Inkwell Isle 3 is one of the most daunting yet exhilarating stages in Cuphead. As players progress from the relatively easy challenges of the earlier isles, they find themselves at the mercy of some of the most complex and nerve-wracking levels in the game. In this three-part video series, I will guide you through every corner, battle, and surprise that Inkwell Isle 3 has to offer. Each video will dissect specific segments of this isle, providing not just a playthrough, but also tips, tricks, and a strategic approach to overcoming each boss.
The journey begins with the notorious Honeycomb Herald, home to the formidable Queen Bee, also known as Rumor Honeybottoms. This level is a vertical-scrolling nightmare where players must dodge not only the relentless attacks of the Queen but also navigate through the various workers and obstacles that the hive presents. The unique challenge here is the constantly shifting platforms, which require precise timing and quick reflexes.
The Queen herself is a multi-phase boss who starts off by sending out minions and launching projectiles. As the battle progresses, she morphs into different forms, including a giant mechanical bee that fires deadly energy balls. The key to victory in this stage is staying mobile, anticipating her attack patterns, and exploiting the brief windows of vulnerability she presents.
Next up is Shootin' N' Lootin', where the battle takes to the high seas against Captain Brineybeard. This level is set on the Captain’s ship, where he, along with his trusty sea creatures, will stop at nothing to take you down. The environment is dynamic, with the ship constantly moving, and the Captain's attacks ranging from firing cannonballs to unleashing his pet shark.
The battle has several phases, each escalating in difficulty. The Captain himself is a tough opponent, but the real challenge comes from managing the different threats at once-whether it’s the cannonballs, the explosive barrels, or the sudden appearances of his p
In Dramatic Fanatic, the stage is set for an epic showdown against Sally Stageplay. This level is a theatrical masterpiece, both visually and in terms of the complexity of the fight. Sally is a diva who uses the entire stage to her advantage, with each phase of the battle representing a different act of her ‘play.’
In the first phase, Sally engages in a direct confrontation with you, leaping around the stage and attacking with a variety of moves. As the fight progresses, the stage changes, introducing new hazards and attacks that reflect the narrative of Sally’s ‘life,’ from her wedding day to her afterlife.
In Junkyard Jive!, you face off against Dr. Kahl's Robot in what is arguably one of the most challenging battles in the game. The fight begins with the Robot launching a barrage of attacks from various parts of its body, including its head, chest, and hands. Each part must be destroyed in sequence, with each destruction leading to a more difficult phase of the fight.
The final phase of the battle sees Dr. Kahl himself piloting the robot in a desperate attempt to finish you off. The sheer number of projectiles and the rapid pace of this battle make it a true test of your skills and reflexes.
High Seas Hi-Jinx! is an underwater battle against Cala Maria, a formidable siren with a wide array of deadly attacks. This battle is unique in that it takes place entirely underwater, giving it a different feel from the other levels. Cala Maria uses her aquatic environment to her advantage, launching electric eels, seahorse projectiles, and even turning you to stone with her petrifying gaze.
As the battle progresses, Cala Maria’s attacks become more intense, culminating in a phase where she transforms into a giant sea monster, making the fight even more challenging.
Railroad Wrath is the penultimate battle, taking place on a moving train against the Phantom Express. This level is a gauntlet of challenges, with each train car presenting a new boss or set of enemies to defeat. The battle requires quick reflexes, precise platforming, and the ability to manage multiple threats at once.
The Phantom Express itself is a formidable opponent, with each car introducing a new challenge, from the skeletal crew to the demonic eyeball at the front of the train. The final phase of the fight is especially tough, with the entire train becoming a single, massive threat that must be defeated to progress.