air combo, feel free to air step over and follow up with another air combo. Keep this up and Vanitas will fall, giving the party free reign to finish off Terra-Xehanort.

Technique Element Status Power Block? Repel LV
Continuous Slash (連続斬り
Renzokukiri?) 		(weapon) Physical — 0.8 + 0.4 △ 2

(shockwave) Physical — 1.0 △ —
Swings weapon downward while somersaulting, firing a shock wave directly forward.
Warp Downward Slash (ワープ斬り下ろし
Wāpu Kiri Oroshi?) 		(weapon) Physical — 1.0 △Symbol - Crown.png 2

(icicle) Blizzard — 0.5 △ (Risk DodgeSymbol - Crown.png) 2Symbol - Crown.png
Warps directly over opponent and swings weapon downward as an icicle protrudes from below.
Dark Firaga (ダークファイガ
Dāku Faiga?, lit. "Dark Figa") 		(before split) Fire — 1.0 △ 2

(after split) Fire — 0.3 per hit △ —
Launches a homing fireball; it advances slowly, then splits into five fireballs that move at high speed.
Shadow Dive (シャドウダイブ
Shadou Daibu?) 		(weapon) Physical — 0.25 △ 2

(fireball) Fire — 0.4Symbol - Crown.png per hit △ —
Dives underground, then leaps out while swinging his weapon and scatters fireballs around himself.
Keyblade Ride (キーブレードライド
Kīburēdo Raido?) 		(ice projectiles) Blizzard — 0.3 per hit ◯ 2

(charge) Physical — 1.0 per hit △ —
(launched bundles) Physical — 1.2 per hit △ 2
Rides upon a mass of Keyblades and attacks in the following sequence: fires a barrage of homing ice projectiles → charges opponents three times → causes the Keyblade mass to swirl around himself and launches 10 masses of them at opponents.
Only used in the second battle, when at low HP and at the start of the fight if he is the only remaining target.
Guard/Block: △ = Can be blocked; O = Can be blocked and interrupted (melee) or deflected back (projectile); X = Cannot be blocked.

Kingdom Hearts III Re Mind[edit]

Keyblade Graveyard[edit]

Vanitas's first battle in Re Mind is a revisit of his and Terra-Xehanort's battle from the base game. For the first part of the fight, the player plays as Aqua with Ventus as a party member. Once Sora joins the battle, the player can choose to play as Aqua with L2 or Sora with R2. When playing as Aqua, she and Ven can use the Icy Slider Team Attack.

Data Rematch[edit]

Data Vanitas when retrying his data-fight.
Vanitas's recreated data engaging in combat against Sora's data.

Vanitas's data serves as a boss in the Limitcut Episode, where his moveset has been heavily upgraded. Several of Vanitas' attacks can Freeze Sora, so it is recommended to equip Freeze Protection through equipment such as the Snowman Rosette armor or the Crystal Snow Keyblade. Due to some of Vanitas's openings that involve teleporting can only be obtained through the use of a well-timed pre-launch Aero, it is essential to have it assigned on the shortcut men. Aerora and Aeroga are preferrable here due to their larger range. Using accessories like Rune Ring and Flanniversary Badge to ensure that you have enough magic to exploit this opening, especially when fighting Vanitas with all pro codes on. Having Block Replenisher support ability equipped can help greatly in this matter since you can block a lot during this fight and avoid going into MP recharge. As far as reprisal goes, Counter Slash or Counter Kick are preferrable as they had longer forward reach compared to Counter Impact.

If Vanitas appears in the air above Sora, he is doing his triple downward slash combo. He will do three downward slashes, with the last breaking Sora's guard and leaving a cluster of ice on the ground. If Sora is hit by this third strike, he may get frozen. Block each strike, risk dodge after Sora's guard is broken, and attack. If Sora is in the air when blocking the third strike, he can perform a normal reprisal and still hit Vanitas for the punish.

If Vanitas dives into a red circle on the ground, he is doing his Fire fountain combo. He will dive and approach Sora, then rise out of the ground, raining down several Fire spells. He will repeat this two more times - dodge roll towards Vanitas' red circle as it approaches each time. Depending on the height of his first two jumps, Vanitas will then end the combo in one of two ways:

  • If he rises very high for all 3 jumps, Vanitas starts falling after the third fountain, he will land on the ground and be open to attack - Airstep to him and strike. Be careful not to Airstep too early, or Sora will be above Vanitas and will miss.
  • If the first and second jump was shorter than his third jump, Vanitas disappears quickly after the third fountain and re-appears above Sora, he will perform a guard-breaking downward slash that leaves a cluster of ice. Block, then risk dodge after the guard break, and attack. If Sora is caught in the air when he guards, performing a normal reprisal will still hit Vanitas and leave him open to attack.

If Vanitas cartwheels some distance away and casts two Fire spells, he is doing his Fire combo. For each set of two shots, the lower fireball is fast while the upper fireball is slow and will break into smaller ones after a brief moment. He will cast two sets of these, then will rapidly teleport 5 times on the left, then right, left, right, and finally left before casting one fast Fire spell. Afterwards, he will cast a quick Fire up close, teleport twice and shoot a slow-moving Fire, shoot a fast-moving Fire, do a cartwheel, and cast one final Fire spell. Block the first two sets of Fire spells, and when he starts his five-teleport sequence, keep an eye on the left and count three teleports. Just before he casts his Fire, dodge roll towards him and attack. It is also possible to block and then Airstep to him to attack instead. If this fails, quickly block the next Fire, wait a moment to guard the slow Fire and the fast one, wait for the cartwheel, and then block the final Fire.

If Vanitas cartwheels to the side and fires white beams at Sora, this is his white beam combo. He will fire three beams, with the third spinning. He will then repeat the three-beam combo, and backflip away. Guard the first beam, then use Counter Kick to close the distance and attack. It is common to get hit by the first couple of hits unexpectedly, but it is very possible to recover and block the remaining hits.

If Vanitas appears far away but instantly teleports before materializing (essentially, a black ball in the distance), he will do his six-hit combo. He will perform four quick flashes at Sora with the fourth being a downward slash, then he will cartwheel on the ground, and follow up with two more hits. Guard immediately when Vanitas teleports at the start, block the first four hits, wait for the cartwheel, and then block the last two hits. To get the opening for this move, you must cast Aerora/Aeroga before he starts this attack and stay near the wind but not too close to the centre to avoid Sora going into a jump animation. If you are next to a wall, launching Aerora/Aeroga to the outside of the wall can prevent the jumping animation from happening.

When Vanitas' revenge value is hit, he will teleport above Sora and perform a single downward slash, which can be blocked.

Vanitas has two type of patterns that he will follow for the 1st phase and he may cycle through the other pattern if he doesn't perform his ultimate attack.

Pattern A

Triple Downward Slash Combo -> Fire fountain Combo + Downward Slash -> Six-hit Combo -> White Beam Combo -> Fire Combo

Pattern B

White Beam Combo -> Fire fountain Combo -> Fire Combo -> White Beam Combo -> Six-hit Combo

If Vanitas appears on the opposite side of the stage with a dark portal, he is performing his ultimate attack. A cloud of Keyblades will emerge from the portal, and Vanitas will ride on it. From here he will fire three Blizzards, perform a blue-tinted dash at Sora, fire another three Blizzards, blue dash, fire six Blizzards, and finally perform a pink dash. The blue dashes are blockable, however the Blizzards and the pink dash are unblockable. When he starts this move, Doubleflight into the air and glide away from Vanitas, which should make the Blizzards miss. When he blue dashes, Air Slide or block to avoid it. After dodging the pink dash, enter focus and Airstep to Vanitas as he lands to attack. Alternatively, it is also possible to cancel this entire move by hitting Vanitas with Thunder when the dark portal is still visible - just keep an eye on the far edge of the stage to know when to cast.

When Vanitas has about six bars of HP left, he will perform a variation of his ultimate attack. He will summon his cloud of Keyblades again, but this time form a large orb around himself. Streams of Keyblades and Vanitas shadows will fly out of the orb - the Vanitas shadows can be blocked, however the Keyblades cannot be blocked since they are glowing pink. The shadows will come from the sides while the keyblades will appear from the centre of the core. There is a recurring pattern where if 2 shadows attack at once and then comes a third shadow or if the 3 shadows came out fast and hit you one at a time, the next attack will be the keyblades streams. He will perform the following combos in sequence:

  • First combo: Two streams will go into the ground and two Vanitas shadows will attack, then a third will appear. Block the first two shadows, pause, and block the third.
  • Second combo: One pink stream of Keyblades will approach, then four Vanitas shadows will strike in a slow sequence with the last one having a large white flash on its strike. Three Vanitas shadows will appear and attack in a quick sequence. Dodge the stream, carefully block the four slow shadows, then block the three quick shadows.
  • Third combo: Three sets of pink Keyblade streams will approach, then three Vanitas shadows will strike in a quick sequence, and one pink Keyblade stream will approach. Dodge the first stream, block the three shadows, and dodge the second stream.
  • Fourth combo: One pink Keyblade stream will approach, two Vanitas shadows will attack, pause, a third will strike with a white flash, another pink stream of Keyblades will approach, and one final Vanitas shadow will strike with a white flash. Dodge the stream, block the two shadows, pause, block the one shadow, dodge the stream, pause, and block the last shadow.

Due to the frequent pauses, it is usually safer to wait for the shadows to approach instead of guarding their attacks too early.

This Keyblade cloud move can be cancelled the same way as before, with a Thunder while the dark portal is still visible. Since he will use the move at about six HP bars remaining, watch his HP carefully and prepare a Thunder cast when he is close to the threshold.

After the variant of his ultimate attack (whether it was cancelled or not), Vanitas will be in his second phase and will gain some new attacks. The opening for these attacks can only be exploited through the use of a well timed Aerora/Aeroga while Sora is stationary. If you case Aero while moving Sora will end up going into the spring board or out of the hitbox range to force Vanitas out of the teleport.

  • If Vanitas fires a single slow Fire before disappearing, he will do his fireball-plus-Teleport Slashes combo. He will appear with an upward slash while the fireball is still far away, then the fireball will break into pieces and approach, and Vanitas will follow with a quick slash. Vanitas will then shoot two fast Fires, do an upward slash. If Vanitas retaliate from the previous opening, wait around two seconds after he vanished before casting Aerora/Aeroga in the opposite direction of the camera, then guard when you see the second yellow cursor from afar to guard his teleport slash and he will be knocked out of the teleport. While he can be knocked and punished right there, the fireball attack will split and hit Sora so be sure to guard and reprise that unless you use Counter Kick for the I-frames from the previous guard. You could technically get the opening with Aerora/Aeroga after you block the split fireball attacks but the timing is quite strict so its better to just prepare for its early windows of punish. If Sora unleashed aero anywhere that is considered front angle for this particular move, Vanitas will not get knocked out after the guard whether he move backwards within the wind hitbox.
  • He will do three white beams with a teleport in between each starting from the left. He will perform a cartwheel just before the last white beam.
  • If Vanitas flings a stream of Keyblades from his hand, he is doing his Keyblade flurry combo. He will fling two streams, pause, fling a third stream, perform an upward slash, pause, fling another stream, and finally spiral into the air with a fountain of Keyblades. Carefully time a block for each attack, keeping the pauses in mind if you had no MP to use. To get the opening here, dodge roll the first two Keyblade streams, cast Aero as soon as the second keyblade stream fully launched (no more keyblade came out from the tip of Void Gear) then guard the 3rd Keyblade stream and guard his upward slash before reprising and punishing him.

Like phase 1, he has two type of pattern for phase 2 after his second variation ultimate attack that goes as follows. If you didn't beat Vanitas when both pattern C and D are out, he may do another Keyblade Flurry combo at the end of any two pattern or if you are a few hits away from defeating Vanitas before doing the second variant of his ultimate attack again.

Pattern C

White Beam Combo -> Fire Fountain Combo + Downward Slash -> Fire Combo -> White Beam Combo -> Keyblade Flurry Combo

Pattern D

Triple Downward Slash Combo -> Fireball-Plus-Teleport Slashes Combo -> White Beam Combo (2nd variation) -> Fire Combo -> Keyblade Flurry Combo

Videos[edit]

Vanitas and Xehanort – Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep (Terra) Vanitas I – Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep (Ventus) Vanitas II – Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep (Ventus)
Vanitas I – Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep (Aqua) Vanitas II – Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep (Aqua) Vanitas I – Kingdom Hearts III
Vanitas and Terra-Xehanort – Kingdom Hearts III Vanitas – Kingdom Hearts III Vanitas and Terra-Xehanort – Kingdom Hearts III Re Mind
Vanitas's Recreated Data – Kingdom Hearts III Re Mind

Notes and references[edit]

  1. ^ Normal
  2. ^ While using Continuous Slash
  3. ^ Land of Departure
  4. ^ Keyblade Graveyard
  5. ^ Shared with Terra-Xehanort
Original bosses
Riku | Riku Replica | Shadow Roxas | Hostile Program | Lingering Will | Anti-Riku | Data-Riku | Terra | Ventus | Aqua | Braig | Vanitas | Master Eraqus | Master Xehanort | Ventus-Vanitas | Terra-Xehanort | Young Xehanort | Armor of Eraqus | No Heart
Phantom Aqua | Anti-Aqua | Master Ava | Master Ira | Master Aced | Master Invi | Master Gula | Darkness | Ephemer & Skuld | Yozora | Vali, Vala, & Vidar | Hringhorn
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