Defeating the Blade Phantom in The First Berserker: Khazan: Strategy Guide

Boss fights can be a real challenge, especially when you're not fully prepared for what's coming. In *The First Berserker: Khazan*, the battles are full of surprises, and the fight against the Blade Phantom is no exception. Here's a detailed guide on how to conquer this formidable foe.

Phase 1

The eerie whispers that have been haunting Khazan come to life in the Trials of the Frozen Mountain level on Stormpass, taking the form of the Blade Phantom. True to its name, this boss presents a formidable challenge, testing your ability to balance stamina and aggression against its relentless attacks. This is your first encounter with a multi-phase boss.

The battle begins in a castle with floors awash in a crimson liquid. The Blade Phantom typically unleashes these attacks:

• A six-hit combo consisting of four punches and two kicks, with the second kick being a delayed attack.
• A three-hit combo with two punches followed by a downward kick.
• A four-hit combo that starts with a right hook, followed by two kicks, and ends with a leaping kick smash.
• A three-hit combo of flashing punches, culminating in a grab that must be dodged.

Beyond these melee attacks, the Blade Phantom can summon a giant hammer in *The First Berserker: Khazan*, bringing it down to deal damage and cause red spikes to appear in front of it. If it uses a spear, prepare for a quick throw followed by a teleporting smash that you must avoid. When wielding a blade, it unleashes a swift six-hit combo. It can also disappear and dash around the battlefield before attacking.

Mastering the timing of these attacks is crucial. By parrying or dodging, you can find openings to attack and deplete its stamina, setting up opportunities for a Brutal Attack. Continue this strategy until you reduce its health by about half, triggering the transition to the second phase.

Phase 2

The second phase kicks off with the Blade Phantom launching four claw attacks, followed by a high-altitude spear throw. Once the spear hits the ground, move away from the impact zone to avoid the subsequent leaping swipe. This is followed by three greatsword slashes and a concluding hammer smash.

In addition to the new claw attacks, the Blade Phantom continues with many of the same moves as before, including a spear thrust and follow-up, and four to six sets of swift dual-wielding attacks. It also increases its teleportation frequency. When armed with the greatsword, be wary of the multiple slashes and the final Burst Attack, signaled by a red P-like symbol on the screen. Use the Counterattack (L1/LB + Circle/B) to parry this attack successfully, restoring your stamina and leaving the boss vulnerable to further attacks.

Exploit these moments to punish the Blade Phantom when its stamina is depleted, and only initiate the Brutal Attack when the window is nearly closed. This maximizes the damage inflicted on the boss, facilitating a smoother path to victory. Upon defeating the boss, you will be rewarded with 8,640 Lacrima, some Soul Eater gear items, a Shieldsman’s Ring, and Netherworld Mineral for crafting.

That's all the essential information you need to beat the Blade Phantom in *The First Berserker: Khazan*. For more tips and tricks, check out The Escapist's resources on the game.

*The First Berserker: Khazan is currently available in Early Access.*