Anime Vanguards Update 5.5 introduces a challenging game mode that many players are struggling with — especially during the boss fight against SID and the infamous Bird Cage mechanic. If you’re wondering how to survive SID’s I Am Atomic attack and beat Cage Act 2, this guide breaks it all down step-by-step, including how to unlock the secret CID unit.
Understanding the SID Boss Fight and Cage Mechanic
This special boss mode is designed as an anti-AFK challenge, meaning you can’t just sit back and let your units do all the work. You have to actively participate to stay alive, especially when SID starts talking. One of the most important mechanics involves four numbered pillars scattered around the battlefield. These pillars are used to counter SID’s ultimate attack — I Am Atomic — which can instantly wipe out your team if not stopped in time.
What Happens in the SID Boss Fight?
Bird Cage: Inspired by One Piece, a massive cage drops onto the battlefield at random moments. If you get trapped, your character will be immobilized — you won’t be able to place or upgrade units.
- How to Escape: Only teammates can free you by standing next to your character and selecting the option to help.
- Solo Play Warning: If you’re playing solo, there’s no way to free yourself once trapped, so bring a team if possible.
I Am Atomic Mechanic: This is the real threat in both Act 1 and Act 2 of the fight.
- SID will say a sequence of four random numbers — for example, 4, 1, 2, 3.
- Each number corresponds to one of the four glowing pillars placed around the map.
- Once SID begins his I Am Atomic voice line, you must quickly activate the pillars in the correct order to cancel the attack.
How to Counter I Am Atomic
- Listen for the Number Sequence: SID will call out four numbers (1 to 4), which tell you the order you must press the pillars.
- Locate the Pillars: The pillars are fixed on the map and numbered 1 to 4. Know their locations before the fight.
- Act Fast: In Act 1, there’s more time between the voice line and the attack. In Act 2, you have far less time, making quick movement essential.
- Use a Mount: To speed things up, equip a mount that increases your movement speed. This helps reach pillars faster, especially in Act 2.
- Press “E” to Interact: When you reach the correct pillar, interact with it immediately. You must hit all four in the correct order before SID finishes his voice line.
Recommended Strategy for Cage Act 2
- Play with Friends: Split up the responsibilities. Each player can handle one or two of the four required pillar activations. This increases your chance of canceling SID’s ultimate.
- Call Out Numbers: Use voice chat or pings to quickly communicate the number order and coordinate movements.
- Memorize Pillar Spots: Knowing where the pillars are can save precious seconds.
How to Unlock Secret CID
Defeating SID in Cage Act 2 gives you a chance to unlock the secret CID unit. This is a rare drop and not guaranteed every run, so you may need to attempt it multiple times.
- Drop Conditions: CID can drop as a reward after defeating SID in Cage Act 2, but RNG plays a role.
- Repeat Runs: Keep repeating the fight to increase your odds. Bring reliable teammates and follow the correct pillar order each time.
Beating Cage Act 2 in Anime Vanguards isn’t just about having the strongest team. It’s about coordination, fast reactions, and understanding the mechanics behind SID’s attacks. The Bird Cage will test your teamwork, while I Am Atomic pushes your timing and awareness. With this guide, you’ll be ready to tackle SID’s challenges and hopefully unlock the powerful CID unit for your collection. Have you managed to cancel SID’s atomic attack successfully yet?