Defeating the Blade Phantom in The First Berserker: Khazan

Boss battles in *The First Berserker: Khazan* can be a thrilling yet challenging ordeal, especially if you're not fully prepared for what's coming. The Blade Phantom, a formidable foe encountered on the Trials of the Frozen Mountain level on Stormpass, is one such test of your combat skills. Here's a detailed guide on how to conquer this ghostly adversary.

Phase 1

As you enter the castle, you'll notice the floors are flooded with a crimson liquid, setting the stage for a battle against the Blade Phantom. This boss is relentless with its attacks, testing your stamina management and aggression. Here are the typical attacks you'll face:

• 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 starting with a right hook, followed by two kicks, and ending with a leaping kick smash.
• A three-hit combo with flashing punches, culminating in a grab that you must dodge.

In addition to these melee attacks, the Blade Phantom can summon a giant hammer to bring down, causing damage and red spikes to appear in front of it. If it opts for a spear, be prepared for a quick throw followed by a teleporting smash. When wielding a blade, expect a swift six-hit combo. The boss can also vanish and dash around the battlefield before striking.

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

Phase 2

The second phase kicks off with the Blade Phantom unleashing four claw attacks, followed by a high-altitude spear throw. Evade the spear's impact zone and brace for a leaping swipe. This is followed by three greatsword slashes and a hammer smash.

While the claw attacks are new, the Blade Phantom largely retains its earlier moves, with additions like a spear thrust and follow-up, and swift dual-wielding attacks ranging from four to six sets. Teleportation becomes more frequent, and when wielding the greatsword, be wary of multiple slashes leading to a final Burst Attack, signaled by a red P-like symbol on the screen. To counter this, use the Counterattack (L1/LB + Circle/B) to parry, restoring your stamina and leaving the boss vulnerable to further attacks.

Focus on depleting the Blade Phantom's stamina and time your Brutal Attacks carefully, initiating them just as the window is about to close to maximize damage. Victory over the Blade Phantom rewards you with 8,640 Lacrima, various Soul Eater gear items, a Shieldsman’s Ring, and Netherworld Mineral for crafting.

This guide provides essential strategies for defeating the Blade Phantom in *The First Berserker: Khazan*. For more tips and assistance, search The Escapist.

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