Escape from Slag's Clutches is a mission in Tools of Destruction, taking place at the Verdigris Black Hole in the Verdigris Sector. The Aphelion is ambushed by space pirates while en route to Jasindu, as Captain Slag deduces from their flight path that Jasindu must be the location of the Dimensionator.
Walkthrough[]
The mission begins with a straightforward objective: continuously shoot down the various ships flying by to collect bolts and defend yourself. As you approach the black hole, prepare to face an attack from a battle cruiser. This battle cruiser lacks a convenient single weak point that can destroy the entire vessel. Focus on dealing with the other attacking ships once you pass the battle cruiser, until Ratchet veers off course and heads towards the Pegasus Outpost. Make sure to target all the raritanium satellites (don't worry about the nanotech induction rings) until you safely navigate through the minefield.
Following the minefield, you will encounter another set of rings to pass through. Engage in more target shooting against both raritanium satellites and satellite turrets. Be cautious of the turrets' laser attacks, as they sweep across your screen, making them difficult to dodge. If possible, prioritize shooting down the satellites, but keep in mind that you will swiftly move past them regardless. Clear any obstacles obstructing your path within the cave section until you eventually exit the outpost by setting of an exploding chain reaction.
Continue to eliminate the fleeing ships and fend off attacks as the Aphelion re-orients itself towards the black hole. Brace yourself for a final stretch filled with relentless combat ships, including three battle cruisers, each with their own distinctive weak points. Once you withstand this final onslaught, you will enter the black hole and confront the third boss, Greasepalms McGee.
McGee employs three different attacks: firstly, he launches swarms of homing missiles that can be evaded by continuous movement. Secondly, he rapidly generates orbs from the wheel at his back, which generate dense and harmful lasers between them. These lasers can be effectively dodged with precise, steady maneuvers. Finally, be wary of the large orb descending from his ship's 'mouth,' as it signifies his third attack. During this phase, he will unleash a rapid stream of energy blasts in your direction for a brief period. However, the orb serves as his only weak point, allowing you to deal double damage.
Once you successfully dismantle McGee's ship, the mission automatically progresses to Jasindu for the next objective, "Follow the Road to Kerchu City".