How to Beat Knight of the Greatsword

The Knight of the Greatsword is a formidable foe encountered in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree, often found guarding key areas or acting as a mini-boss. This heavily armored opponent wields a massive Greatsword, delivering devastating, sweeping attacks that can quickly overwhelm unprepared Tarnished.

To effectively defeat the Knight of the Greatsword, understanding its attack patterns is paramount. The knight's swings are slow but have immense reach and damage. Its primary attacks include wide horizontal sweeps, powerful overhead slams, and sometimes a charging thrust. Dodging through these attacks, rather than away from them, is often the most effective strategy to get close and punish.

When the knight begins its attack animation, watch for the tell-tale wind-up. Dodge just as the swing is about to connect. After successfully evading an attack or a short combo, you'll have a brief window to land a few hits. Focus on hitting its flanks or rear to avoid its direct line of attack.

Key Attacks: Wide sweeps, overhead slams, charging thrusts.
Strategy: Dodge through attacks, punish openings, target flanks/rear.
Weaknesses: Can be staggered, vulnerable after combos.

Weapons with good stance-breaking capabilities, such as hammers or great hammers, can be very effective. Landing enough charged heavy attacks or jumping attacks can stagger the Knight of the Greatsword, opening it up for a critical hit. If you're using a faster weapon, focus on quick, precise strikes between its attack chains.

Consider using Ashes of War that offer mobility or defensive buffs. A well-timed 'Bloodhound Step' can allow you to easily evade its most dangerous attacks, while a defensive buff can mitigate any accidental hits. If you're struggling with its raw damage, ensure your Vigor is sufficiently leveled and consider using talismans that boost physical defense.

Boss	Primary Threat	Recommended Approach
Knight of the Greatsword	Heavy, sweeping attacks	Dodge into attacks, punish openings, stagger for criticals.

Patience is key. Don't get greedy with your attacks. Wait for clear openings, land your hits, and then disengage. With practice and a solid understanding of its moveset, the Knight of the Greatsword will eventually fall.