Valus, the very first colossus encountered in Shadow of the Colossus, sets the tone for one of the most memorable journeys in gaming. This towering beast, also known as the Minotaur or the First Colossus, serves as both an introduction to the game’s core mechanics and a powerful symbol of the emotional weight players will experience. Battling Valus is not just a tutorial it’s a glimpse into a larger, mysterious world where every encounter carries significance. Understanding how to find, fight, and ultimately defeat Valus is crucial for both new players and those looking to master the game.
Locating Valus in Shadow of the Colossus
The Journey to the First Colossus
After leaving the Shrine of Worship at the beginning of the game, players must follow the light emitted by Wander’s ancient sword. This beam of light helps guide you toward your next objective in this case, Valus. The path to Valus leads across the bridge and into a grassy canyon, surrounded by tall cliffs. The serene landscape contrasts with the enormity of what lies ahead.
The route includes basic horseback traversal and a few short climbs. It’s designed to ease players into the movement controls and teach the use of Wander’s sword to determine direction. Eventually, you reach a wide stone field with towering rock structures Valus awaits just beyond this area.
Valus’ Appearance and Behavior
A Towering Beast
Valus is a giant humanoid creature, standing tall with a stone club in one hand. His body is made of a mix of stone, fur, and worn ancient armor. His glowing weak points are essential to the battle, and recognizing his design features is part of the learning experience. While intimidating in size, Valus moves at a slow and deliberate pace, giving players time to observe and plan their approach.
- Height: Approximately 70 feet
- Weapons: Stone club
- Weak points: On the head and back of the left leg
- Movement: Slow, but powerful when attacking
Though Valus may seem slow, getting too close without preparation can be dangerous. His club swing has a long windup but covers a wide area and deals significant damage if it connects.
How to Climb and Defeat Valus
Step-by-Step Strategy
Defeating Valus requires more than just brute strength it’s about timing, observation, and precision. Here is a clear guide to help players bring down the first colossus:
1. Draw Valus’ Attention
Start by approaching Valus to get his attention. He may not immediately notice you, but once you get close enough or shoot an arrow, he’ll turn and begin moving toward you. Use this time to analyze his movements and the environment.
2. Reach His Leg
Valus has fur on the back of his left leg. When he takes a step forward or stops moving, you’ll see this area exposed. Run up behind him and jump onto the fur. This is your first climbing point.
3. Target the Leg Sigil
Climb up a little and you’ll find a glowing sigil. This is not the main weak point but a critical one that brings Valus to his knees when stabbed. Hold on and stab the leg sigil repeatedly. Once Valus falls to one knee, quickly move to the next step.
4. Climb to the Head
Once Valus drops, climb up his stone armor there are multiple fur patches and ledges on his back and waist. Manage your stamina carefully, resting when possible. Your goal is to reach the top of his head, where the main sigil is located.
5. Deliver the Final Blows
Once you reach Valus’ head, stab the glowing sigil until his health bar is depleted. The beast will try to shake you off, so time your strikes between his movements and grip tightly when he thrashes. With several strong hits, Valus will collapse and the battle will end.
Tips for First-Time Players
Understanding the Mechanics
The fight against Valus teaches essential mechanics that will be used throughout the rest of the game. Here are some useful tips:
- Use the sword lightto find climbable areas or the next colossus after each battle.
- Grip managementis crucial don’t let go unless you have stamina or a safe resting point.
- Camera controlhelps during the climb. Adjust it manually to keep your orientation steady.
- Watch Valus’ animations. His body language indicates when he’s about to attack or shake.
This introductory battle gives you a feel for movement, stamina control, and how to read the colossus’ behavior. While it’s the simplest of the sixteen battles, it’s also one of the most memorable.
Symbolism Behind Valus
More Than Just a Fight
Valus represents more than just a tutorial or a boss it symbolizes the beginning of Wander’s journey, both physically and morally. The design of the colossus, its slow movements, and the somber music create a tragic atmosphere. Many players walk away from this battle feeling conflicted. Though Valus is a threat in appearance, it does not act aggressively unless provoked. This moral ambiguity sets the tone for the rest of the game.
Every colossus in the game has a unique identity, and Valus is no different. His fall marks the first step in a transformative experience where players begin to question the nature of their quest and the consequences of their actions.
Technical Details and Design
Behind the Scenes
Valus was one of the first colossi designed during the development of Shadow of the Colossus. His role as the initial encounter had to serve multiple purposes: introduce gameplay, establish tone, and impress players with scale. Team Ico carefully balanced Valus to ensure the player would succeed with effort, but not be overwhelmed. His climbable surfaces are more forgiving than later colossi, and his attacks are easier to predict.
In the PlayStation 4 remake, Valus received updated textures and lighting, making him even more imposing. Yet the core design remains unchanged, preserving the original impact of his reveal and defeat.
Legacy of Valus
A Timeless Introduction
Valus remains one of the most iconic bosses in gaming history. He is often cited in discussions about how to introduce players to mechanics through gameplay rather than tutorials. His battle is simple in structure but emotionally resonant, setting a precedent that few games have managed to follow.
For many, defeating Valus is the first step into a world of mystery, sorrow, and awe. Whether you’re a new player or revisiting the game, the experience of climbing this stone giant and feeling the world shift after his fall is something that sticks with you long after the credits roll.
Valus, the First Colossus in Shadow of the Colossus, is more than a beginning it’s a statement. From the moment you see him rise above the landscape to the final blow that sends him crashing to the ground, Valus captures everything the game represents: scale, beauty, tragedy, and the weight of your actions. Mastering the battle with Valus is not just about learning how to win, but about understanding the emotional core of the journey ahead. This towering beast leaves a lasting impression and perfectly introduces one of the most beloved and haunting adventures in gaming.