Commander Niall’s Weakness in Elden Ring: A Tarnished’s Guide to Victory
Commander Niall, a formidable boss found in Castle Sol in the Mountaintops of the Giants region, presents a significant challenge to even the most seasoned Elden Ring players. While he boasts a powerful arsenal of attacks and the ability to summon spectral knights, understanding his weaknesses is key to overcoming this imposing foe. Niall is primarily vulnerable to Physical Strike and Thrust damage, while also susceptible to Bleed buildup.
Exploiting Niall’s Vulnerabilities: A Tactical Breakdown
To effectively exploit Commander Niall’s weaknesses, Tarnished should focus their strategies on the following:
- Prioritize Strike and Thrust Weapons: Opt for weapons that deal Strike (e.g., Hammers, Great Hammers) or Thrust damage (e.g., Spears, Rapiers). These weapon types will inflict significantly more damage than weapons that primarily deal Slash damage.
- Capitalize on Bleed Buildup: As a humanoid enemy, Niall is susceptible to Bleed. Weapons imbued with Bleed buildup, such as the Bloodhound’s Fang, or equipping Ashes of War like Bloodflame Blade can drastically shorten the fight. Even a few bleed procs can drastically speed up the fight.
- Strategic Summons: Spirit Ashes can play a crucial role in distracting Niall and his spectral knights. Summons that are resilient and can draw aggro, such as Lhutel the Headless or Ancient Dragon Knight Kristoff, are particularly effective. The Mimic Tear is another strong option, creating a copy of yourself that can inflict significant damage and provide added distraction.
- Bewitching Branch for Crowd Control: The Bewitching Branch consumable can be used to temporarily turn one of Niall’s spectral knights against him. This effectively reduces the number of enemies you’re facing at once, providing a valuable advantage. Prioritize using this on the Swordsman knight, since he tends to be more aggressive and dangerous.
- Elemental Resistances: Avoid weapons or spells that inflict Frostbite, Scarlet Rot, Poison, or Hemorrhage. Niall has a very high resistance to these status effects, making them largely ineffective.
- Lightning Damage Mitigation: Commander Niall employs lightning-based attacks. Equipping the Boltdrake Talisman will increase your lightning damage negation. Combine this with consumables like the Lightningproof Dried Liver for further protection.
- Understanding Phase 2: Commander Niall enters a second phase at around 50% health, buffing himself with lightning and becoming even more aggressive. Be prepared for this shift in tactics and adjust your strategy accordingly.
- Kill the Spectral Knights: Focus on taking out the spectral knights first. Prioritize the Swordsman knight because he is the more dangerous threat. Use Strike or Thrust attacks if possible.
Strategic Tips for Commander Niall
- Exploit Openings: Watch for openings after Niall completes his attack animations. This is your chance to deal damage without taking excessive risks.
- Maintain Distance: Use ranged attacks and spells to chip away at Niall’s health while maintaining a safe distance.
- Utilize Terrain: The arena offers limited cover, but try to use it to your advantage to avoid attacks and reposition yourself.
- Level Up Your Vigor: A high Vigor stat is essential for surviving Niall’s powerful attacks. Aim for at least 40 Vigor before tackling this boss.
- Take advantage of magic if possible: Commander Niall’s spectral knights are especially weak to magic attacks.
By understanding Commander Niall’s weaknesses and employing the strategies outlined above, you can significantly increase your chances of emerging victorious from this challenging encounter. Remember to be patient, adapt your tactics as needed, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different builds and strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Commander Niall
1. Is Commander Niall resistant to all status effects?
No, Commander Niall is not resistant to all status effects. He has a high resistance to Frostbite, Scarlet Rot, Poison, and Hemorrhage, but is vulnerable to Bleed buildup.
2. What is the best weapon type to use against Commander Niall?
Strike and Thrust weapons are the most effective against Commander Niall. These weapon types deal significantly more damage than Slash weapons. Examples include Hammers, Great Hammers, Spears, and Rapiers.
3. How can I protect myself from Commander Niall’s lightning attacks?
Equip the Boltdrake Talisman to increase your lightning damage negation. You can also use consumables like the Lightningproof Dried Liver for further protection.
4. Should I use Spirit Ashes in the Commander Niall fight?
Yes, Spirit Ashes can be extremely helpful in the Commander Niall fight. They can distract Niall and his spectral knights, allowing you to deal damage more safely. Consider using resilient summons like Lhutel the Headless, Ancient Dragon Knight Kristoff, or the Mimic Tear.
5. Can I turn Commander Niall’s spectral knights against him?
Yes, the Bewitching Branch consumable can be used to temporarily turn one of Niall’s spectral knights against him. This can significantly reduce the pressure you face in the fight.
6. Which spectral knight should I target with the Bewitching Branch?
Prioritize using the Bewitching Branch on the Swordsman knight. He is typically more aggressive and deals more damage than the shield-bearing knight.
7. How does Commander Niall’s Phase 2 affect the fight?
In Phase 2, Commander Niall buffs himself with lightning, increasing his attack power and adding lightning damage to his attacks. Be prepared for a more aggressive and dangerous phase.
8. What level should I be before attempting the Commander Niall fight?
It’s generally recommended to be around level 80-90, with a weapon upgraded to at least +18 or +7 (somber), before attempting the Commander Niall fight. However, skilled players may be able to defeat him at lower levels. A high level of Vigor is also recommended.
9. Is it possible to skip the Commander Niall fight?
Yes, it is possible to skip the Commander Niall fight. There are videos online that will show you how.
10. What reward do I get for defeating Commander Niall?
Defeating Commander Niall rewards you with the Veteran’s Prosthesis and unlocks access to the Haligtree Secret Medallion (Left), which is required to access the Consecrated Snowfield.
11. Is Commander Niall weak to Magic?
While Commander Niall himself is more resistant, his spectral knights are weak to magic damage. Spells like Comet Azur and Rain of Stars can be effective for dealing with them.
12. Is Commander Niall the same as Commander O’Neil?
No, Commander Niall and Commander O’Neil are different bosses. Commander O’Neil is found in Caelid, while Commander Niall is located in Castle Sol in the Mountaintops of the Giants.
13. What is the best talisman to use against Commander Niall?
The Boltdrake Talisman, which increases your lightning damage negation, is a very helpful talisman to use against Commander Niall.
14. What happens if I apply Scarlet Rot on Commander Niall?
Commander Niall has high resistance against Scarlet Rot, so it will not be an effective strategy.
15. What is the best Spirit Ash for Commander Niall?
The Mimic Tear is widely considered one of the best Spirit Ashes for this fight. Summons that are resilient and can draw aggro, such as Lhutel the Headless or Ancient Dragon Knight Kristoff, are also effective.
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