Persona 3 Reload, like many RPGs, introduces a range of significant and minor bosses throughout its extensive gameplay. Major bosses typically emerge during a full moon, shaping the game’s calendar structure around preparing for these pivotal encounters.
The first major boss, encountered in a cutscene before the tutorial fight, sets the stage. However, the Priestess marks the initial major battle that demands some strategic preparation. Despite her early appearance, the fight isn’t excessively challenging, but a specific element adds a sense of urgency to the encounter.
Don’t Sweat the Time Limit
The crucial advice here is to remain composed and not succumb to panic due to the imposed time limit. The battle unfolds on a moving train bound for a collision, initiating with a 30-minute time limit that effectively shortens to around 10 minutes as the Priestess accelerates the train multiple times using her skill, Invitation to Chaos.
While dealing with her relentless attacks, lack of weaknesses, and summoned minions, maintaining a balance between healing when necessary and attacking the present enemies is vital. Notably, her minions are susceptible to fire, ice, or wind, so exploiting these weaknesses becomes crucial for a swift resolution.
In dealing with the Priestess herself, casting Rebellion on Junpei enhances the chances of landing critical hits. Even without critical hits, dispatching the boss doesn’t take significantly more time.
Apart from the time limit, the Priestess’ Ice Storm attack poses a threat, affecting the entire party and potentially freezing a member. Ensure at least one Persona has Baisudi to cure any frozen party members.
The protagonist remains secure by bringing in ice-resistant Personas like Silky or immune ones like Jack Frost. Alternatively, Yukari with Media for full-party healing is effective. The Cure Water item provides additional assistance, especially if you prefer conserving MP for spells.
The enemies in this battle don’t inflict particularly high damage, so maintaining everyone consistently above half-health ensures their well-being. Carrying a few Revival Beads is advisable in case any party member goes down.
With likely overlap in early-game Persona skills, entering the fight with some or all of the recommended personas and skills requires minimal preparation. With consistent attacks, the Priestess is likely to fall with several minutes remaining on the clock.
After defeating her, the protagonist halts the train, saving the party, and you can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that future bosses won’t be constrained by time limits.
