Unmasking Rykard’s Demise: Exploiting the Lord of Blasphemy’s Weakness in Elden Ring
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Lord Rykard, the Lord of Blasphemy, is a formidable demigod boss in Elden Ring. However, like any seemingly invincible foe, he possesses a significant weakness: the Serpent-Hunter Great Spear. This unique weapon, found within his boss arena, is specifically designed to combat him and the God-Devouring Serpent. Its special weapon art, Great-Serpent Hunt, allows you to unleash powerful ranged attacks that stagger Rykard and deal massive damage, making it the key to victory. Rykard is also weak to Frostbite, meaning using a weapon that can cause Frostbite, combined with the Serpent-Hunter, can greatly increase your chance of victory.
Deciphering the Serpent-Hunter’s Power
The Serpent-Hunter isn’t just any weapon; it’s intrinsically tied to Rykard’s lore and the mechanics of the fight. The weapon’s Great-Serpent Hunt skill extends the spear into a bladed whip that deals incredible damage to both the God-Devouring Serpent and Rykard himself.
Understanding the Attack Pattern
The Great-Serpent Hunt skill has a distinct attack pattern. It unleashes a series of ranged attacks that pierce through the lava and reach Rykard, even at a distance. Mastering the timing and spacing of these attacks is crucial. It is best to stay at a distance to avoid Rykard’s melee attacks while you use the Great-Serpent Hunt.
Upgrading the Weapon
While the Serpent-Hunter is effective from the start, upgrading it with Smithing Stones significantly boosts its damage output. Prioritize upgrading it as much as possible before the fight to make it even easier.
Supplementary Strategies for Success
While the Serpent-Hunter is the primary weakness, employing additional tactics can greatly enhance your chances of defeating Rykard.
Elemental Resistance
Rykard’s attacks deal primarily fire damage. Equipping armor with high fire resistance or using the Flamedrake Talisman can significantly reduce the damage you take.
Spirit Ashes
Utilizing Spirit Ashes, particularly the Mimic Tear, can provide valuable assistance. The Mimic Tear can wield its own version of the Serpent-Hunter. Use the Mimic Tear Ash summon to create a distraction, and allow you to deal the finishing blow.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Rykard
1. What level should I be to fight Rykard?
Ideally, you should be level 65 or higher to fight Rykard. Being over level 70 is even better, providing you with the necessary health and damage output to withstand his attacks and effectively use the Serpent-Hunter.
2. Where is the Serpent-Hunter weapon located?
The Serpent-Hunter Great Spear is found immediately to your left upon entering the boss chamber, near a corpse.
3. Do I need specific stats to wield the Serpent-Hunter?
No, the Serpent-Hunter requires zero stat investment to use effectively, making it accessible to any character build.
4. Can I beat Rykard without the Serpent-Hunter?
While technically possible, defeating Rykard without the Serpent-Hunter is extremely difficult. The weapon is specifically designed for this fight and significantly simplifies the encounter.
5. What armor is best against Rykard?
Prioritize armor with high fire resistance. The heavier the armor, the better. The Flamedrake Talisman can also greatly increase your fire resistance.
6. Does killing Rykard affect Volcano Manor?
Yes, killing Rykard locks you out of all Volcano Manor quests that are not yet completed. Ensure you complete all desired quests before defeating him.
7. What quests must I complete before killing Rykard?
You should complete all Volcano Manor assassination quests and acquire the Tonic of Forgetfulness for Rya/Zoraya’s questline before defeating Rykard.
8. Where is Rya after killing Rykard?
After killing Rykard, Rya will eventually return to her original location in Volcano Manor. Giving her the Tonic of Forgetfulness will send her to sleep. If you do not give it to her, she will disappear, leaving Daedicar’s Woe and Zorayas’ Letter.
9. What happens to Tanith after Rykard’s defeat?
After slaying Rykard, you can find Tanith crouched over his corpse in his chamber.
10. Why does Tanith eat Rykard?
Tanith eats Rykard in the hope that he will live on through her. Rykard is effectively immortal, but needs a new body to revive. She is attempting to absorb enough of his essence so that he can take her over.
11. What is the Blasphemous Blade?
The Blasphemous Blade is a weapon you obtain by trading the Remembrance of the Blasphemous (acquired after defeating Rykard) with Enia at the Roundtable Hold.
12. What is Rykard’s Great Rune?
Rykard’s Great Rune is another item obtained after defeating him. When activated, it restores HP after defeating enemies, increasing survivability during exploration.
13. What are the downsides of joining Volcano Manor?
There are no significant negative consequences to joining Volcano Manor in terms of the main storyline. Ignoring the quests will mean missing out on some cool extra content – not to mention some unique rewards.
14. Why does Volcano Manor hunt Tarnished?
Volcano Manor’s mission to hunt Tarnished is linked to their rebellion against the Golden Order. They seek to establish a new order independent of the Erdtree.
15. Is Rykard truly dead after the fight?
According to the lore, Rykard isn’t truly dead, but the head rests in his chamber while his body is slowly reforming. This is because he was imbued with the immortality of the ancient Serpent-God. Understanding game mechanics and the educational principles behind them can enhance your gaming experience. You can learn more about such principles on the GamesLearningSociety.org website.
By understanding Rykard’s weakness and utilizing the Serpent-Hunter effectively, you can triumph over this challenging boss and claim victory in the Lands Between.