Boss: Nashandra
Nashandra, the Queen of Drangleic, awaits as the final boss of the main game. This encounter takes place immediately after defeating Throne Watcher and Throne Defender. Be prepared for a challenging fight that tests your positioning and awareness.
Preparation
- Equipment: Nashandra is susceptible to Dark damage, but also deals it. Consider equipping items that boost your Dark resistance, such as the Dark Rebel's Set (found in the Dark Chasm of Old) or the Dispelling Ring (purchased from Straid of Olaphis).
- Consumables: Bring plenty of Estus Flasks and potentially Lifegems for sustained healing. Brightbugs can temporarily increase your damage output if you're struggling.
- Summons: Several NPCs can be summoned for this fight, offering valuable distractions and additional damage.
- Benhart of Jugo: His summon sign is located near the King's Gate bonfire, after exhausting his dialogue throughout the game.
- Vengarl of Forossa: His summon sign is also near the King's Gate bonfire, provided you've spoken to his head in the Shaded Woods.
- Scholar of the First Sin (NG+ only): In New Game+, Aldia, Scholar of the First Sin, will join the fight after Nashandra is defeated, so be aware of this extended encounter.
Phase 1: The Cursed Orbs
Nashandra begins the fight by summoning several Dark orbs that inflict Curse if you stand too close. Curse rapidly depletes your maximum HP, making them a high priority.
- Destroy the Orbs: Your primary goal in this phase is to destroy these orbs as quickly as possible. They have low health and can be taken out with a few hits from any weapon. Ranged attacks or spells are particularly effective for safely clearing them.
- Maintain Distance: While destroying the orbs, try to keep a moderate distance from Nashandra herself. She will primarily use her scythe for sweeping attacks and a ranged Dark beam.
- Dodge and Attack: After clearing the orbs, Nashandra will be vulnerable. Approach cautiously, land a few hits, and then retreat to avoid her scythe swings.
Phase 2: Nashandra's Offensive
Once the initial orbs are dealt with, Nashandra becomes more aggressive and introduces new attacks.
- Scythe Attacks: She wields a large scythe with wide, sweeping attacks. These are often slow and telegraphed, making them predictable to dodge. Roll *into* her attacks to get behind her for a counter-attack.
- Dark Beam: Nashandra will frequently fire a powerful Dark beam from her hand. This attack has a clear wind-up; dodge to the side as she charges it.
- Dark Explosion: If you stay too close for too long, she may charge a localized Dark explosion around her. This deals significant damage, so be ready to roll away.
- Re-summoned Orbs: Throughout the fight, Nashandra will periodically re-summon the cursed orbs. Prioritize destroying these immediately to prevent your HP from being sapped.
General Strategy Tips
- Stay Mobile: Nashandra's attacks, while powerful, are generally slow. Constant movement and well-timed rolls are key to avoiding damage.
- Target Her Back: After dodging her scythe swings, try to position yourself behind her for a few safe hits.
- Manage Curse: If you get cursed, use a Cursebite Ring or Curse Ward if you have them, and prioritize destroying the orbs to stop the HP drain.
- Patience is Key: Don't get greedy with your attacks. Land a few hits, then reposition and prepare to dodge. This is a battle of attrition.
- Summon Strategy: If you've summoned NPCs, let them draw Nashandra's aggro while you focus on destroying the cursed orbs and then attacking her from a safer distance or flank.
Upon defeating Nashandra, you will receive the Soul of Nashandra and the Throne Defender Soul and Throne Watcher Soul if you hadn't already collected them. Congratulations, you have completed the main story of Dark Souls II!