Understanding Imlerith’s First Phase Combat Behavior
Witcher 3 Boss Guide to Beating Imlerith at Bald Mountain. The first stage of the fight introduces players to Imlerith’s heavy movements and powerful mace attacks. Despite his slow speed, every blow carries enough force to punish any poorly timed approach. His defensive stance blocks most direct frontal hits, so reckless aggression rarely pays off here. The encounter encourages players to observe patterns before committing to an attack.
Imlerith usually performs a three-hit combo, and the final strike has the longest reach. This sequence creates a clear opportunity for counterattacks only after he completes all three swings. Trying to break his rhythm earlier is ineffective because his armor absorbs most interruptions. Players who focus on timing rather than speed gain a significant advantage in this phase.
Adapting to Imlerith’s Faster and More Aggressive Second Phase
After his helmet is shattered, Imlerith becomes faster and more direct with his attacks. His mobility increases sharply, forcing players to adjust their reactions immediately. The removal of his shield means he is more vulnerable, but only if players exploit openings safely. Changing tempo during this transition is essential for survival.
During this phase, Imlerith can teleport short distances before attempting a sudden strike. These bursts make it harder to maintain distance, so players need to stay attentive and avoid committing to long animations. Dodging becomes more effective than rolling because it keeps Geralt within a favorable range for follow-up attacks. This shift in rhythm is an important element of any guide to beating Imlerith at higher difficulties.
Using Quen and Yrden to Control the Pace of the Fight
Quen remains one of the most dependable tools for absorbing damage during close-range exchanges. Reapplying it frequently allows players to remain in offensive positions longer without risking sudden defeat. Attempting this fight without Quen makes every mistake considerably more punishing. Consistent protection supports a smoother and more controlled battle flow.
Yrden contributes by slowing Imlerith’s movement whenever he steps into the circle. This slowdown makes reading his attacks easier and reduces the risk of being caught off guard. Placing Yrden near the middle of the arena helps ensure the area remains useful as the fight shifts locations. When used together, Quen and Yrden create a safer environment for executing counterattacks.
Preparing Effective Potions and Decoctions for Combat Stability
Potions such as Swallow and Thunderbolt play key roles in improving survivability and efficiency. Swallow helps regenerate health throughout the fight, while Thunderbolt enhances damage output during critical openings. White Raffard’s Decoction serves as an emergency resource when health drops too low. These items provide useful support without complicating the strategy.
Decoctions like Ekhidna reward stamina-based movement by offering health regeneration through frequent dodging. This becomes especially valuable during the second phase, where dodging is required more often. Tawny Owl boosts stamina recovery, allowing players to cast signs more consistently. Proper use of alchemy strengthens the foundation of any practical guide to beating Imlerith.
Executing Safe Counterattacks After Observing Attack Patterns
Players often struggle because they attempt long combos, leaving Geralt open to retaliation. The most reliable tactic is to strike once or twice after Imlerith finishes his attack chain. Strong attacks are typically too slow to be worth the risk, especially during the later phase. Short, controlled bursts of damage remain the safest option.
Sideways dodges help maintain proximity for immediate counterattacks while using less stamina than rolling. This positioning allows players to punish openings more effectively after avoiding a swing. Repeating this pattern steadily reduces Imlerith’s health without relying on risky maneuvers. With consistent timing, even higher difficulty settings become manageable.