The Inferno is one of the most challenging PvM (Player vs. Monster) activities in Old School RuneScape (OSRS). It's a formidable wave-based combat challenge found in the TzHaar city of Mor Ul Rek. Completing the Inferno is a testament to a player's combat skills, quick thinking, and perseverance. In this guide, we'll focus on conquering the Inferno using the Melee combat style, sharing tips, strategies, and gear recommendations for your journey.

The Inferno Overview

Before we dive into the Melee strategy, let's briefly go over the basics of the Inferno:

1. Location: The Inferno is located within the TzHaar city of Mor Ul Rek, accessible via the Karamja Volcano and the charged Amulet of Glory.

2. Objective: Your goal in the Inferno is to survive 69 waves of increasingly challenging TzHaar and TzKal-Zuk, the final boss. The final boss is the toughest part of the challenge and requires careful planning and execution.

3. Combat Styles: The Inferno can be tackled using three combat styles: Melee, Ranged, and Magic. Each has its unique advantages and challenges.

Requirements

Before attempting the Inferno, ensure you meet the following requirements:

1. High Combat Stats: Ideally, you should have 99 Attack, Strength, and Defence. At the very least, aim for 90+ in these stats.

2. Optimal Gear: Having the best gear is crucial. For Melee, consider the following:

   • Abyssal Tentacle Whip: Best-in-slot weapon.
   • Dragon Defender: Provides substantial accuracy and damage bonuses.
   • Karil's Crossbow: For killing the nibblers in waves leading to the final boss.
   • Karil's Crossbow Bolt Rack: Ammo for your crossbow.
   • Avernic Defender: Offers excellent defensive bonuses.
   • Obsidian Platebody and Legs: These provide a damage bonus while inside the Inferno.

3. Twisted Bow: If you're a high-level player with access to this rare weapon, you can use it in combination with the Karil's Crossbow to make the final boss fight significantly easier.

4. Best-in-Slot Melee Gear: Aim for the best gear you can afford, including items like the Bandos Chestplate, Bandos Tassets, and Primordial Boots.

5. Food and Potions: You'll need a substantial supply of Saradomin Brews and restores for your inventory.
   

The Melee Strategy

Now, let's get into the specifics of the Melee strategy for the Inferno:

1. Understanding Wave Mechanics: The Inferno consists of 69 waves with increasing difficulty. Understanding the mechanics of each wave is crucial. Use the practice mode to familiarize yourself with the waves before attempting the real thing.

2. Protect from Missiles: Throughout the Inferno, you should be using the "Protect from Missiles" prayer. This will reduce the damage from ranged attacks and is essential for survival.

3. Wave-by-Wave Guide:

   • Waves 1-66: Focus on efficient use of your Abyssal Tentacle Whip. Use the Dragon Defender and Avernic Defender for optimal bonuses. Pay attention to the spawn locations and prioritize killing the TzHaar with healers.

   • Wave 67: This wave features the Jal-Nib-Rek, which are the healers for TzKal-Zuk. Kill them first, and then focus on damaging Zuk. Use your Karil's Crossbow and Bolt Rack to dispatch the nibblers quickly.

   • Wave 68: This wave is a recap of the previous waves but with increased difficulty. Maintain the same strategy and stay calm.

   • Wave 69 (Zuk): This is the final boss, TzKal-Zuk. The fight consists of four phases:

     • First Phase: Focus on dealing damage to Zuk while avoiding the falling rocks. Pray "Protect from Missiles."
     • Second Phase: Deal with the healers by targeting each one with the Karil's Crossbow. Prioritize healing the one closest to Zuk. Continue to pray "Protect from Missiles."
     • Third Phase: Repeat the process of dealing with healers and maintaining "Protect from Missiles" prayer.
     • Fourth Phase: Zuk's health will be low in this phase. Deal the final blows and secure your victory.
       

4. Supplies and Inventory: Your inventory should consist mainly of Saradomin Brews and Super Restores. Bring some Anglerfish for combo healing. Use a Saradomin Brew when your health is low, and follow it up with a restore to replenish Prayer points.

5. Movement and Positioning: Be aware of your positioning throughout the Inferno. Avoid getting trapped by multiple TzHaar or standing in dangerous areas.

6. Stay Calm: The Inferno can be extremely intense, especially during the final boss fight. Stay calm, focused, and avoid panicking. Panic can lead to mistakes that could cost you the Inferno.

Learning and Perseverance

It's important to remember that completing the Inferno is a significant accomplishment, and few players can do it on their first attempt. Be prepared for multiple attempts, and use each one as a learning experience. Analyze your mistakes, watch replays of your attempts, and refine your strategy with each run.

Conclusion

Conquering the Inferno using the Melee combat style in OSRS is a daunting challenge, but with the right gear, strategy, and perseverance, it's an achievable goal. Remember to practice, stay calm under pressure, and learn from each attempt. The satisfaction of obtaining the coveted Infernal Cape will make all your efforts worthwhile. Good luck on your journey to becoming an Inferno master!