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

Boss fights are a thrilling yet challenging part of any game, and in *The First Berserker: Khazan*, they come with unexpected twists that keep you on your toes. If you're gearing up to face the formidable Blade Phantom, here's a comprehensive guide to help you conquer this ghostly adversary.

Phase 1

The Blade Phantom emerges from the haunting whispers of Khazan, materializing on the Trials of the Frozen Mountain level on Stormpass. This spectral foe challenges your ability to balance stamina management with aggressive combat, marking the first multi-phase boss you'll encounter.

As the battle commences within a castle flooded with a crimson liquid, the Blade Phantom unleashes a variety of attacks:

• A six-hit combo consisting of four punches and two kicks, with the second kick delayed for added difficulty.
• 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 featuring flashing punches and a grab that you must dodge.

Beyond these melee assaults, the Blade Phantom can summon a giant hammer, causing damage and spawning red spikes. If it opts for a spear, anticipate a quick throw followed by a teleporting smash. When wielding a blade, it executes a swift six-hit combo. Additionally, it can vanish and dash across the battlefield before striking.

Mastering the timing of these attacks is crucial. By parrying or dodging and striking back during openings, you'll deplete the Phantom's stamina, setting up opportunities for Brutal Attacks. Continue this strategy until you reduce its health by about half, triggering the transition to the second phase.

Phase 2

The second phase begins with the Blade Phantom launching four claw attacks, then throwing a spear from a height. Avoid the area where the spear lands and brace for a leaping swipe. This is followed by three greatsword slashes and a concluding hammer smash.

While the Blade Phantom retains many of its initial attacks, new elements include claw strikes, spear thrusts with follow-ups, and swift dual-wielding assaults. Teleportation becomes more frequent, and when equipped with the greatsword, be wary of the multiple slashes culminating in a Burst Attack signaled by a red P-like symbol. To counter this, use the Counterattack (L1/LB + Circle/B) to parry, which not only restores your stamina but also leaves the boss vulnerable to further attacks.

Exploit the Blade Phantom's depleted stamina to land your Brutal Attack, but wait until the window is nearly closed to maximize damage. Triumphing over this boss rewards you with 8,640 Lacrima, Soul Eater gear items, a Shieldsman’s Ring, and Netherworld Mineral for crafting.

This guide covers the essential strategies for defeating the Blade Phantom in *The First Berserker: Khazan*. For additional tips and tricks, be sure to check out The Escapist.

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