Godrick the Grafted: A Guide to Defeating the First Major Boss in Elden Ring

The Grafted King: An Introduction to Godrick

The Lands Between, a vast and perilous realm in Elden Ring, promises adventure, challenge, and the thrill of facing formidable foes. As Tarnished, we begin our journey, driven by the promise of becoming Elden Lord. One of the first major hurdles on this path is a towering, grotesque figure known as Godrick the Grafted, a Demigod residing in the imposing Stormveil Castle. The initial encounter with this foe can be a baptism by fire, a humbling experience that separates the casual players from those destined to truly master Elden Ring. This article serves as your comprehensive guide, providing the essential strategies, tips, and insights you need to overcome Godrick the Grafted and propel your journey forward.

Understanding the Demigod’s Attacks

To defeat Godrick the Grafted, understanding his moveset is paramount. Godrick has two distinct phases, each with a unique set of attacks. Recognizing attack patterns is critical for effective dodging and timing your own attacks.

Phase One: The King’s Fury

In the first phase, Godrick primarily relies on melee attacks, showcasing his brutal, yet somewhat predictable, nature.

Melee Assaults: Godrick utilizes sweeping sword attacks, heavy slams, and a combination of swipes that can quickly deplete your health. Observe the telltale signs of each attack. Does he rear back to wind up a wide slash? Does he lift his sword high above his head for a downward slam? Paying attention to these cues is the first step toward mastering your dodges.

Wind Gusts: Godrick’s attacks generate powerful wind gusts that have a wide range. They can interrupt your attacks and knock you off balance. Be prepared to time your dodges precisely to avoid their effects.

Fire Breath: A fiery, long-range attack where Godrick breathes flames, originating from the dragon head he clutches. The fire has a wide spread and can quickly lead to a fiery demise. Dodging sideways can get you out of range of this attack.

Phase Two: The Dragon’s Might

Upon reaching a certain health threshold, Godrick transitions to a second phase, dramatically altering the battlefield. This transition involves him severing one of the dragon’s heads, adding a new layer of complexity to the battle.

The Dragon’s Assaults: The grafted dragon head now becomes an active weapon. The dragon head is used for a ground slam attack.

Fire Breath Renewed: The dragon head’s breath attack returns, but with a wider range, potentially covering a significant portion of the arena. Being aware of the range of the flames is crucial.

The Raging Flames: The area is quickly covered in flame and it is vital to keep moving in the opposite direction of the fire.

Strategic Approaches: Triumphing Over the Grafted

The path to victory against Godrick the Grafted involves not just memorizing attack patterns but also optimizing your character build, weapons, and strategy.

Character Development and Recommendations

Before venturing into Stormveil Castle, consider your character’s level and attributes. While there isn’t a definitive “right” level, aiming for level 20-30 is generally recommended. However, level alone won’t guarantee success, skill will be equally as important.
Decide on your class preference.

Melee Focus: Melee-oriented builds are ideal for close-range combat, relying on strength, dexterity, and endurance. Focus on these stats to increase damage output, carry heavier armor, and withstand attacks. The key here is to time your attacks with precision, and dodging to avoid attacks.

Magic User: Magic users can keep their distance from the boss, making the fight a little bit safer. Keep a good amount of Mind to continue casting spells without running out of FP.

Ranged Builds: If you choose a ranged build, make sure that your ranged attacks are effective against the boss, and dodge his attacks when he approaches you.

Choosing the Right Armaments

Your weapon choice significantly impacts your chances of success. Consider these options:

Fast Weapons: Weapons with a quick attack speed allow you to sneak in hits and evade before Godrick can retaliate. Straight swords and curved swords are good examples.

Bleed Builds: Weapons that inflict bleed buildup can be devastating against Godrick. Bleed is a status effect that can deal significant damage when triggered. Try experimenting with the uchigatana.

Weapon Upgrade: If you have the appropriate Smithing Stones, prioritize upgrading your chosen weapon. Each upgrade can provide a noticeable boost to your damage.

The Ally of Summons

Elden Ring provides a summon system, providing you with additional support in battles.

Spirit Ashes: The ability to summon the Spirit Ashes allows you to call in spirits to assist you in the fight. The Spirit Ashes can act as a distraction for Godrick, allowing you to get some hits in.

NPC Assistance: If you’ve completed certain quests or met specific NPCs, you might be able to summon them to aid you.

Tactical Mastery in the Crucible

A successful Godrick encounter requires a tactical approach.

Exploiting Openings: Watch for openings in his attacks. Dodge his attacks, and then, after he has finished his attack, strike. Observe his movements and capitalize on his weaknesses.

Safe Positioning: When fighting Godrick it is best to stay within a safe distance.

Dodging: The Art of Evasion: Learn to master the dodge roll.

Items to Aid in your Quest

Remember to utilize the various tools at your disposal to aid you in combat.

Restorative Potions: Carry a full complement of Crimson Flasks to heal your wounds.

Buffs: Equip yourself with buffs that can give you an advantage in the fight.

Tips and Tricks for a Successful Encounter

Study Godrick’s Patterns: Before entering the boss arena, observe his movements and memorize his attack patterns.

The Spirit Ash Strategy: Spirit ashes can provide a huge assist. Experiment with different ashes to see which ones work best.

Persevere Through Hardship: Do not get discouraged.

Consider the Terrain: If possible, use the terrain of the arena to your advantage.

The Spoils of Victory and What Lies Ahead

Upon defeating Godrick the Grafted, you’ll be rewarded with runes, the Remembrance of the Grafted, and a great sense of accomplishment.

With Godrick defeated, your journey in the Lands Between truly begins. Explore the vastness of the world to come.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Demigod

What level should I be to fight Godrick the Grafted? A level between 20-30 is generally recommended.

Where can I find a good summon for this fight? The Lone Wolf Ashes are usually helpful.

How can I find more flasks? Collecting Golden Seeds allows you to increase the maximum number of flasks you can have.

Conquering Godrick the Grafted is a major triumph in Elden Ring. Your reward will be greater knowledge and a deeper understanding of what it takes to survive in this game.