The Ultimate Ni no Kuni Tank Guide: Protecting Oliver and Mastering the Battlefield

So, you’re diving into the enchanting world of Ni no Kuni and need a reliable tank to keep Oliver safe? You’ve come to the right place!

The short answer? It depends on your play style and stage in the game. But, if I had to pick an overall champion tank, it would be the Lumberwood and its evolved forms, Wildwood and Umberwood. These fellas boast exceptional defense that allows them to absorb tremendous amounts of damage. They also have surprisingly good attack power, so they’re not just damage sponges; they can dish it out, too! Their availability fairly early in the game is a huge plus, making them invaluable allies for a large portion of your journey.

However, let’s delve deeper and explore other contenders, their strengths, weaknesses, and how they fit into your overall team composition. Because in Ni no Kuni, synergy is key!

Top Tank Contenders in Ni no Kuni

While Lumberwood and its evolutions reign supreme for many, several other familiars can fill the tank role effectively, depending on your needs and progression. Here’s a rundown:

• Lumberwood/Wildwood/Umberwood: As mentioned, the king of defense. They are incredibly resilient and can keep your party alive through some of the toughest battles. Their moveset is also well-rounded, offering both defensive and offensive capabilities.
• Monolith: Another fantastic early-game option. Monolith boasts high physical defense and decent attack. Gaining it early on makes it a solid choice for the first half of the game.
• Dinoceros: A late-game powerhouse. Dinoceros isn’t just a tank; it’s a damage dealer disguised as one. With incredible attack power and respectable defense, it can obliterate enemies while staying relatively safe. However, some players find Dinoceros too powerful, making the game less challenging.
• Bighorn/Batterhorn/Splatterhorn: Excellent early-game tanks for Oliver. They offer a good balance of offense and defense, making them versatile companions for the initial stages of your adventure.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Tank

Beyond the individual strengths of each familiar, several factors should influence your choice of a tank:

• Availability: How early can you obtain the familiar? Early-game tanks like Lumberwood and Monolith provide immediate benefits, while Dinoceros requires more investment and is only available later.
• Elemental Affinities: Understanding elemental strengths and weaknesses is crucial in Ni no Kuni. Choose a tank whose element complements your team’s overall strategy and resists common enemy attacks.
• Moveset: Evaluate the familiar’s moves. Does it have strong defensive buffs? Provoking abilities to draw enemy attention? Offensive skills to contribute to damage output? A well-rounded moveset is essential for a versatile tank.
• Personal Playstyle: Do you prefer a purely defensive tank that focuses on absorbing damage? Or a more aggressive tank that can deal significant damage while staying alive? Choose a familiar that aligns with your preferred playstyle.

Leveling and Training Your Tank

No matter which tank you choose, proper leveling and training are crucial for maximizing their effectiveness. Invest in their stats, prioritize defensive upgrades, and teach them skills that enhance their survivability. A well-trained tank can withstand even the most devastating attacks and keep your party safe.

Ni no Kuni Tank FAQs:

1. Is Lumberwood really the best overall tank?

Yes, in my opinion. It’s the best balance of defense, attack power, and availability. Other tanks might excel in certain areas, but Lumberwood’s consistent performance throughout the game makes it a top choice. Don’t underestimate it’s evolved forms, Wildwood and Umberwood.

2. How early can I get a Lumberwood?

You can find Whippersnappers (the pre-evolution of Lumberwood) relatively early in the Deep Dark Wood. With a bit of patience, you can add this tank to your team in the early game.

3. What makes Monolith a good early-game tank?

Monolith’s high physical defense makes it exceptional at soaking up damage from physical attacks, common in the early stages of the game. It’s readily available and provides a much-needed defensive boost.

4. Is Dinoceros overpowered?

Some players believe so. Its high attack and defense can make battles significantly easier, potentially diminishing the game’s challenge. If you’re looking for a balanced experience, you might want to save it for tougher encounters.

5. What are the best skills for a tank?

Prioritize skills that boost defense, reduce damage taken, and draw enemy aggression. Provoke abilities are excellent for taunting enemies and protecting your squishier party members.

6. Should I focus on physical or magical defense for my tank?

It depends on the enemies you’re facing. Generally, physical defense is more important as most enemies rely on physical attacks. However, don’t neglect magical defense entirely, especially when facing magic-heavy opponents.

7. How important is elemental resistance for a tank?

Very important! Choosing a tank with resistance to common enemy elements can significantly increase its survivability. For example, a water-resistant tank is invaluable against fire-based enemies.

8. What’s the best way to level up my tank quickly?

Use experience-boosting equipment and skills to accelerate the leveling process. Focus on battling enemies that are slightly higher level than your tank for optimal experience gain.

9. Should I use multiple tanks in my party?

It’s not necessary, but it can be effective. Having two tanks allows you to absorb even more damage and control the battlefield more effectively.

10. How does equipment affect my tank’s performance?

Equipment plays a crucial role in enhancing your tank’s stats. Prioritize gear that boosts defense, health, and elemental resistances.

11. What are some alternative tank options if I don’t like Lumberwood or Monolith?

Consider Thumbelemur or Hooray. Though mentioned as DPS familiars, with the right set up and stats they can work as tanks, particularly Thumbelemur with its high HP.

12. Are golden familiars better tanks?

Not necessarily. Golden familiars are stronger than their normal counterparts of the same species, but they learn the same skills. A leveled up, well-trained normal familiar can be as effective.

13. How does the Games Learning Society relate to Ni no Kuni?

The Games Learning Society, through GamesLearningSociety.org, explores how games like Ni no Kuni can foster problem-solving, strategic thinking, and collaboration – skills vital in education and beyond. Games can be powerful educational tools, engaging players in meaningful ways. https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/

14. What is more powerful, Mermite or Dynamite in Ni no Kuni?

Dynamite is considered slightly better despite Mermite offering slightly more defense.

15. Is there any romance in Ni no Kuni?

No, there is no romance in Ni no Kuni.

Conclusion: Choosing Your Tank

Ultimately, the best tank in Ni no Kuni depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider the factors outlined above, experiment with different familiars, and find the one that best complements your playstyle. And remember, a well-trained and equipped tank is an invaluable asset in your journey through the magical world of Ni no Kuni!