"Kingdom Hearts HD 2.8" serves as the prequel chapter for the upcoming "Kingdom Hearts 3." The game stars Aqua, one of the original Keyblade masters. Throughout the game, she has to face a manifestation of her inner demons, called Phantom Aqua. Just who is Phantom Aqua and how do players defeat her in the game?

Part of Aqua's soul eventually reaches Kairi, one of the original protagonists of the main series, and lets her become a keyblade master. Players have to fight Phantom Aqua in order for Aqua to free herself of her nightmares.

However, the boss fight with Phantom Aqua stresses the fluid combat mechanics of the game. This might make it difficult for newcomers. According to Game Rant, players will battle Phantom Aqua three times in the game.

The first boss battle with Phantom Aqua shows two variations. The first pattern of Phantom Aqua uses warps to land melee strikes in front of the player. However, these are easy to counter and leave an opening for attacks.

The second pattern of Phantom Aqua releases four orbs in mid-air. They attack the players directly, and do not have patterns. This means players have to skillfully dodge the orbs.
The second boss battle with the demons is similar to the first. However, this iteration of Phantom Aqua has longer mid-air times and her orbs are stronger.

The last boss battle has a Phantom Aqua with improved attacks. She has a spin move that forces her and Aqua out of the arena. Players are advised to dodge this as moving mid-air makes it harder for Aqua to attack.

The best tactic is to dodge Phantom Aqua as soon as her spin attack arrives. This makes her vulnerable to other attacks.

According to a YouTube trailer, it is important to first remember that this game is essentially a compilation of other "Kingdom Hearts" games. This contains "Kingdom Hearts Dream Drop Distance" as well as "Kingdom Hearts 0.2: Birth By Sleep." The collection also serves as a preview of the combat of "Kingdom Hearts 3."

"Kingdom Hearts HD 2.8" is available on PlayStation 4.