Stormveil Castle is one of the main Legacy Dungeons in Elden Ring and is one of the most iconic and challenging areas in the game. It serves as the first major test for players and is the home of the first major boss, Godrick the Grafted. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate through Stormveil Castle, including its layout, enemy encounters, and tips for defeating Godrick.
Overview of Stormveil Castle
•Location: Found at the northwest corner of Limgrave, accessible after defeating Margit, the Fell Omen, at the castle's entrance.
•Significance: Stormveil Castle is a massive dungeon with multiple paths, hidden areas, and challenging enemies. It serves as a gateway to the northern regions of the Lands Between.
•Main Boss: Godrick the Grafted, a demigod and one of the game's main bosses.
How to Access Stormveil Castle
•Defeat Margit, the Fell Omen: Margit guards the entrance to the castle, and defeating him is necessary to proceed.
Choose Your Path:
•Main Gate: After defeating Margit, you can enter through the main gate. However, this path is heavily guarded and dangerous.
•Secret Path: You can speak to Gatekeeper Gostoc, a character near the entrance, who will suggest an alternate, safer route through a side path. Taking the secret path will bypass some of the main gate's defenses.
Exploring the Castle: Key Areas and Routes
Stormveil Cliffside:
After entering through the side path, you will encounter various enemies, including soldiers and birds that throw explosives. Be careful of tight ledges and hidden enemies that can ambush you.
Rampart Tower:
This area is filled with guards, crossbowmen, and more explosive birds. You’ll find a Site of Grace here, making it a useful checkpoint before advancing deeper into the castle. Hidden Path: Explore thoroughly to find hidden paths and items, including an elevator leading down to secret areas.
Castle Courtyard:
Taking the main gate route leads you through the heavily defended courtyard. Expect resistance from soldiers, wolves, and even more formidable knights. Avoiding Combat: If you want to sneak past enemies, look for alternate routes, such as climbing ladders and sneaking behind walls.
Wine Cellar and Crypts:
You’ll come across various secret doors leading to crypts and dark cellars. These areas contain valuable items, but also dangerous enemies. Watch out for hidden traps and aggressive NPCs lurking in dark corners.
The Long Bridge:
Leads directly to Godrick’s arena. Expect to face powerful enemies before the boss, including a Lion Guardian. Tip: Prepare thoroughly, as once you cross the bridge, you are committed to facing Godrick. Make sure you have upgraded weapons, enough healing flasks, and any necessary buffs or items.
Major Boss Encounter: Godrick the Grafted
Godrick the Grafted is a formidable foe and the final challenge of Stormveil Castle. Here’s how to prepare and defeat him:
Phase 1:
Godrick uses a variety of sweeping and overhead attacks with his giant axe. He also has a wind-based attack that can hit you from a distance. Tips: Stay close to Godrick to bait out his melee swings and learn to dodge them. Attack during the brief windows when he finishes his animations.
Phase 2:
Once his health drops to about 50%, Godrick grafts a dragon’s head onto his arm, gaining new fiery attacks. His dragon head can breathe fire, and he will often slam it down for massive AoE damage. Tips: Keep moving and look for opportunities to attack when he finishes using his fire breath. Watch for his tells and stay patient.
Use Summons:
Summoning NPCs or other players can make this fight significantly easier. You can also use Spirit Ashes to distract Godrick and give yourself time to heal or deal damage.
Notable Loot and Secrets
Banished Knight’s Armor Set:
Found near the Rampart Tower, guarded by Banished Knights. A strong armor set with high defense.
Grafted Blade Greatsword:
This massive greatsword can be acquired after defeating Godrick. It’s a powerful weapon that scales well with strength.
Godrick’s Great Rune:
After defeating Godrick, you will receive his Great Rune. Take it to the Divine Tower of Limgrave to restore its power. Once activated, you can equip the rune to gain enhanced stats.
Golden Seeds and Sacred Tears:
Collect these items to upgrade your healing flasks. There is one near the beginning of the castle and another at the nearby church.
Tips for Surviving Stormveil Castle 
•Take Your Time: Stormveil Castle is full of traps, ambushes, and hidden paths. Take your time to explore and find useful items and shortcuts.
•Upgrade Your Gear: Before entering the castle, make sure your weapons and armor are upgraded. You can find Smithing Stones in the tunnels around Limgrave and by purchasing them from merchants.
•Watch for Traps: Be wary of traps in narrow corridors, like explosive barrels or surprise enemy attacks from above.
•Use Spirit Ashes: Summoning spirits can make tough fights easier, especially against groups of enemies.
Conclusion
Stormveil Castle is a challenging but rewarding dungeon that sets the tone for the rest of Elden Ring. It’s full of hidden secrets, powerful enemies, and dangerous bosses. Take your time to explore, gather resources, and prepare for the fight against Godrick. With patience and skill, you can conquer this massive fortress and move forward in your journey through the Lands Between!
