Boss fights in *The First Berserker: Khazan* are challenging, especially when you're not fully prepared for what's coming. The Blade Phantom, encountered on the Trials of the Frozen Mountain level on Stormpass, is a formidable foe that tests your ability to manage stamina and aggression amidst its relentless attacks. This guide will walk you through the strategies needed to conquer this multi-phase boss battle.
Phase 1
Image Source: Nexon via The Escapist
As you enter the battle, you'll find yourself in a castle flooded with a crimson liquid. The Blade Phantom unleashes a variety of attacks in this phase:
- A six-hit combo consisting of four punches and two kicks, with the second kick delayed.
- A three-hit combo with two punches and a downward kick.
- A four-hit combo beginning with a right hook, followed by two kicks and ending with a leaping kick smash.
- A three-hit combo with flashing punches, culminating in a grab that you must dodge.
Beyond these melee assaults, the Blade Phantom can summon a giant hammer that it swings down, causing red spikes to emerge in front of it. If it opts for a spear, be prepared for a quick throw followed by a teleporting smash. When wielding a blade, it performs a swift six-hit combo. It can also vanish and dash across the battlefield before striking.
Mastering the timing of these attacks is crucial. By parrying or dodging effectively, you can find opportunities to attack and deplete the Blade Phantom's stamina, setting up for a Brutal Attack. Continue this strategy until you reduce its health by about half, triggering the second phase.
Phase 2
Image Source: Nexon via The Escapist
In the second phase, the Blade Phantom initiates with four claw attacks, followed by a high-altitude spear throw. Evacuate the impact zone before it lands, then brace for a leaping swipe. This is followed by three greatsword slashes and a final hammer smash.
While the Blade Phantom retains many of its previous moves, it introduces new claw attacks, a spear thrust with a follow-up, and four to six rapid dual-wielding attacks. Teleportation becomes more frequent, and when armed with the greatsword, be wary of multiple slashes and the final Burst Attack signaled by a red P-like symbol on the screen. Use the Counterattack (L1/LB + Circle/B) to parry this attack successfully, which not only restores your stamina but also leaves the boss vulnerable to further attacks.
Maximize your damage by punishing the Blade Phantom when its stamina is depleted, and initiate the Brutal Attack just as the window is about to close. This strategy will help you defeat the boss more efficiently. Upon victory, you'll be rewarded with 8,640 Lacrima, Soul Eater gear items, a Shieldsman’s Ring, and Netherworld Mineral for crafting.
That's how you can overcome the Blade Phantom in *The First Berserker: Khazan*. For more tips and strategies, check out guides on The Escapist.
*The First Berserker: Khazan is currently available in Early Access.*
