Is the Bolt of Gransax Missable in Elden Ring? A Comprehensive Guide
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Yes, the Bolt of Gransax is indeed missable in Elden Ring. This legendary armament, coveted by many for its unique weapon skill and historical significance within the game’s lore, can be permanently locked out if you progress too far into the main storyline. Specifically, obtaining it becomes impossible once you defeat Maliketh, the Black Blade in Crumbling Farum Azula. Understanding the conditions surrounding its availability and acquisition is crucial for completionist runs and players seeking to experience all that the Lands Between has to offer. This article will delve into the specifics of obtaining the Bolt of Gransax, what makes it so special, and address common questions regarding its accessibility.
Understanding the Bolt of Gransax
The Bolt of Gransax is a unique spear that scales primarily with Strength, Dexterity, and Faith. It is a Legendary Armament, one of a select group of powerful weapons required for a specific trophy/achievement. What sets it apart is its weapon skill, Ancient Lightning Spear, which allows the player to hurl a massive bolt of red lightning across a considerable distance. This attack deals significant damage and is particularly effective against dragons and other large enemies.
Lore-wise, the Bolt of Gransax is steeped in history. It’s described as a weapon used by the legendary dragon Gransax, who once attacked Leyndell, the Royal Capital. This event marked a significant turning point in the war between humans and dragons. The bolt impaled upon the capital’s architecture serves as a constant reminder of this conflict.
How to Acquire the Bolt of Gransax
The Bolt of Gransax is located in Leyndell, Royal Capital, specifically after you’ve defeated Godfrey, First Elden Lord (Golden Shade). Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Progress through the main story until you reach Leyndell, Royal Capital.
- Defeat Godfrey, First Elden Lord (Golden Shade), who guards the entrance to the Erdtree Sanctuary.
- Once inside Leyndell, proceed towards the area where the giant impaled spear (the Bolt of Gransax itself) is located. This is a large open area filled with enemies and the path to the Erdtree.
- Look for a pathway leading down the side of the structure towards the spear. The path is hidden, requiring you to carefully navigate rooftops and ledges.
- Continue down the path, carefully navigating the rooftops. Eventually, you’ll reach the massive spear.
- Simply walk up to the Bolt of Gransax and interact with it to obtain it. It will appear as a lootable item on the ground.
Important Note: If you have defeated Maliketh, the Black Blade in Crumbling Farum Azula, Leyndell will be transformed into the Leyndell, Ashen Capital. In this state, the Bolt of Gransax will no longer be obtainable.
Why is the Bolt of Gransax Missable?
The transition from Leyndell, Royal Capital, to Leyndell, Ashen Capital, triggered by defeating Maliketh, fundamentally alters the environment. The physical structure of the city changes, destroying the area where the Bolt of Gransax is located. Once the capital turns to ash, the opportunity to acquire the weapon is lost for that playthrough. This design choice underscores the game’s emphasis on player decisions and the consequences of those decisions on the world around them. This mechanic is an element of gameplay that may be studied by those in the Games Learning Society. To learn more, visit GamesLearningSociety.org.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify aspects of the Bolt of Gransax.
1. Can I get the Bolt of Gransax after burning the Erdtree?
No. Burning the Erdtree itself doesn’t directly prevent you from getting the Bolt of Gransax. It’s defeating Maliketh that causes the critical change to Leyndell. However, burning the Erdtree is a necessary step toward reaching Maliketh, so be mindful of your progress.
2. What is the fastest way to get the Bolt of Gransax in NG+?
In New Game Plus (NG+), the fastest route involves prioritizing Leyndell: defeat Godrick the Grafted and Rennala, Queen of the Full Moon as quickly as possible to gain access to the Grand Lift of Dectus. Then, head straight to Leyndell, defeat Godfrey (Golden Shade), and retrieve the weapon before proceeding to Crumbling Farum Azula. Focus on bypassing optional areas to minimize travel time.
3. What happens if I miss the Bolt of Gransax?
If you miss the Bolt of Gransax in a playthrough, you will need to either start a New Game Plus or begin a completely new game to obtain it. You will also miss out on obtaining all the Legendary Armaments, which means the associated achievement/trophy will be locked.
4. What are the stats for the Bolt of Gransax?
The Bolt of Gransax requires 20 Strength, 40 Dexterity, and 22 Faith to wield effectively. It scales with Strength (E), Dexterity (B), and Faith (D).
5. How good is the Bolt of Gransax in combat?
The Bolt of Gransax is a very strong weapon, especially against enemies weak to lightning. Its weapon skill, Ancient Lightning Spear, has a long range, deals high damage, and can stagger many enemies. It’s excellent for both PvE and PvP scenarios.
6. Can the Bolt of Gransax be upgraded?
Yes, the Bolt of Gransax can be upgraded using Somber Smithing Stones, reaching a maximum upgrade level of +10.
7. Is the Bolt of Gransax the biggest weapon in Elden Ring?
The Bolt of Gransax itself is not the biggest weapon that the player wields, but the actual bolt impaling Leyndell is of massive scale. The weapon is more defined by its legendary status and unique skill than by sheer size.
8. Is Gransax the biggest dragon in Elden Ring?
While Gransax, the dragon associated with the bolt, is not a dragon the player fights, it is implied to be one of the largest dragons in the game’s history. In terms of visible scale within the game, other dragons such as Greyoll are of comparable size.
9. Can you get unlimited Ballista Bolts in Elden Ring?
Yes, you can purchase an unlimited supply of Ballista Bolts from the Hermit Merchant located in the Leyndell Capital Outskirts.
10. What is the most overpowered weapon in Elden Ring?
While opinions vary, some commonly cited overpowered weapons in Elden Ring include the Dark Moon Greatsword and weapons utilizing the Taker’s Flames Ash of War. The Bolt of Gransax, while powerful, doesn’t typically reach the very top of such lists due to its split scaling and specific strengths.
11. How do I respec my character in Elden Ring?
You can respec your character by speaking with Rennala, Queen of the Full Moon, after defeating her in the Academy of Raya Lucaria. You will need a Larval Tear each time you respec.
12. What are Larval Tears used for?
Larval Tears are key items required to respec your character’s stats at Rennala, Queen of the Full Moon. They allow you to redistribute your attribute points.
13. Does New Game Plus increase difficulty in Elden Ring?
Yes, New Game Plus in Elden Ring increases the difficulty. Enemies have higher health and deal more damage. However, you retain your levels, equipment, and spells, giving you a significant advantage.
14. Do you get more runes in New Game Plus?
Yes, you receive significantly more runes from enemies and bosses in New Game Plus. The increase varies, with earlier enemies giving a higher multiplier (around 5x) than later enemies (around 2x).
15. Where can I find a list of all the Legendary Armaments in Elden Ring?
You can find comprehensive lists of all Legendary Armaments, Talismans, Ashes, and Spells/Incantations on various gaming wikis and guides dedicated to Elden Ring. These resources will detail their locations and requirements.
Conclusion
The Bolt of Gransax is a fantastic weapon with a rich history and a powerful weapon skill. Knowing that it is missable and understanding how to obtain it are essential for any player aiming to complete Elden Ring or simply seeking to experience all the game has to offer. Be sure to prioritize your visit to Leyndell before facing Maliketh, and you’ll be wielding the legendary lightning spear in no time. Good luck, Tarnished!