Bosses in Elden Ring are a significant part of the game, providing some of the most challenging and memorable encounters. Understanding how bosses work, the different types of bosses, and how to approach them strategically is key to progressing through the game. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding bosses in Elden Ring:
Types of Bosses
In Elden Ring, bosses can be categorized into a few main types, each varying in terms of difficulty, importance, and rewards.
Main Story Bosses (Shardbearers):
These are the most critical bosses in the game, tied to the main storyline. Defeating them is essential for progressing through the game and uncovering the lore of the Lands Between.
•Each main story boss holds a Great Rune, and they are often the most challenging encounters. Examples include Godrick the Grafted, Rennala, Queen of the Full Moon, and Starscourge Radahn.
•These bosses reside in Legacy Dungeons and are often accompanied by intricate level designs and mini-bosses leading up to them.
Great Enemies:
These are powerful bosses that are not directly tied to the main story but still pose a significant challenge. They are often found in special locations or as part of quests.
•Examples include Dragonlord Placidusax, Maliketh the Black Blade, and Mohg, Lord of Blood. Defeating them usually grants valuable items, Runes, and unique weapons.
Field Bosses:
These bosses are found roaming the open world or guarding specific areas. They can be fought or avoided, depending on how you want to approach the game.
•Examples include Tree Sentinel, Night’s Cavalry, Death Rite Bird, and various Dragons. These bosses often provide unique items or Ashes of War when defeated.
•Field bosses are sometimes triggered by time (like Night’s Cavalry, which only appears at night) or weather conditions.
Dungeon Mini-Bosses:
Found within smaller dungeons like Caves, Catacombs, and Tunnels, these mini-bosses are less challenging than main bosses but still require skill and strategy to defeat.
•Examples include Black Knife Assassin, Crystalian, and Mad Pumpkin Head. They often guard valuable resources like Smithing Stones, Ashes of War, or unique weapons.
•These encounters help players prepare for more difficult battles by testing specific skills (e.g., dodging, blocking, or counter-attacking).
Boss Mechanics and Strategy
Understanding boss mechanics is crucial to defeating them. Here are some core mechanics to keep in mind:
Aggression and Attack Patterns:
Bosses in Elden Ring are aggressive and have distinct attack patterns. Learning these patterns is essential for dodging, blocking, and countering effectively.
•Some bosses have multiple phases, with new moves or enhanced abilities as their health decreases. Watch for changes in behavior and adapt your strategy accordingly.
Weaknesses and Resistances:
Every boss has strengths and weaknesses. Some may be weak to specific damage types (e.g., fire, holy, magic), while others may be resistant to them. Experiment with different weapons and incantations to find what works best.
•Use items like Grease or Buffs to apply elemental damage to your weapon, which can exploit a boss’s weakness and give you an edge in battle.
Summons (Spirit Ashes and NPCs):
Players can summon Spirit Ashes to help in boss battles. These are AI-controlled allies that distract the boss, allowing you to deal damage more safely.
•NPC summons can also be found near boss arenas. They are often characters you’ve met during the game, and summoning them can make some battles easier.
•You can also summon other players for co-op, making it possible to tackle more difficult bosses with the help of real allies.
Stagger and Critical Hits:
Many bosses can be staggered, especially if you deal consistent damage to their weak points (like the head or legs). Staggering a boss leaves them open to a Critical Hit, dealing massive damage.
•Certain weapons, skills, and spells are better for staggering, so consider using heavier weapons or powerful attacks to break a boss’s stance.
Utilize the Environment:
Some boss arenas have environmental features that you can use to your advantage. For example, there might be pillars to hide behind or ledges to avoid certain attacks.
•In some cases, bosses may also have environmental hazards that you need to avoid, like lava, poison, or Scarlet Rot pools.
Tips for Defeating Bosses 
Learn the Attack Patterns:
Spend the first few attempts just learning how the boss behaves. Recognize when they are winding up for a big attack, and learn the timing for dodging or blocking.
•Take note of any obvious patterns. Bosses often have telltale signs that indicate what kind of attack they’re about to use, giving you time to react.
Adapt Your Build:
If you’re struggling with a boss, try adjusting your equipment and stats. For example, if a boss uses fire attacks, equip armor or talismans that provide fire resistance.
•Experiment with different weapons. Some bosses are easier to fight with a faster weapon, while others may require a heavier, stagger-inducing weapon.
Upgrade Your Gear:
Ensure your weapons are properly upgraded. Smithing Stones are found throughout the world, and upgrading your weapon can make a big difference in how much damage you deal.
•Level up your character by farming Runes, and invest in stats that complement your build. For melee, Strength or Dexterity are important, while magic users should focus on Intelligence, Faith, or Arcane.
Use Spirit Ashes:
Summoning Spirit Ashes can be a game-changer, especially if you’re facing a particularly aggressive boss. They can distract the boss, giving you time to heal or get in a few attacks.
•Upgrade your Spirit Ashes at Roderika in the Roundtable Hold to make them more effective in battle.
Bring Enough Healing Items:
Make sure you have plenty of Flasks of Crimson Tears before attempting a boss fight. Upgrade your flasks using Golden Seeds (to increase the number of uses) and Sacred Tears (to enhance their potency).
•Consider allocating more flasks to healing if you find yourself needing more health during battles. Adjust the balance of Crimson Tears (health) and Cerulean Tears (magic) as needed.
Practice Patience:
Rushing into attacks often leads to mistakes. Instead, focus on learning when it’s safe to attack, and wait for openings. Patience is key to survival.
•Bosses are designed to punish reckless players, so take your time and look for safe opportunities to strike.
Notable Bosses in Elden Ring
Margit, the Fell Omen:
The first major boss encounter for many players, Margit is designed to test your combat skills and patience. He has fast, aggressive attacks and a second phase where he becomes even more dangerous.
•Summon Rogier or use Spirit Ashes like the Lone Wolf to help with this fight.
Godrick the Grafted:
Found at the end of Stormveil Castle, Godrick is a Shardbearer with devastating attacks and a second phase where he gains fire abilities.
•Be sure to summon Nepheli Loux, who can assist you during the fight. Avoid his flame attacks by keeping your distance and moving in for safe hits.
Starscourge Radahn:
One of the most challenging and epic fights in the game, Radahn rides a tiny horse and commands the power of the stars. His fight takes place in a vast, open battlefield.
•During the Radahn Festival, you can summon multiple NPCs to help you in this fight. Use Torrent to evade his deadly attacks and reposition yourself.
Rennala, Queen of the Full Moon:
A magical boss who resides in the Raya Lucaria Academy. Her fight is unique, with the first phase involving breaking her shields by attacking her students, and the second phase being a more traditional duel.
•Magic users may struggle against her powerful spells, so consider using fast, high-damage weapons to stagger her.
Conclusion
Bosses in Elden Ring are some of the most exciting and challenging aspects of the game. Understanding their attack patterns, weaknesses, and the right strategies can make even the toughest fights manageable. Whether it’s through patience, skill, or the aid of summons, learning to adapt your approach is the key to conquering the game's myriad of formidable foes.
