How to Beat The Frost Giant (Borealis)

Defeat the Frost Giant Borealis. Learn his attacks, weaknesses, and strategies for the Glacial Spire boss fight in Dreams of Aether.

How to Beat The Frost Giant (Borealis) — Dreams of Aether Guide

The Frost Giant, Borealis, is a colossal threat guarding the frozen peaks of the Glacial Spire. This formidable boss utilizes devastating ice magic and brute physical force, making him a true test of endurance and tactical prowess. Understanding his attack patterns and exploiting his weaknesses is crucial for survival.

Borealis is located at the summit of the Glacial Spire, accessible after completing the quest "The Frozen Heart" in the Frostfell region. The arena is a vast, icy expanse with several large ice pillars that can provide temporary cover from his ranged attacks. However, these pillars can be shattered by his more powerful abilities, so don't rely on them for too long.

Borealis's Attack Patterns and Strategies

Borealis has several key attacks that you need to be prepared for:

• Glacial Slam: The Frost Giant raises his massive ice axe and slams it down, creating a shockwave of ice. This attack has a wide area of effect. Strategy: Dodge roll away from the impact zone just as the axe begins its descent. If you're too close, the shockwave can stagger you.
• Frost Breath: Borealis exhales a cone of freezing mist. This deals continuous damage and can inflict the 'Chilled' status effect, slowing your movement and attack speed. Strategy: Immediately sprint to the side or behind him to avoid the breath. The 'Chilled' effect can be detrimental, so consider bringing items that cure status ailments.
• Ice Shard Barrage: He summons a volley of sharp ice shards that rain down from above. These are telegraphed by glowing circles on the ground. Strategy: Keep moving and dodge out of the marked areas. The shards can be dodged individually if timed correctly.
• Frozen Ground: Borealis stomps the ground, causing jagged ice spikes to erupt from the arena floor. These spikes deal damage and can trap players momentarily. Strategy: Watch for the ground tremors and move to areas without visible ground disturbance.
• Summon Ice Elementals: Periodically, Borealis will summon smaller Ice Elementals to assist him. These can overwhelm you if left unchecked. Strategy: Prioritize eliminating these adds quickly, as they can distract you from dodging Borealis's main attacks.

Exploiting Weaknesses

Borealis is particularly vulnerable to fire damage. If your character class or gear has fire-based attacks or enchantments, this is the time to use them. Weapons imbued with fire, such as the Inferno Blade or Flame Staff, will significantly speed up the fight. Conversely, he is highly resistant to ice and physical damage.

During his Glacial Slam, after he recovers from the animation, there's a brief window where he is stationary and vulnerable to a few quick hits. Similarly, after his Frost Breath attack, he often pauses for a moment, allowing for a short offensive burst.

Recommended Gear and Consumables

Consider equipping gear with high fire resistance if possible, though offensive fire damage is more critical. Potions that boost fire damage, such as the Elixir of the Pyromancer, are highly recommended. Bringing a few Frostbite Salves to cure the 'Chilled' effect can also be a lifesaver.

Phase Transitions

At around 50% health, Borealis will enter a more aggressive phase. He will use his abilities more frequently and may combine them. His Glacial Slam might now have a lingering icy effect, and his Frost Breath may cover a wider area. Stay vigilant and focus on dodging.

Defeating Borealis requires patience, precise dodging, and consistent application of fire damage. Observe his tells, exploit the brief openings, and you'll eventually shatter the Frost Giant's re.