The Angels are one of the most unique and challenging threats in The Ringed City, acting as environmental hazards and powerful enemies that can make traversing certain areas a harrowing experience. These celestial beings are not fought directly in a traditional boss encounter, but their presence dictates the flow of combat and survival.
Understanding Angelic Attacks
Angels primarily attack by firing beams of light that track the player. These beams deal significant holy damage and can be difficult to avoid in open areas. They also have a passive aura that can inflict curse buildup if you remain within their direct line of sight for too long. The key to survival is to break line of sight as quickly as possible.
Navigating Angelic Zones
The areas patrolled by Angels are often filled with cover. Utilize pillars, ruins, and other environmental features to break the Angels' line of sight. Move from cover to cover, only emerging to advance when the Angel is looking away or is obscured by terrain. Patience is crucial; rushing through these sections will almost certainly lead to death.
Dealing with the Ringed Knights and Angels
Often, you'll find yourself fighting the formidable Ringed Knights while also under the threat of an Angel's beam. In these situations, prioritize breaking line of sight with the Angel first. If you can position yourself behind cover, the Angel will cease its attack, allowing you to focus on the Knight. If you're cornered, a well-timed dodge roll can evade the beam, but this is a risky strategy.
The "Broken" Angel Strategy
There are specific instances where you can disable an Angel temporarily. This often involves attacking a specific point on the Angel itself, or sometimes destroying a related object in the environment. When an Angel is "broken," its beams will cease, and it will become temporarily passive, allowing you to navigate the area more freely or focus on other enemies. Keep an eye out for visual cues that indicate such an interaction is possible.
Recommended Gear and Builds
Gear that offers high holy defense can be beneficial, though often the best defense is simply avoiding the beams. Weapons that allow for quick attacks are useful for breaking line of sight and repositioning. Consider using items that boost your movement speed or provide temporary invisibility if you're struggling with the navigation aspect.