Boss fights are a thrilling challenge, but they can be daunting when you're not fully prepared. In *The First Berserker: Khazan*, boss battles are full of surprises, and the Blade Phantom is no exception. Here’s a detailed guide on how to conquer this formidable foe in *The First Berserker: Khazan*.
Phase 1
Image Source: Nexon via The Escapist
The ghostly voices that haunt Khazan come to life on the Trials of the Frozen Mountain level on Stormpass, manifesting as the Blade Phantom. True to its name, this boss tests your ability to balance stamina and aggression against its relentless attacks. It's your first multi-phase boss encounter in the game.
The battle kicks off in a castle with floors flooded by a crimson liquid. The Blade Phantom typically unleashes the following attacks:
- A six-hit combo consisting of four punches and two kicks, with the second kick being delayed.
- A three-hit combo of two punches followed by a downward kick.
- A four-hit combo beginning with a right hook, followed by two kicks, and ending with a leaping kick smash.
- A three-hit combo with flashing punches, culminating in a grab that requires dodging.
Beyond these melee attacks, the Blade Phantom can summon a giant hammer in *The First Berserker: Khazan*, bringing it down to cause damage and spawn red spikes in front of it. If it opts for the spear, be ready for a swift throw and a teleporting smash to dodge. When wielding a blade, it will execute a swift six-hit combo. It can also vanish and dash around the battlefield before striking.
Mastering the timing of these attacks allows you to parry or dodge effectively, creating windows to attack and deplete its stamina for a Brutal Attack. Continue this strategy until you reduce its health by about half, which will transition you to the second phase.
Phase 2
Image Source: Nexon via The Escapist
The second phase begins with the Blade Phantom unleashing four claw attacks, followed by a spear throw from above. After the spear hits the ground, move away from the affected area to avoid the ensuing leaping swipe. This is followed by three greatsword slashes and a final hammer smash.
While the Blade Phantom retains many of its initial moves in *The First Berserker: Khazan*, it now includes a spear thrust and follow-up, as well as four to six swift dual-wielding attacks. It teleports more frequently, and when wielding the greatsword, be vigilant for multiple slashes culminating in a Burst Attack signaled by a red P-like symbol on the screen. Counterattack this move using L1/LB + Circle/B to parry successfully, replenishing your stamina and leaving the boss vulnerable to further attacks.
Exploit the Blade Phantom's moments of depleted stamina to maximize damage. Initiate the Brutal Attack when the window is nearly closed to deal significant damage, paving the way for victory. Defeating the Blade Phantom rewards you with 8,640 Lacrima, Soul Eater gear items, a Shieldsman’s Ring, and Netherworld Mineral for crafting.
That’s the essential strategy for defeating the Blade Phantom in *The First Berserker: Khazan*. For more tips and guides, visit The Escapist.
*The First Berserker: Khazan is available now in Early Access.*
