diff --git a/code/datums/actions/mobs/projectileattack.dm b/code/datums/actions/mobs/projectileattack.dm
index 7866e0831ca..5f97081186d 100644
--- a/code/datums/actions/mobs/projectileattack.dm
+++ b/code/datums/actions/mobs/projectileattack.dm
@@ -297,6 +297,7 @@
 		colossus = firer
 		colossus.say("Perish.", spans = list("colossus", "yell"))
 
+	SLEEP_CHECK_DEATH(0.5 SECONDS, firer) //gives dumbasses in melee range a slim chance to retreat
 	var/finale_counter = 10
 	for(var/i in 1 to 20)
 		if(finale_counter > 4 && colossus)