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One of the main Shardbearers in Elden Ring is Rykard, Lord of Blasphemy, which is located in Volcano Manor deep within Mt. Gelmir. Rykard is a tough boss to defeat and requires a different approach than most other bosses because of his unique mechanics. Here is a comprehensive guide to defeat him and get his Great Rune.

Boss Data Table

Location

Rykard is found at the end of Volcano Manor in Mt. Gelmir. To reach him, you must progress through the Volcano Manor questline or navigate the dangerous paths leading up Mt. Gelmir.

After completing tasks for Tanith, the leader of Volcano Manor, you will be able to access the Audience Pathway, which leads directly to Rykard's arena.

Preparation

•Level: Aim for at least level 60, focusing on Vigor for higher HP, and your primary damage stat (Strength, Dexterity, or Faith depending on your build).

Weapon:

•Serpent-Hunter: This spear is crucial for the fight. It has a unique ability to shoot a blade of light, significantly extending its reach and damage.

•Other Weapons: While the Serpent-Hunter is optimal, if you're looking for a challenge, you can use other weapons, but you'll need to be much more cautious and possibly have a strategy for dealing with the boss's fire pools and ranged attacks.

Talismans

•Boltdrake Talisman for reduced lightning damage (Rykard's attacks include lightning).

•Fire Scorpion Charm to boost fire damage if you're using a fire-based setup.

•Green Turtle Talisman for stamina recovery, useful for dodging.

Spirit Ashes

•Mimic Tear is highly recommended. It will copy your equipment, including the Serpent-Hunter if you have it equipped, providing massive damage output.

Consumables

•Boluses for fire resistance can be helpful if you choose to fight up close.

•Healing items like Crimsonburst Crystal Tear for your Flask of Wondrous Physick.

Boss Fight Phase 1 - God-Devouring Serpent

•Entry: As you enter, immediately grab the Serpent-Hunter spear from the corpse on your left. This weapon is designed specifically for this fight.

Combat:

•Distance: Keep a safe distance to avoid the fire on the ground. Use the Serpent-Hunter's light attacks to send beams of energy towards Rykard. These attacks don't require you to get close.

•Weapon Art: Use the Serpent-Hunter's weapon art, Great-Serpent Hunt, to stagger Rykard. This can be spammed if you manage your FP correctly, but be cautious of leaving yourself open.

•Summons: Summon your Mimic Tear or any other Spirit Ash. Having it use the Serpent-Hunter will double your ranged attack output.

Avoiding Attacks:

•Fire: Watch out for fire pools; don't stand in them for long.

•Skull Explosions: Rykard will summon skulls; these explode after a delay. Sprint to avoid the blast radius.

•Sword Swings: When Rykard uses his sword, dodge into the swing to avoid being hit by the shockwave.

General Phase 1 Tips:

•Use the Serpent-Hunter’s Range: Stand back and use the weapon’s unique shockwave attacks to deal damage without getting too close. The range will allow you to stay out of danger and still chip away at his health.

•Keep Moving: Stay mobile to avoid getting caught by poison pools or fire attacks. Use the long, straight arena to your advantage by repositioning when needed.

Boss Fight Phase 2 - Rykard, Lord of Blasphemy

•New Attacks: Rykard will use more aggressive attacks including fire and lightning.

Strategy:

•Continue with Serpent-Hunter: The strategy remains similar. Use the spear's ranged capability to keep safe while dealing damage.

•Close Combat: If you’re confident, getting close can allow you to attack more frequently, but you'll need to dodge or block his melee attacks effectively.

Healing and FP Management:

Use the environment for cover when healing. The piles of bones or distant areas can provide safety. Manage your FP for continuous use of the Serpent-Hunter's special moves.

General Phase 2 Tips:

•Positioning is Key: Stay mid-range from Rykard, where you can effectively hit him with the Serpent-Hunter’s shockwave attacks but still have enough time to dodge his sword swings and projectiles.

•Prioritize Dodging Over Attacking: Rykard’s attacks hit hard and have wide areas of effect. Focus on avoiding damage and then counter-attacking when you see an opening.

•Watch for Openings: After Rykard uses one of his longer animations (like the skull projectile or magma eruption), he will have a brief period of vulnerability. Use this opportunity to close in and unleash a powerful thrust from the Serpent-Hunter.

General Tips for the Fight

Use Summons Wisely

•Spirit Ashes: Consider using a Spirit Ash to help distract Rykard. This will allow you to deal more damage without worrying about his attacks. Good choices include Lhutel the Headless (tanky and durable) or Mimic Tear (which mimics your setup and can use the Serpent-Hunter if equipped).

•Multiplayer: If you’re struggling, you can summon other players to help you. The additional players can help split Rykard’s attention, making it easier to dodge and counter.

Stock Up on Consumables

•Fire Resistance: Since Rykard deals a lot of fire damage, consider using items that boost fire resistance like Fireproof Dried Liver. Equipping flame-resistant gear can also mitigate the damage you take from his attacks.

•Healing Items: Make sure you have plenty of Crimson Flasks allocated. The fight is long, and staying healthy is crucial, especially during Phase 2 when Rykard’s attacks become more aggressive.

Learn to Time Your Dodges

•Rykard’s attacks often have a slight delay, which can catch you off-guard if you dodge too early. Practice timing your dodges to roll through his attacks rather than away from them. This will help you avoid damage and keep close enough to retaliate.

Optimize Your Gear

Equip armor with good fire resistance to mitigate the effects of Rykard’s fiery attacks. Consider using talismans that boost stamina recovery or enhance fire resistance, such as the Flame Drake Talisman.

Rewards

Rykard's Great Rune: Remembrance of the Blasphemous: Can be exchanged for Blasphemous Blade or Rykard's Rancor.

Conclusion

Rykard's fight is unique in Elden Ring due to its gimmick, but with the right approach, particularly leveraging the Serpent-Hunter, it becomes one of the more straightforward boss encounters.