Maliketh the Black Blade is one of the toughest bosses you’ll encounter in Elden Ring. He can seem impossible to beat at first, but with the right strategy, patience, and some practice, you’ll be able to defeat him. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to take down Maliketh the Black Blade, step by step. Even if you’re new to the game, this guide is written in a way that anyone can understand and follow along.
Understanding Maliketh’s Moves
Before you even attempt to defeat Maliketh the Black Blade, it’s essential to know his attack patterns. Maliketh has two phases, and each phase comes with its own set of dangerous moves. The first phase involves more close-range attacks, while the second phase brings more variety, including deadly long-range hits.
In the first phase, Maliketh uses a sword and shield. He swings his sword with great force, and his shield blocks most of your attacks. Be prepared to dodge frequently, as his sword attacks are quick and cover a lot of ground. Watch his movements closely, and learn when to strike. He often leaves small openings after certain attacks, which is your chance to get a hit in.
Once you get him down to half health, the second phase begins. Maliketh becomes more aggressive, and his attacks become infused with the power of the Black Blade. His new abilities include long-range attacks that can quickly drain your health if you’re not careful. Be extra cautious in this phase, as it’s easy to get overwhelmed.
Preparing for the Fight
Preparation is key when it comes to defeating Maliketh the Black Blade. You need to make sure your character is ready before you even enter the arena. Here’s what you can do to prepare:
- Upgrade Your Weapon: Make sure your weapon is upgraded as much as possible. A stronger weapon will help you deal more damage, which is crucial for bringing down Maliketh quickly.
- Stock Up on Healing Items: Bring plenty of healing flasks with you. Maliketh’s attacks are powerful, and you’ll need to heal often. It’s best to have more than enough, just in case the battle drags on.
- Use Defensive Gear: Equip armor and a shield that offer good defense. Maliketh hits hard, and having solid protection will help you survive longer in the fight.
- Learn to Dodge: Maliketh’s attacks are fast and powerful. Dodging at the right moment is critical for avoiding damage. Practice dodging against other enemies before facing Maliketh, so you can get a feel for the timing.
Best Strategies to Defeat Maliketh
Now that you understand Maliketh’s moves and are prepared for the battle, let’s dive into the strategies that will help you defeat him.
Phase 1 Strategy
In the first phase, focus on learning Maliketh’s attack patterns. He uses his sword aggressively, and his swings can cover a lot of distance. You should avoid staying too close to him, but also don’t get too far away, as he can close the gap quickly.
The key to success in the first phase is patience. Wait for him to attack, dodge his swings, and then counter-attack. One good opening to strike is after his three-hit combo. After the third swing, he’ll be open for a brief moment, giving you time to land a couple of hits. However, be sure not to get greedy. One or two hits are enough, then back away before he retaliates.
When he raises his shield, don’t waste your time attacking. Focus on dodging until he lowers his defense. Rushing in during this phase is a sure way to take damage. You can also read this: The Magic of the Adeptal Mirror: A Beginner’s Guide
Phase 2 Strategy
The second phase is where things get tricky. Maliketh the Black Blade becomes much faster and more unpredictable. His sword becomes infused with the power of the Black Blade, making his attacks even more dangerous. You’ll notice that some of his attacks now send out waves of dark energy, which can hit you from a distance.
The best way to handle the second phase is to stay calm and keep your distance when necessary. Use the pillars in the arena to block his long-range attacks. When he charges in for close-range attacks, dodge sideways and look for openings to counter.
One of Maliketh’s most dangerous moves in this phase is his dive attack. He leaps into the air and comes down with a powerful slash. This attack can be hard to dodge, but the key is to roll towards him at the last second. If you time it right, you can avoid the damage and get in a quick counter-attack.
Tips and Tricks for Success
To make things easier, here are a few tips and tricks to help you defeat Maliketh the Black Blade:
- Summon Help: If you’re struggling to defeat Maliketh on your own, consider summoning another player for assistance. You can also summon spirits, which can distract Maliketh and give you more opportunities to attack.
- Use Ranged Attacks: If your character specializes in ranged combat, use that to your advantage. In the second phase, Maliketh becomes more aggressive, and staying at a distance can keep you safe. Use magic or arrows to whittle down his health from afar.
- Stay Patient: Maliketh is a tough boss, and it might take several tries to defeat him. Don’t get discouraged if you die multiple times. Each attempt is a chance to learn more about his attack patterns and improve your strategy.
- Focus on Timing: Timing is everything in this battle. Whether you’re dodging his attacks or looking for an opening to strike, make sure you’re patient and waiting for the right moment.
- Boost Your Resistances: Maliketh’s attacks, especially in the second phase, deal a lot of damage. Equip items that boost your resistances to the type of damage he deals, particularly physical and dark damage. This will help you survive longer in the fight.
After the Battle: What’s Next?
Defeating Maliketh the Black Blade is a huge accomplishment, but it’s not the end of the game. After the battle, you’ll receive the Remembrance of the Black Blade, which can be used to get powerful items or abilities. You’ll also progress further into the game, unlocking new areas and challenges.
Make sure to explore everything the game has to offer after defeating Maliketh. There are still more bosses, areas, and secrets to discover in Elden Ring. Maliketh is just one part of the journey, but conquering him will give you the confidence to tackle whatever comes next.
Conclusion
Maliketh the Black Blade is one of the toughest bosses in Elden Ring, but with the right strategy and preparation, you can defeat him. Remember to stay patient, learn his attack patterns, and wait for the perfect moment to strike. With enough practice, you’ll overcome this challenge and move forward in your Elden Ring adventure.
