Defeating the Blade Phantom in The First Berserker: Khazan

Boss fights in *The First Berserker: Khazan* are notorious for their complexity and the need for thorough preparation. One such challenging encounter is with the Blade Phantom, a formidable adversary you'll face on the Trials of the Frozen Mountain level on Stormpass. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to conquer this spectral foe.

Phase 1

As the battle commences within a castle surrounded by crimson liquid, the Blade Phantom unleashes a barrage of attacks that you must master to survive. Here are the key moves you'll need to watch out for:

• A six-hit combo consisting of four punches and two kicks, with the second kick being delayed.
• 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 concluding with a leaping kick smash.
• A three-hit combo with flashing punches, followed by a grab that must be dodged.

In addition to these melee assaults, the Blade Phantom can summon various weapons:

• A giant hammer that causes damage and spawns red spikes upon impact.
• A spear that is thrown quickly, followed by a teleporting smash.
• A blade that initiates a swift six-hit combo.
• The ability to disappear and dash around the battlefield before striking.

To overcome this phase, focus on learning the timings of these attacks. Parry or dodge effectively to create openings for your own attacks, depleting the Blade Phantom's stamina and setting up opportunities for Brutal Attacks. Continue this strategy until you reduce its health by about half, triggering the transition to Phase 2.

Phase 2

In the second phase, the Blade Phantom begins with a series of four claw attacks, followed by a high-altitude spear throw. Evade the spear's impact zone and prepare for a leaping swipe. Subsequent attacks include three greatsword slashes and a concluding hammer smash.

While the Blade Phantom retains many of its previous moves, new additions include:

• A spear thrust and follow-up.
• Four to six sets of swift dual-wielding attacks.
• Increased frequency of teleportation.
• Multiple slashes with the greatsword, culminating in a Burst Attack signaled by a red P-like symbol on the screen.

To counter the Burst Attack, use the Counterattack (L1/LB + Circle/B) to parry successfully, restoring your stamina and leaving the boss vulnerable. Exploit these moments to deplete the Blade Phantom's stamina and execute Brutal Attacks when the window is nearly closed, maximizing damage output.

Upon defeating the Blade Phantom, you'll be rewarded with 8,640 Lacrima, 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 further assistance with the game, visit The Escapist.

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