Facing the Black Blade Kindred in Elden Ring is no small feat; this formidable optional boss guards the treacherous paths of the Forbidden Lands and Dragonbarrow. With a staggering health pool and a diverse arsenal of devastating attacks, including powerful slashes and energy-infused strikes, players must employ both strategy and skill to emerge victorious. Whether you choose to summon allies or exploit the terrain to gain an advantage, mastering the nuances of this battle can lead to valuable rewards, including the coveted Gargoyle’s Black Axe. Dive into our guide to uncover essential tips and tactics that will help you conquer this menacing foe and claim your victory.
Locations
The Black Blade Kindred can be found in two primary locations within Elden Ring: Dragonbarrow and the Forbidden Lands. In Dragonbarrow, the boss is stationed outside the Bestial Sanctum, where players can approach from either the back or front after unlocking the Site of Grace. This area is known for its challenging encounters, making it advisable to face the Kindred later in the game when players are better equipped. Alternatively, in the Forbidden Lands, the Black Blade Kindred guards the Grand Lift of Dectus and will engage players as they approach the lift. Both locations offer unique strategies and challenges for players looking to defeat this formidable foe.
Black Blade Kindred reside outside the entrance to Bestial Sanctum. You can reach it from the back by unlocking the Site of Grace, Bestial Sanctum, or from the front by going towards the sanctum from the Site of GraceGreat Farum Bridge.
The second Black Blade Kindred is located in a region called Forbidden Landsnear the Grand Lift of Dectus to be exact. The boss will appear as soon as you approach the building, jumping from above.
Black Blade’s Kindred is an optional boss – you can skip him and still successfully complete the game.
Reward for defeating
Defeating the Black Blade Kindred in Elden Ring rewards players with valuable items and a significant amount of runes. Upon victory, players can obtain the Gargoyle’s Black Axe and Gargoyle’s Black Halberd, both of which are powerful weapons that enhance combat capabilities. Additionally, players earn a substantial 60,000 runes from the Forbidden Lands variant or 88,000 from the Dragonbarrow variant, making this boss a lucrative target for those seeking to level up or acquire new gear. Engaging this optional boss not only provides material rewards but also a sense of accomplishment in overcoming one of the game’s formidable challenges.
For defeating the Black Blade Kindred in Greyoll’s Dragonbarrow, you will receive Runes (88,000), Black Gargoyle Blade and Black Gargoyle Axe.
Defeating Black Blade Kindred in Forbidden Lands yields Runes (60,000), Gargoyle’s Black Blades, and Gargoyle’s Black Ax .
General tips
When facing the Black Blade Kindred in Elden Ring, several general tips can enhance your chances of victory. Preparation is key: ensure your weapon is adequately leveled, ideally around +17 for standard weapons or +8 for somber varieties. Utilize the environment to your advantage, as the arena offers opportunities to dodge and reposition effectively. Summoning spirits like Millicent can distract the boss, allowing you to find openings for attacks. Additionally, be mindful of the Kindred’s powerful attacks; maintaining distance during its charge-up moves can prevent devastating damage. Finally, consider using weapons or spells that deal lightning or magic damage, as the boss is particularly vulnerable to these types of attacks.
- The Kinsman of the Black Blade is immune to literally all negative states .
- You can use the arena to your advantage during combat. If the Black Blade Kindred falls down when performing an attack, he will have to start over. However, don’t stand to close to him when that happens, as if he lands on your head, you’ll be stunned.
- At the beginning of the fight, get behind the boss. If Black Blade Kindred doesn’t notice you, he will stand still until he takes damage.
- You can use your mount in combat. It makes the boss fight much easier, especially for players who prefer the mage build.
- The Black Blade Kindred has a linear but long-range magic attack that deals considerable damage. When he raises his sword, expect him to use this attack. At that moment, it’s a good idea to get on the mount or dodge the hit.
- You can also use the help of other players or Spirit Ashes in the fight.
- The boss is weak against lightning and magic damage. If possible, use weapons that can deal additional damage of this type.
Mage build – how to fight?
To effectively fight the Black Blade Kindred as a mage in Elden Ring, positioning and spell selection are crucial. Begin by sneaking behind the boss, using the terrain to your advantage, such as entering through the Bestial Sanctum. Summon a Spirit Ash like the Mimic Tear or Crystalian Ashes to distract the Kindred while you cast spells. Utilize powerful long-range spells like Comet Azure or Great Glintstone Shard, ensuring you have Crystal Tears in your Flask of Wondrous Physick to reduce mana consumption. When the Black Blade Kindred charges at you, evade by moving sideways or retreating, allowing you to maintain distance and continue casting spells safely. This strategy maximizes your damage output while minimizing the risk of direct confrontation.
It’s advisable to get behind the boss. You can do this by entering the arena through the Bestial Sanctum or by approaching the boss from the side, jumping on horseback over the Sanctum walls.
Then summon the Spirit Ashes. The best idea is to call Mimic Tear or the one that can withstand high damage, such as Crystalian Ashes. Next, make sure you have either Comet Azure or/and the Crystal Tears for Flask of Wondrous Physick that reduces mana consumption.
When the Black Blade Kindred leaves, change your fighting style and spells. It is a good idea to summon a mount, and use fast and long-range spells. Every time your opponent approaches you, run the other way or to the side and cast spells.
The boss will often fly up into the air and attack with white weapon As soon as you see that he rises into the air, quickly head the other way on your mount and use, for example, Magic Glintblade or Glimstone spell.
Melee build – how to fight?
To effectively engage the Black Blade Kindred with a melee build, players should prioritize positioning and timing. Start by sneaking up from behind using the terrain to your advantage, such as entering through the Bestial Sanctum. The Black Blade Kindred wields both a sword and a great axe; while his sword attacks are straightforward, they can be dodged by rolling sideways. Maintain a medium distance to avoid his more powerful moves, particularly the spinning slashes and overhead slams. Summoning spirits like Millicent can help distract him, allowing for opportunities to strike. Focus on quick, precise attacks after dodging his combos, and always be ready to reposition to avoid his more devastating abilities.
You can make the fight a little easier by sneaking up on the opponent from behind. You will do it, for example, by using the exit from the Bestial Sanctum, which it guards. You can also use the surroundings if you go from the other side and use your mount to jump behind the boss’s back.
Black Blade Kindred uses two weapons – a sword and a great ax. In the case of the first one, he mostly attacks straight, so it’s easy to avoid them by dodging to the side. However, when you are at an average distance from him, he can use a magic attack that goes in a straight line. Here, too, a well-timed side step will work.
When using the ax, the enemy will perform wide attacks, which are best avoided by dodging towards him (this also applies to horizontal sword attacks). He will also do a lot of jump attacks – avoid them by dodging forward. This way, you will avoid an area attack and – if all goes well – you will find yourself behind his back, giving you the opportunity to attack.
It may also happen that the opponent creates a magic tornado after jumping. If you are close to him, prepare to dodge again and again in between the devastating attacks. Avoid getting hit by an explosion at the end of this combo – it happens when the ax hits the ground.
It is worth using the environment – or more precisely, the difference in height. If you use a short weapon, try to keep your opponent above you, and if you use a longer one, you should try to be above him. This way, it will be easier to avoid enemy attacks, because some of them will not hit you. The environment can also be used in different ways – when the enemy jumps on them and falls while attacking, his attack will be interrupted.
What are the best weapons to use against Black Blade Kindred
When preparing to face the Black Blade Kindred in Elden Ring, selecting the right weapons can significantly influence your success. Here are some of the best options to consider:
Recommended Weapons
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Great Omenkiller Cleavers
- These weapons are particularly effective when infused with a Strength/Occult affinity and paired with the Cragblade Ash of War. Their high damage output and ability to stagger the Kindred make them a top choice for melee builds.
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Maces or Striking Damage Weapons
- The Black Blade Kindred is not resistant to striking damage, making maces an excellent option. They can deal substantial damage while allowing for quick recovery after attacks, which is crucial given the Kindred’s aggressive moveset.
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Glintstone Spells
- For magic users, spells like Comet Azur or Glintstone Cometshard can be very effective. These spells deal significant damage and can be aimed at the Kindred’s head for critical hits, especially during its longer attack animations.
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Lightning Spear and Frenzied Burst
- These ranged spells offer good damage potential while keeping you at a safe distance from the Kindred’s powerful melee attacks.
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Gargoyle’s Black Axe
- Dropped by the Black Blade Kindred, this weapon is a strong option for players who prefer heavy-hitting attacks, combining both power and reach.
Combat Tips
- Summon Spirits: Utilize spirit summons like Millicent or Latenna to distract the Black Blade Kindred, allowing you to find openings for attacks.
- Dodge Mechanics: Focus on dodging towards the boss during wide attacks to avoid damage and position yourself for counterattacks.
- Utilize Terrain: Use the environment to your advantage, especially if you can lure the Kindred into areas where it might stumble or reset its aggro.
By equipping these weapons and employing strategic combat techniques, you’ll enhance your chances of defeating this challenging foe in Elden Ring.
What are the best strategies to dodge the Empowered Spin
To effectively dodge the Empowered Spin attack of the Black Blade Kindred in Elden Ring, players should consider the following strategies:
Key Strategies for Dodging the Empowered Spin
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Roll Towards the Boss:
- When you see the Black Blade Kindred initiate the Empowered Spin, rolling into the attack can be a successful strategy. This places you behind the boss, allowing you to avoid the majority of damage and set up for counterattacks once the spin concludes1.
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Timing is Crucial:
- The Empowered Spin attack consists of multiple hits. Pay close attention to the timing of the spins; after dodging the first part, be prepared to roll again to avoid any follow-up attacks, especially if it transitions into an overhead slam1.
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Stay Close:
- Maintaining proximity to the Black Blade Kindred can help you avoid long-range attacks and gives you a better chance to dodge effectively. Being under or between its legs can provide a safe zone during many of its attacks, including the Empowered Spin.
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Observe Attack Patterns:
- Familiarize yourself with the Kindred’s attack animations. The Empowered Spin often follows a specific stance or movement pattern, which can signal its execution. Learning these cues will allow you to react more quickly and accurately1.
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Utilize Terrain:
- Fights at elevated positions or near obstacles can provide additional cover from attacks. If you find yourself on a slope or near walls, use them to your advantage to limit the effectiveness of the Empowered Spin.
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Practice Patience:
- Avoid being greedy with attacks immediately after dodging. Focus on evading and waiting for clear openings instead of trying to land hits during risky moments following the spin attack.
By employing these strategies, players can improve their chances of successfully dodging the Empowered Spin and ultimately defeating the Black Blade Kindred.
