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Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtreehas officially given players new nightmares to dream about when it comes to challenging enemies and dangerous level design. The various legacy dungeons are some of the most daunting areas players can look to explore with the game, but there is also the matter of entirely optional areas that can lead to even more risky encounters but equally tantalizing rewards.
The Jagged Peak areais one such place that players will likely visit after encounteringthe vengeful Igon, who is lamenting the fact that he won’t be able to face down the foe known asBayle the Dread. This will mark the start of this side quest that will leadElden Ringplayers on a journey to get rid of the dragon once and for all, and this guide will show you just how to do that.
Before you even try to start the questline, make sure you have sufficiently upgraded your character, equipment and done the same foryour Scadutree BlessingsandRevered Spirit Ash Blessings. This will ensure that you are going to be able to dish out and take more damage, and so will your chosen Spirit Ashes summons.
Now, headsoutheast of Castle Ensisand reach thePillar Path Waypoint Site of Grace, where you will encounterIgon. Speak to him to find out about Bayle the Dread. Now, head southeast on the path, defeating theAncient Dragon-Manonce when he invades and later on in the Dragon Pit. This will lead you toJagged Peak.
The path forward is full of encounters with a few Jagged Peak Drakes, so consider using theDragon-Hunter’s Great Katanato deal extra damage to these foes. After defeating the pair of warring drakes, you will find Igon once more and can speak to him to obtainIgon’s Furled Finger. Continue forward, avoiding the encounter withAncient Dragon Senessaxif you wish to, and go into the nearby tunnel.
Eventually, the path upwards will lead you to theJagged Peak Summit Site of Grace, which is where Bayle the Dread resides.
As a dragon-type enemy, Balye the Dread’sweakness is Frost, so be sure to give yourself the advantage by using weapons that can harness this element to deal extra damage to the foe. Alternatively, weapons that causeScarlet Rotcan also be used in the fight.
Melee fighters can consider usingcolossal-grade weaponslike theStarscourge GreatswordorMaliketh’s Black Bladetobreak the enemy’s poise, but just be sure you have enough protection to withstand attacks. As for ranged options, considerComet AzurorRanni’s Dark Moonto help on the damage front.
There is absolutely no shame in counting on some help when it comes to dealing with Bayle the Dread, so be sure to use your strongestSpirit Ash summon. And with Igon’s Furled Finger, interact with the golden summon sign right when you enter the arena to bring him in and satisfy his quest for revenge against the enemy.
This threatening foe is definitely among the hardest players will face in the DLC and even the base game, with its agility and damaging abilities making for a fatal concoction.The large size of the enemycan also prove to be a hindrance, requiring players to manage their stamina and positioning well in order to fight effectively. Aiming for its head will always deal more damage, but that is easier said than done, especiallycompared to other dragons.
Phase 1
With your two allies by your side, it is now time to take on Bayle the Dread. The dragon is capable of AoE and focused attacks, and it is vital for players to keep calm anddodge towards the attacks. This will not only negate the damage, but it will also give you a chance toattack its headfor additional damage.
Staying close means dealing with its swipes andlightning-infused wing attacks, with dodging at the very last second being your only hope of survival. If you are further away, Bayle the Dread will use its breath to attack, so you will need to keep moving to the sides and wait it out. The boss will repeat these attacks in this phase, so take your time and master your timing.
Phase 2
Once you get it down to half health, this is when Bayle the Dread will get really angry. At the start, get a fair distance away from the dragon while it ischarging up an AoE attackthat has a large range, all while indicated areas on the floor erupt in flames. Get past that, and Bayle starts flying around the arena,bombarding the player with lightning. The best way to avoid damage is to keep moving or, if you are lucky, skirt along the boundaries of the arena to prevent its attacks from reaching you.
Another new attack Bayle uses sees the bossspray the ground with fire. Sprinting is your best bet here, and when you see the dragon scream into the air, it will send aline of lightningtowards you, so keep moving to avoid getting caught. Finally, Bayle the Dread might utilize apowerful ground attackthat can be fatal for weaker characters. When it starts gathering energy, start moving away and jump when the attack is unleashed to prevent yourself from getting caught. Players with theAsh of War: Aspect of the Crucible: Wingscan even use it to stay off the ground and attack the boss instead.
Keep up the pressure, and eventually, Bayle the Dread will fall, rewarding players with490,000 Runesand theHeart of Bayle. Completing Igon’s quest also nets you his gear as well asIgon’s Bell Bearing, which can be used back at Roundtable Hold.
