Malenia might be the infamous "Let Me Solo Her" boss, but Radahn is arguably the most memorable and challenging boss fight in Elden Ring. His colossal size and devastating attacks can leave even seasoned Tarnished feeling utterly defeated. Fear not, though! This guide will break down the strategies and tactics needed to conquer Radahn and claim his glorious rewards.
Understanding Radahn's Attacks
Before diving into strategies, it's crucial to understand Radahn's attack patterns. He has a diverse arsenal, from ranged attacks like gravity magic and arrows to close-quarters combat using his massive sword. Knowing what's coming is half the battle!
Key Attack Patterns to Watch Out For:
- Gravity Magic: Radahn will unleash devastating gravity-based attacks, pulling you in and inflicting significant damage. Learn to anticipate these and create distance.
- Massive Sword Swings: His close-range attacks are incredibly powerful and have a wide range. Dodging is key here; blocking is often futile.
- Arrow Barrage: Radahn unleashes a massive volley of arrows. Seek cover or use your horse to quickly move across the battlefield.
- Meteor Shower: This devastating attack calls down multiple meteors, requiring quick reactions to avoid.
Strategies for Victory: The Three Pillars of Radahn's Defeat
Conquering Radahn requires a multi-pronged approach. Here are three key strategies to combine for success:
1. Utilize the Power of Summoning:
Radahn's fight is designed to be tackled collaboratively. Summoning allies is not just beneficial—it's essential. The NPCs available act as powerful distractions and allow for coordinated attacks.
- Strategically Position Your Summons: Don't just summon and forget them; guide them to focus on specific attacks or distract Radahn while you position for your own attacks.
- Choose Your Summons Wisely: Some summons are better equipped to handle Radahn's different attacks than others. Experiment to find the best combination.
2. Master the Art of Dodging and Horseback Combat:
Radahn's attacks have significant range and power, making blocking ineffective in most situations. Mastering precise dodges is paramount.
- Use Torrent Effectively: Your horse, Torrent, is your best friend in this fight. Use it for quick mobility to avoid attacks and reposition yourself.
- Learn Radahn's Timing: Practice dodging his attacks to recognize their telltale signs and react accordingly. Timing is everything!
3. Exploit Weaknesses and Optimize Your Build:
While Radahn is a formidable foe, he's not invincible. Understanding his weaknesses and optimizing your build for the fight will greatly increase your chances of success.
- Magic and Ranged Attacks: Radahn is susceptible to both magic and ranged attacks, providing opportunities to inflict damage from a safe distance.
- Bleed Build: A bleed build can be incredibly effective against Radahn, consistently chipping away at his health.
Optimizing Your Build for Radahn
Consider these build adjustments for a smoother Radahn fight:
- High Vigor: Radahn hits HARD. Prioritize high vigor for survivability.
- Adequate Dexterity: This improves your dodge rolls and attack speed.
- Focus on Bleed Build (Optional): This can provide consistent damage over time.
- Ranged Spells or Weapons: Maintain distance and chip away at his health with ranged attacks.
Beyond the Basics: Advanced Tips and Tricks
- Utilize the Environment: The battlefield offers some opportunities for strategic advantage, such as using the terrain to avoid attacks.
- Don't Be Afraid to Experiment: Find what strategies work best for your build and play style.
- Persistence is Key: Even with a well-crafted strategy, defeating Radahn may take multiple attempts. Don't give up!
Conquering Radahn is a significant achievement in Elden Ring. By understanding his attacks, mastering the strategies outlined above, and optimizing your build, you'll be well on your way to claiming victory and earning the spoils of war. Good luck, Tarnished!
