As a hardcore Crisis Core fan whose conquered this epic game multiple times, unlocked every secret, and earned the coveted Platinum trophy, I consider the Cage of Binding one of the most memorable and challenging areas of the game. Unlocking this massive multi-layered dungeon tests your skill and knowledge of Zack‘s abilities to their limits.
But the secrets discovered within also reveal more of Shinra‘s shadowy past and the origins of the Genesis war. This guide will impart all my hard-earned knowledge for unlocking and mastering the Cage of Binding to fellow fans. Follow these tips and you‘ll obtain the "Cage Opener" trophy and claim the amazing treasures inside!
Why the Cage of Binding Matters to Crisis Core‘s Story
Shinra kept many ugly secrets hidden away from public view, conducting ethically questionable experiments to enhance their power. The Cage of Binding prison is where these scientists created the Genesis clones – seeking to build their own army of super soldiers.
By infiltrating this abandoned laboratory, Zack uncovers critical details about Project G and the defection of Genesis Rhapsodos from Shinra‘s ranks. It completes Crisis Core‘s underlying narrative arc.
The mysterious Restrictors also oversaw this research, hinted to be part of Shinra‘s shadowy Department of Administrative Research. Defeating them grants Zack Ifrit, Shiva, Ramuh, Titan and Bahamut summon materia – the company‘s proudest creations.
So while a tough dungeon crawl on the surface, narratively this location proves critical for Zack learning the truth as he‘s embroiled in Shinra‘s grand schemes.
Step-By-Step Walkthrough
Follow these instructions to traverse the Cage of Binding and unlock its deepest secrets:
Enter the Depths of Judgement
In Chapter 10, speak to Director Lazard to unlock the gateway to the Depths of Judgement located under Midgar. This foreboding canyon leads straight down into the Planet‘s Lifestream itself.
Be sure to have leveled Zack to at least level 45 before attempting this dungeon. Equip your strongest Materia build and items to raise defense/health stats as well.
Read All Four Loveless Tablets
When you reach the save point, locate the Four Ancient Tablets engraved with passages from the epic LOVELESS poem nearby. Examine all four tablet (the Prologue, Acts I-III) before proceeding deeper into the Depths.
Reading the tablets unlocks new paths that lets you access the Lake of Oblivion and Cage of Binding entrance ahead.
Battle the Judecca in the Lake of Oblivion
A glowing lake blocks the route to the Cage next. Five crystals here each contain a Judecca – dangerous fire-elemental enemies. Defeating them all causes a Mako bridge to extend over the waters.
Judeccas hit extremely hard and enter an impervious "iron stance" where attacks heal them. Bait and guard their onslaught, then attack normally during their "attack stance". Blizzard Materia helps wear them down quicker.
With all five Judeccas defeated, cross the glowing bridge to reach the Cage of Binding gate. Opening it earns Zack the "Cage Opener" trophy.
Navigate the Multi-Tiered Cage Complex
The Cage of Binding is essentially a large multi-floor prison complex. Navigating the winding passages while battling dangerous monsters takes patience. Activating consoles to remove blue barriers blocking your path is also essential to exploration.
This map details the critical paths to locate treasures and traverse deeper underground:
5 power consoles shown in yellow must get activated to access the lowest depths where the Restrictors lurk.
Discover Long Lost Experiments and Equipment
Although abandoned, the remnants of Shinra‘s experiments still wander the cells and laboratories. Slay these bizarre creatures to unlock new abilities for Zack:
- No. 106 – Earn the Sneak Attack ability
- No. 107 – Unlocks Wall Rush
- No. 108 – Rewards the Throw ability
- And more creatures…
Also search for hidden treasure chests tucked away behind structures or down dead-end paths:
- Mythril Saber – Strong piercing sword for Zack
- Outsider soul breaks damage limits
- Rare materials for accessory synthesis
Exploring every room reveals blueprints to reconstruct Shinra‘s weapons program plus details on something called "Project S". Huge materia orbs powering the facility can also get destroyed.
Defeat the Triple Restrictor Enemies
The deepest chamber in the Cage of Binding contains its toughest challenge – three mysterious enemies named Restrictors. They guard all the findings and research from Shinra‘s experiments.
The Restrictors hover around the arena flanking Zack with physical and magical attacks. Try to isolate and finish off one quickly before the others overwhelm you. Equip elemental protection accessories to mitigate their onslaught.
Once defeated, they drop 5 summoning Materia orbs. These grant the power to call Ifrit, Shiva, Ramuh, Titan, and Bahamut to unleash their signature moves in battle!
Having overcome the challenges of the Cage, use the exit to return to the Depths and report your success. You‘ll now stand even stronger against whatever foes await in the future.
Additional Tips To Master The Cage of Binding
While the Cage of Binding presents a linear gauntlet style dungeon, knowing these extra tips helps overcome its hazards:
- Phoenix Downs and Potions are essential. Craft or buy 10+ of each before tackling this long gauntlet.
- Elemental and Shielding Materia help mitigate damage from the barrage of foes.
- Unlock the Fat Chocobo merchant side quest to buy powerful late-game spells and gear.
- Activate ALL 5 power consoles shown on the map before battling the Restrictors. This removes blockades and opens access to rear treasure rooms.
- When low on health against the triple Restrictors don‘t hesitate to use a Teleport Materia or Smoke Ball item to flee and regroup. They remain at lower health letting you comeback and finish them off.
While tough, the Cage of Binding presents an exciting peak into the shadowy experiments of Shinra‘s past. I hope these tips for navigating and conquering it helps other fans reach the same satisfying success I had unlocking all its secrets!
Let me know if you need any other advice waging war against the Restrictors or exploring the long lost Genesis cloning labs.
