Are you struggling with Messmer the Impaler in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree? What.edu.vn is here to provide you with the best strategies, exploting his weaknesses, and mastering this challenging boss fight. If you’re looking for the best tips to beat Messmer or understand his vulnerabilities, read on! We provide an easy to understand guide. For further assistance or to ask any question, don’t hesitate to ask at WHAT.EDU.VN for free personalized support and advice. Let’s get started.
1. Messmer the Impaler: Location and Overview
Messmer the Impaler is a formidable boss found in the Dark Chamber, accessible from the Specimen Storeroom in Shadow Keep. As a mandatory boss in the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, you must defeat him to progress. However, you can temporarily leave Shadow Keep to explore and gather resources before facing him.
2. Exploiting Messmer’s Weaknesses
Messmer has notable weaknesses to Bleed and Frostbite. Building your strategy around these vulnerabilities can significantly impact the battle’s outcome.
3. Recommended Setup
A well-prepared setup can make all the difference. Here’s a setup that works effectively without heavily investing in a specific stat:
- Mimic Tear: A fully upgraded Mimic Tear is essential.
- Cold Ash of War: Imbue a standard weapon with cold using Divine Beast Frost Stomp or Ghostflame Call.
- Glintstone Icecrag: Use Glintstone Icecrag and a staff with S-rank sorcery scaling.
- (Optional) Secondary Weapon: A second main-hand weapon for heavier physical damage.
Using standard weapons allows you to stack Frostbite or Bleed, which is crucial in addition to dealing magic or physical damage.
4. Strategy in Action
This setup allows your Mimic Tear to prioritize weapons or spells that exploit Messmer’s weaknesses. While your Mimic Tear focuses on Frostbite or Bleed, you can concentrate on dealing general magic or physical damage. However, stay alert, as Messmer switches targets frequently.
5. Alternative Spirit Ashes
Consider these Spirit Ash summons for added support:
- Dung Eater Puppet: Excellent for inflicting Bleed.
- Ancient Dragon Florissax: If you’ve completed Bayle’s questline, Florissax can effectively evade attacks and cover a broad area, forcing Messmer to dodge.
Keep in mind that if your Revered Spirit Ash level is below seven, most Spirit Ashes (except Mimic Tear) may not survive long.
6. Additional Combat Strategies
- Melee Weapons: High-damage melee weapons can significantly deplete Messmer’s HP. Consider using poise-breaking heavy attacks once you understand his timing. The Stonebarb Cracked Tear in your Mixed Physik can help break his stance more easily.
- Sorceries:
- Glintstone Icecrag
- Adula’s Moonblade
- Ranni’s Dark Moon
- Zamor Ice Storm (especially effective)
- Rellana’s Twin Moons (deals high damage at close range)
- Incantations:
- Frozen Lightning Spear (hits frequently)
- Aspect of the Crucible: Thorns (high damage in a short time, but requires close range)
7. Pre-Fight Preparations
Before entering Messmer’s chamber, ensure:
- Scadutree Level: Your Scadutree level is at least 10.
- Rune Arc: Use a Rune Arc before entering the arena.
- Fireproof Pickled Liver: Consume a Fireproof Pickled Liver to boost fire resistance, crucial as many of Messmer’s attacks are fire-based.
- Talismans:
- Radagon’s Icon: Shortens casting time for spellcasters.
- Two-Headed Turtle: Improves stamina management for all builds.
- Summon Hornsent: The Hornsent NPC can serve as a valuable distraction.
8. Understanding Messmer’s Attack Patterns
Messmer combines the erratic movements of the Dancing Lion with Rellana’s swiftness. He fluidly switches targets, often mid-combo. Exploit the brief openings after he completes a combo, but be cautious of follow-up attacks.
9. Phase 1 Strategy
- Initial Attack: Messmer starts by rising into the air and slamming down with a flaming orb. Dodge the initial strike and the subsequent explosion.
- Summoning: Summon your Spirit Ash before the orb lands.
- Positioning: Move to the opposite side of the arena to encourage Messmer to target your summon.
- Healing: Use this time to heal if you’re using the Mimic Tear, and activate the Hornsent’s summon sign.
10. Spear and Flame Combos
Messmer employs various spear and flame combos:
- Basic Spear Attack: A forward slash followed by a backhand slash, sometimes ending with a thrust. Dodge accordingly.
- Margit-like Attack: A delayed upward slash that can knock you backward. Time your dodge carefully.
- Flame Attacks: Flaming thrusts and slashes that cover a wide area.
11. Deadly Combos
- Aerial Flame Combo: Messmer rises, wreathed in flame, and rushes forward. Dodge forward, then dodge again to avoid the spear strikes and the erupting flames.
- Flame Grab: Messmer grabs you, dealing fire damage and inflicting blood loss. This attack is often fatal if your HP is not full.
12. Additional Attacks
- Flame Blob: A hovering flame blob flies toward you. Dodge just before impact.
- Feint Tricks: Messmer uses feints, such as throwing fire followed by a spear strike.
13. Maximizing Damage Opportunities
Wait for openings after Messmer completes heavy combos. Avoid greediness; stick to one or two attacks. Exploit ally distractions, but be aware that attacking him while he targets an ally can shift his focus to you.
14. Phase 2 Transformation
Phase two starts similarly to phase one, with Messmer generating a giant flame orb and crashing down. The explosion radius is larger in this phase.
15. Snake and Spear Attacks
Messmer alternates between snake and spear attacks, retaining most of his phase one combos.
- Snake Strikes: Messmer transforms into a giant shadow snake and lunges across the arena, usually repeating the attack two more times. Exploit the brief opening after the snake stops.
- Shadow Pool: Messmer turns into a shadow pool and bursts out of the ground as a snake. Dodge this attack and strike him afterward.
16. Damage Strategy for Phase 2
Messmer is more vulnerable in this phase. Capitalize on the brief window after his snake attacks when he transforms back into human form. Focus on dodging his attacks when he is in his human-ish form, unless a clear opening arises.
17. Rewards
Upon defeating Messmer, you receive the Remembrance of the Impaler, which can be exchanged for his sphere or the incantation that summons his flaming orb. You also obtain a flame that clears away shadows.
18. Post-Battle Steps
Exit Shadow Keep via the western gate to continue your journey.
19. Summary of Key Weaknesses and Strategies
Weakness | Strategy |
---|---|
Bleed | Use weapons and skills that inflict bleed, such as the Dung Eater Puppet. |
Frostbite | Imbue weapons with cold using Divine Beast Frost Stomp or Ghostflame Call. |
High Fire Resistance | Consume a Fireproof Pickled Liver to reduce fire damage. |





20. Where to Find Help
Still struggling with Messmer? Do you have specific questions about your build or strategy? Visit WHAT.EDU.VN for free, expert advice tailored to your needs. Our community is ready to help you conquer any challenge in Elden Ring.
21. User Questions and Answers
Question 1: “What level should my weapon be to fight Messmer?”
Answer: “Ideally, your weapon should be fully upgraded or close to it. This ensures you’re dealing maximum damage, which is crucial for exploiting his weaknesses.”
Question 2: “Is it better to focus on Bleed or Frostbite for Messmer?”
Answer: “Both are effective, but Frostbite can provide additional utility by slowing Messmer down, giving you more opportunities to attack.”
Question 3: “What are the best talismans for a melee build against Messmer?”
Answer: “The Two-Headed Turtle talisman for stamina management and the Stonebarb Cracked Tear to break his stance more easily are highly recommended.”
Question 4: “How important is the Scadutree level for this fight?”
Answer: “Extremely important. A Scadutree level of at least 10 is recommended to ensure you can withstand his attacks and deal sufficient damage.”
Question 5: “Can I summon other players for this fight?”
Answer: “Yes, summoning other players can make the fight significantly easier by distributing Messmer’s attention.”
Question 6: “What should I do if I run out of stamina during the fight?”
Answer: “Manage your stamina carefully. Use the Two-Headed Turtle talisman and avoid being too aggressive. Wait for clear openings to attack.”
Question 7: “Are there any specific armor sets that provide good protection against Messmer?”
Answer: “Armor sets with high fire resistance are beneficial, as many of Messmer’s attacks are fire-based.”
Question 8: “How do I avoid Messmer’s grab attack?”
Answer: “The timing is tricky. Watch for when his hand glows with flame, and dodge backward or sideways just before he grabs you.”
Question 9: “What’s the best way to deal with his snake form attacks?”
Answer: “Dodge in any direction to avoid the initial strike, and be ready to dodge again for subsequent attacks. Exploit the brief opening after he stops to transform back.”
Question 10: “Is the Mimic Tear really the best Spirit Ash for this fight?”
Answer: “Yes, the Mimic Tear is highly effective due to its ability to mimic your build and exploit Messmer’s weaknesses. Ensure it’s fully upgraded for maximum effectiveness.”
22. Optimizing Your Elden Ring Experience
Defeating Messmer the Impaler requires a blend of strategic preparation, understanding his weaknesses, and mastering his attack patterns. By optimizing your build, utilizing the right tools, and staying patient, you can overcome this challenging boss fight. And remember, for any further questions or personalized advice, WHAT.EDU.VN is here to help you succeed in Elden Ring.
23. Call to Action
Do you need more personalized strategies for defeating Messmer? Visit WHAT.EDU.VN to ask your questions and receive free expert advice from our community. Our experts are ready to assist you with custom strategies and build recommendations. Join WHAT.EDU.VN today and conquer the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC!
Address: 888 Question City Plaza, Seattle, WA 98101, United States
WhatsApp: +1 (206) 555-7890
Website: WHAT.EDU.VN
Ask your questions on what.edu.vn and receive a free answer from our experts today.