Super Mario RPG: How To Defeat Punchinello

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

Your third fight against Smithy's Gang, Punchinello, means you're close to your next Star Piece in the Mole Mines. Punchinello does exactly what the name suggests — punches. With some amusing lines of dialogue and lots of additional enemies, Punchinello could be a distraction for some, but we're here to help.

Here's our guide on how to beat Punchinello in Super Mario RPG.

How to defeat Punchinello

Recommended party: Mario, Mallow, Geno

You'll want to attack Punchinello with physical moves to start off with. When Punchinello summons mini Bob-ombs, use Mallow’s Thunderbolt to attack all of them at once.

When you’ve dealt enough damage, Punchinello will summon a team of normal-sized Bob-ombs. Just like before, use Mallow’s Thunderbolt to damage all of the enemies at once while continuing to focus your physical moves on Punchinello himself. He’ll eventually use Sand Storm, a spell that inflicts damage and Fear on your party members. Heal up if you need to.

When you’ve dealt even more damage, Punchinello will increase the size of the Bob-ombs once again. Thunderbolt isn’t nearly as useful against these large ones, as they have a higher defense. They also deal a ton of damage, so make sure to block them with good timing.

When Punchinello’s health is empty, he’ll summon a giant bomb that defeats him and blows Mario and company out of the room. And that's the end of the fight!

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