Conquering The Elder: A Comprehensive Guide to Valheim’s Second Boss

The second boss in Valheim, The Elder, is a significant step up in difficulty from Eikthyr. Defeating this ancient tree-like being is crucial for progressing further into the game, unlocking new crafting recipes and powerful abilities. Successfully facing The Elder requires meticulous preparation, the right gear, and a solid understanding of its attack patterns. So, what exactly do you need for this monumental battle?

The short answer is: To summon and defeat The Elder, you’ll need three Ancient Seeds, a decent bow, plenty of fire arrows, and some strategic combat know-how. Let’s dive deeper into each element to ensure your victory.

Preparing for The Elder

Summoning The Elder

Before you can even think about combat, you need to summon The Elder. Here’s how:

• Locate the Sacrificial Altar: The Elder’s summoning altar is typically found within the Black Forest biome, usually marked on your map after interacting with runestones in Burial Chambers.
• Gather Ancient Seeds: You need three Ancient Seeds to summon the boss. These seeds are obtained primarily in three ways:
  * Killing Greydwarf Brutes and Shamans: These enemies have a 33% drop chance for Ancient Seeds.
  * Destroying Greydwarf Nests: Nests are a reliable way to get Ancient Seeds as they always drop them when destroyed.
• Sacrifice the Seeds: Once you’ve arrived at the altar, place the three Ancient Seeds into the flaming bowl at the center. This will trigger the appearance of The Elder.

Essential Gear and Items

To survive the fight, you will need specific gear and items to both do damage and survive. Here’s a breakdown:

• Weaponry:
  * Fine Wood Bow: This is your primary damage tool due to its range and versatility. A leveled-up fine wood bow is always preferable for better damage output.
  * Fire Arrows: These are your key to victory. The Elder is weak to Fire damage, so these arrows will inflict significant damage. Aim for at least 100 fire arrows, and 200 is not unreasonable especially if soloing.
  * Optional: Bronze Arrows can supplement your fire arrows if you run low, but they are not as effective as fire.
• Armor:
  * Bronze Armor: A full set of bronze armor provides adequate defense to survive some attacks.
  * Leather or Troll Hide Armor: A lighter armor may be a good alternative if you can adeptly dodge attacks.
• Other Essentials:
  * Food: A combination of stamina and health-regenerating foods, such as cooked meat and honey, is crucial for surviving the battle.
  * Bronze Buckler: This can block The Elder’s stomp attack. Practice blocking the stomp before the fight.
  * Repair Materials: Having spare resources for repairing your gear during battle, especially your bow and armor, will prove invaluable.

Understanding The Elder’s Attacks and Weaknesses

• Attack Patterns: The Elder has several attacks, including:
  * Root Summons: The Elder summons roots to attack you. Try to quickly destroy them to clear the battlefield.
  * Stomp Attack: The Elder performs a stomp attack. This is very damaging but also very blockable.
  * Ranged Vine Attack: The Elder throws vine projectiles. This can be difficult to dodge and may require strategic positioning.
• Weakness: As mentioned, The Elder is weak to Fire damage. Make sure you stock up on enough fire arrows.

Combat Strategy

Positioning and Movement

• Maintain Distance: Keep a medium distance from The Elder, allowing you to dodge most of its attacks while continuously firing arrows.
  • Use Cover: Utilize trees or rocks for cover, which can help mitigate the damage from the root summons.
  • Circle The Elder: Continuously circling the boss will make it easier to avoid its stomps and ranged attacks.

Attacking the Elder

*   **Focus on Fire Arrows:** Prioritize your fire arrows, maximizing the damage dealt.
*   **Destroy Roots Quickly:** If roots are summoned, quickly destroy them to clear the battlefield and avoid getting trapped.
*   **Block When Necessary:** Use your **bronze buckler** to block the stomp attack, then strike back during the window of opportunity.
*   **Conserve Stamina:** Always manage your stamina carefully. It will be your primary method of movement.

After the Fight

*   **Collect the Trophy:** Upon defeating The Elder, you'll receive **The Elder Trophy**. Take this to the Sacrificial Stones at your spawn to gain **The Elder Power**, which grants a boost to your wood chopping speed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best weapon for The Elder fight?

The Fine Wood Bow paired with Fire Arrows is the most effective setup for this battle. Fire Arrows exploit The Elder’s weakness to fire, making them the go-to ammo type.

2. How many fire arrows should I bring to fight The Elder?

Aim for at least 100 Fire Arrows, but bringing 200 is a good idea, especially if you are soloing the fight. You don’t want to have to leave to go get more in the middle of the fight.

3. Where can I find Ancient Seeds?

Ancient Seeds are primarily found by killing Greydwarf Brutes and Shamans, with a 33% drop chance. They are also guaranteed drops when destroying Greydwarf Nests.

4. What armor should I use against The Elder?

Bronze Armor provides a good balance of protection without hindering your movement. Light armor options with high dodge capabilities can also work.

5. Is The Elder weak to any specific damage type?

Yes, The Elder is weak to Fire damage. Using Fire Arrows will drastically reduce its health faster than other damage types.

6. What does The Elder Trophy do?

The Elder Trophy, when activated at the Sacrificial Stones, grants the player The Elder Power. This ability increases your wood chopping speed for five minutes.

7. Where is The Elder located in Valheim?

The Elder is located in the Black Forest biome. Its location is typically marked on your map after interacting with runestones in Burial Chambers.

8. How many Ancient Seeds do I need to summon The Elder?

You need three Ancient Seeds to summon The Elder.

9. Can I fight The Elder solo?

Yes, it is possible to fight The Elder solo. However, it requires careful preparation, good gear, and a strategic approach.

10. What should I do after defeating The Elder?

After defeating The Elder, you should:

• Build a Portal, to help traverse the world quicker
• Set up a camp near the Swamp biome to begin exploring this new area.
• Stock up on wood for base construction and future needs.
• Upgrade/fortify your base to prepare for potential raids.
• Construct a boat to explore the seas and discover more biomes.
• Craft a Mace to prepare to fight the swamp biome boss.

11. What is the hardest boss in Valheim?

The Queen, found in the Mistlands, is widely considered the most challenging boss in Valheim.

12. What is the best melee weapon against the swamp boss, Bonemass?

The Iron Mace is a great weapon to use against Bonemass. This weapon is particularly effective due to the boss’s weakness to blunt damage.

13. What is the best armor for exploring the Swamp?

Iron Armor or Root Armor are two great options for the Swamp biome. Root Armor is particularly helpful because it boosts bow damage.

14. What are some effective alternatives to Fire Arrows against The Elder?

While fire arrows are the most effective, Bronze Arrows can provide additional damage if you run out of fire arrows, but at a reduced output. It’s wise to bring a back up arrow type, just in case.

15. How does The Elder’s HP compare to other bosses?

The Elder has 2500 HP, which is significantly more than Eikthyr (500 HP). It’s important to be ready for a longer fight than your first boss experience.

By preparing adequately, utilizing the right equipment, understanding the boss’s attacks, and taking advantage of its weakness, you can successfully defeat The Elder and continue your journey through Valheim. Happy hunting!