DAVETHE DIVER GUIDE

How to Beat Xiphactinus, the Final Boss

Spoilers below: maximize survivability, use range during dangerous patterns, and save burst damage for the boss's recoveries.

Updated July 25, 2026 · 5 min read

Quick answer

Bring maximum practical oxygen, spare ammo, and a ranged upgrade

Xiphactinus is the DLC's hardest main-story underwater fight. Enter with an upgraded oxygen tank, an oxygen flask, spare ammunition, and a strong rifle or sniper branch; keep shotgun mode for safe close openings.

Do not chase during a charge sequence. Move perpendicular to the line of attack, let the boss finish, then fire into the recovery window and return to open water.

Boss
Xiphactinus
Role
Final main-story fight
Best safety
Rifle/sniper range
Carry slots
Oxygen + ammo

Final boss loadout

Slot or upgradeRecommended choice
Jungle GunHighest rifle or sniper branch available
Secondary modeShotgun for close punish windows
Auxiliary 1Oxygen flask
Auxiliary 2Ammo box
Dave upgradeOxygen first, then mobility/carry comfort

Xiphactinus fight plan

1

Begin at mid range

Use open water to see the full wind-up and avoid being pinned against the arena edge.

2

Dodge across the attack line

Move vertically or perpendicular to a horizontal rush instead of racing the boss in the same direction.

3

Punish the recovery

Fire two or three accurate shots after the boss completes a charge, then reset your spacing.

4

Reload during distance

Use the far side of the arena or a completed pattern for ammo and oxygen management.

5

Finish without greed

At low boss health, keep the same safe rhythm; one extra shot is not worth absorbing a full charge.

Fix the three common failures

  • If you run out of oxygen, equip the flask and prioritize dodging over damage.
  • If ammunition runs out, improve accuracy and reserve close-range mode for guaranteed openings.
  • If the arena edge traps Dave, begin each pattern by moving toward open water.
  • If damage is too low, leave the sequence and upgrade one gun path fully.
  • If controls feel slow, remove conflicting custom bindings before the attempt.

FAQ

Final Boss questions

Who is the final boss of In the Jungle?

Xiphactinus is the late main-story underwater boss and the expansion's hardest required fish encounter.

Can you leave and upgrade before the fight?

Use the last available preparation window and manual save to improve gear rather than forcing attempts with insufficient oxygen or damage.

Sources and verification

This guide was checked against current game information and player reports on July 25, 2026. Jungle boss and fish reference · All fish and story encounter reference