Facing the formidable Runebear in Elden Ring is no small feat. Nestled within the shadowy depths of the Earthbore Cave on the Weeping Peninsula, this massive beast is not just another optional boss; it’s a test of skill and strategy that can leave even seasoned players trembling. With its swift, powerful attacks and a penchant for closing distances in an instant, understanding how to outmaneuver this creature is crucial. Whether you’re relying on melee tactics or summoning spirits for assistance, mastering the art of dodging and positioning will be your key to victory against this fearsome foe. Prepare for a battle that will challenge your reflexes and strategic thinking as you aim to claim the coveted Spelldrake Talisman as your reward.
To get to the boss, you need to go to the Earthbore Cave. There, going further and further down, you will finally reach the den of the sleeping bear.
Reward for defeating
Defeating the Runebear in Elden Ring yields valuable rewards that enhance your gameplay experience. Upon conquering this formidable foe, players are rewarded with 2,600 Runes and the Spelldrake Talisman. The Spelldrake Talisman is particularly beneficial, as it boosts magic damage negation, making it useful for navigating areas populated with spellcasting enemies. While the talisman may not be the most powerful available later in the game, it serves as a solid early-game defensive item that can aid players significantly in their journey through the challenging landscapes of Elden Ring .
For defeating the Runebear, you will receive the Spelldrake Talisman.
General tips
To effectively tackle the Runebear in Elden Ring, players should keep a few general strategies in mind. Utilize Spirit Ashes to distract the boss, allowing for safer attacks. Since Runebear is vulnerable to bleeding, equipping weapons that inflict this status can significantly expedite the fight. Maintaining close proximity to the Runebear is crucial; this positioning helps avoid its wide frontal attacks and allows for quick dodges towards its back, where players can deal damage safely. Additionally, be mindful of stamina management and avoid blocking attacks, as they can drain stamina quickly and leave players vulnerable to follow-up strikes.
- In combat, you can use the help of ghosts – they will be effective in distracting the boss.
- Runebear is vulnerable to bleeding, so it will pay off to use a weapon that inflicts this status. The enemy’s attacks also impose such a status, so try to stop the build-up of this negative effect.
- Runebear is very fast and strong. Most of its attacks can be defended with a shield, but it’s easy to lose balance while doing that. Therefore, we recommend dodging towards the opponent and get behind its back as often as possible.
How to defeat?
To effectively defeat the Runebear in Elden Ring, players should adopt a strategy that emphasizes mobility and positioning. The fight occurs in a confined space, making it crucial to stay close to the Runebear to avoid its wide, frontal attacks. Focus on dodging towards the boss rather than away, which allows you to get behind it and capitalize on openings for damage. Be particularly wary of its powerful attacks, such as the double-paw slam, which can deal significant damage. Utilizing Spirit Ashes can help distract the Runebear, providing you with opportunities to heal or attack. Remember that the Runebear is vulnerable to bleeding damage, so equipping weapons that inflict this status can expedite the battle. Always be prepared to dodge quickly and maintain awareness of your surroundings to avoid being cornered.
The pit where you are fighting the Runebear may seem quite large. However, you will quickly find that there is little space here. The animal is very fast and can move to the other end of the arena in a fraction of a second.
Outside of its maw attack, most of Runebear’s attacks work over a specific area. Its main weapon is the front paws – the animal uses them to hit the ground. Dodge towards the boss – this way you will be able to get behind its back as often as possible. Runebear does not use its hind legs to attack.
The opponent shortens the distance very often and quickly, so you have to be ready to perform another dodge. The attack where the boss raises both paws up can be especially harmful. It may try to grab and bite you, or slam you on the ground – both moves can be fatal.
Stay behind its back and attack whenever you can. Also, don’t let yourself be led up to the wall, because it will be more difficult to dodge due to the camera. This can be particularly troublesome in this fight.
What are the best weapons to use against Runebear
To effectively take down the Runebear in Elden Ring, selecting the right weapons can significantly enhance your chances of victory. Here are the best options:
Best Weapons Against Runebear
| Weapon Type | Recommended Weapons | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Melee Weapons | – Colossal Swords (e.g., Greatsword) | High damage output and can stagger the Runebear. |
| – Great Axes (e.g., Great Axe) | Powerful attacks that deal substantial damage. | |
| – Spears (e.g., Pike) | Good reach to keep a safe distance while attacking. | |
| Bleed Inflicting | – Katanas (e.g., Uchigatana) | Effective for building bleed damage quickly. |
| – Curved Swords (e.g., Scimitar) | Fast attacks that can inflict bleed status. | |
| Magic Weapons | – Sorceries (e.g., Glintblade Greatsword) | Allows for ranged attacks while maintaining distance. |
| – Incantations (e.g., Catch Flame) | Good for close combat to deal fire damage, which is effective against Runebears. |
Key Strategies
- Fire Damage: Runebears are particularly weak to fire damage, so incorporating weapons or spells that deal fire damage can be advantageous.
- Bleed Damage: Utilizing weapons that inflict bleed status can help chip away at the Runebear’s health more effectively, as it is vulnerable to this type of damage.
- Close Combat: Staying close to the Runebear forces it to use its more predictable melee attacks, allowing you to dodge and counter effectively.
By choosing weapons that exploit the Runebear’s weaknesses and employing smart combat tactics, you can turn this challenging encounter into a successful victory.
What are the best strategies to dodge Runebear’s attacks
To effectively dodge the Runebear’s attacks in Elden Ring, employing specific strategies can greatly improve your chances of survival. Here are the best tactics:
Best Strategies to Dodge Runebear’s Attacks
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Stay Close to the Runebear:
- Keeping close proximity to the Runebear minimizes the risk of being hit by its wide, sweeping attacks. Most of its frontal attacks will miss you if you remain underneath or beside it.
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Dodge Toward the Boss:
- Instead of rolling away from the Runebear, dodge toward it. This maneuver allows you to position yourself behind the beast, where it cannot attack effectively5.
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Watch for Specific Attack Patterns:
- Claw Maul: When it raises its claw to slash, dodge underneath as this attack has a large hitbox but will miss if you’re directly below.
- Smash Attack: If it rises on its hind legs to slam down, back away or move around to its side to avoid damage.
- Grab Attack (Bear Hug): When the Runebear stands up and spreads its arms, roll sideways just before it lunges to avoid being caught.
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Utilize Spirit Ashes:
- Summoning Spirit Ashes like the Lone Wolf can distract the Runebear, allowing you more opportunities to dodge and counterattack while it focuses on your summons.
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Manage Your Distance:
- In tight spaces like the Earthbore Cave, be cautious of your positioning. Avoid getting cornered as this limits your dodging options and can lead to taking significant damage.
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Heal Strategically:
- If you need to heal, create distance between you and the Runebear first. Be prepared to dodge immediately after healing, as it may take advantage of your vulnerable state.
By mastering these strategies, players can effectively navigate the Runebear’s aggressive attack patterns and increase their chances of victory in this challenging encounter.
