Dungeons offer valuable rewards and a solid amount of runes in Elden Ring, giving players a means of upgrading their character without needing to progress through legacy dungeons or tough story bosses. Just like this game's main quest content, not every area and boss is created equal.
Murkwater Catacombs is one of the most challenging dungeons you'll face at the start of your playthrough. Stone imp enemies and the Grave Warden Duelist make this dungeon brutal for newcomers. But with these tips and strategies, you'll be able to clear this dungeon a little easier and get your hands on a powerful early-game weapon.
Murkwater Catacombs Overview
|
Murkwater Catacombs Overview |
|
|---|---|
|
Boss |
Grave Warden Duelist |
|
Enemies |
Imps |
|
Notable Loot |
Ghost Glovewort |
|
Battle Hammer |
|
Murkwater Catacombs is the second dungeon you'll find along the river connected to Limgrave's central lake. Head east of the Church of Elleh, then follow the river north until it ends. The dungeon itself is similar to Stormfoot Catacombs, featuring numerous imp enemies who can bleed your character. Traps are also present, capable of killing starter characters. Level up a few times and unlock spirit summoning before entering this dungeon.
Dungeon Walkthrough
A short distance from the Shrine of Grace is a spacious room with multiple stone imps waiting to ambush you. Upon entering the room, immediately run to your left and kill the stationary imp. This will draw the attention of a second imp. Lure the enemy towards you without walking halfway through the room. Kill that stone imp, then run to the end of the room to face the third and final imp.
Further down the path is yet another room, this time with two imps standing still. You'll notice a pressure plate in the floor. Do not touch it. This plate will fire nine flaming arrows that deal massive damage if they all hit. When you enter this room, an imp to your left will attempt to attack you. If possible, try to stay in the room, rolling past the attack before retaliating with a few of your own attacks.
If things get too difficult, slowly retreat down the corridor you just came from. You can step on the pressure plate to spring the arrow trap, damaging the imps if they're in the way. Clear the room, pull the lever to open the boss room, then double back to the Shrine of Grace and rest. You'll need all of your flask charges for the next part.
Clear the first room once again, hang a right down the corridor, then get ready for another fight. Three stone imps are going to attack you once again, one of which will be from behind. We recommend luring them towards you one at a time, using the corridor to funnel enemies your way. Once again, avoid triggering the pressure plate; the arrows fire from the stairs this time. Clear out the imps, replenish your HP and FP, then proceed through the boss fog.
Boss Guide
The Grave Warden Duelist is a tough humanoid boss that hits like a truck. As tough as he looks, the boss can't do much against heavy attacks. Most heavy attacks—jump heavy attacks especially—deal immense posture damage to this boss, opening him up to a critical hit should you hit him enough times. Guard counters are great as well. Of course, you can kite him around the arena while pelting him with ranged projectiles or spells.
To give yourself an opening for these attacks, summon a spirit. Lone Wolf Ashes work best for this fight, although the Godrick Knights you get from a cemetery west of Stormhill work wonders as well. Let your minions crowd the boss, drawing his attention while you land powerful heavy or ranged attacks. With this strategy, the only attack you need to be mindful of is an AoE chain attack where he swings his battle hammer around. Simply dodge before it hits you to avoid taking damage. Defeat this boss to get your hands on a battle hammer, a powerful weapon for Strength builds.
Boss Tips
- Widdle the boss' posture with guard counters, heavy attacks, and jump attacks.
- Summon minions when you enter the boss arena to give yourself some breathing room during the fight.
- The boss' chain AoE can go through the pillars in the arena. Rely on dodging to avoid this attack.
- Bleed is highly effective against this boss. Use any weapons or consumables that can bleed the Grave Warden Duelist.