Elden Ring: How to Defeat Elemer of the Briar at the Shaded Castle
Elden Ring is renowned for its massive open world, brutal enemies, and unforgettable boss encounters. Among the many foes scattered across the Lands Between, one that stands out for his unique fighting style and grim lore is Elemer of the Briar. Found within the decaying halls of the Shaded Castle, Elemer wields spectral weapons and devastating telekinetic strikes, making him an unpredictable and punishing opponent.
This guide will take you through everything you need to know about facing Elemer of the Briar: how to find him, the strategies for victory, and the rewards you'll gain for surviving his brutal test.
Who Is Elemer of the Briar
Elemer is a notorious figure in Elden Ring's lore. He was once infamous for murdering countless victims using weapons manipulated by sorcery rather than his own hands. This earned him the epithet "of the Briar", and his cruelty was so feared that he eventually came to inhabit the cursed Shaded Castle. His ability to wield weapons telekinetically makes him a rare type of boss, offering a combat experience unlike most others in the game.
His presence in the Shaded Castle also fits the area's theme perfectly the fortress itself is half-swallowed by poison swamp, filled with rot and decay, and haunted by the restless spirits of its past.
How to Reach the Shaded Castle
The Shaded Castle is located in the valley between the Altus Plateau and the Mt. Gelmir region. To reach it, you'll need to explore the poisoned marshlands north of the Altus Plateau. The castle is surrounded by a moat of poison, so bringing items or spells to counter poison buildup is highly recommended.
Once inside, you'll fight through corrupted knights, grotesque creatures, and enemies wielding scarlet rot. The trek to Elemer's chamber is dangerous, but it sets the stage for one of the game's most atmospheric encounters. Eventually, you'll reach the Shaded Castle Inner Gate Site of Grace, where you can prepare before entering the boss arena.
Preparing for the Battle
Elemer's combat style is both physical and magical, so you'll want to balance your defenses.
Recommended Level and Gear
Level: Aim for 70–80 before challenging him.
Armor: Medium armor is ideal to balance mobility and protection, as you'll need to dodge his sudden telekinetic strikes.
Shields: A greatshield can block most of his sword slashes, but his telekinetic thrusts can bypass guard stamina.
Talismans: The Curved Sword Talisman is excellent if you plan to rely on counterattacks. Alternatively, use the Magic Scorpion Charm to boost magic damage if you're a caster.
Status Effects and Damage Types
Elemer is resistant to magic but weaker to physical and bleed damage.
Weapons that inflict bleed buildup (like katanas or curved swords) are highly effective.
Fire-based attacks can also chip away at his health more consistently than magic.
Battle Strategy
Phase One: Telekinetic Strikes
The fight begins with Elemer summoning his spectral greatsword, which he can hurl or slash with uncanny precision. His ability to send weapons flying at you from mid-range makes him harder to predict than traditional melee bosses.
Watch for the floating sword. When he raises his weapon, roll into the swing rather than away from it to avoid getting clipped.
Close the gap. Elemer is most dangerous at mid-range, where he can chain telekinetic thrusts and slashes. Staying close limits his options and gives you chances to punish.
Shield cautiously. Blocking is possible, but his weapon art drains stamina heavily. Dodging is safer.
Phase Two: Spectral Flurry and Aggression
At around 50% health, Elemer's aggression ramps up. He summons spectral weapons in rapid succession and can unleash a devastating combo of lunges and spinning strikes.
Bait his combos. Many of his multi-strike attacks leave him open at the end. Wait until the final swing before countering.
Stay mobile. Rolling laterally is the best way to avoid the spinning slash, which can shred through your health bar.
Summons help. Spirit Ashes like Latenna the Albinauric can safely deal damage from range, while tanky summons like Banished Knight Oleg can distract Elemer and create openings.
Magic and Ranged Builds
Magic users may find Elemer frustrating due to his resistance, but opportunities still exist. Spells like Rock Sling or high-poise sorceries can break his stance. Faith builds using Lightning incantations are especially effective, as they bypass his resistances.
Rewards for Victory
Defeating Elemer of the Briar grants some excellent rewards:
Marais Executioner's Sword – A colossal weapon with a unique skill that mimics Elemer's own telekinetic attacks, allowing you to hurl the blade at enemies.
Briar Greatshield – A heavy shield adorned with thorny vines, offering strong defense against physical attacks.
Rune Rewards – A sizable sum of Runes to help with leveling or upgrading gear.
Beyond the material rewards, the satisfaction of overcoming such a unique and challenging foe is itself a highlight of Elden Ring's boss roster.
Final Tips
Manage the poison. The trek to the boss is full of poison swamp hazards, so stock up on neutralizing boluses or equip items that reduce poison buildup.
Practice patience. Elemer's telekinetic strikes punish greedy attacks—focus on learning his patterns rather than rushing in.
Spirit Summons are invaluable. Distracting Elemer even for a moment can turn the fight in your favor.
Conclusion
The battle with Elemer of the Briar at the Shaded Castle is a standout encounter in Elden Ring, blending atmosphere, lore, and a truly distinctive fighting style. Unlike many bosses that rely on brute force, Elemer challenges you with precision, timing, and his haunting telekinetic weaponry.
With the right preparation, careful dodging, and a strategy that punishes his openings, you can bring down this merciless executioner. In return, you'll not only earn powerful gear but also push forward through one of the game's most memorable strongholds.
For Tarnished seeking glory and growth, Elemer of the Briar is both a formidable adversary and a worthy test of skill.
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