How to Kill the 16 Colossi in Shadow of the Colossus

Use your sword to plan your attack. The sword is far more than just a weapon. It can also reveal any vital weak spots on a colossus. When approaching a colossus for the first time, use the sword while the creature is in full view. The vital points it displays will give you a target that you must somehow damage. While it may not be immediately clear on how you will reach the vital points, identifying your specific targets is the first step.

Take it slow and approach every colossus as if it were a puzzle. Rushing into an attack will swiftly get you killed. Take time to observe the colossus and how it attacks. Most of the colossi have one or two attacks you must avoid. Keep on your toes and watch for indications that the colossus is about to strike. Once you identify the warning signs that danger is imminent, you will be able to focus more of your attention to the attack while just keeping an eye out for those signs.

Observe the environment. Many of the colossi can be killed only by exploiting the environment. Whether that means sneaking underground to avoid an attack or luring your opponent into a position that will allow you to attack, always keep your eye on the environment for ways to use it to your advantage. When there seems to be no way to approach or harm a particular colossus, look around the environment for a feature to exploit, such as overhanging rocks or erupting geysers.

Climb swiftly and with a purpose. Almost all colossi must be felled by grabbing onto them and climbing your way to a vital point, typically the head. Once you manage to grab on, move quickly toward your goal. Be ready for any attempts to throw you off, stop climbing and grab on tightly when it comes. Having already planned your approach by observing the colossus, keep your goal in mind and always be working your way toward it.

Use your horse when you need maneuverability or speed. Some of the colossi are very fast, and you will need to move quickly in order to avoid their attacks or to work your way into an advantageous position. Your horse is an effective tool, especially when combined with archery, for taking down fast-moving colossi.