Maneater is a game that's laced with many deadly waters that are populated with predatory sea monsters. One, in particular, is the Apex Alligator and it can be a formidable foe for the shark if not its not prepared for the face-off. This guide will layout methods on how to beat it.
Maneater was released on May 22, 2020, by Tripwire Interactive. It's an epic tale of revenge with a shark that was disfigured by a fevered Cajun shark-hunter named 'Scaly Pete' after he also killed the shark's mother. Being an action-RPG, Maneater is a Metroidvania style game in which players start off as a harmless pup in the bayou, gradually earning XP to ultimately upgrade into a Megalodon. The shark begins with basic "biting attacks" and can eventually use its tail to smack around enemies to stun them to set up a finishing attack. Thus, there are slight science-fiction elements intertwined into the game in which the shark can grow 'electric spikes' and even armor. Players must "act like a shark" and consume everything in sight. The more nutrients the shark absorbs the bigger and meaner it will become.
The locations throughout the game are vast and quite different. Players will begin their journey in the swamp and they will fight across; sewer systems, beaches, and eventually into open waters. Breaking through into other locations require specific upgrades and move sets that players will need to progress through the game. Exploring the waters and finding collectibles is encouraged to help flesh out the story and even increase the chances of evolving the shark. Sometimes, there are bosses that act as "guardians of gateways" in the form of 'Apex Predators' that can be a brutal fight for the shark, unless properly equipped. There are; Orcas, Sperm Whales, other sharks, and even alligators. Players will encounter the Apex Alligator fairly early in the game at Fawtick Bayou and they will need to utilize methods in order to bypass it.
How To Beat The Apex Alligator In Maneater
Standing 'tooth-to-tooth' with the Apex Alligator (which is at level 20) happens when the shark is still a pup at the beginning of the game. So, its advised that players don't fight it until Fawtick Bayou is pretty much picked clean and there's enough XP accumulated (level 5-10 ideally). Rule of thumb is to avoid fighting enemies until the shark is roughly the same size as the enemy. This is a good visual indicator that the shark is tough enough to fight whatever is before it. Usually, players can defeat a sea creature that's a few levels above it, if they play smart. When it comes to fighting alligators in Maneater, there is a specific way to combat them.
Alligators can be considered the "Heavy Class" within the roster of sea predators. They're generally slow, but they can dish out massive damage with their attacks. It is best to quickly swim up and take a few bites (preferably on the side) and then retreat. The Apex Alligator in Fawtick Bayou is not much different in terms of its attacks. It's just bigger and more aggressive. Thus, it comes with a devastating "rush attack" that, if connected, will follow up with a barrel roll. The gator will also hit the players with its own 'tail attack' that'll send them flying across the water. There's a split-second visual clue with it's 'tail attack', in that it'll raise it's tail up before it swings it around. So, keep on eye on it.
The moment its tail is raised, get ready to use the 'dodge button' to avoid it. This is also true with its 'rush attack'. The best way to beat the Apex Alligator is sticking with the tried and true "hit and run" tactic. Bite it a few times and run away. If the opportunity reveals itself, smack it with the shark's tail. When retreating, always eat a catfish or two to keep the energy meter full. Luckily, the bayou has some room to dodge and run away, if needed. This method can be a beat tedious, but eventually, players will chip away the boss's health and it'll be taken down. Stay patient and try not to get too greedy with the attacks, slow and steady will win this race. Beating the Apex Alligator will reward the player with the "Amphibious Organ Evolution upgrade" and "+ 2000 Protein, Fat and Mineral" resources. Plus, beating this boss will officially clear the Fawtick Bayou location for players who are completionists.
Maneater is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and Microsoft Windows