Facing Lichdragon Fortissax in Elden Ring is not just another boss battle; it’s a test of strategy and skill that can lead to one of the game’s most intriguing alternate endings. This formidable four-winged dragon, hidden deep within the Deeproot Depths, unleashes devastating lightning attacks and summons clouds of death-inflicting vapor, making every moment in the arena perilous. To conquer this optional yet essential foe, players must navigate through Fia’s complex questline and master a series of tactical maneuvers that exploit Fortissax’s unique weaknesses while avoiding its lethal strikes. Whether you’re wielding melee weapons or casting spells, the path to victory demands precision, patience, and an understanding of this ancient dragon’s deadly repertoire.
As a result, in order to fight Lichdragon Fortissax, you need to complete all previous quests related to Fia. You can find walkthroughs for them on a dedicated page of the guide: Fia .
Reward for defeating
Defeating Lichdragon Fortissax in Elden Ring yields significant rewards, making it a worthwhile challenge for players. Upon vanquishing this formidable dragon, players receive the Remembrance of the Lichdragon, which can be exchanged for valuable items, including powerful incantations from Enia, the Finger Reader. Additionally, defeating Fortissax is essential for unlocking the Mending Rune of the Death-Prince, a key item necessary for achieving one of the game’s alternate endings, specifically the Age of Duskborn. This encounter not only tests players’ skills but also enriches their gameplay experience with unique lore and powerful rewards.
For defeating Lichdragon Fortissax you will receive Remembrance of the Lichdragon and 90,000 Runes.
Moreover, defeating him concludes Fia’s questline, which is rewarded with Mending Rune of Death-Prince that unlocks a new ending.
General tips
To successfully defeat Lichdragon Fortissax in Elden Ring, players should keep several general tips in mind. Preparation is key: ensure your character is at a suitable level, ideally between 95-100, and equip items that enhance lightning resistance, such as Lightningproof Dried Livers and Rejuvenating Boluses to mitigate Death Blight buildup. Utilizing Spirit Ashes, particularly the Mimic Tear, can help draw aggro and provide additional damage. During the fight, focus on attacking Fortissax’s legs rather than locking onto its head, as this allows for safer positioning while avoiding its powerful lightning attacks. Lastly, stay mobile; constantly reposition yourself to avoid the dangerous areas affected by its lightning strikes and utilize openings during its attack animations to land hits effectively.
- Fortissax deals mostly physical, fire and lightning damage. It is a good idea to equip yourself with items that protect well against these types of damage.
- Target the head – its the most vulnerable of his body parts . Targeting other body parts is not recommended, as hitting the head deals twice as much damage.
- The boss is immune to all statuses . Moreover, he has increases resistance to holy and lightning schools.
- Fortissax can kill you immediately if the death status bar fills up. Remember not to stand in the cloud of death for too long.
- Due to his large size, it will be a good idea to use sorceries and incantations that work at extended ranges and hit several times, such as Meteorite of Astel, Comet Azur or Rock Sling .
- Fortissax very often starts the battle by summoning multiple lightning bolts that spread deathblight . It is best to avoid this attack by staying away from the cloud so to not get killed.
- We recommend standing in front of him which makes targeting the head much easier.
- Most of his attacks can be avoided by staying close to his legs . However, watch out for attacks that generate red lightning, very often after the attack animation is complete, the lightning will start moving along the ground, dealing more damage.
How to defeat?
To defeat Lichdragon Fortissax in Elden Ring, players should adopt a strategic approach that leverages the dragon’s weaknesses while avoiding its powerful attacks. Preparation is key: equip items that enhance resistance to lightning and death buildup, such as Lightningproof Dried Livers and Rejuvenating Boluses. During the battle, focus on attacking Fortissax’s legs to avoid its devastating lightning-based moves, as it has high resistance to most elemental attacks but takes full damage to the head. Timing is crucial; players should dodge its lightning strikes and stay mobile to navigate the hazardous arena filled with death-inflicting clouds. Summoning Spirit Ashes can also help distract Fortissax, allowing for safer opportunities to deal damage. By maintaining awareness of the dragon’s attack patterns and positioning strategically, players can successfully whittle down its health and emerge victorious.
As the battle starts, use ranged attack if you have them. Fortissax is likely to produce a few lightning bolts which, upon hitting the ground, will begin to spread clouds imposing deathblight status.
Most of his attacks are linear, hitting mostly what’s in front of him. Therefore, by clinging to its legs, you will avoid most attacks. However, keep in mind that some of them create a shockwave that will hit you if you do not dodge.
Fortissax, apart from the standard breathing fire he usually performs when you stand in front of it, can also fly upwards to better position itself. The distance between you can be significant, so be prepared for ranged attacks.
As the second phase starts, this move can even turn into a single spear attack . It’s best to go under it then, thanks to which there is a good chance that you will avoid a direct attack with the weapon. However, you have to watch out for the spreading lightning, which will be on the ground after the weapon attack concludes.
However, the most dangerous attack Fortissax has to offer is creating two red lightning bolts in each paw. To avoid this attack well, you have to remember that he attack with one lightning first, followed by a discharge on the ground, and when it ends, a second, similar attack takes place . Therefore, remember to be prepared to dodge, even if the attack itself does not hit you directly.
What are the best strategies to counter Lichdragon Fortissax’s lightning attacks
To effectively counter Lichdragon Fortissax’s lightning attacks in Elden Ring, players should adopt a combination of strategic positioning, item usage, and timing. Here are the best strategies:
1. Utilize Buff Items
- Lightningproof Dried Liver and Boiled Crab are essential for reducing lightning damage. These items enhance your lightning resistance, making it easier to withstand Fortissax’s powerful electric strikes.
2. Positioning and Movement
- Stay Close to the Head: Attacking Fortissax’s head yields double damage, so maintain a position in front of the dragon to capitalize on this advantage. This positioning also allows you to better dodge its attacks.
- Avoid the Lightning Barrier: Fortissax will occasionally create a lightning barrier that can deal damage if you’re caught within it. Keep moving to avoid this area and look for openings to attack after it dissipates.
3. Timing Your Dodges
- Roll Through Attacks: For moves like the Ancient Dragon’s Lightning Spear, roll towards Fortissax as it slams the spear down. This allows you to avoid the initial explosion and get in close for a counterattack.
- Anticipate Lightning Strikes: When you see Fortissax preparing to summon lightning, either create distance or roll into the waves of lightning as they spread out to evade damage effectively.
4. Use Ranged Strategies Wisely
- For ranged players, spells like Rock Sling or Comet Azur are effective, but avoid using Holy or Lightning spells as Fortissax is resistant to them. Instead, focus on multi-hit spells that can deal consistent damage while keeping your distance from its attacks.
5. Summon Help
- Consider using Spirit Ashes like the Mimic Tear or other tanky summons to draw aggro away from you. This allows you to focus on dodging and attacking without being overwhelmed by Fortissax’s relentless assaults.
By combining these strategies—proper item usage, smart positioning, precise dodging, and possibly summoning allies—you can effectively mitigate Lichdragon Fortissax’s deadly lightning attacks and emerge victorious in this challenging encounter.
What are the best spells or incantations to use against Lichdragon Fortissax
To effectively combat Lichdragon Fortissax in Elden Ring, players should utilize spells and incantations that exploit the dragon’s weaknesses while avoiding its strengths. Here are the best options:
Best Spells and Incantations
1. Rock Sling
- Type: Sorcery
- Description: This spell launches large rocks at the enemy, dealing significant damage. It is particularly effective due to its ability to stagger Fortissax, allowing for follow-up attacks. Aim for the head to maximize damage.
2. Comet Azur
- Type: Sorcery
- Description: A powerful spell that unleashes a continuous beam of magic damage. This is effective at range and can deal substantial damage if aimed correctly, especially when Fortissax is distracted or recovering from an attack.
3. Stars of Ruin
- Type: Sorcery
- Description: This spell sends out multiple projectiles that home in on targets, making it easier to hit Fortissax while avoiding its attacks. It’s particularly useful for maintaining pressure while staying mobile.
4. Rotten Breath
- Type: Incantation
- Description: This incantation releases a cloud of rot that inflicts Scarlet Rot, dealing damage over time. While Fortissax is resistant to many effects, this can still be effective if you can land it before the dragon becomes aggressive.
5. Order Healing
- Type: Incantation
- Description: Use this healing spell to counteract the effects of Death Blight buildup from Fortissax’s attacks. Keeping your health topped off is crucial during this fight.
Additional Tips
- Avoid using Holy or Lightning spells, as Fortissax has strong resistances against these types of damage.
- Maintain distance when casting spells to avoid getting caught in lightning attacks or other melee strikes.
- Summoning Spirit Ashes or players can help distract Fortissax, allowing you to cast spells more safely.
By leveraging these spells and strategies, players can effectively diminish Lichdragon Fortissax’s health while minimizing their own risk during this challenging encounter.
