The Tree of Men
The Tree of Men is a grotesque, multi-limbed boss encountered after progressing through the Red Hall of Cages and Crans Pass. This fight demands careful positioning and awareness of its various attacks. Successfully defeating it grants you the Vertigo Brand, a crucial ability for vertical traversal.
Reaching the Tree of Men
From the Sanctuary in the Red Hall of Cages:
- Head right through the Red Hall of Cages until you reach the Crans Pass area.
- Navigate through Crans Pass, which is a relatively linear path. You'll encounter various enemies here, including the aggressive Bound Arrox.
- At the end of Crans Pass, you'll find a large, open chamber. This is the arena for The Tree of Men.
Boss Strategy: The Tree of Men
The Tree of Men is a stationary boss, but its reach and attack patterns can be deceptive. It has three distinct phases, each introducing new dangers.
Phase 1: Ground Attacks
In its initial phase, The Tree of Men primarily uses its lower limbs to attack. These attacks are telegraphed but can cover a wide area.
- Limb Slam: The Tree will raise one or more of its lower limbs and slam them down. Roll through these attacks to avoid damage.
- Sweeping Attack: Occasionally, a limb will sweep across the ground. Jump over this or roll through it.
- Strategy: Focus on attacking the central body or the accessible lower limbs. Stay close to avoid its wider swings, but be ready to dodge. Melee characters should aim for quick hits and retreats. Ranged characters can maintain a safer distance but still need to be wary of its reach.
Phase 2: Projectiles and Upper Limbs
Once you've dealt a significant amount of damage, The Tree of Men will begin to use its upper limbs and projectile attacks.
- Spore Projectiles: The Tree will launch several slow-moving, glowing projectiles that track your position. These can be rolled through or blocked.
- Upper Limb Slam: Similar to the lower limb slam, but these attacks come from above and can be harder to predict if you're not paying attention.
- Strategy: Prioritize dodging the spore projectiles. They deal moderate damage and can interrupt your attacks. Continue to target the central body or any accessible limbs. If you have ranged options, this is a good time to utilize them to avoid getting too close to the upper limb attacks.
Phase 3: Frenzy and Combined Attacks
In its final phase, The Tree of Men combines all its previous attacks and becomes more aggressive. It will also introduce a new, more dangerous attack.
- Root Spikes: The Tree will periodically summon spikes from the ground in various locations. Watch for the ground to glow briefly before the spikes emerge, indicating where to move.
- Combined Assault: Expect a barrage of limb slams, sweeps, and spore projectiles, often simultaneously.
- Strategy: This phase is about survival and finding small windows to attack. Your primary focus should be on dodging. Keep moving to avoid the root spikes and spores. Only attack when you have a clear opening and can immediately disengage. Don't get greedy with your hits. Consider using consumables like Flasks of Cerulean Wine for stamina regeneration or Potions for quick healing if you're struggling.
Recommended Equipment and Preparations
- Weapon Type: Fast weapons are generally preferred for quick hits and retreats. Greatswords and other heavy weapons can work, but require more precise timing for their slower swings.
- Armor: Equip the best physical defense armor you have without sacrificing too much mobility. Light armor can be beneficial for faster rolls.
- Charms: Consider charms that boost stamina regeneration (e.g., Stone Charm) or provide elemental resistance if you find the spore attacks particularly troublesome.
- Consumables: Bring a full stock of Healing Potions and any other beneficial consumables like Flasks of Cerulean Wine for stamina or Grenades for some extra ranged damage.
Reward
Upon defeating The Tree of Men, you will receive the Vertigo Brand. This brand allows you to wall jump, opening up new areas and shortcuts throughout the game. You will also earn a significant amount of Salt and several Black Pearls.