The Corrupted Monk (Illusory) is a multi-phase boss encounter that demands patience and a keen understanding of its attack patterns. This phantom version of the Corrupted Monk resides in the Moonblast Temple and presents a unique challenge due to its sheer size and aggressive, sweeping attacks. Unlike other bosses, the Illusory Monk can be quite forgiving if you learn its tells and exploit its openings. Its primary attacks involve wide, sweeping scythe strikes that cover a large area, making precise dodging and deflecting crucial. The environment itself offers little in terms of cover, so direct engagement is almost always necessary. Mastering the rhythm of its attacks is paramount to survival and eventual victory.
This boss fight is a test of endurance and observation. The Corrupted Monk (Illusory) has a substantial health pool and its attacks, while telegraphed, can quickly deplete your own health and posture if mishandled. The key to this fight lies in identifying the brief windows of opportunity to strike. Rushing in blindly will likely result in taking heavy damage. Instead, focus on observing its movements, learning the timing of its perilous attacks, and punishing its recovery animations. The Moonblast Temple arena is relatively open, but the Monk's reach can make it feel claustrophobic. Understanding when to be aggressive and when to play defensively is a delicate balance that must be struck to succeed.
Phase 1 Strategy
In the first phase, the Corrupted Monk (Illusory) will primarily use sweeping scythe attacks. These are often telegraphed by a wind-up animation. The best approach is to deflect these attacks to build its posture. If you are struggling with deflections, dodging backward or to the side can also work, but it will not contribute to posture damage as effectively. The Monk has a perilous sweep attack that can be countered by jumping over it and then pressing the attack button to stomp on its head, dealing significant posture damage. It also has a perilous thrust attack, which can be countered with a Mikiri Counter if you have learned that skill. After it completes a long combo, there will be a brief opening to land a few hits.
Phase 2 Strategy
The second phase introduces a new set of attacks, including a series of rapid slashes and a perilous grab. The grab attack is telegraphed by the Monk raising its left arm. Dodge to the side or backward to avoid this. Continue to focus on deflecting its regular attacks to build posture. The Monk will also perform a series of quick slashes that can be difficult to parry perfectly. If you find yourself overwhelmed, create distance and wait for an opening. The goal remains to break its posture. Landing hits after its longer attack strings is still the primary way to deal damage. Be patient and do not get greedy.
Phase 3 Strategy
The third phase of the Corrupted Monk (Illusory) fight sees it summon spectral copies of itself. These copies will attack alongside the main Monk. The key here is to identify the real Corrupted Monk and focus your attacks on it. The spectral copies deal damage but do not contribute to the main Monk's posture in the same way. Continue to use the same strategies as in the previous phases, focusing on deflecting and punishing openings. The arena can become quite chaotic with multiple attackers, so maintaining awareness of the main Monk's position and attack patterns is crucial. Successfully landing Deathblows on the main Corrupted Monk will conclude this challenging encounter.