Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree has 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 area is one such place that players will likely visit after encountering the vengeful Igon, who is lamenting the fact that he won't be able to face down the foe known as Bayle the Dread. This will mark the start of this side quest that will lead Elden Ring players on a journey to get rid of the dragon once and for all, and this guide will show you just how to do that.

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Where To Find Bayle The Dread In Elden Ring

Before you even try to start the questline, make sure you have sufficiently upgraded your character, equipment and done the same for your Scadutree Blessings and Revered 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, head southeast of Castle Ensis and reach the Pillar Path Waypoint Site of Grace, where you will encounter Igon . Speak to him to find out about Bayle the Dread. Now, head southeast on the path, defeating the Ancient Dragon-Man once when he invades and later on in the Dragon Pit. This will lead you to Jagged Peak.

The path forward is full of encounters with a few Jagged Peak Drakes, so consider using the Dragon-Hunter's Great Katana to 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 obtain Igon's Furled Finger. Continue forward, avoiding the encounter with Ancient Dragon Senessax if you wish to, and go into the nearby tunnel.

Eventually, the path upwards will lead you to the Jagged Peak Summit Site of Grace, which is where Bayle the Dread resides.

How To Prepare For Bayle The Dread In Elden Ring

As a dragon-type enemy, Balye the Dread's weakness 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 cause Scarlet Rot can also be used in the fight.

Melee fighters can consider using colossal-grade weapons like the Starscourge Greatsword or Maliketh's Black Blade to break the enemy's poise, but just be sure you have enough protection to withstand attacks. As for ranged options, consider Comet Azur or Ranni's Dark Moon to 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 strongest Spirit 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.

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How To Beat Bayle The Dread In Elden Ring

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 enemy can 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, especially compared 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 and dodge towards the attacks. This will not only negate the damage, but it will also give you a chance to attack its head for additional damage.

Staying close means dealing with its swipes and lightning-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 is charging up an AoE attack that 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 boss spray the ground with fire. Sprinting is your best bet here, and when you see the dragon scream into the air, it will send a line of lightning towards you, so keep moving to avoid getting caught. Finally, Bayle the Dread might utilize a powerful ground attack that 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 the Ash of War: Aspect of the Crucible: Wings can 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 with 490,000 Runes and the Heart of Bayle . Completing Igon's quest also nets you his gear as well as Igon's Bell Bearing , which can be used back at Roundtable Hold.

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree

Platform

PC , PS4 , PS5 , Xbox One , Xbox Series X , Xbox Series S

Released

June 21, 2024

Developer(s)

FromSoftware

Genre

Soulslike , RPG