Star Wars Jedi: Survivor's core is the story of Cal Kestis, and throughout the events of the game, players will get to learn more not just about this Jedi Knight and his allies but also the larger galaxy as a whole, including coming face-to-face with one of the most impressive villains that have led the Empire for quite some time. For players hoping to learn the ins and outs of trying to best this Sith Lord, this guide will have vital tips on how to beat Darth Vader in Star Wars Jedi: Survivor.
How to Beat Darth Vader in Star Wars Jedi: Survivor
Due to prior events that have taken place, players will not be controlling Cal Kestis in this fight. Instead, it will be up to Cere Junda, who will take the fight to Darth Vader. What is important to note is that Cere possesses only a single lightsaber stance compared to Kestis' more varied repertoire, she can only heal four times, and her Force powers are also limited. This is a fight of pure lightsaber combat mastery, so get ready.
The entire fight against Darth Vader takes place in the Archives on Jedha and is split into three distinct parts. Each subsequent stage will see Vader get even more aggressive and powerful, so it is important for players to withstand the early storm so that the latter stages are more manageable. A careful approach with proper timing is the best way forward, so learning the patterns of his attacks should be the first thing to master.
Darth Vader - First Stage
As dangerous as it sounds, it is more beneficial to stay near Darth Vader during the fight. It allows players to constantly keep the pressure up by attacking and depleting Vader's guard bar. When he attacks with his primary lightsaber combo of three strikes, make sure to catch the deliberate timing to parry them. This constant back and forth will form the foundation of winning this fight.
Vader will also use unblockable attacks, so when he flashes red for his grab attack, remember to dodge backwards or to the side at the last possible moment to avoid significant damage; otherwise, heal when there is a need to. At any time, Vader is also capable of breaking any ongoing combo by players to initiate an offensive of his own, so keep the blocks up.
Darth Vader - Second Stage
While most of the strategy applies in the second stage, this time around, Darth Vader will start using projectiles. Anytime players get too far from the boss, he will use the Force to grab debris to hurl at Cere. There will also be occasions where Vader will Force Push players away for a short stun before using projectiles, so remember to dodge accordingly.
Darth Vader - Third and Final Stage
As his health gets depleted further, Darth Vader now mixes in even more attacks to keep players honest. A new lightsaber combo of five hits will come into play, with two unblockable attacks added to spice things up. While the first few attacks can be parried, prepare to dodge the rest. He can also Force Pull Cere into range to start attacks. The projectiles are now more dangerous as well, with the added flames capable of more damage. Do not forget to go on the offensive, and with enough persistence, the fight will be over.
While there is no specific trophy or achievement tied to this battle, that sense of achievement in completing one of the toughest fights in Star Wars Jedi: Survivor is definitely worth celebrating. There is always the choice of switching the difficulty if he is still being too troublesome, so pick the path that makes the most sense, as long as good triumphs over evil.
Star Wars Jedi: Survivor is available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S.