Kill Rykard Lord Of Blasphemy
Facing Rykard, Lord of Blasphemy in Elden Ring is one of the most unique and challenging boss encounters in the game. This colossal figure towers over the player, wielding immense power and a devastating weapon known as the Serpent-Hunter. The battle offers a blend of strategy, timing, and understanding of mechanics that sets it apart from typical Elden Ring boss fights. Whether you are a seasoned Tarnished or new to the Lands Between, mastering the fight against Rykard requires patience, the right approach, and effective use of the environment. Here’s a detailed guide on how to kill Rykard, Lord of Blasphemy efficiently.
Preparing for the Fight
Gear and Weapon Recommendations
Preparation is crucial before stepping into Rykard’s arena. Since the boss has a massive health pool and devastating attacks, equipping armor with good physical and fire resistance will improve survivability. Consider medium armor sets that balance defense and mobility to dodge his attacks effectively.
- Weapons with high damage output and good reach are recommended, such as greatswords, halberds, or spears.
- The Serpent-Hunter weapon you acquire during the fight is a powerful tool you will use extensively; understanding how to wield it properly is essential.
- Consumables that boost fire resistance or increase stamina recovery can provide a significant advantage.
Level and Stats
It’s beneficial to have your character around level 80-100 before tackling Rykard to ensure your damage output and health pool are adequate. Investing in Vigor for health, Endurance for stamina and equip load, and Strength or Dexterity depending on your weapon choice will make the battle smoother.
Spirit Ash Summons
Spirit Ash summons can provide vital distractions during the fight. Using summons such as the Lone Wolf Ashes or Mimic Tear helps keep Rykard’s attention, allowing you to land critical hits or heal safely. Make sure to upgrade your Spirit Ashes before the fight to maximize their usefulness.
Understanding Rykard’s Mechanics
Rykard’s Arena and The Serpent-Hunter
Unlike traditional boss fights, this battle occurs in a unique arena where you will use the Serpent-Hunter weapon, a massive spear-like weapon designed specifically to damage Rykard. You’ll find this weapon stuck into the ground near the start of the fight. To effectively fight Rykard, you must pick up and use this weapon. The arena itself is designed for you to stay close to Rykard while avoiding his devastating attacks.
Phases of the Fight
Rykard’s fight consists of two main phases:
- Phase 1: Rykard uses wide sweeping attacks with his serpent body and powerful strikes with the Serpent-Hunter weapon.
- Phase 2: When Rykard’s health drops to about 50%, he becomes more aggressive and summons additional fire-based attacks and serpent minions to complicate the fight.
Key Attack Patterns
Rykard’s attack patterns include:
- Wide sweeping serpent tail attacks – can be dodged by rolling towards or away from him depending on the attack angle.
- Charging lunge attacks with the Serpent-Hunter – watch the animation carefully and dodge sideways.
- Fire-based attacks during Phase 2 that create damaging zones on the ground.
- Summoning smaller serpent creatures to attack you, adding pressure to the fight.
Step-by-Step Strategy to Kill Rykard
Step 1: Entering the Arena and Picking Up the Serpent-Hunter
As the fight starts, rush to the Serpent-Hunter weapon embedded in the ground. This weapon is your primary tool against Rykard. Attempting to fight him without it will be nearly impossible due to the boss’s massive health and resistance. Once equipped, your attacks with the Serpent-Hunter deal significant damage and have reach suited to this fight.
Step 2: Stay Close, But Be Ready to Dodge
Rykard’s attacks have a large area of effect but are often slow and telegraphed. Staying relatively close to him allows you to land hits between his attacks, but always be ready to dodge. Use the dodge roll timing carefully to avoid his sweeping tail and lunges. Rolling towards his attacks can sometimes help avoid damage, but rolling sideways is usually safer.
Step 3: Use Weapon Skills and Charged Attacks
The Serpent-Hunter weapon has special skills and charged attacks that can deal massive damage if timed correctly. Focus on learning the timing of these moves to maximize damage output. Charged thrusts and weapon arts can stagger Rykard and create openings for combos.
Step 4: Manage Stamina and Healing
Keep an eye on your stamina bar. Don’t overcommit to attacks; always reserve stamina for dodging or blocking if necessary. When you get a safe moment, retreat briefly to heal with your Flask of Crimson Tears. Use Spirit Ash summons to distract Rykard during healing.
Step 5: Prepare for Phase 2 Aggression
Once Rykard’s health drops to about half, he becomes more aggressive. He will summon fire attacks and serpent minions. Prioritize dodging the fire zones and quickly dispatch the summoned minions to avoid being overwhelmed. Continue to focus attacks on Rykard while maintaining distance from his fire damage zones.
Additional Tips for Success
Use Fire Resistance Gear
Since Rykard uses fire-based attacks in the second phase, equipping armor or talismans that boost fire resistance can drastically reduce damage taken. Consider items like the Flame Shield or armor sets with innate fire resistance.
Maintain Aggression, But Stay Patient
This fight rewards patience. Being too aggressive can leave you open to Rykard’s powerful counters. Instead, look for clear openings after his big attacks to land a few hits, then back off and prepare for the next attack.
Utilize Environment Features
The arena has some structures that can provide brief cover from Rykard’s serpent minions or fire attacks. Use these to your advantage without losing sight of the boss.
Upgrade Your Weapon and Flask
Upgrading the Serpent-Hunter weapon and your Flask of Crimson Tears beforehand is highly recommended. The increased damage and healing will make the fight considerably easier.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Picking Up the Serpent-Hunter: Trying to fight Rykard without this weapon will result in a frustrating and likely unsuccessful battle.
- Ignoring Fire Zones: Standing in the fire damage areas during Phase 2 can quickly drain your health.
- Overextending After Attacks: Chasing Rykard recklessly leaves you vulnerable to his powerful counterattacks.
- Not Managing Stamina: Running out of stamina during an attack phase can prevent you from dodging crucial moves.
Killing Rykard, Lord of Blasphemy is a memorable and rewarding experience in Elden Ring. The combination of unique arena mechanics, the powerful Serpent-Hunter weapon, and Rykard’s diverse attack patterns makes this boss stand out. By preparing thoroughly, learning the timing of his attacks, and strategically using the Serpent-Hunter, players can overcome this formidable foe. Keep calm, stay patient, and your victory against Rykard will be well-earned, unlocking new areas and progressing your journey through the Lands Between.