Valheim - How to beat the old

In general, it is suggested to tackle the specific Boss with other players by your side, to help each other and extend their targeted attacks. If it doesn't and you don't have anyone to play with, rest assured that The Elder is of course solo. It just takes a little more time, attention, and a bunch of arrows.

How to Beat the Elder-Spoiler Alert: Bring lots of arrows.

Let me start by saying that The Elder is considerably stronger than the game's first Boss, the Great Stag Eikthyr, in almost every aspect. Hits harder, he has more HP, and his attack patterns are more advanced. In particular, there are 3 different attacks that you should pay attention to:

• Root projectiles - A barrage of long-range projectiles, which can be avoided by hiding behind any type of wall or object.
• Summon Roots - Easily the most delicate tool in his kit, The Elder summons several roots and vines under our character, that even if we avoid them, they stay put for a while. As soon as you enter their field of vision, they start attacking you, forcing you to stay at a distance.
• Ground Stomp - The simplest of the Elder's attacks, however, don't underestimate it at all, as the damage it causes is considerable. Hit the ground with an AOE beam.

Since we put an end to The Elder's attacks, now let's see how you can actually deal with him. As I mentioned before, it is suggested to start the fight with many players joining the battle. Otherwise, we have to enter the fight with some strategy. Before doing so however, I advise you to create a small base near the Boss summoning area, so that you can come back right away in case you get killed. Also, you can easily repair any equipment if needed, without going back too much. The last step in our setup would be to bring many, many arrows, which means you need a few hundred with you.

Now let's continue with the plan. Which should start by placing a few campfires in the middle of the summoning area. That way, the moment you summon the Ancient One, he will immediately begin to take Burning Damage per second. Then look for a pillar or object hide behind, which are in the same line of sight as the pillars of the summoning point. In doing so, its movements will be stopped and it will try to attack you from one place. You can easily dodge its projectiles from there, but watch out for its summon roots which can easily kill you even from there.

Once everything is set, start sending him all the arrows you brought. To be more effective you would need a solid bow, so be sure to equip the best you have created so far. The burning damage and the hundreds of arrows impaling it should end the battle in about 4-6 minutes. Keep attacking, dodge his attacks and you're good to go.

The Elder drops the Swamp Key when defeated, which unlocks the next biome, the Swamp. Also, be sure to hang the Trophy of the Elders on the hook on the trophy to claim a bonus to your logging stat. Good luck beating The Elder!

Valheim is available via Steam Early Access.