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The immersive universe of Elden Ring is filled with challenging bosses and hidden secrets. One of the most formidable adversaries you'll face is Rykard, Lord of Blasphemy. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough to locate and defy Rykard, ensuring you're well-prepared for the task ahead.
What is Elden Ring?
Elden Ring is an action RPG developed by FromSoftware and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment. Directed by Hidetaka Miyazaki and featuring world-building elements from George R.R. Martin, this game combines a rich narrative with complex gameplay mechanics. Players explore the expansive open world known as the Lands Between, filled with hostile environments, perilous creatures, and intricate lore.
This game stands out for its deeply engaging storyline and high level of difficulty, making each victory that much more rewarding. With a vast landscape to traverse and countless secrets to uncover, Elden Ring promises an unforgettable gaming experience, catering to both veterans of the Soulsborne series and newcomers alike.
How Does It Differ From Other Games?
Unlike many games that offer linear progression, Elden Ring is known for its open-world design. This allows players the freedom to explore various regions at their own pace, taking on quests and challenges in a non-linear fashion. The game gives players the liberty to create unique strategies and playstyles, adding layers of replayability.
Another standout feature is the seamless integration of multiplayer elements. Whether you're summoning allies to help in boss battles or engaging in PvP combat, Elden Ring offers a variety of online interactions that enrich the overall experience. This blend of single-player and multiplayer elements sets it apart, offering multiple dimensions of gameplay.
Navigating to Volcano Manor
To locate Rykard, you'll first need to reach Volcano Manor, situated on Mt. Gelmir in the Altus Plateau. Accessing this area involves either a dangerous climb up the mountain or completing one of Rya's requests in Liurnia, which will teleport you directly to the manor. Once you arrive, speak to Tanith at the Manor's Site of Grace to receive your first set of contracts.
Completing Tanith's contracts is a prerequisite if you wish to adhere to the game's quest structure. However, you can bypass this requirement by entering a side corridor in the Manor using a key provided by Tanith. This corridor conceals an illusory wall that opens up a passageway leading to the inner sanctum of the Manor, ultimately guiding you to Rykard's lair.
Preparing for the Battle
Rykard, Lord of Blasphemy, is not just another boss; he requires meticulous preparation. His affiliation with fire makes him resistant to certain types of attacks while being susceptible to Frost-based damage. It is advisable to equip items or weapons that can inflict Frostbite, a status effect that deals prolonged damage. Items like Freezing Pots and Frost-based sorceries such as Adula's Moonblade are particularly useful.
Moreover, consuming Fireproof Dried Livers can help mitigate the fire damage you'll endure throughout the battle. Understanding Rykard's attack patterns and devising a strategy centered around his weaknesses will grant you a tactical advantage, making the confrontation more manageable. Mage players might consider adopting a full Frost build to exploit Rykard's vulnerabilities.
Understanding Rykard’s Attack Patterns
Observing and understanding Rykard’s attack patterns is crucial for survival. Key attacks include his Snake Bite, Magma Slam, and various fire-based AOE moves. Each attack has a specific counter-strategy, whether it involves dodging, blocking, or maintaining distance. For example, his Magma Thrash requires you to create sufficient space to evade his sweeping tail and flying magma.
Detailed observation of Rykard’s movements can help you anticipate his next move. For instance, during his Magma Upheaval attack, he plunges his face into the ground momentarily before causing an eruption. Recognizing these cues allows you to react appropriately, minimizing damage and seizing opportunities for counter-attacks. Strategic evasion and precision in timing can significantly influence the battle's outcome.
The Serpent Hunter Spear
Within Rykard's arena, you'll find a critical weapon—the Serpent Hunter spear. This spear, held by a nearby corpse, is specifically designed to combat the God-Devouring Serpent. The weapon features unique abilities that are exceptionally effective against Rykard, making it indispensable for the fight. Conveniently, it has no stat requirements, allowing any build to wield it effectively.
Equipping the Serpent Hunter spear will significantly enhance your combat capabilities against Rykard. Its specialized attacks can stagger and inflict considerable damage, making it easier to capitalize on Rykard's vulnerabilities. Continuously use the spear’s slamming-stab ability, timing your strikes to prevent Rykard from counterattacking effectively. Mastery of this weapon is crucial to overpowering Rykard's formidable defenses.
Combat Strategy Against Rykard
Once you step into Rykard’s lair, initiate the fight using the Serpent Hunter spear. Targeting his weak points and exploiting his susceptibility to Frostbite should be your primary focus. Maintaining medium range can prevent some of his more devastating attacks, allowing you to strike effectively without getting too close to danger. Keep an eye on your health and manage your HP flasks diligently.
Adapting to Rykard’s changing tactics is vital, especially as you transition into his second phase. Continue leveraging the spear’s unique abilities, but stay vigilant of his more aggressive moves. Collaborating with an ally who also wields the Serpent Hunter spear can make the battle more manageable, dividing his attention and doubling the offensive output. Ultimately, persistent and calculated strikes will pave the path to victory.