How to defeat the enemy without getting swallowed in FF7 Rebirth

I’m not the best dodger in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, so this particular enemy intel mission really got my palms sweating. But if I can do it, so can you! Here’s how to defeat the Duneworm without getting swallowed in FF7 Rebirth.

Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth Enemy Intel mission - How to avoid getting swallowed by the Duneworm

There are a couple of approaches you can take to clear this mission objective: either use Tifa to dodge normally or use Aerith’s Ward Shift. Both require proper timing. You can also use Yuffie or Red XIII in lieu of Tifa, but I prefer my monk since she can make quick work of the Duneworm.

Whatever strategy you’re using, be the character that deals the most damage to the Duneworm. This means close combat with Tifa and Ice Magic + Tempest with Aerith. This should push the Duneworm’s attention towards you.

Here's the important part: once the Duneworm stops rolling on the sand or spitting out attacks, move a respectable distance away from it in anticipation of Swallow. Keep running to maintain distance. This gives you time to observe its movement in the sand, as its antennas are visible. It also increases your odds of avoiding its attack.

Related: Best Builds for Aerith in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

Dodging the attack

The Duneworm jumps in an arc when it performs this move. Once it’s near, wait for it to jump out before you dodge. Dodge towards a direction where its mouth won’t land.

If you’re using a speedster (like Tifa) you should even get a pretty big gap for this!

Using Ward Shift

If you’re using Aerith, be sure you have a Ward placed in the opposite area from where you’re currently standing. Then, you need to press triangle and trigger Ward Shift once the antennas are moving toward her. Don’t wait for the Duneworm to leap out! There’s a slight delay to Ward Shift when you compare it to a Tifa/Red-XIII/Yuffie dodge.

This strategy is better if you have two wards up. Then, you can quickly move to the next one should the Duneworm not leap out of the sand and follow you instead.

For more help with FF7 Rebirth, take a look at Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth Musclehead Colosseum Guide here at Pro Game Guides.