Malenia, Blade of Miquella, is widely considered one of the toughest bosses in Elden Ring. Known for her devastating attacks, quick movements, and her ability to heal with every strike, Malenia presents a challenge unlike any other in the game. However, with the right strategy, preparation, and patience, you can overcome her. Here’s a detailed guide on how to defeat Malenia.
Preparation Before the Battle
To defeat Malenia, proper preparation is essential. Here are some tips to help you get ready:
- Equip the Right Armor
Malenia’s attacks deal both physical and elemental damage, so having the right armor is key. Ideally, equip armor that offers good resistance to physical damage and status effects like poison or rot. If you’re a more mobile or magic-oriented build, consider using buffing spells or talismans to increase your resistance. - Healing Spells and Buffs
Given that Malenia can heal herself with every strike, having access to healing spells or items is essential. Consider bringing Healing Incantations or Boosting Spells that increase your stamina or reduce damage. These will help you keep up with her healing and potentially outlast her. - Weapons That Suit Your Playstyle
Malenia’s rapid movements and brutal attacks make it vital to choose a weapon that’s quick and offers good range. Fast weapons like straight swords, spears, or dual-wielded weapons are great choices. If you’re comfortable with magic, using spells can allow you to keep your distance. Don’t forget to bring a shield for defense if needed. - Summon Spirit Ashes
Malenia can be extremely difficult to fight solo, so don’t hesitate to summon Spirit Ashes to help distract her and give you space to heal or reposition. While Malenia is adept at taking down summons, they can still provide enough of a distraction for you to land crucial hits.
Phase 1: Fighting Malenia
The first phase of the fight is tough, but it’s not as challenging as the second. Here’s what to expect and how to handle it:
- Waterfowl Dance and Other AOE Attacks
Malenia’s Waterfowl Dance is one of her signature moves. This multi-hit attack can easily devastate you if you’re not careful. The key here is to dodge early and avoid the range of the attack, as it deals a lot of damage and has follow-up moves. - Speed and Aggression
Malenia is incredibly fast and relentless. Don’t try to tank hits from her or stand still for too long. Instead, focus on dodge-rolling to avoid her attacks and land quick, precise hits. Avoid facing her head-on for too long and try to bait out her attacks before counterattacking. - Her Healing Mechanic
Malenia heals with every strike she lands, which makes the fight much harder. The key to winning is to prevent her from healing by avoiding being hit as much as possible. When she does heal, use that time to regroup, but never let her get away with taking too much health back.
Phase 2: Malenia Unleashed
At around 50% health, Malenia enters her second phase, where she gains new abilities and becomes even more dangerous:
- Divine Heal and New Attacks
Malenia’s healing mechanic becomes even more potent in the second phase. She can heal even without landing a hit, and the move she uses to heal herself can also deal significant damage. Watch for water-based and rot-inflicting attacks that create a huge area of effect. You’ll need to stay nimble and time your dodges carefully. - Increased Damage
Malenia’s attacks become even more damaging in the second phase. Keep an eye out for her charged slashes and rot-inflicted area attacks. Your best bet is to time your dodges precisely and keep attacking when you see an opening. Keep distance when possible and wait for the right moments to strike.
Battle Strategies
- Patience is Key
Don’t let Malenia’s healing mechanic frustrate you. While it can be frustrating to see her heal after every hit, don’t rush. Focus on attack-evade tactics. Every time Malenia makes a mistake or leaves an opening, capitalize on it. The fight is a battle of attrition, and you must outlast her. - Manage Your Health and Resources
Since Malenia heals herself when she lands a hit, you’ll need to stay on top of your health as well. Use healing items and spells wisely to ensure that you’re always ready for the next phase of the battle. Don’t waste your healing items early on; be strategic and use them when necessary. - Side Strikes and Dodging
Malenia’s attacks are extremely fast and can be hard to avoid head-on. The best strategy is to wait for her to commit to a move and then dodge to the side. This gives you an opportunity to strike while she is recovering. Avoid standing directly in front of her unless you’re absolutely sure of your dodge timing.
Conclusion
Malenia, Blade of Miquella, is one of the hardest bosses in Elden Ring, but with the right approach, you can defeat her. Patience, proper preparation, and smart use of dodges and healing items are key. Take your time, watch her moves carefully, and capitalize on every opportunity. Once you’ve beaten her, you’ll be rewarded not only with a sense of accomplishment but also with valuable loot. Good luck, Tarnished!