Unveiling the Blasphemous Blade: A Deep Dive into Rykard’s Legacy
The Blasphemous Blade is one of the most sought-after weapons in Elden Ring, celebrated for its unique healing properties and powerful weapon skill. This coveted armament is obtained by defeating Praetor Rykard, Lord of Blasphemy, a formidable boss found deep within Volcano Manor in Mt. Gelmir. Claiming this weapon requires venturing through a challenging area and overcoming a truly grotesque and memorable boss encounter.
Obtaining the Blasphemous Blade
Defeating Praetor Rykard
The journey to acquire the Blasphemous Blade culminates in the boss fight against Praetor Rykard. This is a unique encounter due to the Serpent-Hunter weapon provided at the start of the arena, which is specifically designed to combat Rykard’s immense size and power. The key is to utilize the Serpent-Hunter’s weapon skill, which unleashes a wave of energy that deals significant damage to Rykard. Dodging his attacks, maintaining distance, and continuously unleashing the Serpent-Hunter’s weapon skill will eventually lead to victory.
Claiming Your Reward
Upon successfully defeating Praetor Rykard, he drops the Remembrance of the Blasphemous. This Remembrance can be used in two ways:
- Consume for Runes: Consuming the Remembrance will grant you a substantial 50,000 Runes.
- Trade for Items: The Remembrance can be traded with Enia at the Roundtable Hold for either the Blasphemous Blade or the Rykard’s Rancor spell.
The obvious choice for players seeking the weapon is to trade the Remembrance with Enia for the Blasphemous Blade.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Blasphemous Blade
1. What level should I be to fight Rykard for the Blasphemous Blade?
There is no specific level requirement, but generally, players around levels 60-80 with weapon upgrades in the +12 to +18 range should be adequately prepared for the fight. The most important factor is understanding Rykard’s attack patterns and effectively using the Serpent-Hunter weapon.
2. What stats are required to wield the Blasphemous Blade?
The Blasphemous Blade requires the following stats: 22 Strength, 15 Dexterity, and 21 Faith. Ensure your character meets these requirements to properly wield the weapon.
3. Is the Blasphemous Blade good against Malenia?
Yes, the Blasphemous Blade is very effective against Malenia. The weapon skill, Taker’s Flame, deals significant damage and can stagger her, providing openings for further attacks. The healing effect of the blade also helps sustain you through the fight.
4. What does the Blasphemous Blade scale with?
The Blasphemous Blade scales primarily with Strength, Dexterity, and Faith. At +10, it has C scaling in Strength and Dexterity, and B scaling in Faith.
5. What are the best talismans for a Blasphemous Blade build?
Some of the best talismans for a Blasphemous Blade build include:
- Shard of Alexander: Increases the damage of weapon skills (Taker’s Flame).
- Fire Scorpion Charm: Increases fire damage dealt.
- Godskin Swaddling Cloth: Restores HP after using successive attacks.
- Carian Filigreed Crest: Reduces FP cost of weapon skills.
6. What is the best armor for a Blasphemous Blade build?
Armor choice depends on your desired balance of protection and equip load. However, consider armor sets that offer good poise and fire resistance to complement the Blasphemous Blade’s fire damage.
7. Is the Blasphemous Blade a faith weapon?
Yes, the Blasphemous Blade is considered a faith weapon due to its scaling and the significant role of Faith in enhancing its damage output and the effectiveness of Taker’s Flame.
8. Can you parry with the Blasphemous Blade?
No, the Blasphemous Blade cannot be used to parry. However, the Blasphemous Claw, obtained later in the game, allows you to parry specific attacks from Maliketh, the Black Blade.
9. Does the Blasphemous Blade heal you?
Yes, the Blasphemous Blade has a passive effect that restores HP upon defeating enemies. The Taker’s Flame weapon skill also heals you on hit, making it an excellent weapon for sustaining through challenging encounters.
10. What is the best Ash of War for the Blasphemous Blade?
The Blasphemous Blade comes with the unique weapon skill Taker’s Flame, which is generally considered the best Ash of War for the weapon. It deals fire damage in an area, heals you, and can stagger enemies. You can not change the Ash of War on the Blasphemous Blade.
11. What are some alternative weapons to the Blasphemous Blade?
If you’re looking for similar weapons with different stat requirements, consider:
- Dark Moon Greatsword: Requires Intelligence and Strength.
- Magma Wyrm’s Scalesword: Requires Strength, Faith, and Arcane.
- Godslayer’s Greatsword: Requires Strength, Dexterity, and Faith.
12. Is the Blasphemous Blade effective against the Elden Beast?
Yes, the Blasphemous Blade can be effective against the Elden Beast, especially when paired with gear that increases holy resistance. Spamming the Taker’s Flame weapon skill can deal significant damage.
13. How do I access Volcano Manor to fight Rykard?
There are two ways to reach Volcano Manor:
- Following Rya’s Questline: Progress through Rya’s questline, which starts in Liurnia of the Lakes. She will eventually teleport you to Volcano Manor.
- Traversing Mt. Gelmir: Climb Mt. Gelmir, navigating through treacherous paths and enemies to reach the entrance of Volcano Manor.
14. What happens to Tanith after defeating Rykard?
After defeating Rykard, speak to Tanith. She will express her disappointment with Rykard’s weakness and state her intention to leave Volcano Manor. She can later be found consuming Rykard’s remains.
15. Why did Rykard choose to merge with the God-Devouring Serpent?
Rykard’s motivations stemmed from a desire for power and immortality. Merging with the God-Devouring Serpent was his way of seeking ultimate strength and defying the Golden Order. This ambition ultimately led to his transformation into the Lord of Blasphemy.
The Blasphemous Blade stands as a testament to the tragic tale of Rykard, a once-noble figure consumed by ambition and the allure of power. Obtaining this weapon is a rewarding endeavor that offers a unique playstyle and a potent tool for overcoming the challenges of Elden Ring. Understanding the lore behind the weapon and the boss that guards it adds another layer of appreciation for this remarkable armament.
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