How to Beat Commander Gaius in Shadow of the Erdtree

Learn how to beat Commander Gaius in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree and discover the rewards with our guide.

Commander Gaius is one of the formidable main story bosses in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree. Located in the Shadow Keep Legacy Dungeon, Gaius wields gravity magic and rides an armored boar, making him a tough enemy. This guide provides essential tips and strategies to beat Commander Gaius and claim valuable rewards.

General Tips for Fighting Commander Gaius

Preparation is key when facing Commander Gaius. Here are some important tips to keep in mind:

• Frostbite and Bleed Effects: Gaius is susceptible to Frostbite and Bleed. Utilize weapons or spells that inflict these status effects for a strategic advantage.
• Black Knife Tiche: Summon Black Knife Tiche, a highly agile and damaging Spirit Ash, to assist you in the fight.
• Avoid Using Torrent: Gaius’ boar can easily outrun Torrent, and falling off will leave you vulnerable. Stick to ground combat.
• Physical Damage Resistance: Equip the Dragoncrest Greatshield Talisman or consume Boiled Crab to boost your resistance to physical damage. Wear the heaviest armor possible while maintaining a Medium Load for effective dodging.
• Use a Greatshield: If you’re on a Strength build, wielding a greatshield can help block Gaius’ attacks and manage your stamina.

How to Beat Commander Gaius in Shadow of he Erdtree

Phase 1 Strategy:

• Initial Charge: Gaius begins the fight by charging at you with his boar. Dodge to the side or roll through the charge to avoid damage.
• Combo Attacks: Gaius combines sword slashes with headbutts and boar slams. Roll through the sword attacks and dodge into the direction of the boar’s headbutts. Move to the side to avoid the boar’s slam.
• Gravity Magic: When Gaius’ sword glows purple, rocks will rise from the ground and fly towards you. Roll in any direction to avoid them.
• Staying Mobile: Stick to the side or rear of the boar to force Gaius to turn frequently, making it easier to land your own attacks.

Phase 2 Strategy:

When Gaius’ health drops to half, he enters Phase 2, gaining new gravity-based attacks:

• Aerial Slam: Gaius and his boar fly into the air and perform a delayed slam, creating a circle of gravity magic. Dodge forward as the boar starts to spiral down to avoid the slam and the expanding gravity circle.
• Gravity Well: Gaius raises his sword and launches a gravity well that pulls you in and explodes. Roll out of the well’s area early to avoid its pulses and detonation.
• Flying Charge: Gaius and his boar may jump and fly towards you. Dodge forward or to the side to avoid the attack.
• Enhanced Rock Sling: The rock sling attack from Phase 1 becomes more challenging with additional stones. Time your roll to avoid the first set of rocks.

Rewards for Defeating Commander Gaius

Defeating Commander Gaius rewards you with Remembrance of the Wild Boar Rider. Exchange this with the Finger Maiden in the Roundtable Hold for either Gaius’ unique Gravity spell or the Sword Lance weapon.

Conclusion

Commander Gaius in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree DLC is a challenging boss, but with careful preparation and strategic execution, you can defeat him.

Use Frostbite and Bleed effects, avoid using Torrent, and leverage your shield and armor effectively. Follow the detailed strategies for both phases of the fight, and you’ll emerge victorious with valuable rewards.

Check out our Shadow of the Erdtree guides to help you conquer the Realm of Shadow:

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