Shadow of the Colossus/Basaran - Colossus 9

Basaran, a giant turtle and Colossus number nine, can take a few minutes or up to an hour to defeat him depending on a combination of skill and luck. Knowing how to beat him is half the battle really, since it's not obvious right away. Once you reach the geyser-filled wasteland, use the sword's beam to find a cave; this is where Basaran is located. He'll reveal himself via cutscene and the battle will begin. Instead of galloping towards him (since you should be on Agro), head away from him while weaving to and fro. Like the last battle, this colossus will attack mainly by shooting electric orbs at you, and these will knock you off Agro if they hit. This is why you'll want to weave and/or circle often throughout (hint: you'll know he's about to attack when his mouth glows).

Here's why this battle can be so time consuming: you and Agro can run around for a long time without ever getting anywhere with this colossus. The goal once Basaran is out of the cave is to lead him towards one of the various geysers in the area. It takes a bit of luck to get him in just the right position, but it will happen eventually. The geysers go off periodically, and if Basaran if directly over one when it erupts it'll lift the two legs on one side off the ground. This is your big chance, so head towards the beast and jump off Agro. Equip to bow and fire an arrow each at the green glowing spots on the ankles still on the ground. More than likely, the geyser will then push him over and he'll roll a few times (if your timing isn't right, he'll plop back down and won't flip until next eruption). Ride Agro (running is too slow) around to Basaran's belly and jump-climb up the fur, along the shell, until you reach his back.

Wait for him to flip back over (hold on tight so you don't fall off) before progressing. Once he's righted himself, run along his back up to his head and his only weakpoint. Charged stab until he finally goes down.


 * Note: This boss is no different on Normal or Hard Modes