In the mystical realm of Elden Ring, players face myriad challenges, but few are as daunting as the Glintstone Dragon Smarag. Nestled in the enchanting yet treacherous Liurnia of the Lakes, this optional boss is not just a test of skill but a gateway to powerful rewards. With its devastating magic attacks and formidable presence, defeating Smarag requires a blend of strategy, agility, and precision. In this guide, we’ll unravel the secrets to conquering this majestic beast, ensuring you emerge victorious with its coveted treasures in hand. Are you ready to take on the dragon?
Location
The Glinstone Dragon Smarag is located in the Liurnia of the Lakes, specifically just west of the Academy of Raya Lucaria. To reach this optional boss, players can start their journey from the Fallen Ruins of the Lake Site of Grace and head northwest into the lake area. Alternatively, beginning at the Temple Quarter Site of Grace will also lead you north to a small island where Smarag resides. This dragon serves as a challenging encounter for players seeking to earn valuable rewards, including 14,000 runes and a Dragon Heart upon defeat.
You can find Smarag in Liurnia of the Lakes. The good place to start the search will be Temple Quarter site of grace (16 on our map) From there, head north to a small island where the boss is found.
Reward for defeating
Defeating the Glintstone Dragon Smarag in Elden Ring rewards players with significant loot and enhances their gameplay experience. Upon vanquishing this formidable foe, players receive 14,000 runes, which can be used to level up or purchase items, and a Dragon Heart, a valuable item that can be exchanged for unique abilities at the Cathedral of Dragon Communion. Additionally, defeating Smarag unlocks access to Smarag’s Glintstone Breath, a powerful spell that adds to the player’s arsenal. This optional boss fight not only provides substantial rewards but also serves as an engaging challenge for players exploring the depths of the Lands Between.
For defeating Glinstone Dragon Smarag, you will receive Runes (14,000) and a Dragon Heart .
General tips
To successfully defeat Glintstone Dragon Smarag in Elden Ring, players should focus on a few key strategies. Mobility is crucial; utilizing your mount, Torrent, allows for quick dodges and repositioning during the fight. Targeting Smarag’s legs and wings will provide the best opportunities for damage while minimizing the risk of powerful attacks like its fire breath and magic projectiles. Equipping items that offer protection against both magic and physical damage is essential, as Smarag employs a mix of attacks. Additionally, using spells or weapons that inflict bleed, scarlet rot, poison, or frostbite can significantly shorten the battle. Always be ready to evade and only attack when you have a clear opening to avoid taking unnecessary damage.
- This battle allows the use of Ashes or allies.
- Consider using a mount during this battle , as it will increase your mobility, and thus your chances in combat.
- If you are going to use magic attacks, avoid pure magic . Fire, lightning and ice schools will work best here.
- Smarag is vulnerable to bleed, scarlet rot , poison and frostbite.
- When it comes to items, equip something that protects both from magic and physical attacks.
- The best way is to target the opponent’s legs – while near them, you only have to watch out for stomps and tail attacks.
- The most vulnerable area of the opponent is his head . Don’t focus on the head, instead attack when the opportunity is ripe. Hitting the head may throw him off-balance .
- The dragon can not only breathe fire, but also shoot magic projectiles . Avoid them by dashing.
How to defeat?
To defeat Glinstone Dragon Smarag in Elden Ring, players should focus on a strategic approach that emphasizes mobility and targeting specific weak points. Begin by preparing your character with appropriate gear and items, such as those that enhance resistance to magic and physical attacks. During the fight, aim for Smarag’s legs and wings, as these areas are more accessible for dealing damage. Utilize your mount, Torrent, to maintain distance and dodge Smarag’s powerful fire breath and magic projectiles. When the dragon takes to the air, retreat to avoid its attacks and wait for opportunities to strike when it lands or charges. Employing status effects like bleed or frostbite can significantly shorten the battle. Patience and timing are key; always prioritize your safety over aggressive attacks to ensure a successful victory against this formidable foe.
Before you get close to the slumbering dragon, you have some time to prepare for battle. Use Ashes or items offering an advantage in combat.
As with most dragons, it’s best to target the legs . This way you will only have to worry about heavy stomps. Nevertheless, don’t stay at the feet for too long, as after a moment the opponent will make a sharp turn, attacking with his tail.
The enemy can also fire magic projectiles that home towards you . It is easy to avoid them, especially when dashing on horseback. If you happen to be on foot at that moment, just dodge as the projectile approaches your character.
Smarag will also occasionally get airborne to travel in a straight line, breathing fire to area before him. If you see the enemy take off, move away to a safe distance . Being struck by the fire may mean instant death.
The dragon will also breathe fire while on the ground . At that point, it aims to where you have been and follows you to some extent. Avoid it by dashing. You can now attack a few times, either his legs or one of the wings.
What are the best strategies to avoid Glinstone Dragon Smarag’s magic attacks
To effectively avoid the Glintstone Dragon Smarag’s magic attacks in Elden Ring, players should adopt several key strategies:
- Utilize Torrent for Mobility: Riding Torrent significantly increases your mobility, allowing you to quickly evade Smarag’s attacks. This is crucial when he takes to the air or prepares to unleash his powerful breath attacks.
- Stay Close but Cautious: Position yourself near Smarag’s legs and wings to attack while minimizing exposure to his ranged magic attacks. This proximity allows you to dodge his stomps and tail swipes more easily, as well as exploit openings for damage.
- Dodge Magic Projectiles: When Smarag launches his Glintstone Comet or other magic projectiles, sprint diagonally towards him to avoid the incoming attack. This technique can also set you up for a counterattack once he finishes his casting.
- Watch for Attack Patterns: Familiarize yourself with Smarag’s attack patterns. For instance, when he raises his head to gather energy for a projectile, it’s an opportunity to close the gap and strike once he finishes the attack.
- Use Cover Wisely: If available, use terrain features for cover during his breath attacks. Staying behind rocks or other obstacles can shield you from damage while allowing you to plan your next move.
- Equip Appropriate Gear: Wear armor that provides high resistance against both magic and physical damage. This will help mitigate the effects of his powerful attacks and keep you in the fight longer.
- Attack During Vulnerable Moments: After dodging an attack or when Smarag is airborne, take advantage of the moment to strike at his legs or wings, as these are more accessible targets compared to his head.
By combining these strategies, players can effectively navigate Smarag’s formidable magic attacks and increase their chances of victory in this challenging encounter.
How can I use Rock Sling effectively against Smarag
To use Rock Sling effectively against Glintstone Dragon Smarag in Elden Ring, follow these strategies:
- Understand the Spell: Rock Sling is a powerful spell that deals physical damage, making it particularly effective against Smarag, who has high magic resistance. This spell also causes stagger, which can be crucial in interrupting the dragon’s attacks.
- Positioning is Key: Stay close to Smarag’s legs or wings when possible. This positioning allows you to avoid many of his more devastating attacks while giving you an opportunity to cast Rock Sling when he is down or distracted.
- Timing Your Casts: Use Rock Sling when Smarag is grounded or has just landed after a flying attack. The spell has a slight wind-up time, so anticipate when he will be vulnerable (e.g., after a stomp or tail swipe) and cast it just before he recovers.
- Summon Allies: Consider summoning spirits like the Banished Knight Oleg to distract Smarag while you focus on casting Rock Sling. This distraction can create openings for you to deal damage without taking hits yourself.
- Avoiding Attacks: While casting, be aware of Smarag’s attack patterns. If he prepares to launch a magic projectile or breath attack, be ready to dodge or reposition quickly. Use Torrent to maintain mobility and evade his more dangerous attacks.
- Utilize Terrain: If available, use higher ground or rocks for cover while casting Rock Sling. This can help protect you from incoming projectiles and allow you to launch your spells safely.
By combining these strategies, you can maximize the effectiveness of Rock Sling against Glintstone Dragon Smarag, making the fight more manageable and increasing your chances of victory.
