When Can You Parry Malekith? A Comprehensive Guide to Mastering the Black Blade
**You can parry most, but not all, of Malekith’s attacks in *Elden Ring*. His *first phase, Beast Clergyman*, is *completely unparryable*. However, **once he transforms into Malekith, the Black Blade, many of his sword attacks can be parried, opening him up for critical hits. Learning the specific parry windows is crucial for mastering this challenging boss fight.
Mastering the Parry: A Deep Dive into Malekith’s Attacks
Malekith, the Black Blade, is widely regarded as one of the toughest bosses in Elden Ring, and for good reason. His speed, aggression, and devastating attacks can overwhelm even seasoned players. While some players opt for dodging and spacing strategies, others seek to exploit his weaknesses, and parrying offers a significant advantage. However, understanding which attacks can be parried and when to execute the parry is paramount.
Beast Clergyman (Phase 1): The Parry Myth
Let’s dispel a common misconception immediately: you cannot parry any of the Beast Clergyman’s attacks. This initial phase of the boss fight relies heavily on dodging and strategic positioning. Trying to parry his rock throws, claw swipes, or stomps will only leave you vulnerable to his relentless assault. Focus on learning his attack patterns and finding safe windows to deal damage.
Malekith, the Black Blade (Phase 2): Unveiling the Parry Opportunities
Once Malekith transforms, the parry window opens up, but not for every attack. **The vast majority of his *sword attacks* can be parried.** This includes:
- Normal Sword Swings: These are the most common attacks and the easiest to parry. Watch for the wind-up animation and time your parry just before the blade connects.
- Jump Attacks: Malekith frequently jumps into the air and slams his sword down. These can be parried with precise timing, often just before the sword hits the ground.
- Spinning Attacks: He performs a few different spinning attacks with his sword. Again, watch for the blade making contact and parry accordingly.
- Black Blade Projectile Attacks (Sword-Based): When Malekith infuses his sword with Destined Death and sends projectiles, the sword swings themselves can be parried. However, the projectiles themselves cannot be parried.
Attacks that cannot be parried include:
- Scarlet Rot-infused attacks: If Malekith infuses his sword with scarlet rot, those attacks cannot be parried.
- The Black Blade projectiles themselves: These are pure magic and must be dodged.
- Any attack during Phase 1 (Beast Clergyman).
Parry Timing: The Key to Success
The most crucial aspect of parrying Malekith is timing. Unlike some enemies with generous parry windows, Malekith requires precise execution. Experiment with different parry tools to find one that suits your playstyle. The Buckler is often recommended for its extended parry frames, but any shield with a parry skill can be used.
Tips for Improving Parry Timing:
- Practice, practice, practice: The more you fight Malekith, the more you’ll become familiar with his attack patterns and timings. Consider using Spirit Ashes to distract him while you learn.
- Watch the weapon, not the body: Focus your attention on Malekith’s sword rather than his overall movements. This will help you anticipate the moment of impact.
- Don’t panic: A rushed parry is often a failed parry. Stay calm and react deliberately.
- Use a shield with good guard boost: Even if you miss the parry, a shield with high guard boost will reduce the stamina damage you take.
Exploiting the Parry: The Riposte Opportunity
Successfully parrying Malekith will stagger him, opening him up for a critical hit (riposte). Get close to him and press the heavy attack button to perform the riposte. This deals significant damage and can be a crucial component of your strategy. Aim for his chest area for the most effective riposte damage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Parrying Malekith
1. What is the best shield for parrying Malekith?
There isn’t a single “best” shield, but the Buckler is highly recommended due to its extended parry frames, making it more forgiving for less precise parries. Other good options include the Carian Knight Shield for its balance of parry frames and guard boost, and the Golden Parry Ash of War for its range.
2. Can I use a weapon with the “Parry” skill instead of a shield?
Yes, weapons like rapiers and curved swords often have a “Parry” skill. This can be effective, but the timing is generally tighter than with a shield. Master the timing and use the weapon you’re most comfortable with.
3. Does my equipment load affect my parry timing?
No, your equipment load does not directly affect your parry timing. However, heavier armor can reduce your agility and recovery speed, making it harder to reposition after a failed parry.
4. Can I parry Malekith with the “Carian Retaliation” Ash of War?
Yes, but only if you parry a magical projectile aimed at you. Since malekith does not use any spells aimed at you, it is not a viable skill.
5. What happens if I try to parry an unparryable attack?
Your character will attempt the parry animation, but you will not block the attack. You will likely take full damage and be left vulnerable.
6. Is it worth it to parry Malekith, or should I just focus on dodging?
Parrying Malekith is risky but highly rewarding. A successful parry opens him up for a critical hit, dealing significant damage. If you can master the timing, it’s a viable and effective strategy. However, if you find parrying too difficult, dodging is a perfectly valid alternative.
7. Does my Faith stat affect my parry timing?
No, your Faith stat has no direct impact on your parry timing or effectiveness.
8. Can I parry Malekith with a Mimic Tear summon?
The Mimic Tear can attempt to parry Malekith, but its timing is often unreliable. It’s generally better to use the Mimic Tear to distract Malekith while you focus on parrying.
9. Does the “Assassin’s Crimson Dagger” talisman work with parry ripostes?
Yes, the “Assassin’s Crimson Dagger” talisman restores HP upon critical hits, including ripostes after a successful parry.
10. How do I know if I successfully parried an attack?
If you successfully parry an attack, you will hear a distinct sound effect and see a brief visual effect. Malekith will also be staggered, indicating that he is vulnerable to a critical hit.
11. Is there a specific level or weapon upgrade level recommended for fighting Malekith?
A recommended level is typically around 120-150, with a weapon upgrade level of +22 to +25 (or +9 to +10 for unique weapons). However, skill and strategy are more important than level.
12. Can I use the “Bloodflame Blade” incantation to enhance my weapon before parrying?
Yes, “Bloodflame Blade” can add bleed buildup to your weapon, increasing your damage output after a successful riposte.
13. Does the “Golden Vow” incantation affect my parry effectiveness?
No, “Golden Vow” primarily increases attack power and defense, but it does not directly affect your parry timing or effectiveness.
14. What are some alternative strategies to parrying Malekith?
Alternative strategies include: using fast weapons with jump attacks to exploit his openings, summoning powerful Spirit Ashes to distract him, and utilizing ranged attacks to maintain distance and chip away at his health.
15. Are there any visual cues that indicate when Malekith is about to perform a parryable attack?
While there isn’t a single, definitive cue, pay close attention to the wind-up animation of his sword attacks. The moment his blade begins to swing towards you is usually the ideal time to initiate your parry. Also, look for him to hold his sword still for a split second before he attacks. This is his “tell” that it is the right time to parry.
Mastering the art of parrying Malekith is a challenging but ultimately rewarding experience. With practice, patience, and a good understanding of his attack patterns, you can turn this formidable foe into a manageable adversary and claim victory in the Lands Between.