The Ultimate Guide to Vanquishing the Farum Azula Dragon in Elden Ring
The Farum Azula Dragon, a majestic but formidable foe, stands as a major obstacle in Elden Ring. Defeating this colossal beast requires understanding its vulnerabilities. So, what is the Farum Azula dragon weak to? The most significant weaknesses of the Farum Azula Dragon are physical damage, especially piercing damage, and Frostbite. While not a direct weakness in the traditional sense, targeting its head consistently provides substantial damage output. Exploiting these vulnerabilities will significantly shorten your battle and increase your chances of survival.
Understanding the Farum Azula Dragon
The Farum Azula Dragon is more than just a powerful enemy; it’s a spectacle. Encountering this dragon often signifies reaching a critical point in your Elden Ring journey. Unlike some of its brethren, this dragon possesses a unique move set and resistances, demanding a tailored approach for victory.
Analyzing the Dragon’s Attacks
Understanding the Dragon’s attack patterns is crucial before considering its weaknesses. Expect a barrage of fire breath attacks, both sweeping and directed, alongside devastating claw swipes and tail slams. Its aerial attacks can be particularly challenging to dodge. Observation and learning the timing of these attacks are essential for effectively exploiting its vulnerabilities.
Prioritizing Damage Types
While all damage types can inflict harm, some are significantly more effective. As stated earlier, physical damage is generally a good approach, with piercing attacks being particularly effective. Consider using weapons such as katanas, thrusting swords, or even bows with specialized arrows to exploit this weakness. Frostbite is an excellent status effect to inflict, as it reduces the dragon’s damage absorption and deals a burst of damage. Weapons that naturally inflict Frostbite, or those that can be imbued with Frost or Freezing Grease, are highly recommended.
Exploiting the Head
Consistently targeting the dragon’s head is a reliable strategy for dealing increased damage. While it’s not technically a “weakness” per se, the head acts as a critical hit point. Ranged attacks, such as spells or arrows, are effective for consistently targeting this area, but melee players can also capitalize on openings after the dragon performs certain attacks.
Strategies and Tactics for Victory
Successfully defeating the Farum Azula Dragon requires more than just knowing its weaknesses; you must also implement effective strategies.
Melee Combat Approaches
For melee-focused builds, patience and positioning are key. Wait for openings after the dragon’s attacks to strike at its head or legs. Avoid staying directly in front of the dragon for extended periods to minimize the risk of fire breath attacks. Utilizing jump attacks can also be effective for reaching the head, especially with weapons that deal piercing damage.
Ranged Combat Dominance
Ranged builds have a distinct advantage in this fight. Stay at a safe distance and consistently target the dragon’s head with spells or arrows. Utilize Spirit Ashes to distract the dragon and provide openings for attacks. Spells that inflict Frostbite are particularly effective.
Summoning and Spirit Ashes
Spirit Ashes can be invaluable in this battle. Summons like Black Knife Tiche or Lhutel the Headless can draw the dragon’s aggro, allowing you to safely deal damage. These summons are particularly effective due to their ability to dodge attacks and deal significant damage.
Recommended Weapons and Equipment
Certain weapons and equipment can significantly enhance your effectiveness against the Farum Azula Dragon.
- Weapons: Katanas (e.g., Rivers of Blood, Moonveil), Thrusting Swords (e.g., Cleanrot Knight’s Sword), Bows (with various arrow types, particularly those inflicting Frostbite), and weapons that can be infused with Frost Grease.
- Talismans: Godfrey Icon (to boost charged spells and skills), Ritual Sword Talisman (for increased attack power at full HP), Green Turtle Talisman (for faster stamina recovery), and talismans that boost physical or piercing damage.
- Armor: Armor with high physical defense and fire resistance is recommended. The specific set is less important than maximizing these stats.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the Farum Azula Dragon resistant to any specific damage types?
Yes, the Farum Azula Dragon has high resistance to fire damage. Using fire-based attacks will be significantly less effective than other options. Furthermore, it has decent resistance to holy damage, making it a less optimal choice.
2. What is the best Spirit Ash to use against the Farum Azula Dragon?
Black Knife Tiche and Lhutel the Headless are excellent choices due to their high damage output and ability to dodge attacks effectively. Their mobility helps them survive longer and consistently distract the dragon.
3. Can I use Bleed against the Farum Azula Dragon?
While the Farum Azula Dragon is not immune to Bleed, it is somewhat resistant. Relying solely on Bleed as your primary damage source might not be the most efficient strategy.
4. What level should I be before attempting to fight the Farum Azula Dragon?
A level of 80-100 is generally recommended. This level range ensures you have sufficient stats and weapon upgrades to deal adequate damage and survive the dragon’s attacks.
5. Is it possible to cheese the Farum Azula Dragon?
There are no widely known or reliable “cheese” methods for defeating the Farum Azula Dragon. Engaging in a legitimate fight using the right strategies is the most effective approach.
6. What are the Dragon’s most dangerous attacks?
The sweeping fire breath and aerial dive attacks are particularly dangerous. These attacks can cover a large area and deal significant damage. Learning to dodge these attacks is crucial for survival.
7. Are there any environmental hazards I should be aware of during the fight?
The arena is relatively clear, but be mindful of the edges. Falling off the platforms can lead to instant death, so maintain awareness of your surroundings.
8. How important is dodging in this fight?
Dodging is essential in this fight. The Farum Azula Dragon’s attacks are powerful and have wide hitboxes. Learning to time your dodges correctly is crucial for survival.
9. Can I use magic to buff my weapon’s damage?
Yes, using spells like Golden Vow or Flame, Grant Me Strength to buff your weapon’s damage is highly recommended. These buffs can significantly increase your damage output.
10. What is the best way to inflict Frostbite on the Dragon?
Using weapons that naturally inflict Frostbite, such as the Hoarfrost Stomp ash of war, or applying Freezing Grease to your weapon are effective methods for inflicting Frostbite.
11. How much FP (Focus Points) should I allocate for this fight if I’m using magic?
Allocate enough FP to cast your chosen spells effectively and consistently. A minimum of 150-200 FP is recommended for magic-focused builds.
12. Is there a specific time of day that makes the fight easier?
The time of day does not affect the difficulty of the Farum Azula Dragon fight.
13. Can I respec my character specifically for this fight?
Yes, if you have a Larval Tear, you can respec your character at Rennala, Queen of the Full Moon, to optimize your build for the Farum Azula Dragon fight.
14. What should I do if I run out of Flasks during the fight?
Managing your Flasks effectively is crucial. Avoid unnecessary damage and focus on dodging attacks. If you consistently run out of Flasks, consider increasing your Vigor stat or improving your dodging skills.
15. What rewards do I get for defeating the Farum Azula Dragon?
Upon defeating the Farum Azula Dragon, you will receive a substantial amount of Runes and Dragon Hearts which can be used at Dragon Communion Altars to obtain powerful Dragon Incantations.