Commander Niall and Scarlet Rot: Separating Fact from Fiction in Elden Ring
Is Commander Niall weak to Scarlet Rot? The short answer is no, Commander Niall exhibits high resistance to Scarlet Rot. While some sources might suggest he has no particular resistance to status effects, practical experience and detailed analysis of the fight demonstrate that inflicting Scarlet Rot on him is a difficult and inefficient strategy. Focus on his weaknesses: Physical Strike and Thrust attacks.
Let’s delve into the intricacies of this challenging boss fight and debunk any misconceptions surrounding Niall’s vulnerabilities.
Understanding Commander Niall’s Resistances
Commander Niall, the imposing boss guarding the path to the Haligtree in Elden Ring, presents a significant challenge to players. He is accompanied by two spectral Banished Knights, making the encounter a test of both skill and strategy. Before diving into the Scarlet Rot question, it’s crucial to understand his overall resistance profile.
- Weaknesses: Niall is particularly susceptible to Physical Strike and Thrust attacks. Weapons that excel in these damage types will be your best bet.
- Resistances: He is strong against Slash attacks, making weapons like katanas and curved swords less effective. More importantly, Niall displays high resistance to status effects like Frostbite, Poison, Hemorrhage (Bleed), and, critically, Scarlet Rot.
The in-game experience reflects this resistance. Applying Scarlet Rot requires a significant amount of effort, and even then, the damage output is minimal compared to focusing on his physical vulnerabilities.
The Scarlet Rot Myth: Why It Doesn’t Work
The idea that Commander Niall is susceptible to Scarlet Rot likely stems from some misinterpretation or oversimplification of information. While he’s a human enemy, he doesn’t adhere to the typical weaknesses associated with such foes. In general, human-type enemies are weak to bleed builds.
The reality is that his in-built resistance makes it extremely difficult to inflict Scarlet Rot in a reasonable timeframe. Even if you manage to apply it, the resulting damage is negligible compared to the effort invested. You will be better off focusing on exploiting other weaknesses.
Attempting to rely on Scarlet Rot will prolong the fight, increasing the risk of making mistakes and falling victim to his powerful attacks and those of his spectral companions.
Effective Strategies Against Commander Niall
Instead of wasting resources on Scarlet Rot, consider these more effective strategies:
- Strike and Thrust Weaponry: Opt for weapons like hammers, clubs, and spears. Their physical damage combined with Niall’s vulnerability makes them highly effective.
- Spirit Ashes: Use Spirit Ashes that can draw aggro and tank damage. The Mimic Tear is a consistently strong choice, while summons like Lhutel the Headless or Ancient Dragon Knight Kristoff can withstand significant punishment.
- Lightning Resistance: Equip gear and talismans that boost your lightning resistance. Niall’s attacks, especially in his second phase, deal significant lightning damage. The Boltdrake Talisman is a great choice.
- Focus on the Knights: Immediately eliminate the dual-sword wielding Banished Knight. Then keep the shield knight occupied while focusing on the boss.
- Physical Defense: Wear heavy armor to mitigate the damage from Niall’s physical attacks. You might need the Arsenal Charm to help you with equip load.
- Bleed (with Caution): Bleed is useful with weapons like Bloodhound’s Fang though Niall is resistant to hemorrhage build-up.
FAQs: Demystifying the Commander Niall Fight
Is Commander Niall weak to Scarlet Rot?
No, Commander Niall exhibits a very high resistance to Scarlet Rot. It is not an effective strategy for this fight.
What are Commander Niall’s main weaknesses?
Commander Niall is primarily weak to Physical Strike and Thrust attacks.
What type of weapon should I use against Commander Niall?
Use weapons that deal Physical Strike or Thrust damage, such as hammers, clubs, spears, or great spears.
Which Spirit Ashes are most effective against Commander Niall?
Mimic Tear is a strong all-around choice, and Lhutel the Headless or Ancient Dragon Knight Kristoff are excellent for tanking damage.
How important is lightning resistance in the Commander Niall fight?
Very important. Commander Niall’s attacks deal significant lightning damage. Equip gear and talismans that boost your lightning resistance.
Should I focus on Commander Niall or his spectral knights first?
Focus on the dual-sword wielding knight immediately, as it is more aggressive. Then deal with the boss while keeping the shield knight occupied.
What talismans are useful for the Commander Niall fight?
The Boltdrake Talisman (for lightning resistance) and the Arsenal Charm (if you need to increase your equip load for heavier armor) are highly beneficial.
Is Commander Niall weak to bleed damage?
While the boss is resistant to it, the second part of the article states As a human enemy, Niall is weak to bleed damage so weapons like Bloodhound’s Fang will be very useful for this fight.
Is Commander Niall vulnerable to poison?
No, Commander Niall exhibits high resistance to Poison.
What level should I be to fight Commander Niall?
It is recommended to be at least level 100.
What rewards do I get for defeating Commander Niall?
You receive the Commander’s Standard (halberd) and the Unalloyed Gold Needle, a key item for Millicent’s questline.
Can I skip the Commander Niall fight?
Yes, there is a way to bypass Commander Niall by jumping off the sledge in the graveyard.
Is Commander Niall one of the hardest bosses in Elden Ring?
Yes, Commander Niall is considered one of the more difficult boss encounters due to the presence of his spectral knights.
Can Carian Retaliation parry Commander Niall’s attacks?
Yes, Carian Retaliation can be used to parry incoming attacks, but it requires precise timing.
Where can I learn more about Elden Ring strategies and game research?
You can explore the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org to find insights and research on game-based learning and complex game strategies. The Games Learning Society provides a forum for researchers and practitioners interested in the intersection of games and learning.
Conclusion: Strategize for Success
Commander Niall is a challenging boss that requires a thoughtful strategy. Ignore the misinformation suggesting his weakness to Scarlet Rot. Instead, focus on his vulnerabilities to Physical Strike and Thrust damage, manage the spectral knights effectively, and boost your lightning resistance. With the right approach, you can overcome this formidable foe and continue your journey through the Lands Between.