Grave Warden Duelist in Elden Ring

In the vast and perilous world of Elden Ring, every corner hides formidable adversaries, some mandatory for progression and others lurking as optional trials for daring players. Among these optional bosses is the Grave Warden Duelist, a brutal guardian with a storied past. Once gladiators who shed blood for entertainment, these warriors now serve a darker purpose: protecting gravesites with unrelenting ferocity. Their chains, hammers, and merciless grabs make them a dangerous foe to encounter, especially for unprepared Tarnished.

 

Defeating a Grave Warden Duelist is not required to advance the main storyline, but overcoming them can be rewarding. These battles provide players with valuable Elden Ring Runes and, in some cases, unique Elden Ring Items that aid in character progression, weapon enhancement, or survival. For players aiming to strengthen their build or test their combat skills, engaging the Grave Warden Duelist is a worthwhile challenge.

 

Grave Warden Duelist Variants

 

The Elden Ring world doesn't feature just one version of this opponent. Players may encounter several variants, each with unique characteristics and settings.

 

Duelist (standard enemy): The regular, non-boss variant that can appear in certain areas as a powerful foe.

 

Frenzied Duelist: A variant that exhibits more aggressive behavior, pushing the Tarnished's reflexes to the limit.

 

Putrid Grave Warden Duelist: Infused with rot, this variant can inflict status ailments in addition to heavy damage.

 

Rotten Duelist: Another normal enemy variation, often tied to areas steeped in decay and corruption.

 

These variations ensure that facing a Duelist never feels repetitive. Each fight requires a different level of caution and strategy, especially when status effects or increased aggression come into play.

 

Where to Find the Grave Warden Duelist

 

Players seeking out the Grave Warden Duelist can locate them in two notable areas:

 

Murkwater Catacombs: Nestled in the depths of Limgrave, these catacombs hide many secrets, with the Duelist waiting to test adventurers who dare tread too far. This early encounter allows new players to experience the boss at a manageable stage, though preparation is still key.

 

Auriza Side Tomb: Found closer to Leyndell, the Royal Capital, this site offers another Duelist battle. Here, the Duelist is tougher due to the progression of the game, and players will need refined combat skills and upgraded equipment.

 

Both locations emphasize the Duelist's role as a guardian of tombs, standing as both protector and executioner.

 

Combat Information and Weaknesses

 

Understanding the Grave Warden Duelist's combat mechanics is crucial for victory. While intimidating, they are not invincible, and players who exploit their weaknesses can turn the fight in their favor.

 

Stance: 65: The Duelist's stance can be broken with consistent heavy attacks, opening opportunities for critical strikes.

 

Parryable: Yes: Skilled players can parry the Duelist's swings, leaving them vulnerable.

 

Critical Hits: A stance break or successful parry exposes the Duelist to devastating critical damage.

 

Backstab Opportunities: Their wide attack animations and heavy weapon swings leave openings for players to circle behind and deliver a backstab.

 

Damage Type: The Duelist primarily deals strike damage, using chained hammers for devastating overhead slams and spinning swings.

 

Additionally, the Duelist is notorious for grabbing opponents and slamming them to the ground, dealing massive damage. Dodging at the right moment is essential to avoid being caught in this punishing attack.

 

Strategy for Defeating the Grave Warden Duelist

 

When approaching the Grave Warden Duelist, patience and precision are key. Players who recklessly rush in often fall victim to the sheer power of the chained hammers. Here are some essential strategies:

 

Maintain Distance: Their chained weapons have surprising reach. Keep an eye on spacing to avoid unexpected hits.

 

Punish Recovery: After large swings, the Duelist leaves openings that can be exploited with quick strikes.

 

Use Shields or Dodging: A high-stability shield can mitigate damage, though many players prefer to rely on dodge rolls due to the Duelist's grab attacks.

 

Stance Breaking: Focus on breaking their stance with charged heavy attacks, jump attacks, or guard counters to open opportunities for critical hits.

 

Spirit Ashes Support: Summoning Spirit Ashes can help distract the Duelist, giving players more chances to strike safely.

 

Victory requires both observation and adaptation, as each Duelist can slightly alter their timing and combos.

 

Rewards

 

While optional, defeating a Grave Warden Duelist yields meaningful rewards. Beyond the satisfaction of conquering a tough foe, players earn a generous amount of Elden Ring Runes, which can be spent to level up attributes or purchase supplies. In certain locations, the Duelist may also drop valuable Elden Ring Items such as upgrade materials, ashes, or consumables tied to their grave-protecting role.

 

These rewards make the fight worthwhile for any Tarnished seeking to progress their character. Even if the items themselves are not always unique, the runes gained ensure tangible growth after each victory.

 

Final Thoughts

 

The Grave Warden Duelist is more than just an optional fight, it's a test of patience, precision, and preparation. With their chained hammers, devastating grabs, and intimidating presence, these gladiators-turned-guardians demand respect from any Tarnished who crosses their path. Whether found in the depths of the Murkwater Catacombs or the Auriza Side Tomb, they stand as fierce obstacles guarding both treasures and tales of the dead.

 

Defeating them not only grants Elden Ring Runes and useful Elden Ring Items, but also reinforces the core theme of Elden Ring: that every battle is an opportunity for growth, and every victory brings the Tarnished one step closer to becoming Elden Lord.