Elden Ring is complete with numerous bosses, each boasting seemingly insurmountable power. While many of these legendary foes are pivotal figures in the story and must be defeated, others are optional. These bosses, in particular, exist to challenge players and reward them should they succeed. The benefit of vanquishing such imposing adversaries is significant, making these encounters sought after by countless players. However, these optional bosses are more capable than they initially appear, as seen with the gold-clad Tree Sentinel.
The Tree Sentinel, one of the first optional bosses of Elden Ring, appears relatively early on and poses a tremendous threat. This decorated opponent patrols Limgrave alongside his trusty steed, defending the lustrous Erdtree against any that may endanger it. The untimely appearance of the Tree Sentinel belies his true strength, causing many to disregard potential danger and face him head-on. Doing so has resulted in the demise of innumerable unprepared and impatient players. To avoid these needless deaths, players must know how to defeat the Tree Sentinel in Elden Ring.
Updated January 3rd, 2023 by Russ Boswell: As soon as players begin their Elden Ring adventure and are given access to an area called Limgrave, they may come across a massive horseman named The Tree Sentinel. This roaming boss can be beaten from the start of the game, but it might be a bit difficult for those just starting out. To better help players beat the Tree Sentinel in Elden Ring, whether it's at the start of their adventure, or a bit further in, the following guide has been updated to include a companion video of the boss fight itself.
Spend Time In Limgrave
Many players attempt to challenge the Tree Sentinel immediately upon arriving at Limgrave. Thus, making the fight a one-sided engagement that players cannot hope to win. The Tree Sentinel, despite initial beliefs, is not meant to be faced immediately. Doing so will result in innumerable deaths that will likely amount to nothing. The Tree Sentinel boasts both mobility and power from riding on horseback. Such a deadly combination allows him to overwhelm players effortlessly, denying them the opportunity to flee and recoup.
As such, players spend a couple of hours in Limgrave, practicing and progressing before fighting the Tree Sentinel. This grants players time to hone their skill and level up, granting them experience and enhancing their capabilities. So, players should expect to put in a few hours before fighting the Tree Sentinel. Gaining the ability to level up alone requires considerable time and effort. After a few level-ups and preferably acquiring better gear, players will have the means to fight the Tree Sentinel.
Fight On Torrent
Many of the Tree Sentinel's strengths come from his superior mobility while on horseback. He can reach players within moments and unleash a barrage of devastating attacks. The Tree Sentinel's impressive movement and strength are dangerous but prove to be far more detrimental to players on foot. While on foot, players cannot effectively avoid this boss's expansive and catastrophic attacks, such as his shield slam. Instead, they will often suffer the brunt of most assaults, becoming debilitated and consequently defeated.
However, players can avoid these limitations by summoning and riding into battle on Torrent, a spectral steed gifted by Melina. While on horseback, players can dodge otherwise devastating attacks with ease and counterattack when appropriate. Thus, making this fight much more manageable. With Torrent, players can better evade the Tree Sentinel's assaults and assail him in passing or from afar at opportune moments. By repeating this process, players will gradually diminish the boss's health and eventually defeat him.
Playing such a pivotal part in this boss battle, players must ensure that they get Torrent as soon as possible. Therefore, providing another reason why players should avoid confronting the Tree Sentinel early on.
Reap The Rewards
Upon defeating the Tree Sentinel, players will receive a reward fitting for such a feat, 3600 Runes and his Golden Halberd itself. Players can use this surplus of Runes to level up or obtain better gear, bolstering their character for future battles. However, the most worthwhile reward is the Golden Halberd.
The Golden Halberd makes for an excellent weapon that excels in multiplayer. It utilizes Strength, Dexterity, and Faith, making it an exceptional weapon for builds using these stats. In addition, the Golden Halberd deals holy damage and possesses a skill called Golden Vow, which increases the attack power and defense of a user when alongside allies. Thus, making it a perfect choice for those wishing to play with friends.
Elden Ring is now available for PC, PlayStation 4 and 5, and Xbox One and Series X|S
