Facing the Grave Warden Duelist in Elden Ring can be a daunting challenge, but with the right strategies, you can turn the tide in your favor. Nestled deep within the Murkwater Catacombs, this optional boss is notorious for his aggressive melee attacks and powerful hammer strikes. To conquer this formidable foe, players must master dodging, timing, and utilizing the environment to their advantage. Whether you’re a seasoned warrior or a newcomer to the Lands Between, our guide will equip you with essential tips and tactics to emerge victorious against the Grave Warden Duelist and claim his coveted Battle Hammer. Prepare yourself for an epic showdown!
Locations
The Grave Warden Duelist is located in the Murkwater Catacombs, which can be found in the Limgrave region of Elden Ring. To access this optional boss, players must navigate through the catacombs, defeating various enemies along the way. The entrance is situated northeast of Lake Agheel, and players can reach it by jumping down into the ravine or following the riverbed. Once inside, they will encounter a series of challenges before reaching the boss arena, including activating a lever that opens the door to the Grave Warden’s lair.
Grave Warden Duelist in Limgrave:
You will meet the Grave Warden Duelist for the first time in Limgrave, and more specifically in the Murkwater Catacombs.
Grave Warden Duelist in Leyndell, Royal Capital:
The second version of the boss is in Leyndell, Royal Capital, and more specifically in Auriza Side Tomb.
Frenzied Duelist in Caelid:
A different version of the boss can be found in Caelid, more specifically in the Gaol Cave.
Putrid Grave Warden Duelist in Consecrated Snowfield:
The fourth, different version of the boss can be found in Consecrated Snowfield, more specifically in Consecrated Snowfield Catacombs.
Reward for defeating
Defeating the Grave Warden Duelist in Elden Ring rewards players with valuable loot, enhancing their gameplay experience. Upon victory, players earn 1,700 Runes, which can be used for leveling up or purchasing items. Additionally, the Duelist drops the Battle Hammer, a powerful weapon ideal for strength builds, making this optional boss encounter worthwhile for those seeking to strengthen their arsenal. Engaging in this battle not only tests players’ skills but also provides significant rewards that contribute to their overall progression in the game.
The reward for defeating the boss in Limgrave is Banished Knight Engvall ashes and 1700 Runes.
The standard version of the boss located in Leyndell will reward you with Soldjars of Fortune Ashes and 15,000 Runes.
For defeating the boss version in Caelid, you will receive Putrid Corpse Ashes and 6700 Runes.
By defeating the last version of the boss, which is located in the Consecrated Snowfield, you will receive a Great Grave Glovewort x2, Rotten Gravekeeper Cloak, and 80,000 Runes.
General tips
To effectively conquer the Grave Warden Duelist in Elden Ring, players should adopt a strategic approach that balances aggression with careful dodging. Utilize the environment: The pillars in the boss arena can be used to block attacks and create openings for counterattacks. Summon allies: Spirit Ashes like the Lone Wolf Ashes can distract the Grave Warden, allowing you to land hits while he is occupied. Master dodging: Learn the timing of his attacks, as he often follows up with powerful combos; rolling away after his swings can create opportunities for backstabs. Finally, be prepared for his enraged state when his health drops, as he becomes more aggressive and deals increased damage. With patience and practice, you can emerge victorious against this formidable foe.
- It’s not a good idea to block the boss’s attacks, as it takes a lot of stamina. Dodging his hits is the preferable solution.
- The Grave Warden frequently attacks with a series of hits and he can perform up to five attacks. This chain may end with a long-range weapon throw. The weapon can also deal damage while returning to the boss’s hand and it’s also an AoE attack.
- Fighting at a distance is very helpful. The boss often performs a chain of attacks without stopping, so you can move away to a safe distance and shoot him with a bow or use spells.
- Summoning a spirit to help is a great way to make the fight easier. The spirit’s main job is to provoke the boss to attack it, giving you the chance to attack the boss in relative safety. Remember, however, that when hitting the boss, he will focus on you until someone else hits him.
- Watch out when a red aura begins to surround him. He will start dealing more damage and it will be harder to break his poise.
- The enemy is vulnerable to bleeding, so it is worth having a weapon that inflicts this status.
Mage build – how to fight?
To effectively fight as a Mage build in Elden Ring, players should leverage a combination of powerful spells and strategic positioning. Mages excel at ranged combat, allowing them to deal significant damage while maintaining distance from enemies. Key strategies include using staves like the Meteorite Staff for enhanced spellcasting and employing spells such as Rock Sling or Meteorite of Astel to maximize damage output. Additionally, utilizing summons can help divert enemy attention, giving mages the opportunity to cast spells safely. Building up Intelligence is crucial for unlocking high-level spells, but players must also manage their health and stamina carefully to avoid being overwhelmed in close combat situations. Emphasizing mobility and timing will ensure that mages can dominate their foes while minimizing risk.
To fight the Grave Warden Duelist you need as many ghosts as possible, so summoning wolves will be very helpful here. They’ll draw the boss’ attention, letting you cast spells from a safe distance.
Before the fight begins you should bring more cerulean tears flasks to restore mana. Before starting the duel you should equip such spells as: Rock Blaster, Glinstone Shard and/or Magic Glintblade. These spells work perfectly against the boss.
The only thing you need to watch out for is his ranged attack during which he spins his weapon. It has a long range and can easily kill a mage. When you see him executing this attack move away as quickly as possible.
Melee build – how to fight?
In Elden Ring, mastering a melee build is crucial for effectively taking down formidable foes like the Grave Warden. To excel in melee combat, players should focus on timing and positioning. Utilize quick, successive attacks to exploit openings during the enemy’s attack animations, particularly after heavy strikes or when they are momentarily vulnerable. It’s essential to maintain mobility; rolling and dodging can help avoid damage while allowing you to reposition for counterattacks. Additionally, using weapons that inflict status effects, such as bleed or poison, can significantly enhance damage output over time. Summoning allies can also provide valuable distractions, enabling you to land critical hits without drawing too much aggro. Overall, a successful melee strategy hinges on a blend of aggression and tactical defense, ensuring you stay one step ahead of your opponent.
If you choose to summon wolves, you will have many opportunities to sneak up on the enemy from behind and perform a critical attack. The enemy is also vulnerable to bleeding, so if you have a weapon that inflicts this status, it is worth using it. Especially in combination with wolves – this will speed up the fight.
Many of the enemy’s attacks have an area effect and it’s rather hard to block them with a shield – even if you succeed, you will quickly lose your stamina and thus lose your balance and expose yourself to attack. It’s good to dodge towards him and try to get behind his back so that he doesn’t have too many opportunities to attack you with a heavy hit.
Watch out for his jump attack, which can kill characters with a lower health pool instantly. Move away when he is swinging hammers above his head – at the end of this combo, the opponent pulls the hammer towards him, which hurts everything in its path.
What are the best weapons to use against the Grave Warden Duelist
When facing the Grave Warden Duelist in Elden Ring, selecting the right weapons can significantly impact your success. Here are some of the best options to consider:
- Greatshield: A greatshield is essential for blocking the Grave Warden’s powerful attacks, allowing for guard counters that can lead to critical hits after parrying.
- Fast Weapons: Weapons with quick attack animations, such as daggers or short swords, can be effective for dodging and striking during openings in the Duelist’s attack patterns. This allows players to maintain mobility while dealing damage.
- Heavy Weapons: If you prefer a more aggressive approach, consider using heavy weapons like the Battle Hammer or Greataxe. These can deal substantial damage when you successfully stagger the boss, especially during critical moments after parrying.
- Spirit Ashes: While not a weapon per se, summoning Spirit Ashes like the Lone Wolf Ashes can distract the Grave Warden, giving you opportunities to strike without taking damage. This tactic is particularly useful for players who prefer ranged or magic builds.
In summary, combining a sturdy shield with either fast or heavy melee weapons, alongside strategic use of Spirit Ashes, will enhance your chances of defeating the Grave Warden Duelist efficiently.
What are the best Ashes to use against the Grave Warden Duelist
To effectively take on the Grave Warden Duelist in Elden Ring, utilizing the right Spirit Ashes can significantly enhance your chances of victory. Here are the best Ashes to consider:
- Kaiden Sellsword Ashes: These are highly recommended for this fight as they can deal solid damage and distract the Grave Warden, allowing you to capitalize on openings. Their melee attacks can help mitigate the boss’s aggression, making the encounter much easier.
- Lone Wolf Ashes: While they may not inflict heavy damage, the Lone Wolf Ashes serve as excellent distractions. They can draw the Grave Warden’s attention away from you, providing opportunities to strike when he is focused on your summons.
- Banished Knight Engvall Ashes: If you have access to these, they provide a tanky option that can absorb damage while dealing decent hits. This allows you to focus on dodging and countering without taking as much damage yourself.
Using these Spirit Ashes strategically will help divert the Grave Warden Duelist’s attention and create openings for your attacks, making for a more manageable fight overall.
