Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 – Ultimate Monoco Build Guide (Best Skills, Weapons, and Strategies)

Notice: This guide is written in a lighthearted and sarcastic tone to make your journey through Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 more entertaining while still providing all the essential, correct information you need to master Monoco. Don’t worry—everything here is 100% accurate, but we’re making sure you have some fun along the way. Proceed with caution… and a sense of humor!

Monoco is one of the most versatile characters in the game, capable of being a tank, support, or DPS – or, as some of us like to call it, “the one who does all the work while the rest of the party catches their breath.” This guide will cover his early, mid, and late-game builds, including optimal weapons, skills, and strategies to make sure your masked monster is more of a nightmare to your enemies than a punchline.

Looking for more tips and builds? Check out our other Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 guides for expert strategies and character breakdowns:

1. Why Choose Monoco?

• Unmatched Flexibility: Monoco is like the Swiss Army knife of characters. He can fill almost any role depending on your team composition, and he does it with style. He’s basically the guy who says, “I got this” while your team looks at their weapons like they’re still figuring out how to equip them.
• High Break Potential: Monoco has more break abilities than a wrecking ball at demolition day. This makes him invaluable in controlling tough fights and breaking enemy defenses—no more “spaghetti arms” bosses.
• Wide Elemental Coverage: He can deal almost every type of elemental damage, which is perfect for those moments when your team forgets that “fire beats ice” isn’t just a Pokémon thing.
• Powerful Mask Synergy: His abilities get massive boosts when used with the correct mask. So, like any well-coordinated team member, Monoco is at his best when everyone does their part. But let’s be honest, you’ll still be doing most of the heavy lifting.
• AP Generation and Sustain: With the right skills and pictos, Monoco can sustain his team through long encounters. It’s like having a backup generator—except it’s a giant masked warrior and doesn’t run out of fuel.

2. Core Mechanics – Understanding Monoco’s Mask System

Monoco’s power is rooted in his unique Mask system, which changes his abilities based on the mask he’s wearing. Mastering this system is key to unlocking his full potential (and not getting stuck with a mask that leaves you vulnerable and asking “What the heck just happened?”).

• Mask Types: Monoco can switch between Balanced, Caster, Heavy, Agile, and Almighty masks, each with different bonuses and abilities. Each mask has its strengths, but figuring out which one to use at the right time is where the magic happens. No pressure.
• Mask Synergy: When skills match the current mask, they gain powerful bonuses, including increased damage and AP regeneration. It’s like your mask becomes your best friend—and you’ll be hugging it a lot.
• Bestial Wheel: Monoco’s mask rotation is managed through the Bestial Wheel, which you can manipulate using skills and weapons. Think of it like a spinning wheel of fortune… but with more blood and fewer prizes.
• Upgraded Skills: Skills used in their matching mask gain massive bonuses, often doubling their effectiveness. It’s the gaming equivalent of getting extra credit for doing the homework you already aced.
• Almighty Mask: The Almighty Mask grants serious damage and break bonuses but requires careful planning to use consistently. It’s the boss battle mask. But don’t get too comfortable, because it’s not an “easy win” button.

2.1 Key Factors for Mask Management

• Focus on using skills that match your current mask to maximize damage and AP gain. If you’re not matching, you’re not maximizing.
• Use low-cost skills like Abbest Wind to cycle through masks quickly. It’s your “get out of jail free” card—use it wisely.
• Leverage free aim shots to adjust mask positioning when needed. Yes, sometimes, you will need to shuffle masks like you’re trying to pick the right outfit for a party.
• Avoid taking damage when relying on shields—some pictos will remove shields upon taking damage. Because, honestly, who needs shields when you can just… dodge everything? (Not always an option, but worth trying.)
• Plan your mask transitions carefully to avoid getting stuck with a low-damage form when the stakes are high. Timing is everything—like waiting for the perfect moment to eat that last slice of pizza.

Monoco Bestial Wheel Agile

3. Monoco Early Game Build (Acts 1-2)

3.1 Early Game Strengths and Weaknesses

• Strengths: High break potential, versatile damage options, reliable AP generation, and strong single-target damage. He’s essentially the character your team leans on, even if they pretend they’re self-sufficient.
• Weaknesses: Vulnerable to status effects, requires careful mask management, and has limited multi-target damage in the early game. Oh, and don’t forget, you’ll need to make sure the rest of your team isn’t busy getting wrecked in the backline while you’re doing all the work.

3.2 Early Game Weapon – Sidaro

The Sidaro is an excellent choice for Monoco in the early game. This weapon provides early AP generation and decent damage scaling. But don’t get too comfy—it’s the kind of weapon that’s only truly effective if you can actually get your masks to cooperate. Let’s face it: we’ve all had our moments where the Bestial Wheel didn’t exactly spin in our favor.

• Effect: +30% damage per Upgraded Skill used. Resets upon using a non-Upgraded Skill. It’s like a “reset” button, except it’s more of a “please don’t screw this up” button.
• Lvl. 10: Base Attack spins the Bestial Wheel to a random value. Because who doesn’t love a little chaos?
• Lvl. 20: Using an Upgraded Skill gives 1 AP to all other allies. Essentially the “thank you for not dying” button.

3.3 Recommended Early Game Skills

• Moissonneuse Vendange (Balanced Mask): Deals high damage over three hits and can break enemies. It’s reliable single-target damage and break potential—just don’t expect Monoco to do *all* the work. (Cost: 5 AP)
• Bruler Bash (Caster Mask): Moderate damage, low cost, and can break enemies. Ideal for maintaining mask rotations and supporting allies—because they always need support, don’t they? (Cost: 4 AP)
• Stalact Punches (Heavy Mask): Deals high ice damage and significant break damage. Ideal for bosses and tougher enemies. No explanation needed—just freeze them, break them, and enjoy the chaos. (Cost: 5 AP)
• Glaise Earthquakes (Heavy Mask): Medium earth damage to all enemies, applies powerful to Monoco, and grants powerful to all allies if used in heavy mask. It’s essential for team-wide damage boosts early on, because who doesn’t like a little group effort? (Cost: 5 AP)
• Abbest Wind (Agile Mask): Low damage, but zero AP cost when used in agile mask, allowing Monoco to quickly rotate into more powerful abilities. Perfect for skipping unwanted masks early in combat. Sometimes, skipping things is the best way to win. (Cost: 0 AP in Agile Mask)

3.4 Recommended Early Game Pictos

• Critical Moment: 50% increased Critical Chance if Health is below 30%. Because, let’s face it, you’re going to be under 30% health at some point. Might as well make it count.
• Combo Attack I: Base Attack has 1 extra hit. More hits, more chances to confuse your enemies. Classic strategy.
• Dodger: Gain 1 AP on Perfect Dodge. Once per turn. Let’s be honest, if you’re dodging perfectly, you’ve already won.
• Longer Powerful: On applying Powerful, its duration is increased by 2. Why settle for short bursts when you can have a nice long one?
• First Strike: Play first. Because sometimes, being the first to act is the only thing that matters.

3.5 Early Game Strategy and Rotations

• Open with Glaise Earthquakes if starting in heavy mask to apply powerful to the entire team and set up for massive early game damage.
• Follow up with Moissonneuse Vendange for single-target burst and break potential.
• Use Abbest Wind to quickly skip agile masks and reach stronger forms.
• Maintain a steady flow of AP with Dodger and First Strike to keep your momentum.

Monoco Counter

4. Monoco Mid-Game Build (Acts 2-3)

4.1 Mid-Game Strengths and Weaknesses

• Strengths: By now, Monoco’s mask management has improved, making him more versatile than ever. He’s got stronger AP generation, better multi-hit options, and more reliable damage output. Basically, he’s finally out of the “training wheels” phase and is ready to make things explode—metaphorically, and literally.
• Weaknesses: While Monoco is getting stronger, he’s still a bit squishy. Also, if you’re not paying attention to his mask rotation, you might find yourself stuck in an underwhelming state, wishing you had that almighty mask back. It’s like trying to make spaghetti without the sauce—just dry and disappointing.

4.2 Mid-Game Weapon – Ballaro

The Ballaro is a fantastic mid-game weapon for Monoco. It smooths out the mask rotations, giving you a lot more control over the Bestial Wheel. Plus, it generates more AP for your allies when used with upgraded skills—finally, your teammates can stop complaining about being low on AP. It’s a small miracle.

• Effect: Reverses the Bestial Wheel order, giving you more control over mask transitions. So if you ever wanted a more predictable way to turn Monoco into an unstoppable force, this is it.
• Lvl. 10: Using an Upgraded Skill gives 1 AP to all other allies. Basically, you’re the AP Santa Claus—except no one’s asking you for socks.
• Lvl. 20: Almighty Mask gives 2 AP to all allies. Now your whole team gets the benefit of your hard work. It’s like sharing your pizza after you’ve eaten all the toppings.

4.3 Recommended Mid-Game Skills

• Glaise Earthquakes (Heavy Mask): A trusty skill that continues to be effective. Its team-wide buffs and AoE damage make it a go-to for most encounters, especially when you want to shake up the battlefield. (Cost: 5 AP)
• Cultist Slashes (Balanced Mask): Deals increasing damage as Monoco’s HP drops. If you’re into high-risk, high-reward builds (and who isn’t?), this skill plays right into that. Perfect for when your health is low and your enemies think they’ve won. (Cost: 5 AP)
• Cruler Barrier (Heavy Mask): Provides shields and AP when used with heavy or almighty masks, making it a lifesaver in tough situations. It’s like bringing a shield to a gunfight—but you still win. (Cost: 4 AP)
• Bénisseur Mortar (Caster Mask): Powerful single-target damage and rapid mask cycling when used on marked enemies. Basically, if you want to hit hard and cycle masks like a pro, this skill’s your ticket. (Cost: 4 AP)
• Moissonneuse Vendange (Balanced Mask): Effective single-target breaker, crucial for controlling tough encounters. It’s like the “get it done” skill that never lets you down. (Cost: 5 AP)
• Stalact Punches (Heavy Mask): High break damage and ice element, ideal for tough bosses and tricky enemies. It’s your go-to for showing the enemy you’re serious—because who wouldn’t be intimidated by a three-hit ice punch? (Cost: 5 AP)

4.4 Recommended Mid-Game Pictos

• Critical Moment: 50% increased Critical Chance if Health is below 30%. Because you know that feeling of being on the edge of death? Let’s turn that into a strength.
• First Strike: Play first, because when you’re Monoco, why let anyone else have the spotlight?
• Dodger: Gain 1 AP on Perfect Dodge. Once per turn. That’s right, dodge like a pro and get rewarded with AP. Because dodging should always come with benefits.
• Longer Powerful: On applying Powerful, its duration is increased by 2. Why settle for a little power when you can have more?
• Shield Affinity: 30% increased damage while having Shields, but receiving any damage removes all Shields. It’s a double-edged sword—enjoy it, but be careful.
• Painted Power: Damage can exceed 9,999. Because why limit yourself to a number when you can break the damage cap? Just make sure your enemies can handle it.
• Cheater: Always play twice in a row. Yes, you’re that good—get used to it.

4.5 Mid-Game Strategy and Rotations

• Open with Glaise Earthquakes for early team-wide buffs and AoE damage, setting the stage for a fight that won’t end anytime soon.
• Use Bénisseur Mortar on marked enemies for high single-target damage and rapid mask cycling. Make those marks count, because, you know, that’s where the real fun begins.
• Rotate through Moissonneuse Vendange and Cruler Barrier to maintain shields and break enemies. It’s all about keeping your team alive while you go to work.
• Leverage Cultist Slashes for massive single-target damage as Monoco’s HP drops. The lower your health, the higher the reward—welcome to the world of risk management.
• Use Stalact Punches for burst ice damage and high break potential in critical moments. Freeze, break, repeat.
• Maintain momentum with Dodger and First Strike for early pressure and rapid AP generation. You’ve got this; don’t let them catch their breath.

Monoco Skills

5. Monoco Late-Game Build (Act 3 and NG+)

5.1 Late-Game Strengths and Weaknesses

• Strengths: By now, Monoco has turned into a powerhouse—like a Swiss Army knife but with more destruction. His ability to break enemies, unleash insane damage, and still keep his team alive is at its peak. He’s the reliable one you actually need in your squad when things go sideways.
• Weaknesses: Despite all his power, Monoco is still susceptible to burst damage. And while Almighty Mask is a godsend, if you don’t manage his mask rotations carefully, he’s going to end up looking more like an overpowered disaster than the hero you wanted. Timing is key—he’s not an “auto-win” button… or at least, not without a little bit of planning.

5.2 Late-Game Weapon – Joyaro

The Joyaro is the weapon you’ll want in the late game. Not only does it start you in Almighty Mask, giving you the edge you need from the very start, but it also rewards you for not taking damage. Because who doesn’t love a weapon that turns a near-death experience into a full-on rampage?

• Effect: Starts each battle in Almighty Mask, giving a huge damage boost from the get-go. It’s like the game’s way of saying, “Here, you’ve earned it. Now go obliterate things.”
• Lvl. 10: 20% increased damage for each consecutive turn without taking damage, stacking up to 100%. So, if you can keep Monoco from getting hit, he turns into a wrecking ball.
• Lvl. 20: Doubles break damage while in Almighty Mask. That’s double the fun, double the chaos, and double the enemies who regret messing with you.

5.3 Recommended Late-Game Skills

• Lampmaster Light (Almighty Mask): High light damage to all enemies, scales over multiple casts, perfect for prolonged boss fights. It’s the ultimate “if you’re going to keep attacking me, at least let me shine while I do it.” (Cost: 6 AP)
• Création Void (Caster Mask): Massive single-target damage with increased scaling if it hits the same target multiple times. This skill really thrives when you just want to delete one boss and move on to the next. (Cost: 6 AP)
• Duallist Storm (Almighty Mask): Extreme single-target damage with break potential, perfect for finishing off enemies who think they’re safe. Hint: They’re not. (Cost: 7 AP)
• Chapelier Slash (Agile Mask): Three-hit high damage attack that applies mark to all enemies, setting up critical follow-up attacks. Think of it as a little extra insurance policy. (Cost: 4 AP)
• Glaise Earthquakes (Heavy Mask): High burst damage with powerful team-wide buffs when used in heavy mask. It’s one of those “everyone gets a present” skills that does a little bit of everything. (Cost: 5 AP)
• Cruler Barrier (Heavy Mask): Shields all allies and grants AP when used with heavy or almighty masks, critical for late-game survival. Because let’s face it, at this point in the game, if you don’t have shields, you’re probably already dead. (Cost: 4 AP)

5.4 Recommended Late-Game Pictos

• Painted Power: Damage can exceed 9,999, because breaking the damage cap is basically Monoco’s idea of a Tuesday.
• Critical Moment: Increases critical hit chance when your health is below 30%. It’s almost like the game knows when you’re at your most desperate—and gives you a little bonus for it.
• Cheater: Always play twice in a row, because why let anyone else have the fun?
• Augmented Aim: Boosts free aim shot damage, perfect for turning Monoco’s already ridiculous damage into something even more outrageous.
• Solo Fighter: Increases damage when fighting alone, ideal for those “I’m gonna do this solo” moments when you’re feeling particularly rebellious.
• Inverted Affinity: 50% bonus damage when inverted. Monoco doesn’t just play with danger—he embraces it.
• Powerful Shield: Grants 10% increased damage per shield, perfect for maximizing burst potential while maintaining your defenses.
• Roulette: 50% chance to double damage, ideal for high-risk, high-reward setups. Because why not gamble a little when you’re this powerful?
• First Strike: Guarantees early action, critical for setting up your most destructive moves before the enemies even have time to blink.

5.5 Late-Game Strategy and Rotations

• Open with Cruler Barrier to grant shields and stack powerful buffs. You’ll need the protection, trust me.
• Use Chapelier Slash to mark all enemies and set up for massive critical hits.
• Follow up with Duallist Storm or Création Void for massive single-target damage. Think of it as Monoco’s “Let’s get this over with” move.
• Cycle through Glaise Earthquakes to maintain powerful team-wide buffs and sustain high damage output. Don’t forget to share the love; Monoco isn’t in this alone.
• Use Painted Power and Inverted Affinity for maximum burst potential. It’s time to make things *really* hurt.
• Capitalize on solo potential with Solo Fighter for extreme one-shot setups. Let’s see how long your enemies last when it’s just Monoco, an army of buffs, and a few hundred thousand damage points.
• Leverage Cheater for consecutive turns and sustained DPS during critical moments. After all, why let the enemy have a turn?

6. Advanced Tips, Team Synergies, and Final Strategies

6.1 Key Combat Tips for Monoco

• Stay in Almighty Mask: Monoco’s most powerful abilities are amplified in Almighty Mask. So, unless you’re feeling particularly rebellious, try to stay in it as much as possible. Using the Joyaro is a good way to guarantee it. Every battle should feel like an epic showdown, not a “maybe I’ll get lucky” situation.
• Capitalize on Low HP: Monoco’s damage scales significantly when his health is low. But don’t go jumping off cliffs trying to get there. Use pictos like At Death’s Door and Inverted Affinity to really capitalize on the low-health bonus. It’s like playing with fire—but with more explosions.
• Use Shields Aggressively: Combine Powerful Shield and Cruler Barrier to stack damage bonuses while still having some protection. You’ve got the power; now make sure you’re tough enough to take a hit and dish it right back.
• Leverage Free Aim Shots: With Augmented Aim, free aim shots become a critical part of Monoco’s burst rotation. When you’re hitting multiple enemies at once, don’t just aim for any old target. Pick the weak points. That’s where the fun is.
• Maximize Critical Hits: Critical Moment is your best friend when it comes to stacking crits. If you’re not focusing on stacking critical hit bonuses, you’re doing it wrong. Monoco is designed to break damage caps, and nothing does that better than critical hits.
• Skip Unwanted Masks: Use low-cost skills like Abbest Wind to skip past less useful masks and get straight to the good stuff. You don’t need to waste time being stuck in an Agile Mask when Almighty Mask is right around the corner.
• Time Your Burst Windows: Use Chapelier Slash to mark enemies before unleashing high-damage abilities like Duallist Storm or Création Void. If you don’t time your bursts properly, you’ll miss the window of opportunity, and your enemies will make you regret it.
• Plan for Long Fights: Use Lampmaster Light for scaling light damage in extended encounters. It may seem slow at first, but trust me, when the fight drags on, Monoco’s ability to keep the damage flowing is what makes the difference.

Monoco Party

6.2 Ideal Party Setups for Monoco

Monoco shines when he’s in a team that knows how to complement his skills. While he can excel as a solo powerhouse, he benefits from the synergy of other characters. Here are a few team setups that will help you get the most out of him:

High Burst Team

• Monoco (Main DPS): Focus on critical hits and rapid perfection scaling. You’re in charge of dealing the most damage—don’t let anyone forget it.
• Sciel (Support): Provides AP regeneration, marking, and burst damage support. Because you’re going to need those AP boosts when you start ripping through the enemy.
• Verso (Secondary DPS): Complements Monoco with high single-target burst and synergy with marks. Verso’s job? Making sure no one survives your opening attack.

Break-Focused Team

• Monoco (Breaker/DPS): Focus on rapid break setups and burst damage. You’ll take out shields and make sure the enemies have no protection for the big guns to finish them off.
• Lune (Breaker/Support): Specializes in breaking enemy defenses and applying elemental debuffs. Lun’s got your back when it comes to stripping away the enemy’s defenses so Monoco can land the killing blows.
• Myel (Support): Provides powerful shield doubling and defensive support. Myel’s job? Keeping Monoco alive while he does all the fun stuff.

Solo Carry Setup

• Monoco (Solo DPS): Built for maximum solo burst with pictos like Solo Fighter and Powerful Shield. You’re the star of the show, now make sure everyone knows it.
• Two Placeholder Allies: Use characters with low investment to trigger break setups or provide support as needed. You don’t need much else, just some backup to clean up if needed.

Support Hybrid Setup

• Monoco (Support/DPS Hybrid): Leverage shields and AP generation to sustain allies while dealing consistent damage. Monoco can do it all, and he’s better when he’s in control of both damage and support.
• Sciel (Support): AP generator and burst damage booster. AP is the fuel; Sciel’s your gas station.
• Verso (DPS): Provides extreme burst damage and finishing power. When Monoco is softening up the enemy, Verso finishes the job.

6.3 Final Boss Tactics

Fighting bosses in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is no joke. You need precise timing and strategy. Monoco, when played correctly, can make these fights look easy. Here’s how to make sure you’re not the one getting squashed under the boss’s boot:

• Break and Burst: Use skills like Duallist Storm and Chapelier Slash to quickly apply marks and break shields, setting up for some serious burst damage. Because breaking shields isn’t enough—now it’s time to break the enemy’s spirit.
• Stack Shields Before Bursts: Use Cruler Barrier to build up shields and maximize damage with Powerful Shield before going for the big hits. After all, you need some defense before you turn the tables and unleash hell.
• Exploit Elemental Weaknesses: Rotate through abilities like Glaise Earthquakes and Création Void to exploit elemental weaknesses. When the boss is weak to your element, it’s like having a secret weapon—just don’t let them know.
• Use Free Aim for Precision: Free aim shots allow you to target weak points, especially with the help of Augmented Aim and Painted Power. You’ve got the precision, so make every shot count.
• Capitalize on Solo Burst Windows: Use Solo Fighter and Inverted Affinity to increase damage when your health is low. High-risk, high-reward—it’s a dangerous game, but it pays off when it works.
• Plan for Long Fights: Use Lampmaster Light for scaling damage in extended fights. It’s all about staying power, not just raw damage.

6.4 Advanced Parry and Dodge Techniques

• Perfect Dodges: Use Dodger to gain free AP on perfect dodges. Because you don’t need to be hit to win—just outsmart the enemy.
• Time Your Parries: Parrying resets your mask position and sets up massive counterattacks. If you’re parrying properly, you’re not just surviving—you’re controlling the battlefield.
• Use Free Aim for Quick Rotations: Free aim shots allow you to adjust your mask position quickly when necessary. Think of it as the ultimate “I’ve got this” maneuver.
• Keep Your Shield Stacks High: Use Cruler Barrier regularly to maintain shield stacks and maximize your burst potential with Powerful Shield.

6.5 Extreme Solo Playstyles

• Use Low-HP Builds: Combine Solo Fighter, At Death’s Door, and Inverted Affinity for maximum single-target burst. You’ll be playing with fire—but, hey, that’s where the fun is.
• Focus on High-Impact Rotations: Use Duallist Storm and Création Void for extreme single-target burst. It’s like setting up the perfect trap and watching the enemy fall into it.
• Maintain Shield Stacks: Use Cruler Barrier to keep your shield count high for sustained damage and survivability.
• Leverage Almighty Mask: Always prioritize reaching Almighty Mask for maximum damage output. Because you’re not playing to just survive—you’re playing to dominate.

Monoco Gradient Counter

7. Full Build Examples and Advanced Playstyles

7.1 High-Crit Burst Build

This build focuses on maximizing Monoco’s critical hit potential for massive single-target burst damage. Perfect for when you need to turn bosses into a puddle of regret and molten metal.

Recommended Skills

• Duallist Storm (Almighty Mask): Extreme single-target damage, perfect for breaking and deleting priority targets. Think of it like giving your enemy a one-way ticket to the afterlife.
• Chapelier Slash (Agile Mask): Multi-hit attack that applies marks, setting up critical hit chains. It’s like opening a door and letting chaos in—let them walk right into your trap.
• Lampmaster Light (Almighty Mask): High light damage that scales over multiple casts, ideal for extended encounters. You’ll be shining brighter than the sun… just don’t get burned out.
• Création Void (Caster Mask): Massive single-target damage, scales with repeated hits on the same target. The more hits, the more they regret it. Not to mention, it just keeps getting better.
• Glaise Earthquakes (Heavy Mask): High AoE damage and powerful buffs, essential for scaling damage over time. Because why settle for one enemy when you can have a whole group of regrets?
• Cruler Barrier (Heavy Mask): Provides shields and AP, critical for sustaining high burst damage rotations. Monoco may be an offensive powerhouse, but you’ll need shields to survive the retaliation.

Recommended Pictos

• Painted Power: Essential for breaking the damage cap and maximizing burst potential. When you’re reaching for the stars, this will help you get there.
• Critical Moment: Increases critical hit chance when your health is below 30%. Because we all know the best moments happen when you’re fighting for your life.
• Augmented Aim: Boosts free aim shot damage, perfect for critical hit chains. Nothing like putting the precision of a sniper rifle in your hands.
• Solo Fighter: Increases damage when fighting alone, perfect for solo burst setups. Monoco’s going solo—no backup required.
• Inverted Affinity: 50% bonus damage when inverted. Low health? High risk, high reward.
• Powerful Shield: Grants 10% increased damage per shield, critical for maximizing burst potential. More shields, more damage—this is the type of math Monoco excels at.
• First Strike: Ensures Monoco acts early, allowing for rapid setup and high burst potential. Be the first to act, and make it count.
• Roulette: 50% chance to double damage, ideal for high-risk, high-reward setups. A little luck never hurts when you’re already dangerous.

Optimal Attribute Distribution

• Agility: 99 (Max for speed and turn priority)
• Might: 70+ (Boosts flat damage and weapon scaling)
• Luck: 70+ (Critical hit chance, essential for multi-hit scaling)

Rotation Example

1. Open with Cruler Barrier to grant shields and stack powerful buffs.
2. Use Chapelier Slash to mark all enemies and set up for massive critical hits.
3. Follow up with Duallist Storm or Création Void for massive single-target damage. One of these will absolutely wreck the boss.
4. Cycle through Glaise Earthquakes to maintain powerful team-wide buffs and sustain high damage output.
5. Use Painted Power and Inverted Affinity for maximum burst potential.
6. Capitalize on solo potential with Solo Fighter for extreme one-shot setups.

7.2 Solo Assassin Build

This build is designed for players who want to play Monoco as a pure solo carry, focusing on extreme single-target damage and self-reliance. This is for those who want to carry the team but pretend they aren’t doing all the work.

Recommended Skills

• Duallist Storm (Almighty Mask): Essential for single-target burst and finishing stunned enemies. It’s like a great finisher for every fight.
• Création Void (Caster Mask): High burst single-target damage, scales with repeated hits. It’s the “you’re done now” move for any boss.
• Chapelier Slash (Agile Mask): Multi-hit attack that applies marks, perfect for setting up critical hits. Mark the enemy, set it up, and watch the fireworks.
• Cruler Barrier (Heavy Mask): Shields Monoco while boosting his damage with Powerful Shield. You can’t break things if you’re dead, so let’s stay alive while dealing damage, shall we?
• Glaise Earthquakes (Heavy Mask): Multi-target burst damage and powerful team buffs, essential for scaling in solo setups. You’re a one-man army, but a few team buffs never hurt.

Recommended Pictos

• Solo Fighter: Essential for maximum damage when fighting alone. Because you’re not waiting around for backup.
• Painted Power: Uncaps your damage, critical for solo burst builds. More damage = less surviving on the enemy’s end.
• Powerful Shield: Grants 10% increased damage per shield, critical for burst potential. Shields up, damage up, win-win.
• Inverted Affinity: 50% bonus damage when inverted, perfect for low-HP, high-risk builds. It’s the game’s way of telling you, “Take the risk, reap the rewards.”
• Critical Moment: Increases critical hit chance, essential for maximum burst damage. This is the part where you leave the enemy wondering if they ever had a chance.
• First Strike: Ensures Monoco acts early, allowing for rapid burst setups. Strike first, hit hard—because why let them get the first swing?
• Augmented Aim: Boosts free aim shot damage, critical for burst-heavy builds. Don’t let your aim be anything less than perfect.
• Roulette: 50% chance to double damage, ideal for high-risk, high-reward setups. It’s risky, but when you win, you win big.

Optimal Attribute Distribution

• Agility: 99 (Max for speed and turn priority)
• Might: 99 (Maximum flat damage and scaling)
• Luck: 70+ (Critical hit chance for high burst damage)

Rotation Example

1. 1. Open with Cruler Barrier to stack shields and increase damage.
   2. Use Chapelier Slash to mark enemies and set up critical hits.
   3. Follow up with Duallist Storm for extreme single-target burst damage.
   4. Use Création Void for finishing bursts against high-priority targets.
   5. Cycle through Glaise Earthquakes to maintain high burst potential.
   6. Capitalize on low-HP bonuses with Inverted Affinity and At Death’s Door for maximum burst potential.

Monoco Bestial Wheel Almighty

8. Final Boss Strategies and Advanced Mastery

8.1 Mastering the Mask System

Monoco’s unique mask system is the key to mastering his full potential. To fully leverage this system:

• Plan Your Mask Rotations: Use skills like Abbest Wind to quickly bypass less desirable masks and reach powerful forms like Almighty Mask. Timing is everything here—don’t waste precious turns switching to the wrong mask, or you’ll end up regretting it. Masks are like the wardrobe of your gameplay; choose wisely!
• Use Free Aim for Flexibility: Free aim shots can help you quickly cycle through the Bestial Wheel, especially when paired with skills that boost AP generation. It’s like turning Monoco into a performance artist, adjusting on the fly while smashing through enemies.
• Time Your Transitions: Use low-cost skills like Bruler Bash or Chapelier Slash to stabilize your mask rotations and prepare for high-damage windows. Monoco’s mask system is your toolset for battlefield control—don’t just fumble through it.
• Leverage Almighty Mask: Almighty Mask is your go-to form for max damage, but it’s not always easy to reach. Plan ahead and make sure you’re not stuck in a weaker mask when it’s time to bring out the big guns. You can’t rely on Almighty Mask all the time, but when you can use it, you better make it count.

8.2 Final Boss Tactics

• Break and Burst: Use skills like Duallist Storm and Chapelier Slash to quickly apply marks and break shields, setting up massive burst damage. You’ll be controlling the battlefield by quickly shutting down defenses, leaving your enemies gasping for air.
• Stack Shields Before Bursts: Use Cruler Barrier to build up shields and maximize damage with Powerful Shield before committing to high-burst rotations. This is where Monoco can really show his value—not just as a damage dealer, but as a strategic mastermind.
• Exploit Elemental Weaknesses: Rotate through abilities like Glaise Earthquakes and Création Void to exploit elemental weaknesses. Sure, it’s not glamorous, but nothing feels better than watching a boss crumble under elemental pressure.
• Use Free Aim for Precision: Target weak points with free aim shots to maximize critical hits. Use Augmented Aim and Painted Power for even more devastating results. Don’t waste your time shooting aimlessly—aiming at weak points is how you truly shine.
• Capitalize on Solo Burst Windows: Use Solo Fighter and Inverted Affinity to boost damage when your health is low. Risky? Sure. Rewarding? Absolutely. When Monoco is on low health, you’re in “final boss mode.” This is when you get to unleash your ultimate potential.
• Plan for Long Fights: Use Lampmaster Light to scale damage in extended encounters. It’s not all about bursts; some bosses require sustained pressure, and this is where Monoco’s power over time really comes into play.

8.3 Advanced Parry and Dodge Techniques

Monoco’s survivability and burst potential heavily rely on precise dodging and parrying. Here’s how to make sure you don’t waste your efforts:

• Perfect Dodges: Use Dodger to gain free AP on perfect dodges. This is your reward for not getting hit. Time those dodges right, and you’re not just surviving; you’re getting rewarded for it.
• Time Your Parries: Parrying resets your mask position and sets up massive counterattacks. Mastering the parry is key—if you can’t make it happen, you’re wasting potential. Timing your parry is like a slow-motion action scene where you’re the star.
• Use Free Aim for Quick Rotations: Free aim shots help adjust your mask positioning quickly when needed. Think of it as Monoco’s “emergency button” for getting him into the right mask at the right moment.
• Keep Your Shield Stacks High: Use Cruler Barrier regularly to maintain shield stacks and maximize your burst potential with Powerful Shield. Shields aren’t just for defense—they’re part of your offense. Keep stacking them, and you’ll be invincible.

8.4 Extreme Solo Playstyles

• Use Low-HP Builds: Combine Solo Fighter, At Death’s Door, and Inverted Affinity for maximum single-target burst. This is where you lean into the chaos—because low HP means big rewards. It’s risky, but if you’re not taking risks, you’re not living (or at least not getting the big damage).
• Focus on High-Impact Rotations: Use Duallist Storm and Création Void for extreme single-target burst. These two skills are your finishing moves—if you play your cards right, you can wipe out enemies faster than they can blink.
• Maintain Shield Stacks: Use Cruler Barrier to keep your shield count high for sustained damage and survivability. You can’t afford to be hit if you’re going solo, so keep those shields up and watch your enemies fall.
• Leverage Almighty Mask: Always prioritize reaching Almighty Mask for maximum damage output. It’s not a guarantee, but it’s about as close to a guarantee as Monoco gets—make sure you’re maximizing this power.

8.5 Final Tips for Dominating the Endgame

• Always act first – use First Strike and high agility to control the flow of battle. You’re Monoco, and you don’t wait around. Be the one to strike first and set the pace.
• Plan your burst windows – stack shields and mark targets before committing to high-damage skills. Timing is everything. Make sure you know when to pull the trigger.
• Experiment with different picto combinations to find your optimal playstyle. There’s no one-size-fits-all. Mix and match, and find what works best for your playstyle.
• Focus on critical hit synergies for maximum burst potential. It’s all about stacking those critical hits. If you’re not doing it, you’re doing it wrong.
• Leverage free aim shots for precise damage and mask cycling. It’s your tool for quick adjustments and pinpoint accuracy. Use it wisely.

9. Conclusion

With these advanced tactics, Monoco can become a true one-man army, capable of soloing even the toughest bosses in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. Master his mask rotations, shield stacking, and critical hit synergies to dominate every encounter and become the ultimate endgame powerhouse. Whether you’re facing hordes of enemies or taking down giants, Monoco will be ready to show them who’s in charge.