The Gold-Masked One, encountered within the Long Pillar during Phantom Blade Zero's Bloodline Awakening quest, presents a unique combat challenge that emphasizes specific mechanics. This boss serves as a test of the player's understanding of the game's core combat systems, with each encounter in the pillar teaching different aspects of the fight.
The primary gimmick of this fight is that the player cannot damage The Gold-Masked One through normal attacks. Damage is only possible after a successful parry or perfect dodge, or when his Sha-Chi is depleted. This contrasts with typical encounters in Phantom Blade Zero where constant aggression is usually rewarded.
To overcome this boss, players should focus on counter-attacking. Successfully parrying his blue attacks or perfectly dodging his red attacks creates an opening to strike and deplete his Sha-Chi. If precise timing is proving difficult, pressing both the left and right bumpers on a controller can achieve the same result. Once his Sha-Chi is depleted, players should inflict as much damage as possible during the brief window. The Jagged Steel weapon is recommended due to the boss's susceptibility to bleed.
This encounter can be a battle of attrition due to the boss's substantial health pool. Upgrading weapons and equipping beneficial accessories, such as the Quick Hand Pendant for one-hand damage, Ancient Armor Fragment for damage negation, Jewel's Knot for HP, and Resonance Talisman for Sha-Chi, can make the fight more manageable. However, there is no immediate rush to defeat him, as progression through the game will naturally provide increased HP, Sha-Chi, weapon upgrades, and accessory enhancements that simplify the encounter.
Upon defeating The Gold-Masked One, players will be rewarded with the Counterstrike Bracers, which grant a 20% damage increase for two seconds after a parry. This victory also unlocks the second Long Pillar challenge located in the Crimson Forest.