How to Beat the Messmer, The Impaler | Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree

So, you’ve stumbled upon Messmer, the Impaler? Congratulations, you’ve just found yourself a first-class ticket to Nightmare Town. Fortunately, we’ve got the scoop on how to send this freaky phantom back to whatever hellhole it crawled out of.

LOCATION:

Messmer’s Kryptonite

Before we get down to business, let’s get to know our enemy a little better. Messmer’s got a few weaknesses you can exploit: he’s not a fan of the cold, gets woozy when you mess with his poise, and has a real soft spot for bleeding. Oh, and don’t bother trying to roast him with fire—he’s practically immune to it.

Gearing Up

• Weapon: Ice, ice, baby! Infuse your weapon with some frosty goodness to maximize your damage output. Or, if you’re feeling extra feisty, go for bleed damage—death by a thousand cuts, anyone?
• Armor: You’re gonna need some heavy-duty protection against those gnarly physical and fire attacks. So, suit up!
• Flasks: Make sure those Crimson and Cerulean Tears are topped off and ready to roll. Don’t forget to stock up on Preserving Boluses for that extra layer of defence.
• Spirit Ashes: Bring in the big guns! Summon a powerful spirit pal like the Mimic Tear or Black Knife Tiche to take some heat off you.

Phase 1:

Okay, Messmer’s first form is all about speed and aggression. He’s gonna be swinging, lunging, and generally trying to make you his next pincushion. Your main objective here is to channel your inner Neo and dodge like a madman.

Jumping attacks are your best friend when it comes to avoiding those nasty lunges. When Messmer takes a moment to catch his breath, he hits him with some heavy or jumping attacks to break his poise and go for the jugular. Just remember to keep your distance—no need to get too cosy with this Messmer.

Phase 2:

Get ready for things to get weird. Once you’ve knocked off about half of Messmer’s health, he’ll transform into a nightmarish serpent-like creature. Fun times, right? This phase calls for a new game plan. Stay far, far away and be patient. Watch out for his serpentine charges and strike when he’s vulnerable after he whiffs.

Extra Tips for Dealing with the Devil:

• You’re gonna need all the health you can get to survive this encounter.
• Seriously, those ghostly buddies are lifesavers.
• Easy for me to say, right? But seriously, keep your cool. Focus on dodging and hitting those openings, and you’ll be just fine.