How to Beat Messmer the Impaler in Shadow of the Erdtree

Messmer the Impaler is arguably the hardest boss in the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, rivaling Malenia in sheer aggression. He is a wall for many players, combining fast spear attacks with devastating fire AOEs. But like every boss in Elden Ring, he has a rhythm.

This guide will break down his phases, optimal gear, and the exact dodge timings you need to survive.

Recommended Build

Messmer is resistant to Fire (obviously) but is neutral to physical damage and weak to Bleed and Frostbite.

• Weapon: Dual curved swords (Scavenger's Curved Sword) or a fast Katana (Nagakiba). Infuse with Cold or Bleed.
• Talisman: Dragoncrest Greatshield Talisman (essential for physical defense), Flamedrake Talisman +3 (found in the DLC), and Shard of Alexander.
• Summon: Mimic Tear +10 is still the best distraction, but Black Knife Tiche can help dodge his AOEs.

Phase 1: The Spear Dance

Messmer opens almost every fight with a leaping fireball slam. Wait until he is about to hit the ground, then roll into him. Rolling away will get you caught by the explosion radius.

The Grab Attack: Look for his hand glowing red. He will delay for about 1 second before lunging. This is a one-shot kill for most builds. Roll to the right at the last second.

The Spear Barrage: He will perform a flurry of stabs. Do not panic roll. Block the first hit if you have a shield, then roll into his left side. The final hit of the combo leaves him open for 2 seconds—this is your punishment window.

Phase 2: Base Serpent Messmer

At 50% HP, he transforms. He now summons giant snakes. This phase is visually overwhelming, but the hitboxes are actually smaller than they look.

The Snake Lunges: He will turn into a snake and lunge 3 times. You must dodge sideways for the first two, and forward for the third. After the third lunge, he reverts to human form and stays still for a massive 4-second window. This is where you use your Ashes of War.

Cheese Strategy

If you are truly stuck, use the "Rot Breath" incantation. Summon your Mimic to take aggro, then cast Rotten Breath or Ekzykes's Decay. Once he is afflicted with Scarlet Rot, simply focus on dodging. The rot will tick down his health even during his snake transitions.