Strategy Guide: Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree – Horned Warrior Route – June 25, 2026

The Horned Warriors in the Shadow Keep are some of the toughest non-boss enemies in the DLC. Here’s how to clear the route efficiently.

Recommended Setup:

• Weapon: Blasphemous Blade or any fire-infused greatsword — they’re weak to fire
• Talismans: Dragoncrest Greatshield + Two-Headed Turtle + Fire Scorpion + Shard of Alexander
• Physick: Opaline Bubbletear + Flame-Shrouding Cracked Tear

Route:

1. Enter from the Church District grace (the one after the bridge)
2. Clear the first two patrolling warriors using stealth backstabs
3. In the main hall, lure the horned warrior with the greatshield away from the archer
4. Parry his charge attack — his recovery animation is long enough for a critical hit
5. Once he’s down, the archer is trivial. Rush her before she buffs
6. The boss room is at the far end. Summon Hornsent NPC if available for distraction

Tip: These enemies have 55% holy damage negation. Don’t use sacred weapons. Fire damage melts them.