In his serpentine form, elite boss Praetor Rykard rules over the hellscape that is Elden Ring’s Volcano Manor. Here’s the unique method to beating this monstrous foe!

After many hours traversing the Lands Between, you’ll have encountered some horrifically grotesque creatures. However, few can match the weirdness of Mt. Gelmir’s demi-god boss, Rykard, Lord of Blasphemy.

In the depths of the Manor, Rykard rests. Or rather, the god-devouring serpent that he willingly fed himself to. Rykard is an optional boss, but visually one of the most impressive, so you won’t want to miss him, or his Great Rune!

Plus, you’ll gain a cool new weapon, which is key to beating Rykard. Here’s where to find the Great Spear, and how to use it to bring him down.

Rykard can do some serious damage. Here are the best combinations for your Wondrous Physick Flask to see you through any battle!

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Best Strategy to Beat Rykard, Lord of Blasphemy in Elden Ring

First things first, let’s talk about that weapon you’ll need. As soon as you pass through the fog wall, you’ll notice a corpse holding a spear. Unusually, you’ll be treated to a short animation as you prise the armament from its hands.

This is the Serpent-Hunter Great Spear, and it’s the key to this entire fight. Demon’s Souls, Dark Souls 3… These gimmicky fights aren’t new to FromSoftware games. But, this one is certainly one of the more intense!

The special skill for this weapon uses a lot of FP, so make sure you’re using the best talisman to keep your blue bar full!

Phase 1: God-Devouring Serpent

--Two-hand the Serpent-Hunter, as blocking is fairly pointless here.

--Equipping a Firedrake talisman will help negate AoE attacks.

--Avoid using the slow heavy attack, instead opting for light attacks or the Ash of War.

--Hitting it a few times will stagger the Serpent!

--The Ash of War skill takes a moment to charge, but will do massive damage and stun the boss.

--Follow up with a second L2/LT input for a combo that will uppercut the snake!

You can summon in this fight, and the Mimic Tear will copy your loadout!

--When the Serpent lifts its head, be ready to roll sideways or it’ll grab you.

--Rarely, it will snap it’s jaws at you, getting closer! Running backwards works.

--It also spits poison. The poison damage is minimal, but can distract or displace you.

--Remember that the arena is huge, so you have plenty of room to avoid attacks.

--The boss is surrounded by magma, but the Serpent-Hunter has crazy range, so keep your distance!

Once the God-Devouring Serpent is defeated, it’s time for Phase 2: Rykard himself. You’ll be greeted to arguably the most bizarre (but captivating) cutscenes in Elden Ring.

Lord Rykard, whose face is on the bottom of the dead Serpent’s neck, awakens and retrieves his sword (comprised of writhing, bloody limbs) from inside the snake’s throat. This is where the fight gets serious.

Phase 2: Rykard, Lord of Blasphemy

--When Rykard swings his sword in a 2-hit combo, dodge into the swing.

--The second swing has a slight delay. It’ll hit the ground, then follow through. If it keeps catching you out, consider switching to a good shield and block.

--He will jump into the air, with his impact upon landing throwing magma around the arena.

--When he extends his head, beware the flaming skull that he emits. Move away from it.

--Once his health hits 50%, he’ll launch Rykard’s Rancor, an army of floating skulls that will rain down on you. Keep running, but watch out for his continued attacks.

--Whilst he is charging the Rancor attack, you can get in some free hits.

--If either of you survive the Rancor, then the Taker’s Flame attack is up next. Rykard will raise his sword above his head for an incredible slam attack.

--You can dodge it, but you can also use this opportunity to get in more easy hits.

--Remember, you can spam the Weapon Skill in this phase. If timed correctly, it is possible to stun-lock Rykard and he will never hit you.

--Try using only one L2/LT attack, and repeat it immediately as he recovers and starts to move again.

Rykard’s demise may not be essential for story progression, but some bosses must die.

Loot Rewards for Beating Rykard, Lord of Blasphemy

Once the serpentine horror is dead, you’ll be awarded 100,000 Runes, along with Rykard’s Great Rune and the Remembrance of the Blasphemous!