Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin
Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin

How to Beat Old Dragonslayer

Beat the optional Old Dragonslayer boss in Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin. Learn lightning-infused battle tactics and pre-fight preparations.

·Multi-source verified (71/71)

Boss: Old Dragonslayer

The Old Dragonslayer is an optional boss found within the Heide's Tower of Flame area, accessible after defeating the Dragonrider. This encounter is a nostalgic callback to Ornstein from the original Dark Souls, but with a unique twist. Be prepared for a swift, lightning-infused battle.

Pre-Fight Preparations

  • Summonable NPCs: You can summon Masterless Glencour for this fight. His summon sign is located on the platform directly before the fog gate, near the large circular arena. Glencour is a tanky melee NPC who can draw aggro, making the fight significantly easier for ranged characters or those struggling with the Old Dragonslayer's speed.
  • Equipment:
    • Shield: A shield with high lightning resistance (e.g., Rebel's Greatshield if you have it early, or the Old Knight Shield found in Heide's Tower) can be very beneficial for blocking his lightning attacks.
    • Armor: Equip armor with good lightning defense. The Heide Knight Set (dropped by Heide Knights in the area) offers decent lightning resistance.
    • Rings: Consider the Ring of Steel Protection for general damage reduction and the Thunder Stoneplate Ring for increased lightning defense.
    • Weapons: The Old Dragonslayer is vulnerable to Strike damage. Weapons like the Craftsman's Hammer or Mace can be very effective. He also takes good damage from Magic.
  • Consumables: Stock up on Estus Flasks and consider bringing Lifegems for passive healing.

Boss Strategy

The Old Dragonslayer is a fast and aggressive boss with a spear that deals both physical and lightning damage. His attacks are well-telegraphed but require precise dodging or blocking.

Melee Strategy
  1. Stay Close: The Old Dragonslayer's most dangerous attacks are his long-range spear thrusts and lightning projectiles. By staying close, you can bait his melee swings, which are often easier to dodge.
  2. Dodge to His Right (Your Left): Many of his attacks, especially his spear sweeps, can be dodged by rolling to his right (your character's left). This often puts you in a good position to counter-attack.
  3. Attack After Combos: He typically performs 1-3 hit combos. Wait for the end of his combo before striking. A single strong attack or 2-3 quick attacks are usually all you can get in before he retaliates.
  4. Beware of the Ground Slam: He will occasionally jump into the air and slam his spear down, creating a lightning AoE. Roll away from him when he jumps.
  5. Lightning Orb: He can fire a slow-moving lightning orb. This is easily dodged by rolling to the side. If you're close, you can often get a free hit in while he's casting.
  6. Spear Charge: He will sometimes charge across the arena with a powerful spear thrust. This is a high-damage attack that can be difficult to block. Roll to the side as he approaches.
  7. Utilize Glencour: If you summoned Masterless Glencour, let him draw aggro. This allows you to attack the Old Dragonslayer's back, where he is less likely to retaliate immediately. Be mindful of Glencour's health and be prepared to take over aggro if he gets low.
Ranged/Magic Strategy
  1. Maintain Distance (Carefully): While staying close has benefits for melee, ranged characters will want to keep a moderate distance to cast spells or fire arrows. However, be aware that his lightning projectiles and spear charge cover ground quickly.
  2. Punish Openings: The best times to cast spells or fire arrows are after he completes a melee combo, after he fires a lightning orb, or when he's focused on Glencour.
  3. Lightning Orb Bait: You can sometimes bait his lightning orb attack by creating distance, then dodge and cast while he's recovering.
  4. Pillars: The arena has several pillars. While they can be destroyed, they offer temporary cover from his lightning attacks. Use them to your advantage for healing or creating casting opportunities.
  5. Soul Arrows/Great Soul Arrows: These are effective due to his Magic weakness. Aim for quick casts to avoid being interrupted.

Rewards

Upon defeating the Old Dragonslayer, you will receive:

  • Old Dragonslayer Soul (can be traded with Straid of Olaphis for the Dragonslayer Spear or the Old Dragonslayer Greatbow).
  • 20,000 Souls (NG)

After the fight, proceed through the archway to find a bonfire and a path leading to the Blue Cathedral, where you can join the Blue Sentinels covenant.