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Twisted Metal: Black - Boss FAQ

by piecemealcranky

C o p y r i g h t  (c)  2 0 0 3 - 2 0 0 4  b y  piecemealcranky

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[B o s s  F A Q]

Game: Twisted Metal: Black
Platform: Sony Playstation II
Author: piecemealcranky
Date Created: December 14th 2003
E-mail: [email protected]
Last Updated: 22nd of July 2004
Version: 2.0


Last Updated: 1st of February 2004

Did a checkup on certain words, grammars and minor mistakes. Also,
added s new part 'Frequently Asked Questions' (check on the contents
part below). One more major update - added some strategies from other
great authors on how to defeat Minion & Warhawk. Thanks again to all
the authors for their strategies. Still be doing some work on this FAQ,
so no more updates until the end of this month.

Next update is expected soon after February (or might be earlier).

Last Updated: 1st of April 2004

What kind of update is this? It's late, isn't it? Yes, I'm late, so I
apologize for this matter. I cannot start my computer to update this
FAQ and I'll have to buy a new one. Thank god, I actually made it on
this day. It took me exactly two months to finish this, so again, I'm
sorry.

As you can see, I did a major update this time. There might not be any
updates soon, since this is quite enough for now, but if you'd like to
request something new for this FAQ, anything at all, don't hesitate to
e-mail me. There is now a new part (check contents) and there you can
find even more information. I've also made this FAQ more readable, and
better.

I'm looking forward to make a new section about the controls for this
game. I hope this can make you better in the game, and even be an
expert player. I'd like to thank all the authors for their walkthrough
and for the great tactics.

Last Updated: 28th of April 2004

Well, well, an update even I didn't expect. I just added a contribution
for Shadow's special this time, but still, I'm working on the controls.
I just didn't have the exact and right time to do it, so nothing much
for now. Credit goes out to Ryan Zariwney for the info, thanks. Give me
around one ore month to finish the whole FAQ, but even now it's near
completion. Although I have to admit that this FAQ will never be
complete since I might receive more contributions in the future. Keep
the contributions coming, I don't really mind, but please provide
correct ones, because we don't want out readers to think that this FAQ
gives out untested guides, strategies, or even info. This is all for
now, and I'll see you people again in the next, final update.

Last Updated: 22nd of July 2004

Ok, for your info, I've updated the Frequently Asked Questions part, 
for the Crazy 8's background music title. Check there for further info. 
Credit goes to Jay999 & Daniel Poole for the contributions. Not sure
they're correct ones though, so don't ask me. 

This is the last version, and I'm not updating my guide any longer. 
Till next time, because I might update a few minor things.


-C o n t e n t s-

 #1. About This FAQ
 #2. Legal Information
 #3. Weapon Pickups Information
      	Part A - General Hints About The Game
      	Part B - General Information About Weapons
             Weapons:
            * Environmental
            * Fire Missile
            * Gas Can
            * Homing Missile
            * Machine Gun
            * Power Missile
            * Reticle
            * Ricochet
            * Satellite
            * Zoomy
             Pickups:
            * Health Pickup
            * Machine Gun Upgrade
            * Repair Station
            * Turbo
-	Part C - General Information About Special Attacks
            * Axel
            * Brimstone
            * Crazy 8
            * Darkside
            * Junkyard Dog
            * Manslaughter
            * Mr. Grimm
            * Outlaw
            * Roadkill		
            * Shadow
            * Spectre
            * Sweet Tooth
            * Warthog
            * Yellow Jacket
 #4. Tips For Defeating Bosses:
     - Defeating Minion
     -	Strategies From Other Authors
     -	Defeating Warhawk
     -	Strategies From Other Authors
 #5. Frequently Asked Questions
 #6. Special Thanks




#1. A b o u t  T h i s  F A Q

So, let's talk about this FAQ. I created this FAQ with no other
intentions, but just to help the gamers out there to know more about
the bosses and this game, and the tactics of course. Just like any
other Twisted Metals, Twisted Metal Black was planned smoothly to give
you frightening moments when battling the bosses, Minion, and Warhawk,
the brand new character to Twisted Metal. If you check out any other
Twisted metal, they definitely have bosses, and sometimes they even
have more than two. Trust me, I've played every single one of them, and
until now, I haven't seen any Twisted Metal without any boss.

I hope you consider my guidance as an alternative to your success, so
you CAN and you actually SHOULD use your own way. If you would like to
give any suggestions to improve the strategies I used to defeat the
bosses, please do so by sending me a mail (see above for my e-mail
address). I definitely know that there are lots more strategies other
gamers obtained and like I said, I used one of the many, many other
plans to defeat the bosses, and I know yours might be even better. I
did this way to let new players experience the new look FIRST before
they can improve better and other advanced tactics.

Please, before we begin, understand the two different things that have
been listed in this FAQ. In Part C, a section where you can find it in
the 'Weapon Pickups Information' part, is absolutely different than the
one that is explained in the 'Tips For Defeating Bosses' section. I
separated them because they're not similar in any parts. The Part C
explains about each of the characters' special abilities and managing
them against bosses. The Tips For Defeating Bosses section tells you a
bit more about the bosses, and getting more into detail than the other
one. I hope you're not confused, so please, read carefully, and you'll
understand about these things, without even looking at this note in the
first place. So, if you're used to the characters' special abilities,
then you may skip the special description parts, and continue reading
through the boss battle strategies section. However, if you're still
new to this game, and this is your first time playing it, then just
read the special description part and leave others. Then, you can just
continue to the main part.

As you scroll down, you should take your time reading carefully each
step, if you don't know yet how to defeat the bosses. I also did some
short words from my long elaboration, so expert players, please refer
to that section. If you're an expert player, which you should know how
to defeat them, I suggest that you just take some simple notes from the
information. I also checked other great author's strategies and posted
them here (which should help you out), so check their strategies as
well. Don't go too seriously on them though, because I guarantee you
can handle them once you get the hang of it. Well, good luck & happy
reading!




#2. L e g a l  I n f o r m a t i o n

Please remember this each time you're trying to steal my work:
This part may contain some VERY SERIOUS information, so please pay
attention:

No part of this FAQ may be reproduced in any form, shape, or
transmitted, in any ways, or any forms by any means (electronic,
mechanical, recording, or otherwise) without prior permission from the
author. This means no copying, no publishing, or any other illegal
activities. This FAQ is posted only in GameFAQs and nowhere else. If
other websites had taken this FAQ to theirs (a secured site), I won't
mention them here. This FAQ copyright 2003 - 2004 by the author
piecemealcranky. The author may agree or disagree with any suggestions
given.

Contact me as soon as possible for any inconveniences regarding this
FAQ.
E-mail me at: [email protected]




#3. W e a p o n  P i c k u p s  I n f o r m a t i o n

There are a lot of weapons, each one of them gives a different amount
of damage, and yes, your special attack is also counted as a weapon.
I will always recommend you to get used to these weapons before you
begin each battle, no matter whom you're against with. This section
will tell you all about the weapons in Twisted Metal: Black, including
the amount of damage they will cause, how do they look like
(description) what type of weapons preferred for battling each one of
the bosses described before. There are Part A, Part B and Part C. Part
A gives you hints and tips getting you weapons, and ways to fill them
up. Part B explains about weapons, including their descriptions and
damage they cause. Part C explains about each of characters' special
attacks & their usefulness, damage they cause, and how to use them
against bosses as well, everything in alphabetical order.


**Part A** - General Hints About The Game

Before all other explanations, this part tells you a bit more about how
do you take care of your weapons, keeping them for bosses and other
tips (read this first, it is recommended).

Side Note: If anyone would like to contribute some hints about weapons,
anything as long as it meets the topic, I would really appreciate it.
You can also correct me about anything that you think is incorrect, I
wouldn't mind. E-mail me ([email protected]) and of course,
credit will be given. Don't worry about that.

* Always check at the screen what type of weapons you've ran over, or
picked up. This is somehow important to let you know exactly how do
they look like, and what are their names, and to test out their
functions. A lot of players don't really pay attention to these, and
they all ended up rushing and finding weapons when they don't even know
how do they look like in the game.

* Make sure you collect weapons when beginning a battle. Sometimes
enemies chase you around and you dodge them because you don't have
weapons. When you start a level, quickly run for weapons. This is
really important, and I mean, what will you do without these? You
obviously couldn't just let your enemies chase you the whole time, and
you'll get killed eventually. Bear this in mind.

* Never fight or start one without weapons. This will lead you to the
edge of a fire, and you don't want to fall.

* Don't face your opponents when you run out of weapons. Use your turbo
now, and hopefully you'll lose your enemy, well at least for a while.
You should get health and weapons now.

* When battling ordinary opponents, don't hesitate to use your special
attack. There's no use of keeping it very long. Use it, and never waste
it. It takes some time to be replenished, so it is a bad news if you
happen to point and shoot it elsewhere, especially special attacks like
Warthog's.

* It is sometimes wise to keep weapons for future use. If you fight
easy opponents first, you can save your special attacks for the hard
ones like Manslaughter (he's inside nearly all the levels, and he has a
good armor).

* Remember, you can reach some high placed weapons by finding any ramps
nearby. There should be a place where you can drive up and get the
pickup. If not, turbo from anywhere you think you can reach.

* Do you notice that arenas with bosses have lots of weapon pickups?
Yes, this is because to help you in defeating them, easier. Well,
nearly every battleground is full with weapons, but in boss stages
there are added and generated faster. Don't always rely on your special
attacks, and you don't always have to wait for them. While waiting, go
around while running away collecting weapon pickups and using turbo if
your opponents happen to chase you around. Then you should have more
than enough to blow them up.

* Remember, if you happen to run out of your health, check on your map
for a '+' sign. That's a perfect spot for you to refill your health.
Also, keep in mind that it will not last long, it will run out of its
power eventually, so go find for it elsewhere. There should be at least
two of that in a level.

* Have you ever picked up a machine gun upgrade pickup before? Well,
this is actually quite useful, to me I think. This pickup is not a
weapon pickup, but simply an icon that upgrades your machine gun, to
make it a bit more powerful than it was used to be (it turns to a white
color). It helps a lot if you run out of weapons, and by picking up one
of these, you can replace this as other weapons for a short period of
time. Use this now, make sure you take care of it and never waste it,
because it is quite powerful. Recommended for big opponents, because
you can easily aim for them.

* When you get chased like hell by an enemy, and if you have a full
health, just turn around and face him. There's no use of running, and
eventually you'll die by some silly mistakes. Make sure there aren't
any more opponents while doing this though, because I guarantee that
you'll definitely die.


**Part B** - General Information About Weapons

Now you've come to Part B. This part will give information about
weapons, which covers parts like their description, their damage and
those kinds of things. This is only an alternative way to know more
about weapons, since they play a major role in the game. You can also
find information about these as you advance and spend time in the game,
and eventually you should know things that are related to this. I hope
I don't miss anything, and if you spotted anything I missed, I expect
you are generous enough to e-mail me (see above for my e-mail address).
One more thing, please be informed that I don't include special attacks
in this part because they are already explained in Part C (see below).
You should refer there to know more about each of the characters'
special and how they are useful for battling bosses. I'll list the
weapons list first, in alphabetical order. I'll list pickups like the
turbo pickup the last in the Secondary Pickups part, and not following
in the same list.

Weapon Pickups:

Environmental:

Damage: 4/6

Description: This pickup has different attacks in each of the levels
you battle in. Some of them give out quite a lot of damage. There are
no environment attacks in boss stages, so you can't use this attack
when battling bosses, but it is ideal for normal enemies. Use it and a
message will tell what type of attack you have started. Make sure
enemies are in the area though, because you don't want to waste it.
Make sure you're out of the perimeter as well, or you'll be killed too.
It is also wise to know what type of environmental attack is in the
available stages.

Fire Missile:

Damage: 3/6

Description: An orange pickup that homes in opponents, but not as good
as the homing missile. It can be found entirely anywhere in a stage,
and it gives out good impact on the enemies. Use this when battling
bosses, along with you machine guns for better damage. It is ideal for
Minion's switches (see the walkthrough section for Minion below).

Gas Can:

Damage: 3/6

Description: A yellow type of round can that when launched, it will fly
over the player's vehicle followed by a red crosshair giving the player
to control the vehicle together with the crosshair. Press the attack
button again to drop it to the enemy when near crosshair.

Homing Missile:

Damage: 2/6

Description: It is purple and gives you 2 missiles for each pickup. It
homes in opponents very well but it moves slower than the fire
missiles. It doesn't give a lot of damage though, but it is good for
bosses too, and can be really powerful if collected and shoot all of
it, in one go.

Machine Gun:

Damage: 1/6

Description: You should be used to this weapon, even if you just bought
this game a few hours ago. The Machine Gun have infinite weapons, but
beware, it can overheat. Use this when battling opponents even Minion
(Warhawk seems impossible). Use this together with your missiles (any
type will do). There's also a machine gun upgrade pickup that upgrades
your machine gun (see below for that pickup).

Power Missile:

Damage: 4/6

Description: A red pickup that gives out a good damage to the enemy.
Very good if you happen to pick up this weapon, because it is powerful,
but too bad it doesn't home in an opponent. This is also fine for
Minion, but I don't think you'll be able to shoot at Warhawk though,
unless if he's down, shooting at you.

Reticle:

Damage: 3/6

Description: When you select this weapon from inventory, you'll
suddenly have a box, slightly smaller than your screen, appear along
with a target marked 'X'. It is green, and on top of the box is written
a number (5), and here is the way to use it. You have a few seconds to
shoot the missiles to an enemy, as soon as you press the attack button.
Once you press it, the timer will begin, 5 seconds counting, and you
must have a target by that moment, or you'll be rushing to find an
enemy. Make sure you're ready, and follow the enemy all the time. Once
you press the attack button, the target will change it's colors, and
finally turning to red, which means that you must let the missiles go
now, otherwise you'll never make it. So, do that once the number at the
top of your screen changes to 0 & the target changes red. You should
now release 10 devastating missiles, and they give plenty much damage
to the enemy. Remember that you can shoot it earlier if you're not
confident that you can follow the timer. Don't wait to long though,
because you'll backfire the weapon, causing the weapon to wear off by
itself. Don't waste, just wait for a good opportunity and shoot your
opponent. You'll get a bonus if you get all weapons to hit the enemy.

Ricochet:

Damage: 3/6

Description: A ricochet is also a purple pickup that bounces off a wall
if it hits one. You must make an angle that once you release it, you
must aim it to a wall or to someone. If you aim to a wall or anything
similar before it hits an enemy, you'll get a Bank Shot Bonus (thanks
to bloodstorm for this info).

Satellite:

Damage: 4/6

Description: A powerful type of weapon. It works a bit like the Gas
Can, but slightly different. When you equip this weapon in your
inventory, you will have a large crosshair on the ground in front of
you. This is just like the Gas Can. Once you see this, get an enemy
into the perimeter of that crosshair, and press the attack button. It
will then change its color from green to red. Red means that you must
shoot it now otherwise it will shoot on its own. So, press the attack
button again and the satellite will fire some type of laser to the
middle of the crosshair, which damage the enemy around its perimeter.
Remember, if you don't shoot it quickly, it will shoot by its own, and
if it happens to shoot by its own, let it and if you can, find an enemy
nearby. It is recommended that you get ready before beginning the
attack.

Zoomy:

Damage: 3/6

Description: When you fire, this weapon will release 10 missiles, which
goes in a circle and homes in the enemy. Make sure you aim really well,
because this weapon seems a bit hard to control. It always goes out
fast and hits the walls always (other things too). Shoot the enemy
either from behind or in front.

Secondary Pickups:

Health Pickup:

This is one of the most important pickup overall. It helps you to
recover some of your health. It gets generated randomly and sometimes
fast. It is purple with an aid kit as the symbol.

Machine Gun Upgrade:

Well, it helps you when you're out of weapons, helping you by upgrading
your machine gun, giving more damage when you shoot at opponents. It
will also turn to a bright white color, so it's easier for you to
notice. It carries 30 bullets so never waste it. You can carry up to a
maximum of 60 bullets (thanks to bloodstorm for this info). You can see
how much bullets are left or you've picked up at the right hand corner
of the screen, and on top of the weapon icons.

Repair Station:

This is not a pickup, but I'll list it in here anyway. It's a small
repair station to refill your life to the max, better than your health
pickup. It cannot be generated back, so it will finish if you keep
using it. You can find one in your map with a '+' sign, as explained in
a section above. I don't really know a lot about this, so here's
bloodstorm's own explanation:

From bloodstorm: Repair stations completely refill your life energy.
They show up on your radar as little white x's. The amount of times you
can use the repair stations depends on the skill level you're playing
on, and the number of repair stations in a level doesn't affect this
number. On easy you can use the repair stations 4 times per level, on
medium you can use them twice per level, and on hard you can only use
them one time per level.

Thanks to bloodstorm.

Turbo:

Well, this pickup is always important for a good run-up to a ramp to
collect weapons or running away from opponents when you're at a greater
risk to be killed. Basically, you can find this icon nearly anywhere,
in nearly every level, and you can check your turbo meter at the bottom
of the right side of the screen. This is also very useful when you're
up against a boss, or running away from him.


**Part C** - General Information About Special Attacks

Well, final part in this section, Part C. This final part will explain
to you about characters' special attacks (including secret characters),
their information, damage their special attacks cause, and strategies
for battling the bosses. In case you didn't know, I didn't place Minion
in the list because his information is already given out in the next
section, Tips For Defeating Bosses. Check there and you'll find more
about him this part can explain. One more thing, to avoid confusions to
happen, let me remind you that the first paragraph for the boss battle
strategies will always start as Minion first, and the next paragraph
will be Warhawk. Please look at them carefully, and remember this short
note.

Seen any mistakes here? E-mail me (check above for my e-mail address).
I listed all the characters in alphabetical order, easier for you to
scroll down and look for a character. I did this section basically to
help you defeating the bosses easier by using any of the following
characters, and their own way of killing them, because some of the
characters' special attacks has no homing capabilities, so I'll give
you tips on how to use them better, & wiser. So, here we go!

Axel:

Special Description: Axel attacks the opponent by some type of micro-
shockwave. It will damage enemies in close range, anyone around his
two-wheeled vehicle. Use this when a group of enemies are attacking
you, it works fine.

From bloodstorm: Axel also has a second special. If you press up three
times while the special is selected, Axel will close up his vehicle for
a few seconds so that it is one big wheel. You can then ram someone
during this time to cause some damage.

Thanks again to bloodstorm for this handy info.

Damage: 5/10

Boss Battle Strategies:

When fighting against Minion, you can NEVER use your special when his
shield is not disabled yet, so keep it whenever possible. You will have
the chance to use it after his shield is out, that's the best part. No
problem for Minion, isn't it? Just drive fast to him, target, and
attack! You should then hit him, and run back to the other side and
repeat the same thing and use your weapons for more severe damage. If
you can, make sure you attack with your special a bit closer so that it
causes more damage.

When battling against Warhawk using the special attack is a waste of
time. You can't reach him, but I think you might have a chance if he's
hovering on the ground & shooting at you. When he's doing that, try
your luck. Get to him carefully and use your special attack. Make sure
you've disabled his shield though, or you'll be shooting the air. You
should hit him, at least a bit. If you think this method is too risky,
then you might just save this special attack for the tankers, they
still move on the ground, don't they?

Brimstone:

Special Description: When you equip Brimstone's special, a man will
appear near the roof of Brimstone's vehicle. This guy has explosives
around his body, and when you attack, Brimstone will then find the
closest target he can get (although sometimes there are no targets) and
launch that guy from his vehicle to the opponent's car, if you target
any. It has some homing capabilities, just like the fire missile. If it
reaches the enemy's vehicle, he will stand on the car's roof (or
anything above the driver) & shout 'repent' and explodes his body,
damaging the vehicle. It works better in a close range battle, but you
may also fire his attack from far range too, but make sure you have an
enemy in front, or it won't work (of course it won't work if the
opponent is hundred yards away).

Damage: 5/10

Boss Battle Strategies:

Before you disable the switches, please, do not use your special
attacks. I doubt it will work though, but you can try it for once and
see if it works, or if it damages Minion's tank. If it doesn't work,
then keep the rest and continue battling him. After disabling his
switches, run back up to the first floor and stay there, firing any of
your weapons, and equip your special. Once his near to you, fire him
with your special attacks. You should've damaged him quite a lot by
now, so it's easier for you to finish him off.

Battling Warhawk will be a bit tougher than battling Minion, so watch
out. You can try using your special attack for the tankers, or maybe
Warhawk too. I'll always advice you to take your time and try your
luck, because without luck, you can't win too, maybe sometimes. The
most important thing - never miss, and never attack him while his
shield is still active. So, when he is on the ground hovering and
shooting, use your special attack here, quickly and then run away. Keep
doing this and maybe you'll make it. On the other hand, if you're too
scared to use this method though, you can just attack the tankers with
your special, to kill them faster. Well, there's no need for you to
keep special attacks by now, because you won't need them for next
battles.

Crazy 8:

Special Description: Crazy 8's special attack works weird, if you
actually go deeper about the case. Have you tried pressing the attack
button repeatedly while having his special equipped? Yes, he can
actually give more damage to the enemies if you press it a lot of
times. Once you equip his special, some weird looking type of electric
wiring metal surrounds his vehicle. Once you attack, Crazy 8 will then
release an electric (maybe with some high voltage) and gives enemies a
shock (pressing repeatedly increases the damage). You must really aim
at one opponent only, because he cannot take more than one. The vehicle
will find the closest target he can get to, and give a shock. I've also
been told that if you press the directional button three times while
having the weapon selected, it will form an increased amount of damage
power (maximum) and the electric attack will come out at the direction
of the key pad that you've pressed. This is very good for enemies in
groups, because it attacks more than one. Be sure to get closer to the
target to increase the percentage of you damaging enemies to the max.

Damage: 6/10

Boss Battle Strategies:

Well, to tell you the obvious thing when battling Minion, never use
your special attack while Minion's shield is still active. It is quite
difficult to use your special attack now, since the switches will be
randomly damaged, so it is recommended that you keep it first.
Deactivate the switches first. After you've done that with the
missiles, use all of your specials now! Shoot and keep pressing it.
Never let go the button. When you've finished your specials, stop. Get
turbo, weapons, and your health. Then, wait for him to come to you.
When he's approaching, he might be using his attack now, so turbo all
the way to the opposite direction and turn with the hard turn (x
button) and shoot all the things you've picked up now (when you're
speeding to the other side, make sure that you don't crash to him,
otherwise...). Give everything you've got, the weapons, the special
attacks (if you have any while you're collecting the pickups then it's
a good news), etc. Now, all you have to wait for is Crazy 8's middle
movie.

Fighting Warhawk with Crazy 8 wouldn't be easy, but at least it is not
very confusing. You have two options: Try your luck using your special
attacks with Warhawk or: Use them for the tankers. Recommended for the
second choice. I'm not so sure that you can damage Warhawk while he's
flying around you. It is quite a waste if you don't use them for the
tankers, because they are perfect for your type of attack. Whatever you
choose, just do it right. Focus and always watch your health. Don't
look away while you're fighting them, because you might fall down the
building. Finish Warhawk either with the missiles or your special. Any
option will do.

Darkside:

Special Description: Darkside's special works very simple, & it's quite
unique as well. When having this attack equipped in your inventory,
you'll have to aim at an enemy, preferred to be the heavy and slow
ones. Once you attack, the screen will turn into a blurry view, which
now lets you control the vehicle in a very limited amount of time. When
this occurs, quickly aim at the opponent, and ram him hard! You'll
damage him quickly, and the screen will soon turn to the way it was.
Remember, when you attack with Darkside's special, you will have some
speed, which works extremely great if you ram an enemy into a wall or a
concrete. Want to know more, read bloodstorm's explanation:

When you activate Darkside's special, the screen will go blurry around
the edges and Darkside will launch forward with a lot of speed. Your
goal is to ram someone during this period. You can get damage bonuses
if you ram them in a certain way. You get a T-slide bonus if you ram
them with your side (start going at them and but turn sharply before
you hit them while holding the sharp turn button). For a ramming bonus,
ram them into a wall.

Thanks to bloodstorm :)

Damage: 7/10

Boss Battle Strategies:

Well, had a tough time battling Minion with Darkside? I'll show you
what this little girl has. She has ramming abilities, remember that.
So, the trick is to ram Minion, it's obvious right? But, can you damage
Minion with your ramming? Of course, but while his shield is active,
nope. You'll have to deal with that first will normal weapons. After
all that nonsense but fun battle, get far, really far from him. Now,
charge down the stadium and use turbo if your engine has a group of
bees stuck inside. Quickly press the special attack now! It works
better if he's facing you. Now, as fast as the wind, turn back and use
the remaining turbo. Finish it and get after the other turbo pickup,
because you need turbo to get this trick working. Now, use that same
method over & over again until he's dead. Remember to watch out for
your health. He'll definitely use his special throughout the battle, so
always remember this. Wave your hands, don't forget!

Ok, had fun with Minion, now it's time to play a little game with
Warhawk. Time to create a war against, well, Warhawk of course. Ok,
when you start, there should only be three things inside your mind
right now. One, you cannot ram Warhawk because he's flying. Two, you
can only use your special attack for the tankers. Three, well, you
should run now! Steady, aim, fire! Remember, it is a good motivation to
you! You should get weapons to help you defeat the tankers easily. Get
some space (not too far though because the arena is not very long and
wide, so you might fall off), and shoot all the weapons now. Wait at
the exact spot, when the tanker is disabled, watch for Warhawk. When
he's flying around near the tanker, use your turbo, and when you are
reaching the tanker, use your special now! You'll have a blurry vision,
so it is very wise to aim before you go. Now, you should blow the
tanker, and in the same time damaging Warhawk. Repeat this method and
watch for health icons nearby.

Junkyard Dog:

Special Description: His attack works very similar to gas can, but a
bit more powerful, and slightly faster. When you equip his special
attack, a ball with spikes around it appears near somewhere around the
back area of the vehicle. When you launch the ball, you'll have a
crosshair too, but be warned, it's very fast, more difficult for you to
aim to an enemy. Anyway, when it reaches the opponent, you must now
press the attack button again, and it should drop at the spot you aimed
the devastating thing to the enemy's vehicle, and it explodes a bit
too.

Damage: 6/10

Boss Battle Strategies:

Time to make Minion pay for winning the previous contest, for nothing.
Destroy his shield, using power missiles or fire missiles or whatever,
until the shield is deactivated. When you finished doing all that crap,
run for health first. Now, take Junkyard Dog to the upper level of the
arena, and make a run around the battle area, collecting all the
weapons in the same time. Make sure you keep an eye to the power
missiles. If he's attacking you, use your turbo to help you easier.
When you've made one round full, get down and ready your special
attack. Aim, and let go. Hit him? Now, hit one more. Ok, when you
explored the arena just now, have you collected the power missile I
told you to? Now, run, using turbo and balance your vehicle. Ok, wait
until your special generates, and when it appears at your inventory,
shoot the special attack first. Make sure you aim properly though,
because you don't want to miss this. Now, quickly shoot your power
missiles! He should be dead by now, but if he's still breathing, make
sure he stops right away! You know what to do next right...

Warhawk would be a little harder with this character... But no worries, I
have the strategy using this tough guy! Starting the battle, the rules
are very simple. Quickly run for the weapons, get health if you damaged
yourself in that process, and fill up your turbo meter, because his
vehicle is a slow type, not a fast type. Ok, have you thought about
reaching Warhawk with your special? I don't think you can really guess
the answer, not even me, but it's a big risk if you decide to shoot him
with your special from that far apart distance. If you do, you'll get
your butt kicked fast, and you don't want that now do you? So, be
prepared, and get a good aim, because you'll be shooting the tankers
only, from a distance. Stay away at least an inch from one of the
tankers, and fire your attack. You may either shoot the special attack
first, and the weapons second, but I would recommend you shoot the
weapons first, this way will allow you to kill the tankers easily, and
that way damaging Warhawk's shield more. You must really have good
timing, aim and distance to be able to win for this character.

Manslaughter:

Special Description: Manslaughter's special causes some good damage to
the enemy. He releases some pile of flaming rocks from the back of his
truck. It can either go front or back, causing some severe damage. It
works better in a close range, but too close can make it go over the
enemy, so watch out. It spreads out to thousand pieces of rocks, and it
will surely hit the enemy if aimed properly. It's very effective for
boss battles, since the bosses are huge.

Damage: 7/10

Boss Battle Strategies:

Ok, got used with Manslaughter's special attack yet? Well, you better
be, because you must be really good in aiming to attack Minion. But, I
wouldn't say it's tough, because his size is making your work 70%
easier, and you must use your brains a bit for the rest. After
destroying his shield, run back, get some space, estimate the range
your attack will go, and fire. You should hit him, but if you wait till
he comes too close, you'll miss the attack because you need some
distance from the enemy to make his attack works. Repeat and watch your
health. You might get lots of damage while waiting for Minion to come.
He will most likely shoot you first before you shoot him, because
you're the one that is waiting. So, always watch your health, get some
space, and fire. You'll also have to get weapons to defeat him easier.

Have I mentioned that fighting Warhawk is harder, and in other words,
easier? It doesn't make sense, and so does this! Ok first, collect
weapons to disable his shield, and health for your life. Now, get away
from Warhawk, shoot him with some homing missiles, and use ordinary
weapons against him. Since you can't use your special against him, you
can only use it for the tankers, so save weapons and run from the
tankers while collecting. After you had collected enough, shoot the
tankers, & use your special while it is going to explode. Just wait
till Warhawk pays a visit, and fire. It won't be tough, and after
you've disabled his shield, it's up to you to kill him with ordinary
weapons. I would always recommend you to get life after disabling it,
cause you might be in quiet a bad shape.

Mr. Grimm:

Special Description: This freaky-looking guy has a devastating special
attack, but one of the hardest to aim for. When equipped in the
inventory, he will take something out from his vehicle, some sort of
blade, which should be sharp & deadly. You'll have to aim very
accurately, or you'll miss and waste it. It has no homing capabilities,
so keep it and use it in close-range battles; it works easier,
recommended, and guarantees to damage the opponents, and it explodes
when hit and opponent. It will always go in a straight line.

Damage: 9/10

Boss Battle Strategies:

Mr. Grimm's special attack works well for Minion's switches, but it
will be useless after disabling his shield. The fight always requires
some special attacks, and if you finish everything, then you most
probably die. So, use only one, that may be fine, but keep the rest and
let the special attacks generate itself for the moment. Now, pick up
weapons and drive along the first floor, collecting everything. Use
turbo if Minion is chasing and shooting from behind, & remember, you
can hardly dodge his attacks, but it is possible if you do it right.
Anyway, after collecting enough pickups, get some range from him, and
start shooting you weapons first, along with your machine gun for extra
damage. Now, use your special attacks until they finish, and Minion
should be dead. Be sure to let Minion stay in a straight line as your
target, because you don't want to miss even a special or a power
missile. So, aim properly & accurately.

Ok, start as usual; collect weapons first. Now, you have no choice but
to shoot the tankers only, and don't aim at Warhawk. It might work, but
it is not recommended, because it is too risky. By choosing either one
of the ways, prepare your weapons in your inventory. Now, shoot the
tankers, change to your special attack, & wait until Warhawk comes
close. Now, release your special. Repeat this for 2 to 3 times and
Warhawk should be defeated. Remember to watch for your health and use
turbo if necessary. Always shoot the tankers from a distance, and use
the fire missile, it is recommended. You may use the homing missile,
but you can only damage the tankers by a little.

Outlaw:

Special Description: Outlaw's special attack uses a machine gun, when
equipped, he will stand out of his vehicle's roof (he's half standing),
and start aiming at opponents around him. When you use his special
weapon, he will start shooting at the opponents closest to him. He will
change the target himself, and he will find the closest enemy and
target him/her.

From bloodstorm: When the special is selected, Agent Stone will be half
out the top of his vehicle, holding a gun. When you press fire, he will
shoot the gun at any opponents that are around. If you see a laser
sight aimed at an opponent you can shoot missiles at them by tapping
the fire button rapidly.

Damage: 6/10

Boss Battle Strategies:

Start the level by running and dodging Minion's attacks to you, and
collect weapons while running. After that, use fire missiles to disable
Minion's shield, and get some distance away from him. Now, use your
special attack, and along with your machine gun for extra damage. If
he's not dead yet, run away by using your turbo, and collect weapons,
preferably the power missile or the fire missile. Shoot all the weapons
and he'll be dead. But if you still have some special attacks, use it,
but aim for Minion carefully. Since Outlaw's special is hard to use if
the enemy is running or moving around, use them while Minion is facing
you & while he's shooting his weapons.

Ok, time to fight Warhawk. First, get weapons and ready them. When the
tankers come, use your weapons. Remember to keep your special attacks,
so when disabling Warhawk's shield always use your normal weapons, and
always watch out for your health too. Anyway, after disabling Warhawk's
shield, select the special in your inventory. When Warhawk comes to
shoot you his hovering attack, use yours here. Make sure you use it
while he's there, and if you can, try not to move too much. This will
cause Outlaw's special to target at other directions, and this will be
a waste of your special. So, use it carefully. After two special
attacks are used, run for health. Repeat this until Warhawk is dead.

Roadkill:

Special Description: Roadkill's special is a bit odd and different. To
make his special work right, press and hold the fire button until the
lights in front of his vehicle light up, all of them, well, it depends
on the player. When the attack button is released, he will let loose
some missiles which has some homing capabilities. The player can choose
how many missiles he/she wants. Example, if the player wants a quick
attack to an enemy, the player will most probably choose a maximum of
three missiles, so the player should hold the buttons until three
lights are seen, and when released, it will let loose three missiles.
Many missiles cause more damage, but it's pointless if you charge the
attack when the only remaining enemy has a little health left, but it's
totally up to you.

Damage: 7/10

Boss Battle Strategies:

This fight wouldn't be too difficult, because Roadkill's special works
very good for boss battles. First, as usual, collect weapons and get
them ready. Disable his shield, and after this, get some distance a way
from Minion. Now, select your special in your inventory, and shoot them
here. After about two shots, get away, and get health, because you
might've gotten a lot of damage shooting Minion just now. Now, run for
a while, giving opportunities for your special to re-generate. Ok,
after running for a while, and dodging Minion's attacks, shoot all of
your special attacks, along with your machine gun. Charge it up to the
max. Make sure you have full health while doing this, because you'll
encounter Minion, and he's sure to give you a big punch on the face.

Ok, time to test Roadkill on Warhawk. You have two options (but
actually, three to be exact), choose one of them. You can either kill
Warhawk by shooting the tankers, which disables his shield and you can
use weapons afterwards or, you can use normal weapons to disable his
shield first, then use your missiles to finish him. Or if you don't
know which one to choose, use this method. I'm using both options, so
follow these simple steps for Roadkill. Use normal weapons to disable
the tankers, then when Warhawk comes by, shoot the tankers with the
special attack. Now, run for health, some weapons, and wait a few
minutes for your special to generate. Now, use all you got, hopefully
you picked up a lot of homing missiles, and use them, and when Warhawk
hovers to shoot his special, use yours too. Shoot all you got, and he's
down.

Shadow:

Special Description: Shadow releases a beam (purple) that goes straight
and detonates when pressed the second time. It works in close and far
range battles. But moderate range is recommended. Make sure the enemy
is in front, and attack. It is released fairly fast, so use caution. If
the enemy is far, make sure he is in a straight line, estimate when
you're going to detonate it, and attack. This should be done in a
flash, because the enemy might move to other directions, and you'll
miss. It also penetrates through objects, but it is useless if you
detonate it inside.

From: Ryan Zariwney

Second Special

When driving around, and your icon is on Special (Duh...) Press Up, on
the Directional Pad countless times. After around the third time, Raven
will pop out from the top of the vehicle, and fire roughly shots from a
Vulcan mounted to the seat that she rose up on. She aims at the nearest
enemy, and also, that's a very speedy way of taking out Minion's
Shield. It even says that Raven has a second special in the inst. book,
so there it is. The attack has an okay damage rate, since it brought
someone like Outlaw down to a yellow health rating, after opening up
all at him.

Thanks for adding this up. He also added that it seems impossible (or
maybe so) to hit Warhawk with it.

Damage: 6/10

Boss Battle Strategies:
This is a good special when battling Minion. First, as usual, collect
weapons while dodging Minion's attacks. Now, disable his shield with
the weapons. After this, get health, and turbo. Do it quick. Get some
distance away, aim and make sure Minion is in your target and in a
straight line. Now, launch your special. About one second, press the
button again to detonate it. Repeat this step three to four times. Make
sure to run for health after two attacks are launched.

Before we start, let me remind that you can't use you special during
Warhawk's battle. Although it might work, it will give only a little
impact & damage to him, so it's useless doing so. It is better to use
them to the tankers. Anyway, collect weapons, especially fire & homing
missiles, these weapons are very important for the upcoming battle. Use
turbo if necessary. The tankers might be shooting you a bit, but dodge
them if you can. But if you find one pestering you too much, use force,
but make it quick. Now, use the normal method defeating Warhawk, shoot
them with your special and disable them. Now, wait until Warhawk flies
nearby, and destroy them to pieces and in the same time damaging
Warhawk's shield. Now, use normal and remainder of your special to
finish Warhawk off.

Spectre:

Special Description: Spectre's special attack has never changed,
although the color is different from time to time, the ability of its
missile to penetrate through objects remains. Yes, it goes through
walls, concretes and of course objects, except vehicles. It is a bit
similar to the fire missile, but it has better homing capabilities. Its
color is same as the fire missile, but has the ability like the homing
missile. Use it carefully, although the missile itself seeks enemies,
it is always recommended for you to aim and check for nearby enemies
first, and then let the missile loose. It goes fairly fast, but it will
not cause a severe damage to the enemies.

Damage: 5/10

Boss Battle Strategies:

Collect weapons at the start of the level, but take your time, because
you want to have lots of special attacks in this battle. As soon as you
finish exploring the arena, get all of your weapons ready and destroy
Minion's shield. Now, get away, at least two meters away, and start
shooting your specials. You don't have to directly facing him while
firing, because it has homing capabilities, but it is recommended if
you shoot Minion while seeing him in your screen. Repeat these steps
and remember to fill up your health. Do this the right way and you
shall succeed. Also, try to use your machine gun for extra damage.

Ok, now, you can kill Warhawk the easy way, finally. First, run back,
collect weapons, and while doing that, the game automatically generates
your special attacks. Ok, after going one whole circle, and of course
dodging the tankers' attacks all the way till now, shoot your fire
missile to them. Wait till Warhawk comes, and destroy the tanker and
the same time damaging Warhawk's shield. Repeat this and you may use up
to two special attacks but keep the rest for the battle coming ahead.
Now, after disabling Warhawk's shield, use your specials while his
doing his hovering attack. Shoot all you got, until your inventory is
completely empty. Now, finish him anyway you like, but remember to
watch for your health too, & don't get overjoyed.

Sweet Tooth:

Special Description: Sweet Tooth has one of the most devastating
special attacks ever created. Once selected in your inventory, he will
immediately transform his vehicle and readies his weapon. If the attack
button is pressed, he will then launch a maximum of 20 missiles and
you'll have to do the aiming yourself. Now, just target to an enemy,
and launch the attack! He will make a laughing type of sound each time
you use them. It is precious, and one of my favorite characters of all
time. When he's on the transformation process, and if you change the
inventory, he will change to the normal shape back. It's quite cool
when he's transforming his vehicle.

Damage: 9/10

Boss Battle Strategies:

A battle against Minion should be a piece of cake with Sweet Tooth. At
the start of the level, run for weapons, as usual. Now, select the fire
missile, and destroy his shield. After that, recover your health, and
get some distance away. Now, fire you special attack. Remember not to
use your special when disabling Minion's shield, instead use it now.
Anyway, make sure you face him and fire. You should let all the
missiles hit him, so it's easier to finish him off, rather than waiting
and collecting weapons or maybe you'll have to wait for your specials
to regenerate. Stop and run for health if necessary. Repeat these steps
and he should be dead in no time.

When you start off the level, quickly run for weapons, and use you
turbo if a tanker is on your tail. Now, finish the first tanker with
normal weapons, and make sure you damage Warhawk by at least half (if
it's not then repeat this again). Now get health. Then, ready your
special attacks. Now, shoot the next tanker with your special. When it
is disabled, destroy it and Warhawk's shield by using your special
attack again. If you're quick, you'll destroy the tanker and Warhawk's
shield the same time, plus the missiles might damage Warhawk after his
shield is destroyed. If you have one more special left, you can use it
when he's about to go down doing his attack. You'll get him by half, or
sometimes more than a half, but try using your homing missiles for
greater damage.

Warthog:

Special Description: Warthog's special is an orange laser attack. It
looks similar to Minion's attack but Minion has further range and I
think it is more powerful than Warthog's. When you use Warthog's
special, it will shoot out a laser that is quite powerful but it will
not aim for enemies, so you will have to aim yourself. Use his special
wisely, and try to use it when battling bosses or to a group of
enemies, it works great. However, it will not last long. It lasts about
three seconds and it will be gone soon.

Damage: 8/10

Boss Battles Strategies:

Make sure you have lots of weapons after the start of the level. Go one
round and get up to the first floor. Dodge Minion's attacks to you, and
use your turbo. Now, disable his shield, use one of your specials, but
keep the rest. It is recommended that you use the fire missiles;
they're good for Minion's shield. Anyway, after you've destroyed his
shield, get health and start looking for weapons again. Get turbo too,
because it's easier for you to escape whenever you're chased by Minion.
So, have all the weapons? It's time to destroy Minion. Get up to the
first floor, and start shooting your specials. Keep shooting until you
finish all of them. Now, use ordinary weapons against him. Keep
shooting all you got. Try not to die even once, because you'll lose all
the weapons. So, if you see your health is at stake, stop and run for
the health icon, and use turbo. Repeat these steps and you'll win in no
time.

At the start of the level, get weapons, collect fire missiles, it is
recommended. Now, use your fire missiles to the first tanker that comes
by until it is disabled, and use your special once Warhawk is close.
Now, repeat this until he's shield in destroyed. Now, get health, and
refill your turbo. Collect weapons, especially homing missiles, and use
them to destroy Warhawk. You cannot reach Warhawk because he's flying,
but you can try when he's doing his hovering attack. It is very hard
though, but if you use the other way instead, I guarantee it will work.

Yellow Jacket:

Special Description: Yellow Jackets' special is some sort of sharp
needle type objects that shoots out from the bottom of the vehicle
whenever it is released. It is very hard to aim for enemies, but when
it hits something, it explodes, and gives out quite a good damage to
the enemy. Use it in a crowd or when enemies are chasing or on your
tail.

Damage: 6/10

Boss Battle Strategies:

When battling Minion, use your special when you're close to him. If
you're far from him, the attack might not reach him. Anyway, when the
level starts, collect weapons, and remember to get fire missiles. Use
these missiles against Minion, to destroy his shield. Then, get health.
Use turbo if Minion is shooting from or on your tail. You can try using
your special here too, but concentrate on the game. Remember to collect
weapons while running. After his shield is destroyed, use your specials
against him, do it fast. If you're damaged badly, get weapons. Repeat
these steps to pass on the game.

When the battle starts, get weapons. Now, kill the first tanker with
fire missiles, and damage Warhawk's shield. Then, get health, and
turbo. Now, disable the next tanker, and destroy it with your special.
Now, after Warhawk's shield is destroyed, use your fire missiles and
some homing missiles to kill him. I don't think you can reach Warhawk
with your special, but you may try, but I won't recommend it.




#4. T i p s  F o r  D e f e a t i n g  B o s s e s

Side Note: You might want to refer to the section above, in Part C to
know how your characters' special works, and then you can get to this
section back. I recommend this because you should know how to manage
your character well, whomever you're playing as, so it's easier for you
to pass on in the game, without repeating the same level over and over
again, & eventually you'll get bored, trust me. You can skip the parts
where you battle the bosses though, because you won't be knowing that
yet, until you reach this section. Remember, if you're unsure of
anything about your character, you may check that part, and then you
might be better. But, as I may understand, if you're new to Twisted
Metal: Black, then, you should refer to this section first, or refer to
the above section for the special descriptions the first, and scroll
down here when you're done. Or maybe you can't get on with the above
part, then it's fine. I can never force you, but I can always advice
you. So, consider this as an important note. Anyway, let's get on.

Part 1: Boss Stage 4 - Minion

Found In Level: Minion's Stadium

About The Boss: Ok, so you definitely know that this guy is a super
big-sized guy right? If you don't know than you might as well guess
that he is, but actually, he is, honestly, look at him. Don't worry,
just keep your eyes wide open. It's time to show you're tougher than
you look. Well, if you made your promise already than you might just
don't break the promise.

Let me tell you about him and his advantage. He is big, so he uses his
size against you. His ramming, which sometimes he doesn't mean to ram
you but he accidentally does it. If he rams you, you can get pretty bad
damage, but I suggest that you don't try it out right now ok. So, make
sure you stay away at least a meter from him whenever you start the
battle. The second advantage is, his special attack. He has two, and
one of them is a mixed attack. His first attack is his laser beam. This
is his favorite attack, because he'll get himself as near to you as
possible. He'll fire and when he does, the weapon on top of his tank
will squirt some weird looking, orange type laser. This is why you
shouldn't go near him, and believe me, it'll give tons of damage, which
sometimes kills you instantly. His other attack is this fireball thing.
If you're far away from him, he'll fire you some fireballs which
follows you, just like a homing missile, but slower than that. He'll
give about 7 to 8 shots (if I'm not mistaken) and he'll stop (sometimes
its randomly chosen). This will also leave a big trouble, and you're
now ready to die. His mixed attack is a bit funny. Like I mentioned,
the laser beam comes out only if you're near him, so how if you run
away from him when he started the laser attack already? Definitely, the
laser can't go too far can it? So, if you run away when he is attacking
you with his laser attack, he'll fire his fireballs, together with the
laser, and that is why I called it a mixed attack. It's cool isn't it?
Seeing this wonderful boss with so much weaponry attacks. Oh yeah, he
also has a shield protector to protect him from attacks. Remember, his
weapon on top of his vehicle aims at you wherever you are, so think
about getting rid of it first will you (I'm just kidding).

Defeating The Boss: Well, take it easy. Don't panic, we'll solve this
calmly alright. Before anything, you must NEVER use your special
attacks, at least for a while. Keep them first, just do it, trust me.
You may use up to two special attacks, but please keep the rest. Now,
your attention will go straight to it's shield which surrounds the
vehicle. Do you notice the green switches? There are four green
switches. They look weird don't they? Yep, time to destroy the shield.
Here's the way. You must shoot each and every one of the switches in
order to shut down the shield around Minion. You can try using your
machine guns for the first time, but I recommend using the fire
missile. It works great, but if you use the homing missile, it might be
ok as well. But the homing missile does not really give a big impact on
the switches, so fire missiles work perfect. Shooting the front switch
is easy but you might get beaten up pretty bad by Minion, but don't
worry. Fire, and quickly run to it's side. Then make a circle around
him and fire him again. Do this repeatedly but ALWAYS watch out for
your health. If it goes to half, then stop this quickly and run for the
health icon. Again, fire one of his switches. I found out that the back
switch seems tough, because often times he likes to face you and always
turn his tank so you should be very fast on this. This might be tough
for you, well sometimes for me too, but you'll have better advantage
with fast and small vehicles. You must also collect weapons remember,
so timing is the key. Your health, your weapons and the speed of your
car are important things in order to defeat Minion. If your character's
speed is low, than you just have to rely on your turbo. Make sure your
turbo is full, or at least half full.

So, once his shield is out, run from him a little while, then collect
weapons to kill him. Ok, this is the tough and easy part. Sounds crazy
huh? Well, it is crazy. Now, you should be completely full of health,
weapons, and turbo. I always deal with these things in order to blow
him up. Oh yeah, did you keep your special attacks? Well, now is the
time to use them. Wait for him to come (if he doesn't go a bit nearer
to him), and slowly fire your special attacks. If you're special attack
is powerful, then you might as well killed him already. If he's not
dead yet, do not continue shooting him but instead run away (turbo if
you can) and wait in another spot. If he fires his special attack,
quickly run to him but just touch him a bit and wait in the opposite
direction you were just a moment ago. If he fires his fireballs, just
run to him, but make a circle so that the fireballs hit him back. It is
actually very hard and difficult, but if you can't then you might just
have to let the fireballs hit you. Quickly get after the health icon.
Then, don't waste this opportunity. Now, shoot out everything you have,
until you have nothing left. Make sure you face him and he's not using
his special attack. Then, you should've killed him. Congratulations,
you just killed the first boss, Minion. Advance and remember the steps
always.

8 Short Simple Steps Defeating Minion:

1.	Keep all special attacks (use them if necessary).
2.	Shoot all four panels.
3.	Take out shield.
4.	Watch out for health and take it whenever possible.
5.	Do not approach too close.
6.	Collect all pickups.
7.	Wait in a safe spot to begin attack.
8.	Use every weapons possible. Make sure every attack hits enemy.

Strategies From Other Authors:

Strategy From justg:

Specific Strategies:

In order to get rid of Minion's shields you must destroy each of the
panels on each side of Minion.  The front and side panels are easy
enough, but the rear can cause some pain.

Rear Panel Strategies:
-   Go invisible and let him move past you and the fire at the rear
panel.
-   Be real fast and try to circle him by jumping off of one of the
blocks into the arena while he is coming up a ramp.

General Strategy:
-   Keep moving around the upper level of the stadium and reverse fire
at him.


Strategy From bloodstorm:

Minion Strategy:
This is the level where you'll fight Minion during story mode.  When
you start Minion has a shield that must be destroyed before you can
hurt him.  To destroy the shield, you have to destroy the four panels
(front, rear, left, and right).

To destroy the panels, you just have to hit Minion on the corresponding
side (shoot him in the front to destroy the front panel, on the left
side to destroy the left panel, etc.).  The front panel will take the
most hits, the left and right will take about the same amount of damage
before dying, and the back panel can be destroyed with one homing
missile (but it's the hardest to hit since Minion is usually facing
you).

I'd recommend using homing missiles, fire missiles, and the machine gun
to destroy the panels, but you can use anything.  After you destroy the
forth panel, the shield will be destroyed and you can use your more
powerful weapons to destroy him.  To avoid taking too much damage, try
to keep moving and don't let him get too close.  His close range attack
is very powerful, so if you want to get close I'd recommend using the
shield and not staying close for very long.


Strategy From D-Plus:

Strategies for Beating Minion

The best strategy for beating Minion is quiter simple.
First, drive around and max out most of your weapons.
Then start turning around Minion just dodging his attacks. When you
come around, be ready with missiles and machine gun fire. You'll need
to destroy all four panels of Minion's tanker (front, back and two
sides) to deactivate his force field. After you do this, you then need
to use the hit and run technique to wear his health down. After you
beat him, you'll view your driver's middle movie.


Strategy From KrayzieGuy86:

Stage 4: Minion
This guy is CHEAP. He has infinite specials and it's the most
devastating special in the game!!! Minion has 4 panels controlling his
shield. The front, left, right, and back. You must take them out in
order to lower the shield.
Well, at first you gotta go around the ring and collect as many weapons
as you can. Then put up your shields and fire all you got at him.
Continue doing so. It is very tough to get the back panel though.
Thankfully, it is destroyed in at least 2 hits. You'll eventually get
it. That's pretty much all ya gotta do. When his shield is down fire
away and he'll be down for the count.




Part 2: Boss Stage 8 - Warhawk

Found In Level: Warhawk's Rooftop

About The Boss: Final boss pal. There's no way but to fight. Let me
tell you about this freaky guy. This is the first time I see a
character using a helicopter as his vehicle. Relax alright. As far as I
observed, he has nothing more like Minion but only one special attack.
His special attack is a bit similar to the weapon we always use -
zoomy. The only difference is that his special attack does not really
come out all together. It comes out slowly and get you in a big
trouble. He always use this weapon, trust me. He uses it all the time,
but sometimes he use ordinary weapons.

Since he's flying all around and stops at one spot, there's also
another threat. The tankers. A bit similar to Minion, these tanker's
special attacks are definitely Minion's special attack. You have to see
it to believe it. They even look the same as Minion, but a bit short in
length. Like I mentioned in the section above, these tankers carry
laser beams and fireballs, so prepare to battle Minion and Warhawk at
the same time. The tankers will never be demolished, well, they do
explode and die but they will keep coming until Warhawk's shield is
destroyed. This means that you're threatened by a group of crazy
tankers, which will never be dead. Huh? This is crazy. Two against one,
this is definitely not fair isn't it? We'll talk about that later. Now,
like Minion, Warhawk has a shield too. The difference is that he has no
switches. How the hell you shut down his shield (see below)? Anyway,
when he stops, he face directly at you and he'll start shooting. Most
of the time, he'll use his special attack, instead of using ordinary
weapons. After he runs out of his first special attack, he'll fly off
again and start doing the same thing. Then the tankers will come and
shoot you. Seems like he has some sort of backup units don't you think?
Forget about that. According to my own study, I think that Warhawk's
shield is stronger than Minion's. This is because Minion's shield is
depending on its switches, but Warhawk's shield is not depending on
anything. No switches, no weak point or whatsoever. Al right then,
let's find out how to defeat him.

Defeating The Boss: Warhawk, weird name and freaky, right? He is
freaky, just forget about him. Now, let's face it. You can't find the
switches around Warhawk's body just like you found around Minion's car.
How strange. Oh yeah, you must be good in judging your character too.
See if your character's special attack is an aiming one or if it is not
an aiming one. If it is an aiming one, that's a good news and you can
use for both Warhawk and the tankers. If it's not, than your special
attacks will be useless for Warhawk but it will still be useful for the
tankers since the tankers don't fly right? Just wait for further
instrauctions.   Anyway, let's continue. He has no weak points on him.
Well, he has one, but he's not really revealing it. First guess,
shooting the shield with lots of weapons. Ok tried that way, it doesn't
work. Then, how about the tankers? They do look strange and they
explode quite powerful, don't you think? So, I'll reveal the secret to
you.

Here's the way. You have to be good in estimating things. So, you must
guess where's Warhawk when he's flying above you. Once you found the
spot he is, (usually near the place where the tankers jump out is a
good place) quickly shoot the tanker and make sure that the tanker is
already on the ground and not coming over al right. Got it? Remember to
fire your machine guns along with your weapons to kill him easier. Ok
now, once the tanker's life is out, they'll write on your screen
'Tanker Disabled' and now you have to wait until Warhawk is coming near
and make sure he's at the perfect spot where you can blow up the tanker
to damage Warhawk's shield. You can also try using your special attacks
here if yours are not the aiming type. If yours are the ones which can
home in an opponent, just keep it first and don't use them right now.
Remember to fill your health first before doing this repeatedly. Doing
this without taking your life is a BIG and MAJOR way to be killed. This
is the only way. Well, maybe there are other ways but I don't know
them. Anyway, once the screen shows these words 'Warhawk Shield
Damaged', he's shield is still active but a bit crooked and not stable.
If you really aim for his chopper accurately, then it may take about
two or three times killing the tankers and to disable his shield.
Remember, this is the second and final boss so he could not be a piece
of cake. So, I gave you the way to destroy his shield. Now, how about
defeating him after all that nonsense?

So, you destroyed Warhawk's shield already? That was quick. Now, to
kill him even quicker. After his shield has been destroyed, keep away
and get into the square-shaped place that keeps the health icon. Get in
and stay there for a moment. After he's attack in the middle landing
place, use all your weapons. Did you keep your special attacks? If so,
use them right now. Remember, your one MUST be the ones that can pursue
the opponent. Use all of them and Warhawk's health now should be
threatened. Use all of your weapons you have and hide in the square-
shaped place again. Now, all you have to do is collect fire missiles
and homing missiles and believe me, that's more than enough to kill
him. His abilities are nothing without his shield, so don't be afraid.
Do not approach when he is using his special attack, doing so may kill
you. But instead, hide in the square shaped place first and wait until
he's flying around and now shoot him until he dies. End of story. Say
goodbye and wave your hands. Congratulations, you just defeated
Warhawk, the best guy dealing with wars.

8 Short Simple Steps Defeating Warhawk:

1.	Find weak point - tankers.
2.	Make a smart guess of where Warhawk is - shoot the tankers.
3.	Destroy the shield.
4.	Quickly run for health and weapons.
5.	Hide in the square shaped place with the health icon.
6.	Use all of the special attacks if they're homing ones.
7.	Hide and collect both of the fire & homing missiles together.
8.      Attack when he's flying around. Hit him with collected weapons.


Strategies From Other Authors:

Strategy From justg:

Specific Strategies:
  For starters this is not going to be easy... at all.

First Part of Battle:
Initially you will have to disable a few tankers, then, when WarHawk is
close enough, you will need to actually destroy the tanker in order to
damage WarHawk's Shield. After three or four successful damages the
shield will be gone.
-   You are safe in the buildings from Warhawk, but not the tankers.
-   Be sure to disable the tankers near the center pad, else you may
not damage Warhawk at all when you destroy the tankers.
-   Do not waste anytime on Warhawk until the shield is destroyed.

Second Part of Battle:
At this point all goes to hell. You no longer have to worry about the
tankers, but Warhawk is on the war path.  He will hover over the center
pad and fire a barrage of missiles and bombs at you. He will then fly
off, circle around, strafe after you and then repeat.
-   Stay inside a building when he is in the center, he cannot harm
you.
-   When he leaves, you should also leave the building and make some
pick-ups.
-   It would be beneficial, especially for the slower vehicles, to use
shield
  When Warhawk is coming after you or you are out of the shelter.
-   Try to shoot homing missiles at him if you can determine where he
is. This is best done after he passes you on a strafe and is returning
to the center pad. He is not shooting at you and the missiles will
actually hit him.
-   If you have a special that seeks its target or is thrown in the
air, us it.
-   VERY BENEFICIAL:  Pick up the Satellite Skill weapon!  When he is
returning to the center pad fire it with the target in the center of
the pad.  All missiles will hit him and it does a fair amount of
damage.  Plus, when you are that close it is easier to avoid his fire
because you are immediately below him.
NOTE:  The target does not have to be on the pad the entire time, just
when you want to shoot the weapon.  Try starting it when he is coming
back toward the center so it will be red when he gets there.


Strategy From bloodstorm:

Warhawk Strategy: To beat Warhawk, you must first destroy his shield.
To do this you need to deactivate the tankers that come from a building
in the background while they are near the center of the arena, and then
blow them up when Warhawk is hovering in the center.

After a few tankers are destroyed to damage his shield, you can attack
Warhawk directly.  You can hit him with fire missile, homing missiles,
and the like, but what I find works well is to go to the center of the
arena when he is hovering there and then shoot anything you have at the
spiked pole he has at the front of his helicopter.

Also, while you are relatively safe from Warhawk's attacks in the
structures, he can destroy them if he hits them enough, so be careful.
Use your shield a lot when you're not in the structures and be careful
that he doesn't push you off of the building with his evil spike
dealie.


Strategy From D-Plus:

Strategies for Beating Warhawk

There's only one way to beat Warhawk and that way can get quite
frustrating. First, when the battle begins, circle the roof collecting
everything you can get your hands on. Then, a tanker will come into
play. Attack it from a distance so it wont freeze or burn you. When
it's disabled, wait for Warhawk to hover above it. When he does, blast
the remains of the tanker. You will need to do this three times.
After you do so, start circling the roof again this time collecting
homing missiles. Use them (or a homing special attack) to attack
Warhawk. You can use fire missiles but they are harder to aim. Some
special attacks work real well such as Outlaw's Mounted Gunner and
Spectre's Ghost Missile. After you do this, you will view your driver's
ending movie.


Strategy From KrayzieGuy86:

Stage 8: Warhawk
This battle is EASY. I can't stress how easy it is. When I first fought
Warhawk with Roadkill I was like "Oh shit". I destroy the tankers and
blow them up when Warhawk is directly above them. I shoot a few
specials at him and he's a goner. It's soooo simple. Ask me, and I
think they should've made Minion final boss. :D But seriously. To beat
him: About a minute into the battle, Tankers that look like Minion will
jump from a nearby building onto Warhawk's Rooftop. Destroy 'em and
push them onto the helipad. Or, you can just leave them and wait for
the red dot to get over the orange dot (on the radar) and fire at the
tanker. Either way, it's simple. Continue doing so until the third
time. OR if you're lucky, (as I was) the shields might be destroyed in
2 turns, rather than 3. Next, grab the Skill-Based Pick-Up and hope you
get a Satellite. If so, when Warhawk gets above the helipad, fire
the Satellite once, put up your shield and wait for the missiles to
drop on him. This should take out about 50% of his health. Do this
another time and Warhawk is toast. :)




#5. F r e q u e n t l y  A s k e d  Q u e s t i o n s

Well, this is the special section where I created it just for you, and
your questions about this game I always bump with at the message
boards. More questions MIGHT be answered soon, so be patient.

 Can I unlock Warhawk?

No, you can't. There are rumors that Warhawk was actually a playable
character, but the producers & directors changed it at the time it was
near release. I don't know why, but some say that it was because
Warhawk flies, and in Twisted Metal series, there never was a flying
character, except in Twisted Metal 4, but that character was actually
only hovering, not flying. So, the creators changed their mind and
released it this way.


 What is the opera song playing as a background in Crazy 8's middle
movie?

Alright, here goes. I've been receiving a lot of name titles 
and I'm not sure these are correct ones. Since I don't give info on 
this matter, I would like to thank those people who gave me the info, with 
two different name titles. Which is which? You tell me.

Luciano Pavorotti - I Pagliacci

Thanks to Jay999 for this info (GameFAQs Message Board username)

Vesti la Guibba (band not known/not told)

Thanks to Daniel Poole for this info (e-mail)


 I found an icon that says 'Warhawk unlocked', but when I check at the
characters section, I can't find it. What does it say that and where is
Warhawk?

The word was meant to mean that you've unlocked the Warhawk's Rooftop
level, not him. Don't be confused, and don't have to worry about it. I
got confused myself for the first time too, and I was shocked, but cool
down, cause nobody unlocked anyone yet.


 What is the name of the song playing in the credits page?

Paint It Black - Rolling Stones.


 Is there any news about the upcoming Twisted Metal?

No, but as soon as it comes up, I will update this part and tell you
about it.


 Your FAQ says that I must go here and hide, but instead, I died
staying there? Why is this happening?

This FAQ is just an alternative way to your succession. I will try to
help you as hard as I can, and not 100%. So, the best thing is that you
just take tips on how to defeat either bosses, and I do recommend doing
your own way & style, because mainly, this FAQ is only giving you
general and basic ways and tactics to defeat them. If you still
couldn't win, read other strategies that has been listed in this FAQ,
from other authors.


 Why is Minion smaller than the boss Minion?

I asked this before in the message boards, and those guys said that
they did that probably because they cannot fit him into most of the
levels if they make him big as the original. This was also done for
Twisted Metal: Small Brawl.

 My ass got kicked up pretty bad nearly all the time, even in easy
difficulty. Is there any way to escape?

Actually, when you're in the game, it's really hard to tell where the
enemy goes, and what he'll do next. Sometimes you're really far from
the enemies, but still you'll get a hit from some missiles flying by.
These are all the challenges in the game, so it is really impossible to
answer the question, unless if you use cheats, then you really won't
experience the fun now, won't you? If you use cheats, then it's
definitely not a big deal, everyone can cheat, and winning the game
with cheats is pretty simple. I'm not trying to tell you not to try the
cheats out, but it'll get boring once you advance through the game and
seeing your life bar not decreasing, not even once.




#6. S p e c i a l  T h a n k s

To The Great Authors' Strategies (listed in alphabetical order):

bloodstorm - For both Warhawk & Minion guide.
           - For the Axel info.
           - For further info regarding the repair stations.
           - For telling me the machine gun upgrade's bullets round.
           - For the Darkside explanations.
           - And for the Outlaw's special info.

D-Plus - For both Warhawk & Minion Strategies.

Justg - For the easy guide for Minion & Warhawk.

KrayzieGuy86 - For his strategy defeating Minion & Warhawk.

Contributors:

Daniel Poole - For the opera info

Jay999 - Also for the opera info

Ryan Zariwney - For the Shadow's second special info.

Well, we reached the closing part of this FAQ, and here I'd like to
give credits for those who helped me getting information for this FAQ.
First, I'd like to thank the site tmalliance.com for their awesome
Twisted Metal site. A lot of thank you to the creators of Twisted Metal
Black for their awesome game. CJayC for keeping this site alive. Again,
to all the authors for their strategies. You guys rock! And to you, for
reading my FAQ!

That's it for now, and I'll see you with more updates coming up with
many more strategies from other people and my own observations. I'll
still be checking for any urgent information that has to do with this
FAQ. I'll welcome any suggestions and any complains, but with polite
words are appreciated.

My e-mail address (again) is: [email protected]

Again, no part of this FAQ may be reproduced in any form, shape, or
transmitted, in any ways, or any forms by any means (electronic,
mechanical, recording, or otherwise) without prior permission from the
author. This means no copying, no publishing, or any other illegal
activities. This FAQ is posted only in GameFAQs and nowhere else. If
other websites had taken this FAQ to theirs (a secured site), I won't
mention them here. This FAQ copyright 2003 - 2004 by the author
piecemealcranky. The author may agree or disagree with any suggestions
given.

Copyright (c) 2003 - 2004 by piecemealcranky

E N D  O F  D O C U M E N T