How to Beat Black Knife Assassin in Deathtouched Catacombs

Struggling with the Black Knife Assassin in Deathtouched Catacombs? This guide breaks down its attacks and offers a simple strategy to defeat this early-game boss in Elden Ring.

Alright, so you've stumbled into the Deathtouched Catacombs and found yourself face-to-face with the Black Knife Assassin. Don't sweat it, this guy's one of the easier bosses you'll run into early on in Elden Ring. Think of him like a tougher version of those regular soldiers, but with one really annoying attack. The good news? He doesn't even start with full health, and if you've got your Lone Wolf Ashes, this fight can become a total breeze. Let's get you through this!

Stats / Weaknesses:

• The Black Knife Assassin is susceptible to staggering, meaning most melee hits will interrupt his attacks, leaving him open.
• He doesn't start with full HP.
• Spirit Ashes like the Lone Wolf Ashes can draw his aggro, making the fight much easier.

Phases:

1. Phase 1: Standard Combat
   The Assassin uses a few key moves. He's quick, but his attacks are pretty predictable.

Strategy:

• Summon Your Spirit Ash: If you have the Lone Wolf Ashes or any other decent Spirit Ash, summon them right away. They'll draw the Assassin's attention, giving you plenty of openings to attack safely.
• Watch for the Lunge: His most dangerous move is a quick lunge after he dodges away. Be ready to dodge sideways or backward as soon as he leaps. This is the one attack that can really catch you off guard.
• Dodge the Spinning Slash: When he spins his dagger around himself, it's an area-of-effect attack. If you're close, dodge backward. If you can get to his left side during this move, you might even be able to land a critical backstab!
• Punish the Three-Hit Combo: He'll dart in for a quick three-hit combo. You can block it, but it'll drain your stamina. It's better to dodge roll away from the last hit. This often leaves him open for a few of your own attacks.
• Melee Players: You'll notice he has very little Poise. Keep hitting him, and you'll constantly stagger him, allowing for multiple hits. Just be mindful of your stamina.
• Magic Users: Keep your distance and blast him with spells. He doesn't have much defense against magic. Just be aware that he'll use his Lunge attack more frequently when you're far away, so be ready to dodge.
• Positioning is Key: Pay attention to when he dodges away from you. This is usually a setup for his Lunge. If you dodge it successfully, you can often get behind him for free hits.
• Loot the Chest: After you defeat him, don't forget to grab the Deathroot from the chest in the room before you leave the Deathtouched Catacombs.

You can find the Deathtouched Catacombs east of Stormhill, or west of the Saintsbridge Site of Grace. Just remember to deal with the Skeletons before they reanimate while navigating the dungeon!