Rykard, Lord of Blasphemy is the Shardbearer of Volcano Manor. The fight looks terrifying, but one weapon in the arena, the Serpent-Hunter, turns it into one of the most satisfying fights in Elden Ring. This guide explains how to use it.
Quick facts
| Location | Volcano Manor, Mt. Gelmir |
| Nearest Site of Grace | Audience Pathway |
| Required? | Optional, but beating two Shardbearers is required to enter Leyndell |
| HP (NG) | 89,667 total (30,493 serpent + 59,174 Rykard) |
| Runes (NG) | 130,000 |
| Drops | Rykard’s Great Rune, Remembrance of the Blasphemous |
| Weak to | Frostbite, physical damage (Standard, Slash, Pierce) |
| Resists | Fire (80% negation), Magic and Holy (40%) |
| Immune to | Madness |
| Spirit Ashes / Co-op | Allowed (the Mimic Tear is excellent here) |
| Recommended level | 80–100 (community estimate) |
| Difficulty | ▰▰▰▰▱▱▱▱▱▱ 4/10 |
Overview
Rykard is fought in two parts. First you face the God-Devouring Serpent, then Rykard himself, whose face is fused into the serpent’s body.
The key is the Serpent-Hunter great spear lying at the arena entrance. Against this boss it grows a blade of light that massively extends its reach, and its skill Great-Serpent Hunt can stagger him.
How to reach Rykard
Volcano Manor sits on Mt. Gelmir. Join Tanith’s group or explore the manor to reach the Audience Pathway grace. The fog gate is right next to it.
Preparation
- Grab the Serpent-Hunter before the fight begins. You do not need the stats to use it well here.
- Equip the Mimic Tear and let it copy you with the Serpent-Hunter for double the damage.
- Fire protection: Flamedrake Talisman, Fireproof Dried Liver.
- Frostbite (cold weapons, Ice Spear) is very effective.
Phase 1 strategy
Against the serpent, stay mobile and hit its head with the Serpent-Hunter whenever it lunges.
Snake bite
A long lunge. Dodge toward it and punish the head.
Grab
A lunging grab. It needs precise timing; roll late.
Magma slam
Dodge through or block, then punish.
Phase 2 – Rykard, Lord of Blasphemy
Rykard adds sword swings, fire skulls and Rancor spells. Keep attacking his face with the Serpent-Hunter.
Rancor storm
Screaming skulls chase you around the arena. Great-Serpent Hunt can interrupt him.
Taker’s Flames
A huge fire sweep. Sprint sideways or roll through it.
Lava pool
Do not stand in the lava in the middle of the arena: it causes chip damage and interrupts your attacks.
Best builds and tools
- Serpent-Hunter is the best tool for any build.
- Frostbite builds deal extra damage.
- Avoid fire damage: he negates 80% of it.
- Spirit Ash: Mimic Tear +10.
Rewards
- 130,000 Runes
- Rykard’s Great Rune
- Remembrance of the Blasphemous (trade for Rykard’s Rancor or Blasphemous Blade)
Difficulty rating
▰▰▰▰▱▱▱▱▱▱ 4/10 – Intimidating but fair. With the Serpent-Hunter and a Mimic Tear the fight becomes one of the easier Shardbearers.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Serpent-Hunter?
It lies on the ground at the entrance of the boss arena. Pick it up before walking toward Rykard.
Is Rykard optional?
Technically yes, but you need two Great Runes to enter Leyndell, so most players beat him.
What is Rykard weak to?
Frostbite and physical damage. He strongly resists fire.
Beaten Rykard?
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