How to Beat Rykard, Lord of Blasphemy: A Comprehensive Guide
Rykard, Lord of Blasphemy, is a memorable and visually striking boss encounter in Elden Ring. While his appearance might seem daunting, the fight is actually quite straightforward once you understand the mechanics and exploit his singular weakness. The key to victory lies in using the Serpent-Hunter Great Spear, found within the boss arena itself. Wielding this weapon allows you to stagger Rykard repeatedly, ultimately leading to his defeat. Employing Frostbite and some fire-resistant armor can also aid in the battle.
Understanding the Serpent-Hunter
The Serpent-Hunter is no ordinary weapon. It’s specifically designed for this fight, granting you a significant advantage. Here’s how it works:
- Location: Upon entering the boss arena, look to your left near a corpse. The Serpent-Hunter will be there, waiting to be picked up.
- Stats: The weapon requires no specific stats to wield effectively, making it accessible to any character build.
- Unique Skill: The Serpent-Hunter’s weapon skill transforms your attacks into powerful, long-range thrusts with extended reach and increased damage against Rykard. This skill effectively turns the fight into a mid-range battle, keeping you relatively safe from his most devastating attacks.
The Battle Plan: Phase 1 (God-Devouring Serpent)
The first phase pits you against the God-Devouring Serpent, Rykard’s serpentine form. Here’s the strategy:
- Equip the Serpent-Hunter: This is non-negotiable. It’s your primary weapon.
- Maintain Mid-Range: Stay at a distance where you can effectively use the Serpent-Hunter’s weapon skill. This keeps you out of range of the Serpent’s close-range attacks and poison clouds.
- Unleash the Weapon Skill: Repeatedly use the weapon skill attack. The Serpent-Hunter’s empowered thrusts will deal substantial damage and stagger the Serpent frequently.
- Dodge the Shockwaves: The Serpent will occasionally create shockwaves. Time your rolls carefully to avoid these. Using a skill to avoid damage against the Serpent’s shockwave attack will make this step far easier.
- Patience is Key: This is a battle of attrition. Focus on consistent damage and dodging rather than aggressive, risky maneuvers.
The Battle Plan: Phase 2 (Rykard, Lord of Blasphemy)
Once you’ve depleted the Serpent’s health, Rykard himself emerges. He’s more dangerous than the Serpent, but the strategy remains largely the same.
- The Serpent-Hunter Still Rules: Continue using the Serpent-Hunter and its weapon skill.
- Fire Attacks: Rykard’s attacks are heavily fire-based. Consider equipping fire-resistant armor or using a Flamedrake Talisman to mitigate the damage.
- Lava Pools: Rykard creates lava pools. Be mindful of your positioning and avoid standing in them.
- Dodge Blasphemous Blade: He wields the Blasphemous Blade, unleashing powerful fire attacks. Time your dodges carefully to avoid getting hit.
- Frostbite: Rykard is very weak to Frostbite, therefore inflict it at the beginning of the fight to increase damage.
- Close Range Approach: You can also take the up-close-and-personal approach and run straight up to Rykard, hug his body, and attack with the Serpent Hunter (if you have the fire resistance and HP for it).
Advanced Tactics and Tips
- Mimic Tear Ash: The Mimic Tear spirit ash can be incredibly helpful in this fight. It will equip its own Serpent-Hunter and relentlessly attack Rykard, drawing aggro and allowing you to deal damage more safely.
- Neutralizing Boluses: Carry Neutralizing Boluses to cure poison, especially if you’re having trouble dodging the Serpent’s attacks.
- Level Recommendation: While you can attempt this fight at a lower level, it’s generally recommended to be around Level 50 or higher for Volcano Manor in general.
- Rykard’s Great Rune: Acquired by defeating Rykard, Lord of Blasphemy, in Mt. Gelmir, activates to restore HP after defeating enemies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions related to fighting Rykard, Lord of Blasphemy:
How do I get to Rykard?
You can access Rykard in two primary ways:
- Volcano Manor Dungeon: Progress through the Volcano Manor legacy dungeon.
- Volcano Manor Quests: Complete all of Lady Tanith’s assassination missions.
What should I do before killing Rykard?
Completing the Rya/Zoraya questline and finishing all available Volcano Manor quests is highly recommended. Killing Rykard prematurely can lock you out of these quests. Also, acquire the Tonic of Forgetfulness before finishing the third and final Tanith assassination.
Does killing Rykard affect Volcano Manor?
Yes. Killing Rykard locks you out of all Volcano Manor quests. Ensure you’ve completed everything you want to do there before defeating him.
Where is Rya after killing Rykard?
After defeating Rykard, Rya’s location changes. She may leave behind Daedicar’s Woe and Zorayas’ Letter. If you gave her the Tonic of Forgetfulness, she’ll simply go to sleep. After Rykard is killed and the Manor’s inhabitants have all left, she will return to her original location in the Manor.
Why is Tanith eating Rykard?
Tanith claims she is waiting for Rykard to reincarnate and come back stronger, but some believe she is trying to become Rykard’s new vessel.
Can I fight Rykard without joining Volcano Manor?
Yes, you can access and defeat Rykard without joining the Manor, but this will cause all NPCs within the Manor to leave.
Is Rykard a bad guy?
Rykard is often considered an antagonist. He rebelled against the Golden Order and embraced the God-Devouring Serpent, which is seen as a blasphemous act.
Can I do Bernahl’s quest after killing Rykard?
No, you cannot complete Bernahl’s quest after killing Rykard, as the NPCs in Volcano Manor disappear.
Does joining Volcano Manor affect anything?
Joining Volcano Manor doesn’t have inherent negative consequences. It allows you to participate in their quests, which offer unique rewards.
What is the best weapon to use on Rykard?
The Serpent-Hunter is undoubtedly the best weapon for this fight, specifically designed to counter Rykard.
What talisman is best for Rykard?
The Flamedrake Talisman is excellent for increasing your fire resistance, which is crucial for surviving Rykard’s attacks.
Can you fight Rykard without killing Godskin Noble?
No, if you want to face Rykard inside the Legacy Dungeon, you will have to defeat Godskin Noble.
What is Lord Rykard’s weakness?
Rykard is particularly vulnerable to Frostbite. He can be staggered fairly easily. Use the Serpent-Hunter Great Spear found at the beginning of the boss’ chamber.
What level should I be for Volcano Manor?
It’s recommended to be around Level 50 or higher before venturing into Volcano Manor due to the strength of the enemies in the area.
Does killing Godrick lock you out of anything?
Killing Godrick may prevent you from doing co-op in the Limgrave open area. Complete desired co-op activities before defeating him.
Conclusion
Defeating Rykard, Lord of Blasphemy, is a unique and rewarding experience in Elden Ring. By understanding his weaknesses and utilizing the Serpent-Hunter, you can overcome this formidable foe and claim his Great Rune. Remember to explore the world, engage with the lore, and experiment with different strategies to truly master the game. If you’re interested in learning more about the educational applications of gaming, check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org. These strategies can apply to other games as well, and for many, they find that gaming can be an educational experience, something the Games Learning Society finds to be true.