Elden Ring’s “Shadow of the Erdtree” DLC introduces players to new challenges and adversaries, one of the most notable being Rugalea, the Great Red Bear. This formidable boss demands skill and strategy, but locating and defeating him can be immensely rewarding. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to find Rugalea and emerge victorious.
Locating Rugalea The Great Red Bear
Step 1: Reach Rauh Base
Rugalea is found at Rauh Base, a location teeming with secrets and dangers. To get there, you need to traverse the intricate and often perilous landscapes of the DLC. Start by heading north from the Moorth Ruins. This area is filled with formidable enemies, so ensure you’re well-prepared with healing items and strong equipment.
Step 2: Navigating Rauh Base
Once at Rauh Base, you’ll find it nestled among ruins and debris. Carefully navigate through this area, avoiding or defeating the numerous shades that lurk here. The path can be treacherous, with narrow passages and hidden enemies waiting to ambush you. Stay vigilant and use your environment to your advantage.
Step 3: Finding the Mausoleum
Rugalea resides in a lone mausoleum on an elevated plateau within Rauh Base. To reach this spot, look for a path leading upwards from the main ruin area. This ascent can be challenging, with more shades and possibly other hostile creatures. Once you reach the plateau, you’ll see the mausoleum where Rugalea awaits.
Preparing for the Battle
Gear and Items
Before entering the mausoleum, ensure your gear is optimized for this fight. Rugalea’s attacks are powerful and can easily overwhelm an unprepared player. Equip a sturdy shield, preferably one with good parrying capabilities, as this can turn the tide of the battle. Light shields like the Buckler are ideal for this purpose.
Buffs and Enhancements
Utilize buffs and enhancements to maximize your chances. Magic users should prepare their most potent spells, while melee fighters should focus on enhancing their weapons with fire or lightning, as these elements can exploit Rugalea’s weaknesses.
Battling Rugalea
Phase 1: Initial Encounter
When you first enter the mausoleum, Rugalea appears in a ghostly form. This arrival animation provides a brief window to land some initial hits. Spellcasters can use this moment to unleash powerful spells, while melee fighters should aim for critical strikes.
Phase 2: Combos and Attacks
Rugalea’s primary mode of attack involves long claw combos. These are deadly and can quickly deplete your health. The key to surviving these attacks is mastering the timing of your rolls. Backwards rolling is generally safer, as rolling sideways or towards Rugalea often results in getting caught in his combos.
Parrying for Victory
One of the most effective strategies against Rugalea is parrying. By timing your parries correctly, you can stagger Rugalea and open him up for critical hits. This approach is especially useful for melee fighters. However, it requires precise timing and practice, so don’t be discouraged if it takes a few tries to get it right.
Healing Opportunities
Rugalea will attempt to heal once during the fight. When he does, seize the opportunity to inflict as much damage as possible. This is a rare chance to deal significant damage without retaliation, so make sure to capitalize on it.
Rewards
Defeating Rugalea yields substantial rewards. You’ll receive the Roar of Rugalea, a powerful incantation that allows you to unleash a devastating roar, mimicking the Great Red Bear himself. Additionally, you’ll earn 80,000 runes, the Red Bear’s Claw, the Fang Helmet, and the Iron Rivet Armor Set.
