Garuda (Final Fantasy IX)

The Garuda is a flying enemy from Final Fantasy IX. It can be found in Oeilvert and Esto Gaza, and early in the game in Popos Heights where the player can enter via Gizamaluke's Grotto. Single Garudas attack in the "bridge" area of Oeilvert containing the first unlockable hologram generator. In Esto Gaza they appear in pairs. At Popos Heights, they only appear in the forested areas, but can be found alone or in pairs; this is also where the friendly Garuda can spawn.

Despite its appearance, it is hardy and knows several deadly spells.

Battle
Garuda's Maelstrom, reduces a targeted party member's health to a single digit without fail and ignores Reflect. It uses the Stop spell.

The Garuda is weak against Wind and Shadow attacks.

Strategy
It is useful to equip several of party members with the Locomotion ability in to negate the Stop spell, which is preferable to Garuda's other attacks.

Regular lone Garudas at Popos Heights may be used for leveling up early if care and lots of patience is taken.

Friendly Garuda
A friendly Garuda can be found in Popo's Heights on the Mist Continent as part of a sidequest. It requests a Lapis Lazuli and will reward the party with 40 AP if obliged.

Gallery
Garuda (Feindlich) Garuda (Final Fantasy IX)