The Shadow of the Erdtree DLC for Elden Ring introduces a plethora of formidable foes, and among the early challenges that await players is the Divine Dancing Lion. This majestic yet ferocious creature can certainly pose a significant hurdle, even for seasoned Tarnished. Many players, myself included, might find themselves struggling against this ancient beast on their first encounter. Fortunately, with the right approach and a bit of tactical maneuvering, victory is well within reach. This guide will provide you with effective strategies to overcome the Divine Dancing Lion, ensuring you can progress deeper into the Land of Shadow.
Taming the Beast: Divine Dancing Lion Phase One
Elden Ring Boss Divine Beast Dancing Lion Phase One Aggressive Combat
During the initial phase of the fight, the Divine Dancing Lion typically operates at about one-third to one-half of its total health. This phase presents the prime opportunity to unleash aggressive tactics and inflict substantial damage. In my experience, the Dancing Lion is notably susceptible to staggering during this phase, paving the way for devastating critical hits. To capitalize on this vulnerability, I highly recommend employing jump attacks and potent Ashes of War. Skills like Moonveil’s Transient Moonlight or Eleonara’s Poleblade’s Bloodblade Dance prove particularly effective at disrupting the boss and setting up critical strikes. While status effects like Bleed and Frost are less impactful against this boss, focusing on raw damage and stagger potential is key to quickly transitioning to the next phase.
The Divine Dancing Lion does incorporate aerial assaults into its phase one moveset. Be wary of attacks where it takes flight, as some culminate in dive bombs or command grabs. While these grabs can be punishing, they are generally not as instantly fatal as similar moves from bosses like Malenia or Astel in the base game. These aerial attacks, while intimidating, often leave openings for counter-attacks if dodged effectively.
One of the most deceptive moves in the Dancing Lion’s arsenal, and one that frequently catches players off guard, is its breath attack. This attack typically concludes its longer combos, where the beast rears up on its hind legs, seemingly creating an opening for attack. However, this is a trap! When you see the Divine Dancing Lion rear up, it’s crucial to immediately back away. Staying close during this animation almost invariably results in taking significant damage from the encircling breath attack. Recognizing this cue and prioritizing defense over offense in this specific moment is essential for survival in phase one.
Adapting to the Elements: Divine Dancing Lion Phase Two
Elden Ring Boss Divine Beast Dancing Lion Phase Two Elemental Power Up
As the Divine Dancing Lion transitions into its second phase, typically triggered when its health drops to between two-thirds and one-half, the fight dynamics shift significantly. The boss cycles through three elemental power-ups, starting most commonly with lightning. While its core moveset remains largely consistent, each elemental infusion introduces a unique challenge that demands adaptation.
- Lightning Infusion: Drawing inspiration from Ancient Dragon encounters in the base game, the Divine Dancing Lion with lightning will periodically trigger ground-based lightning strikes. The ground will briefly glow, telegraphing the impending strikes. During this phase, it becomes riskier to remain stationary or overly aggressive, as you can easily be punished by the lightning for staying in to attack. Maintaining mobility and dodging the marked areas becomes paramount.
- Frost Infusion: In its frost phase, the Divine Dancing Lion becomes arguably its most dangerous. All of its attacks now inflict frost buildup, most notably its breath weapon. Additionally, it gains an area-of-effect (AOE) frost stomp attack reminiscent of Hoarfrost Stomp. This AOE move can be evaded by jumping or dodging, but the constant frost buildup and the wide-reaching breath attack make this phase a test of endurance and precise dodging.
- Air Infusion: The air-infused phase often feels like a relative respite compared to the frost phase. However, the Divine Dancing Lion gains a homing tornado attack during this phase. This tornado can be challenging to dodge or outrun, requiring precise timing and directional movement to avoid being caught in its path. While less immediately threatening than the frost phase, the tornado adds an element of persistent danger and requires constant vigilance.
If the fight proves too overwhelming, consider utilizing the summon of Redmane Freyja. She can be summoned before entering the boss room and can provide valuable assistance in drawing aggro and dealing damage. While I haven’t personally tested this fight without speaking to her at the Three Path Cross site of grace in the Gravesite Plain, progressing her questline is recommended regardless.
Persistence is key to overcoming the Divine Dancing Lion. By understanding its phases, adapting to its elemental shifts, and employing the strategies outlined above, you will eventually emerge victorious. Once you have defeated this majestic foe, remember to explore the area thoroughly. Proceed through the door and ascend the elevator located on the northern wall of the boss room (to your right when facing away from the entrance). While progressing the main story doesn’t strictly require this exploration, it unveils crucial contextual information that enriches the Shadow of the Erdtree narrative and enhances your overall experience in the Land of Shadow.
