Super Mario RPG: How To Defeat Czar Dragon

Welcome to our boss guides for Super Mario RPG on Nintendo Switch and SNES.

At the end of Barrel Volcano, you have a double whammy of bosses waiting for you. First up is the Czar Dragon, a huge fire-breathing, lava-dwelling monster who can burn you to a crisp, but we need that sixth Star Piece, so it's time to take it down.

Here's our guide on how to beat the Czar Dragon, including the best party and strategy.

How to beat Czar Dragon

Recommended party: Mario, Geno, Mallow

Czar Dragon's weakness to Ice magic is easy to exploit, but there are two phases to this fight. Use Geno’s first turn or two using Geno Boost on the rest of your party members.

The Czar Dragon starts the fight surrounded by fireballs, which Mallow’s boosted Snowy attack makes short work of. If you have the Lazy Shell weapon for Mario, his physical damage output will be more than enough here. If not, Super Jumps work too.

Eventually, the Czar Dragon will go down and transform into Zombone, which drops its ice weakness in exchange for an electrical one.

Keep using physical moves with Mario and use Mallow’s Shocker spell to deal increased damage. Geno can keep using Geno Boost or use Mushrooms or Croaka Cola / Kerokero Cola to heal up the party as needed. With enough damage, Zombone will sink into the lava – for good this time.

For more help on getting through Super Mario RPG, check out our full Super Mario RPG guide for everything you need.