Banana Codex Replication 2: M12S Mini Guide
FFXIV M12S Replication 2 guide using the Banana Codex strategy: boss orientation, cone-stack order swap, light party grouping, and Netherra baiting explained.
By:
John Langan
Effective Strategies for Banana Codex Replication 2
In this breakdown of the Banana Codex strategy for Replication 2, we cover a refined approach that leverages positioning and timing for better execution. This alternative deviates from the standard method and introduces several mechanical innovations, starting with how the boss and players are oriented.
Orientation and Positioning
The core adjustment is staging the boss to face "D," effectively making it the new north — even though it is technically west. This gives the raid consistent directional clarity throughout the mechanic.
When the clones appear and start tethering, players should:
- Identify their clone based on tethers.
- Move to their respective positions.
- Prepare for the Replication phase.
Once everyone is in position, the transition into cone and stack resolution begins.
Key Differences
Compared to the standard strategy, Banana Codex swaps the conventional cone and stack order:
- Standard Method: Cone, Stack, Defamation.
- Banana Codex Method: Stack, Cone, Defamation.
This adjustment reduces movement during critical phases and opens flexibility for uptime.
Execution and Mechanics
Player Grouping and Orientation:
Players split into light parties that determine their directions and targets:
- Party 1 looks northwest and counterclockwise.
- Party 2 looks north and clockwise.
For cone mechanics, the off-tank and second healer carry specific responsibilities. The second healer reads clone positions by facing north and clockwise; the off-tank follows a northwest and counterclockwise path.
Mechanics Execution:
- Act the Parties: Players adopt light party roles to manage cone mechanics effectively.
- Position for Attacks: Cones and stacks align relative to the boss, avoiding tethers while using the wall for stacking.
- Follow the Pattern: Execute stacking, dodging, reenactment, and positioning for rebounding attacks in sequence.
The ordering difference is the core trade-off between these two approaches.
Comparison of Cone and Stack Strategies
| Strategy Type | Order | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | Cone, Stack, Defamation | Follows familiar sequence |
| Banana Codex | Stack, Cone, Defamation | Greater flexibility & uptime |
The order swap is the defining feature of Banana Codex — it is what allows the Netherra baiting phase to flow more cleanly.
Netherra Positioning
Banana Codex also handles Netherra mechanics more efficiently:
- Netherra Near: Stack players position slightly south on the hitbox edge, automatically baiting the AoE.
- Netherra Far: Cone players bait the AoE by positioning outside the hitbox, letting stack players consolidate safely.
With these setups, the raid maintains uptime through the Netherra window and keeps movement consistent. If your static group is looking for a more structured approach to Replication 2, Banana Codex is worth practising on reclear weeks.