If there was ever a game that wasn't shy about its difficulty, that game would be Ghostrunner 2. From the wonderfully titled Brutal Edition to its punishing one-hit-and-you're-out gameplay, it's not easy to get ahead. This is why we're here to tell you how to beat Ahriman in Ghostrunner 2.
He's a big guy, and deceptively fast to boot. You're thrown into this fight without much time to get used to the game either, so it's easy to get frustrated with the endless one-hit death. Thankfully, the boss has fairly forgiving patterns. With a bit of help and practice, you'll claim his life and get a trophy for your troubles.
Before we get into the boss fight, check out our other guides. We've got a look at how to access Ghostrunner 2's photo mode. There's plenty more in our Ghostrunner 2 walkthrough hub, too!
How to beat Ahriman in Ghostrunner 2
If you're new to the Ghostrunner series, the game's first level may not adequately prepare you for this fight. You can block, dash, and swipe, sure, but Ahriman is the first enemy to not go down in one hit. In fact, you'll need to hit him what feels like fifty times.
click to enlargePhase one
To defeat Ahriman in Ghostrunner 2, you'll first need to know your enemy. Below are a list of attacks and counters. They begin to change after getting his health down to around three quarters.
- Projectiles
- Hold the block button or dash away.
- These can be deflected back at Ahriman for good damage if you block right before they hit you.
- Ring of Pain
- After Ahriman leaps and stabs the ground, jump over the ring he creates.
- Down Slash
- A separate jump attack will see Ahriman swing down. Try to stay behind or to the side of him.
- Regular Slash
- If you're standing super close, the boss may swing at you normally. Block it to avoid death.
You'll eventually clash swords and need to grapple onto an unknown ally to continue the fight - just keep holding the block button as you do, as projectiles will be flying toward you.
Phase Two
Ahriman will get a few new moves in this phase, and the ones he had in the first phase become more dangerous. Your new ally can be used to stun the boss, however. Keep an eye on the icon in the bottom left and deal massive damage while Ahriman is electrified.
- Projectiles
- Like the first phase, block and parry or just dodge.
- Ring of Pain
- The ring will be much larger - activate focus mode by holding the jump button, and grapple to your floating ally.
- His position can be seen on the mini-map in the top right.
- Down Slash
- This slash now sends shockwaves to the sides of the sword. Jump over them or stay behind the boss.
- Regular Slash
- It looks scarier, but functions the same. Stay back or block.
It'll take some trial and error, but winning the fight will reward you with a new sword and the aforementioned trophy. If you're a completionist, try replaying the fight without using your ally's stun; this will unlock a trophy.
Before you sword-dash into the rest of the game, check out our guide on how to upgrade in Ghostrunner 2. You should also check out our guide to customising your sword so you can check out the one you just unlocked.
For more articles like this, take a look at our Guides and Ghostrunner page.