Allows single/multiple targets to float in the air.
Description
Float is a Wht Mag spell in Final Fantasy IX for Dagger and Eiko, used to bestow the status of the same name to one or multiple targets that makes the affected float aboveground, nullifying earth-based attacks against them. Float is vulnerable to Reflect and works with Return Magic; the enemies to use it are Tiamat and Yan as a counterattack.
Obtained[]
Float is learned from Stardust Rod, Lamia's Flute, and Feather Boots. The earliest the player can use it is by stealing the Stardust Rod off Zorn during the time Zidane's party is rescuing Princess Garnet under a time limit; she can then equip for the following gameplay segment through the Gargan Roo and the boss battle therein.
The earliest Eiko can use Float is by finding the Lamia's Flute within the Iifa Tree.
Mechanics[]
Float bestows the Float status to one or multiple targets at the cost of 6 MP, levitating the target(s) so they take no damage from ground-based attacks, namely Earthquake and Earth Shake. Float does not make targets weak to Wind, but Tiamat and Yans seem to use it to ready the party for ejection via Snort.
- Status duration = Spirit * 240
The status duration takes into account Battle Speed as set in the Config, as well as the unit's speed status (Stop, Slow, Normal, Haste).
The support ability that affects Float is Reflect-Null, which allows Float to pierce target's Reflect.
In Eiko's Trance, Wht Mag turns into Dbl Wht where Eiko can cast two spells on her turn. The spells cost MP and expend the Trance gauge independently.
Use[]
Float levitates one or all of the party, making them avoid enemies' earth attacks. It is only useful in battles where enemies use ground attacks and lapses quite quickly, especially if the party also has Haste. Another way to use Float is via the Auto-Float support ability that does not expire, but has niche uses. Good battles to use Float in are against Ralvuimago, Catoblepas, Hilgigars, Jabberwock, Lich, Lich (Crystal), Adamantoise, and Shell Dragon.