Defeating the Blade Phantom in The First Berserker: Khazan: Tips and Strategies

Boss fights can be daunting, especially when you're not fully prepared. In *The First Berserker: Khazan*, players face numerous challenges and surprises during boss encounters. Here's a detailed guide on how to conquer the Blade Phantom in *The First Berserker: Khazan*.

Phase 1

The eerie whispers of Khazan take form in the Trials of the Frozen Mountain level on Stormpass, manifesting as the formidable Blade Phantom. True to its name, this boss challenges players with a relentless barrage of attacks, testing their ability to balance stamina management and aggression. This is also your first multi-phase boss encounter.

The battle commences in a castle flooded with a crimson liquid. The Blade Phantom employs a variety of attacks, including:

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

Beyond these melee assaults, the Blade Phantom can summon a giant hammer, causing damage and spawning red spikes. If it opts for the spear, anticipate a quick throw followed by a teleporting smash, which you must evade. When wielding a blade, it unleashes a swift six-hit combo. It can also vanish and dash across the battlefield before striking.

Mastering the timing of these attacks allows you to parry or dodge, creating openings to strike and deplete the Blade Phantom's stamina for a Brutal Attack. Continue this strategy until you reduce its health by about half, triggering the transition to Phase 2.

Phase 2

In the second phase, the Blade Phantom initiates with four claw attacks, followed by a high-altitude spear throw. Evade the area where the spear lands and prepare for a leaping swipe. Subsequent attacks include three greatsword slashes and a concluding hammer smash.

While the new claw attacks are introduced, the Blade Phantom's repertoire largely remains consistent, with the addition of a spear thrust and follow-up, and four to six swift dual-wielding strikes. Teleportation becomes more frequent, and when wielding the greatsword, be wary of multiple slashes culminating in a Burst Attack signaled by a red P-like symbol on the screen. To counter this, use the Counterattack (L1/LB + Circle/B) to parry, replenishing your stamina and exposing the boss to further attacks.

Exploit opportunities to attack when the Blade Phantom's stamina is depleted, and only launch the Brutal Attack as the window nears its end to maximize damage. Successfully defeating the boss rewards you with 8,640 Lacrima, Soul Eater gear items, a Shieldsman’s Ring, and Netherworld Mineral for crafting.

This guide covers the essential strategies for defeating the Blade Phantom in *The First Berserker: Khazan*. For additional assistance with the game, visit The Escapist.

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