How to Beat Golden Hippopotamus in Shadow of the Erdtree

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

The Golden Hippopotamus is a formidable boss in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree DLC. Despite its straightforward attack patterns, it requires careful strategy to defeat. This guide provides detailed insights on how to beat Golden Hippopotamus in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree.

Golden Hippopotamus Location in Shadow of the Erdtree DLC

The Golden Hippopotamus resides in the central courtyard of Shadow Keep. It’s the first enemy encountered if you approach from the southern entrance in Scadu Altus.

The boss is optional, meaning players don’t need to defeat it to progress in the main story. However, defeating it grants two Scadutree Fragments, which enhance your combat abilities. You can summon your Spirit Ash companion for this battle, as no NPC allies are available to assist.

Golden Hippopotamus Weaknesses and Preparation

The Golden Hippopotamus is resistant to status ailments but weak against slashing damage. It also has low poise, making it susceptible to gravity magic like Rock Sling. Breaking its poise with four or five strong attacks allows for a critical hit opportunity, especially when targeting its head.

Recommended Weapons:

• Swords and Greatswords: The Backhand Blade offers swift strikes and a unique Ash of War that aids in dodging. The Blackgaol Knight’s sword is also effective.
• Daggers: Fast attacks help in dealing consistent damage.
• Magic Builds: Any late-game weapon scaling with faith or intelligence works well.

How to Beat the Golden Hippopotamus

The Golden Hippopotamus behaves similarly to Ulcerated Tree Spirits, with most attacks coming from its head and mouth. Its massive size and reliance on frontal damage create more opportunities to strike safely.

Golden Hippopotamus Boss Fight Phase 1

In the first phase, the Golden Hippopotamus has a few main attacks:

• Mouth Rush: The boss lunges with its mouth wide open, knocking you aside. Dodge to the side to avoid follow-up head smashes.
• Head Slams: The boss smashes its head into the ground. Dodge forward to avoid.

Focus on attacking its sides and rear to reduce its HP quickly.

Golden Hippopotamus Boss Fight Phase 2

When its HP drops to half, the boss sprouts golden, branch-like spines and sends holy-infused spikes raining down. The range is roughly two dodge-rolls back.

The boss may also spin, sending spikes in a circle, which are best dodged forward.

The most dangerous move is when the Hippo leaps into the air, crashing down and rolling forward. Dodge forward to avoid this devastating attack.

The boss becomes more aggressive with biting attacks, but sticking to its sides and rear remains the best strategy. Use strong or charged attacks to break its poise for critical hits.

Rewards for Beating Golden Hippopotamus

Defeating the Golden Hippopotamus rewards you with the Aspect of the Crucible: Thorns incantation and two Scadutree Fragments.

Defeating the Golden Hippopotamus in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree requires patience and strategy. Focus on its weaknesses, use effective weapons and Spirit Ash summons, and dodge skillfully to overcome this challenging boss. With the right approach, you’ll conquer the Golden Hippopotamus and continue your journey through Shadow Keep.

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

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