Should I Fight Margit First in Elden Ring? A Tarnished’s Guide
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
The Lands Between can be a cruel mistress, and Margit, the Fell Omen, serves as your first real taste of that cruelty. He stands sentinel before Stormveil Castle, a formidable gatekeeper to the legacy of a demigod. So, should you fight him first? In short: Absolutely not. Unless you’re a glutton for punishment (and many Tarnished are), you’re setting yourself up for frustration by rushing into this battle underprepared. Elden Ring is a game of patience, exploration, and gradual power accumulation. Margit is a test of all three.
Preparing for the Omen King
Before you even think about facing Margit, consider these factors:
-
Level: Aim for level 20-25 at a minimum. This gives you enough health and stat points to withstand his punishing attacks and deal meaningful damage in return.
-
Weapon Upgrade: A +3 weapon is your friend. The difference in damage output is significant. Explore Limgrave, defeat smaller bosses, and gather smithing stones to upgrade your favorite weapon.
-
Exploration: Limgrave is vast and filled with valuable resources, items, and even other bosses. Clearing out caves, dungeons, and minor Erdtree avatars not only levels you up but also gives you a feel for the combat mechanics and enemy patterns.
-
Spirit Ashes: These spectral allies can make a massive difference in the Margit fight. The Lone Wolves or the Jellyfish are excellent early choices. Upgrade them at the Roundtable Hold for even more effectiveness.
-
The Margit’s Shackle Item: This item is extremely helpful against the Margit boss, rendering the fight much easier.
-
Stats: Leveling up stats like vigor will make sure you are durable enough to take a hit. Leveling up your weapon scaling stat will also make the fight easier, as your damage output will be higher.
Why the Rush? Explore and Conquer Limgrave First
Elden Ring deliberately presents Margit early to emphasize a critical lesson: You are not obligated to follow the path laid out before you. The game encourages exploration and experimentation. Treating Limgrave as a playground, a proving ground, allows you to organically grow stronger and more skilled before tackling one of the game’s major roadblocks.
Instead of banging your head against Margit early, consider these activities:
-
Weeping Peninsula: South of Limgrave, this area offers a wealth of relatively easy dungeons, bosses, and upgrade materials. It’s a great place to farm runes and level up.
-
Stormfoot Catacombs: Located near the start of the game, this dungeon introduces you to Spirit Ashes and provides a decent challenge without being overwhelming.
-
Murkwater Cave: Home to Patches, this cave is a good early source of runes. It can be found in the Murkwater area.
-
Erdtree Burial Watchdog Boss: One of the earlier bosses that players can face, this boss can be found in some of the dungeons within the game.
-
Beastman of Farum Azula Boss: Also located in a dungeon, this boss is another one that can be defeated early on in the game.
The Benefits of Delaying the Fight
There are several compelling reasons to postpone your encounter with Margit:
-
Increased Survivability: A higher level translates directly to more health, allowing you to survive more of Margit’s punishing attacks.
-
Higher Damage Output: A better weapon, combined with improved stats, significantly increases the damage you inflict, shortening the fight and reducing the margin for error.
-
Mastery of Combat Mechanics: Time spent fighting other enemies hones your dodging, blocking, and parrying skills, making you a more formidable opponent.
-
Acquisition of New Tools: Limgrave holds many secrets, including new spells, weapons, and consumables that can give you an edge in the Margit fight.
-
Margit’s Shackle: This item can be bought from patches after your first encounter, and can stop Margit from being able to attack temporarily.
Skipping Margit (Temporarily)
While defeating Margit opens the path to Stormveil Castle and Godrick the Grafted, it’s possible to bypass him entirely. A hidden path along the cliffside allows you to reach Liurnia of the Lakes, the next major area. This path is not recommended for new players.
Learning Through Struggle
Ultimately, Elden Ring is about overcoming challenges. While delaying the Margit fight is advisable for most players, those seeking a true test of skill can certainly attempt to defeat him at a lower level. However, be prepared for a long and arduous battle. Even failing repeatedly can be a valuable learning experience, forcing you to analyze Margit’s attack patterns and refine your combat strategy. This approach highlights the importance of resilience and problem-solving, key aspects explored by the Games Learning Society and its research on game-based learning.
Remember, there’s no shame in returning to Margit stronger and more prepared. The Lands Between rewards patience and perseverance. Embrace the journey, explore its hidden corners, and become the Elden Lord in your own time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about fighting Margit, the Fell Omen, in Elden Ring:
1. At what level should I fight Margit the Fell Omen?
The recommended level is at least 20, ideally 25+. A higher level will give you more health and damage output, making the fight significantly easier.
2. What weapon level do I need for Margit?
A weapon upgraded to +3 or higher is strongly recommended. Upgrading your weapon increases its damage output considerably.
3. Can I beat Margit at level 1?
Yes, it’s possible to beat Margit at level 1, but it’s incredibly challenging and requires a high level of skill and knowledge of the game’s mechanics. It’s generally not recommended for first-time players.
4. What’s the easiest way to beat Margit?
There’s no single “easiest” way, but using Spirit Ashes, upgrading your weapon, and leveling up are essential. Also, learning his attack patterns and timing your dodges is crucial. Using Margit’s Shackle also will make the fight significantly easier.
5. Which Spirit Ashes are best for the Margit fight?
The Lone Wolves and Jellyfish are excellent early-game choices. The Lone Wolves provide consistent damage and distraction, while the Jellyfish offers a ranged attack and poison debuff.
6. Is Margit an optional boss?
Yes, Margit is technically an optional boss. You can bypass him to reach Liurnia of the Lakes, but you’ll eventually have to fight him to progress through Stormveil Castle and advance the main story, although Morgott, The Omen King will need to be defeated, rather than Margit.
7. Where can I find Smithing Stones to upgrade my weapon?
Smithing Stones can be found in various locations throughout Limgrave, including mines, caves, and dungeons. Look for glowing deposits on walls and floors. Also, killing smaller bosses may provide the smithing stones you need.
8. What stats should I focus on leveling up before fighting Margit?
Focus on the stats that scale with your chosen weapon (e.g., Strength for heavy weapons, Dexterity for faster weapons). Also, prioritize Vigor to increase your health.
9. Is it better to summon help for the Margit fight?
Summoning help, either through Spirit Ashes or cooperative multiplayer, can make the fight much easier, especially for new players.
10. Can I use magic against Margit?
Yes, magic can be effective against Margit, but you’ll need to invest in Intelligence and acquire suitable spells. Consider using ranged spells to keep your distance.
11. What weapon skills work well against Margit?
Weapon skills that deal high damage or stagger Margit are effective. Experiment with different skills to find what works best for your playstyle.
12. What are Margit’s weaknesses?
Margit is resistant to Holy damage. He is also weak to the sleep ailment, however this will only work a few times.
13. What happens if I skip Margit and go to Liurnia?
You can explore Liurnia of the Lakes and level up further, but you’ll eventually need to return to Limgrave and defeat Margit to progress through Stormveil Castle and reach Godrick the Grafted.
14. Is Godrick harder than Margit?
While individual experiences may vary, many players find Godrick easier than Margit, particularly after leveling up and acquiring better gear in Liurnia.
15. What should I do if I’m still struggling with Margit after leveling up and upgrading my weapon?
Don’t give up! Watch videos of other players defeating Margit, analyze his attack patterns, and practice your dodging and blocking. Consider using the Margit’s Shackle item for a temporary advantage.
By following these tips and strategies, you can increase your chances of success against Margit and continue your journey in the Lands Between. GamesLearningSociety.org