Balance Master

Balance Master
Game: Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (8-bit)
Level: [[Aqua Lake Zone]]
Hits to defeat: 6

Official artwork of Balance Master

The Balance Master is the boss of Aqua Lake Zone, the third level in Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (8-bit). This boss is notable for requiring a more indirect attack strategy than most of the game's bosses.

Strategy

When he first confronts sonic, the Mecha Sea Lion will promptly blow an explosive balloon on its nose; the balloon will pop before the badnik can throw it at Sonic, damaging it and giving the player a clue on how to defeat the robotic pinneped.

The Mecha Sea Lion's main tactic is slowly shuffling towards Sonic, leaping towards him with a tail slap when it gets close enough; if Sonic tries to jump on the boss, it will catch him and bounce him for a few seconds before throwing him across the room. After this, the seal will again try to inflate its trademark explosive balloons; Sonic must attack these when they are almost inflated, popping them and damaging the Sea Lion (failure to attack the balloon will cause the Mecha Sea Lion to use it as a projectile). Repeating this five more times causes the robot to seemingly throw a tantrum as it explodes, allowing Sonic to proceed to Green Hill Zone.