Defeating the Blade Phantom in The First Berserker: Khazan: A Guide

Boss fights are never straightforward, especially when you're caught off guard by their complexity. In *The First Berserker: Khazan*, players should brace themselves for unexpected challenges during boss encounters. Here's a detailed guide on how to conquer the Blade Phantom in *The First Berserker: Khazan*.

Phase 1

Image Source: Nexon via The Escapist

The eerie whispers that have haunted Khazan take form in the Trials of the Frozen Mountain level on Stormpass as the Blade Phantom. True to its name, this formidable adversary challenges players to master their stamina management and aggression amidst a barrage of relentless attacks. This marks your first encounter with a multi-phase boss.

The battle commences in a castle with floors awash in crimson liquid. The Blade Phantom unleashes a variety of attacks:

• A six-hit combo consisting of four punches and two kicks, with the second kick delayed.
• A three-hit combo with two punches followed by a downward kick.
• A four-hit combo beginning with a right hook, followed by two kicks, and ending with a leaping kick smash.
• A three-hit combo featuring flashing punches, culminating in a grab that must be dodged.

In addition to these melee assaults, the Blade Phantom can summon a giant hammer in The First Berserker: Khazan, which it swings down to cause damage and spawn red spikes. If it opts for the spear, prepare for a swift throw followed by a teleporting smash. When wielding a blade, it unleashes a rapid six-hit combo. It may also vanish, dashing unpredictably around the arena before striking.

Mastering the timing to parry or dodge these attacks allows you to strike back effectively, depleting the Phantom's stamina for a Brutal Attack. Continue this strategy until you reduce its health by about half, triggering the transition to the second phase.

Phase 2

Image Source: Nexon via The Escapist

The second phase begins with the Blade Phantom launching four claw attacks, followed by a high-altitude spear throw. After the spear hits the ground, quickly move out of the impact zone to avoid the subsequent leaping swipe. The boss then unleashes three greatsword slashes, culminating in a hammer smash.

Besides the new claw attacks, the Blade Phantom retains most of its earlier moveset but introduces a spear thrust and follow-up, as well as four to six rapid dual-wielding attacks. It also increases its teleportation frequency. When armed with the greatsword, be wary of its multiple slashes and the final Burst Attack, signaled by a red P-like symbol on the screen. To counter this effectively, use the Counterattack (L1/LB + Circle/B), which not only parries the attack but also replenishes your stamina, leaving the boss vulnerable to further assaults.

Strategically exploit the moments when the Blade Phantom's stamina is depleted, and only execute the Brutal Attack when the window is nearly closed to maximize damage and streamline your path to victory. Upon defeating the boss, you'll be rewarded with 8,640 Lacrima, various Soul Eater gear items, a Shieldsman’s Ring, and Netherworld Mineral for crafting.

This comprehensive guide covers the essentials for overcoming the Blade Phantom in The First Berserker: Khazan. For additional assistance with the game, feel free to explore resources at The Escapist.

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