Where is Black Blade Kindred? A Comprehensive Guide
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The Black Blade Kindred is a formidable, optional boss in Elden Ring, known for its challenging combat and imposing presence. You’ll encounter this fearsome foe in two distinct locations, each presenting its own unique circumstances. Let’s dive into the specifics of where you can find this powerful enemy.
Initial Encounter: Caelid
The first encounter with a Black Blade Kindred occurs outside the Bestial Sanctum in Caelid. This location is easily identifiable by the large, stone structure on a cliff overlooking the surrounding area. This area is known as Dragonbarrow, a region of Caelid that significantly increases the difficulty. The boss is positioned near the entrance of the sanctum, making it difficult to miss if you’re exploring the area. This fight is entirely optional, and you can progress through Elden Ring without engaging this particular encounter. However, defeating it will reward you with valuable items and runes.
Second Encounter: Forbidden Lands
The second instance of the Black Blade Kindred appears in the Forbidden Lands, later in the game, after progressing significantly. This encounter is not directly in line with the critical path, again, it is optional. The location of this fight is in a secluded spot in the area, making it a bit trickier to stumble upon without actively exploring. It is important to note that this encounter has similarities to the first, but with slightly altered attack patterns and may feel more challenging due to your progression in the game. Interestingly, Millicent can be summoned for the Forbidden Lands fight.
A Note on the Duo Fight
It’s important to highlight that while you face the Black Blade Kindred as a singular boss twice, a similar variant appears as a Duo fight in Nokron, Eternal City located in the far east portion of the city. This encounter is different, involving two of these foes simultaneously, which significantly amplifies the difficulty.
Black Blade Kindred Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the Black Blade Kindred fight required to progress the story?
No, the Black Blade Kindred is an optional boss. You are not required to defeat it to complete Elden Ring.
2. Where can I summon Millicent to help with the fight?
Millicent’s summon sign appears at the base of the hill northwest of the Stake of Marika near the Forbidden Lands encounter. Before this, you must complete her questline up to a point, which includes defeating the Godskin Apostle in Dominula, Windmill Village and giving her the Prosthesis. Millicent can be summoned for the Forbidden Lands fight, even before the Godskin Apostle.
3. When should I attempt to fight the Black Blade Kindred in Caelid?
The Dragonbarrow area of Caelid is considerably more challenging than the rest of Caelid and even the Altus Plateau. It is recommended that you wait until your weapon is almost fully upgraded before tackling this fight, or be prepared to deal reduced damage.
4. What makes the Black Blade Kindred so difficult?
The Black Blade Kindred has very high damage output and a considerable health pool. Additionally, it features attacks that can be difficult to dodge, making it a test of skill and timing.
5. Are there any “cheese” strategies for the Black Blade Kindred?
Yes, several strategies can make the fight easier:
* Using charged attacks behind and to the right of its right leg.
* Running to its front, slightly to the right, then quickly moving sharply right.
* Running around the whole building structure it is next to to avoid its attacks.
6. What level should I be to fight the Black Blade Kindred?
For the Black Blade Kindred, particularly the one in the Forbidden Lands, it is recommended to be at least level 120, and ideally closer to 150, with a minimum of 40 points invested into Vigor and a maxed out weapon.
7. What should I focus on in combat with the Black Blade Kindred?
The best strategy is to stay beneath the boss at all times to minimize its usage of ranged attacks. Be particularly mindful of its sword swing and Sword Combo attacks. Weapons with high strike damage are recommended.
8. Is the Black Blade Kindred immune to status effects?
Yes, the Black Blade Kindred is entirely immune to all status effects, including Bleed, Frostbite, Scarlet Rot, and Poison.
9. What rewards do I receive for defeating the Black Blade Kindred?
Defeating the Black Blade Kindred will yield valuable Runes and important Items, often required to advance quests or obtain powerful equipment.
10. What are the Black Blade Kindred’s weaknesses?
The Black Blade Kindred is weak to Strike attacks and not resistant to physical damage. This should be the primary type of damage you focus on delivering to the boss.
11. How does the Black Blade Kindred in the Forbidden Lands compare to the Caelid one?
While they are the same boss in many regards, the Forbidden Lands encounter is often considered more difficult due to your progression in the game and potentially higher enemy scaling. Also, it is more isolated in the area.
12. Are the Valiant Gargoyles related to the Black Blade Kindred?
Yes, the Valiant Gargoyles are similar variants of the Black Blade Kindred. If you have defeated the Valiant Gargoyles in Siofra, the fight against a single Black Blade Kindred will be slightly easier, given your experience with the enemy’s move set.
13. What is the difference between the Black Blade Kindred and the Black Knife Assassins?
The Black Blade Kindred is a much larger and more powerful boss, distinct from the Black Knife Assassins. While both share a dark, deadly aesthetic, they are separate entities. The Black Knife Assassins are smaller, stealth-based enemies, whereas the Black Blade Kindred is a hulking, aggressive foe.
14. What is the Gargoyle’s Black Blades Weapon?
Gargoyle’s Black Blades is a Twinblade weapon that deals holy damage. It’s wielded by the Valiant Gargoyles and scales with Strength, Dexterity, and Faith. It can be found when defeating Valiant Gargoyles in certain locations.
15. How can I prepare for the Black Blade Kindred fight?
To prepare, make sure you have:
* A high character level, particularly with 40 or more points in Vigor.
* A fully or nearly fully upgraded weapon.
* Weapons that do Strike damage.
* Spirit Ashes for the fight, which can be summoned in both encounters.
By understanding the locations and nuances of the Black Blade Kindred fights, you can better prepare yourself for these challenging but ultimately rewarding encounters in Elden Ring. Good luck, Tarnished!