Elden Ring: Conquering Loretta, Knight of the Haligtree

Nov-12-2024

 

If you're venturing through the Consecrated Snowfield and aiming to reach Elphael, Brace of the Haligtree, you've probably heard about the legendary Loretta, Knight of the Haligtree. She's one of the most challenging bosses in the game, and for good reason. But don't worry, here is a breakdown of everything you need to know to defeat this fearsome foe and claim some of the best loot Elden Ring has to offer.

 

 

Who is Loretta, Knight of the Haligtree?

Loretta, Knight of the Haligtree, isn't a stranger if you've already crossed paths with her earlier in the game at Caria Manor. This time, however, she's a whole new level of threat. She's wielding a mix of brutal halberd swings and devastating magic spells, and she's blocking your path to the next major area: Elphael.

 

But don't sweat it. While Loretta is definitely a tough boss, understanding her moves and weaknesses will give you the edge you need.

 

How to Beat Loretta, Knight of the Haligtree?

Phase 1

In the first phase, you'll face her riding a spectral horse, using her signature attacks like Loretta's Greatbow and Glintblade Phalanx, along with deadly sickle sweeps. The trick to surviving is timing your dodges—roll through her side swings and sickle stabs, and always stay alert for that horse rear, which signals a big attack coming down on you.

 

One of her most dangerous moves is the Loretta's Greatbow, which she'll charge up and fire a magic arrow that explodes on contact. When she jumps back to cast it, be ready to rush toward her, dodge at the right time, and get in a few hits. As for her Glintblade Phalanx, sprinting sideways will help you avoid the incoming blades, or roll if you're up close.

 

Phase 2

As the battle progresses into Phase 2, things get even trickier. Loretta grows more relentless, with new abilities that increase the stakes. Loretta will unleash Loretta's Mastery, which fires a barrage of homing arrows that pack a punch.

 

Dodge them the same way you did the Greatbow arrows, but keep an eye out—these arrows hit hard. She also gains a new move called Loretta's Slash, where she charges her sickle with magic and unleashes a series of dangerous swings. The key here is to back off, looking for openings after she exhausts her more powerful attacks, and capitalize on her lengthy recovery time to give her some damage.

 

 

Loretta's Weaknesses

Much like her phantom form, her physical form is not invincible. She has a 40% resistance to magic and fire, and 20% resistance to holy damage. However, she has no resistance to lightning. If you've got any powerful lightning-based attacks or weapons, now's the time to use them. In addition to elemental damage, she is susceptible to Bleed and Frostbite, making status-effect-focused builds particularly effective.

 

Players who specialize in these effects will find that Loretta, despite her might, can be overwhelmed with relentless debuffs. The strategic use of Scarlet Rot or Poison is another potential path to victory, though the time it takes for these effects to build can be a risk in such a fast-paced battle.

 

What You Get for Beating Loretta?

Defeating Loretta is no easy feat, but the rewards are worth it. Upon her defeat, you will earn 200,000 runes, Loretta's Mastery, a powerful sorcery, and Loretta's War Sickle, a weapon that embodies the deadly elegance of this knight's battle style. More importantly, conquering Loretta unlocks access to the Haligtree Promenade Site of Grace, bringing you one step closer to unraveling the mysteries of Elphael, Brace of the Haligtree.

 

Loretta, Knight of the Haligtree, is a boss that rewards both patience and skill. She's tough, but with the right strategy, you can take her down and reap the rewards of one of Elden Ring's toughest encounters. Ready to test your mettle? The Haligtree awaits.