The battle against the Putrescent Knight in Phase 2 is a true test of skill, awareness, and timing for any player who dares to challenge this decayed, terrifying force. After surviving Phase 1, which already tests your knowledge of patterns and positioning, the second phase elevates the danger significantly. Understanding the mechanics, recognizing the attack cues, and responding properly are all essential if you hope to bring the Putrescent Knight to its knees. This guide will break down the key aspects of Phase 2, explain its behaviors, and give you a tactical approach to victory without overwhelming jargon.
Transition Into Phase 2
Recognizing the Shift
Phase 2 of the Putrescent Knight encounter begins once its health drops below 50%, often marked by a cinematic pause or a sudden roar that signals a new threat level. The transition phase is short but dangerous; the boss may unleash a powerful area-of-effect attack as it mutates or strengthens. Players should always be prepared to back away and reposition the moment the boss’s posture or animation shifts.
Visual and Audio Cues
During the transition, you’ll notice glowing pustules bursting on the Knight’s armor, and the room might darken slightly as the arena becomes more corrupted. Listen for a deep, gurgling growl followed by a metallic shriek this indicates that Phase 2 has officially started. Dodging during this cue is crucial to avoid getting caught in the first blast of the second phase.
Changes in Attack Patterns
Increased Aggression
Once Phase 2 begins, the Putrescent Knight becomes faster and far more relentless in its attacks. You will see:
- Shorter pauses between combos
- Unpredictable attack patterns that combine melee and ranged strikes
- More frequent use of area-denial techniques such as toxic clouds or corruption zones
Players who relied on a defensive rhythm in Phase 1 will need to adjust to a more reactive and mobile playstyle. Static blocking or passive dodging won’t be enough in this phase.
New Abilities Introduced
The boss introduces at least two new abilities in Phase 2 that can catch players off guard:
- Corrupted Slam: A two-handed overhead slam that leaves behind a lingering pool of decay. Standing in it deals damage over time.
- Rotting Spears: The Knight summons bone-like spears from the ground that erupt in a straight line toward the player. These are telegraphed but quick.
Learning to spot the wind-up animations for these attacks is vital. Corrupted Slam often begins with a glowing red aura forming around the Knight’s gauntlets, while Rotting Spears is preceded by a rumble and faint cracks in the ground.
Combat Strategy for Phase 2
Maintain Mobility
The number one rule in Phase 2 is to keep moving. Standing still for even a few seconds can result in being overwhelmed. Use sprinting, dodging, and spacing to maintain control of the battlefield. Don’t panic if you’re forced to disengage resetting the fight from a distance is safer than trying to heal in melee range.
Time Your Dodges
Many of the Knight’s attacks in this phase are designed to bait early rolls. You should wait until the last possible moment to dodge, especially against multi-hit chains that punish panic dodging. Watch for the shoulder twitch or weapon glint that signals the moment of impact.
Use the Arena to Your Advantage
In Phase 2, the arena may start to degrade, with chunks falling or corruptive patches spreading. While this limits safe ground, it also allows clever use of the environment:
- Lure the Knight into small choke points where its wide swings can hit the walls and miss you
- Retreat to elevated terrain if available to avoid ground-based corruption attacks
- Use obstacles to break line of sight during ranged sequences
Best Loadout and Builds
Recommended Weapons
Agile, medium-damage weapons tend to perform best in Phase 2. Heavy weapons are harder to swing due to the Knight’s speed, while light weapons may lack the necessary punch to capitalize on openings. Consider using:
- Spears or halberds for their reach and quick pokes
- Fast greatswords with balanced stamina usage
- Magic weapons if you can stay mobile and cast efficiently
Defensive Gear
Prioritize armor that protects against both physical and rot-type damage. Resistance to poison or decay effects is crucial, as the Putrescent Knight frequently floods the area with lingering hazards. Stamina recovery gear is also helpful to ensure you can dodge multiple times without delay.
Healing and Stamina Management
Healing Windows
Unlike Phase 1, you’ll rarely find long windows to heal safely. Your best chances occur after the Knight finishes a big combo or during the casting of a long-range attack. Always heal immediately after dodging, not before.
Stamina Awareness
Since you’ll be dodging constantly, managing stamina is key. Avoid spamming rolls unless you’re certain an attack chain is coming. Save just enough stamina after every exchange to block or dodge at least once more. Never let yourself be caught without stamina during an AoE attack.
Final Moments and Victory
Beware the Desperation Attacks
As the Putrescent Knight nears death, it may enter a desperation phase where attacks become even more erratic and powerful. Look out for:
- Rapid slam combos
- Two consecutive AoEs
- A final charge or leaping strike that tracks aggressively
Remain calm and avoid overcommitting. One or two more careful strikes are better than risking a full combo for a greedy finisher.
Defeating the Knight
When the Putrescent Knight finally falls, you’ll be rewarded with not only valuable loot but also a sense of triumph. This is one of the most grueling fights in the game, designed to test every skill you’ve developed up to this point. Victory comes not just from good gear, but from observation, patience, and precision.
Surviving the Putrescent Knight Phase 2 requires more than just brute strength it demands adaptability, timing, and a full understanding of the boss’s patterns. Whether you’re fighting solo or alongside allies, learning to read the arena, avoid deadly attacks, and strike when the moment is right will lead you to success. Keep your mind sharp, your feet light, and your weapon ready. This is a battle that defines your mastery of the game’s mechanics, and conquering it will be one of the most satisfying victories you’ll earn.