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If you’ve stumbled upon the hidden Evergaol in Stormhill, chances are you’ve already faced the fury of the Crucible Knight (Stormhill) in Elden Ring. This formidable foe is one of the earliest real combat challenges in the game—an optional boss fight that tests your patience, timing, and understanding of melee combat. Here’s a breakdown of how to find, fight, and ultimately conquer this knight.
Where to Find the Crucible Knight in Stormhill
The Crucible Knight (Stormhill) resides within the Stormhill Evergaol, located just west of the Rampart Tower in Limgrave. It’s not marked on your map by default, so it’s easy to miss if you’re not exploring every nook and cranny. The Evergaol appears as a circular stone arena, and once you interact with it, you’ll be transported into the boss battle instantly.
What Makes the Crucible Knight Dangerous
This boss doesn’t rely on magic or long-range attacks. Instead, he is a master of heavy melee combat, boasting quick combos, shield counters, and a terrifying second phase that includes both tail swipes and flight attacks. The Crucible Knight (Stormhill) is immune to stagger, resistant to most elemental damage, and punishes greedy players with brutal precision.
Combat Strategy: Phase One
1. Patience is key.
His shield and armor make him almost impervious to light weapon spam. Time your dodges, learn his patterns, and punish only after his full combo.
2. Shield users beware.
His attacks break stamina fast. If you're relying on a shield, consider switching to a light roll build and dodge through his strikes instead.
3. Don’t rely on magic.
The Crucible Knight (Stormhill) closes distance quickly. Unless you're confident in spacing, magic builds will struggle.
Combat Strategy: Phase Two
At around 50% HP, he’ll sprout glowing wings and a dragon-like tail. This changes the flow of combat significantly:
1. Watch the tail swipe.
After a thrust or overhead strike, he often follows up with a wide tail attack. Roll toward him—not away—to avoid getting clipped.
2. Wing charge is deadly.
He’ll occasionally leap into the air and slam down with his wing. Dodge sideways and retaliate immediately, as it has a short recovery.
3. Keep stamina for evasion.
Running out of stamina during phase two can be a death sentence. Conserve your swings and prioritize defense.
Recommended Builds and Weapons
While the Crucible Knight (Stormhill) is technically beatable early in the game, he’s best approached after leveling up a bit:
Is It Worth Fighting Early?
Yes—but only if you're up for the challenge. Beating the Crucible Knight (Stormhill) rewards you with a valuable item (Aspects of the Crucible: Tail) and early bragging rights. It’s also excellent preparation for tougher crucible enemies later in the game.
The Crucible Knight (Stormhill) is one of Elden Ring’s earliest "git gud" moments—a true test of your ability to adapt and learn. Whether you're a melee bruiser or a nimble rogue, the fight teaches timing, spacing, and restraint. Don’t be discouraged by early losses; when you finally land that killing blow, the satisfaction is immense.
Where to Find the Crucible Knight in Stormhill
The Crucible Knight (Stormhill) resides within the Stormhill Evergaol, located just west of the Rampart Tower in Limgrave. It’s not marked on your map by default, so it’s easy to miss if you’re not exploring every nook and cranny. The Evergaol appears as a circular stone arena, and once you interact with it, you’ll be transported into the boss battle instantly.
What Makes the Crucible Knight Dangerous
This boss doesn’t rely on magic or long-range attacks. Instead, he is a master of heavy melee combat, boasting quick combos, shield counters, and a terrifying second phase that includes both tail swipes and flight attacks. The Crucible Knight (Stormhill) is immune to stagger, resistant to most elemental damage, and punishes greedy players with brutal precision.
Combat Strategy: Phase One
1. Patience is key.
His shield and armor make him almost impervious to light weapon spam. Time your dodges, learn his patterns, and punish only after his full combo.
2. Shield users beware.
His attacks break stamina fast. If you're relying on a shield, consider switching to a light roll build and dodge through his strikes instead.
3. Don’t rely on magic.
The Crucible Knight (Stormhill) closes distance quickly. Unless you're confident in spacing, magic builds will struggle.
Combat Strategy: Phase Two
At around 50% HP, he’ll sprout glowing wings and a dragon-like tail. This changes the flow of combat significantly:
1. Watch the tail swipe.
After a thrust or overhead strike, he often follows up with a wide tail attack. Roll toward him—not away—to avoid getting clipped.
2. Wing charge is deadly.
He’ll occasionally leap into the air and slam down with his wing. Dodge sideways and retaliate immediately, as it has a short recovery.
3. Keep stamina for evasion.
Running out of stamina during phase two can be a death sentence. Conserve your swings and prioritize defense.
Recommended Builds and Weapons
While the Crucible Knight (Stormhill) is technically beatable early in the game, he’s best approached after leveling up a bit:
- Dexterity builds: Lightweight weapons like katanas and spears give you speed and range, helping you poke and roll away quickly.
- Strength builds: With enough poise and endurance, greatswords or colossal weapons can trade effectively in rare windows.
- Ashes of War: Equip defensive or quick-step Ashes to keep mobility high. Flame of the Redmanes can help apply stagger, but be precise.
Is It Worth Fighting Early?
Yes—but only if you're up for the challenge. Beating the Crucible Knight (Stormhill) rewards you with a valuable item (Aspects of the Crucible: Tail) and early bragging rights. It’s also excellent preparation for tougher crucible enemies later in the game.
The Crucible Knight (Stormhill) is one of Elden Ring’s earliest "git gud" moments—a true test of your ability to adapt and learn. Whether you're a melee bruiser or a nimble rogue, the fight teaches timing, spacing, and restraint. Don’t be discouraged by early losses; when you finally land that killing blow, the satisfaction is immense.
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