To defeat Pontiff Sulyvahn in Dark Souls III, you need to learn his attack patterns and dodge his moves effectively. Timing your dodges and counterattacks is crucial. Utilize a shield with high stability or consider parrying his attacks. Summoning help from other players or NPCs can also make the fight easier.
Phase 1:
When first facing Pontiff Sulyvahn in Dark Souls III, it's important to maintain a defensive stance. Keep your shield up to block his fast and aggressive attacks. Monitor his attack patterns closely to learn when to dodge and counter. You'll notice that he often attacks in two or three-hit combos, leaving himself momentarily vulnerable after his flurry of strikes. Seize these opportunities to strike back and chip away at his health.
Phase 2:
After depleting around 60% of his health, Pontiff Sulyvahn will create a clone of himself, introducing a new layer of complexity to the fight. Both Pontiff and his phantom will attack simultaneously, emphasizing the importance of managing your stamina and positioning. Focus on dodging efficiently, as blocking every strike from both enemies is not a sustainable strategy. Keep an eye on their movements to anticipate their attacks and find openings to retaliate.
Weapon and Armor:
Ensure that you are using a weapon that complements your playstyle. Weapons with quick attack speed can be advantageous in this fight to capitalize on the brief openings Pontiff leaves. Additionally, upgrading your weapon to a higher level will significantly increase your damage output. Regarding armor, prioritize lightweight gear that allows for quick movement to evade attacks swiftly. Consider equipping gear that enhances your stamina regeneration to sustain your defensive capabilities throughout the battle.
Elemental Buffs and Resins:
To increase your damage output, utilize elemental buffs and resins that exploit Pontiff's weaknesses. Experiment with different buffs such as fire or lightning resin to discover which elemental damage type is most effective against him. Applying these buffs to your weapon can give you an edge in the fight, especially when combined with well-timed strikes during his vulnerable moments.
Learn and Adapt:
Adaptation is key in defeating a formidable opponent like Pontiff Sulyvahn. Treat each attempt as a learning experience, analyzing his attack patterns, tells, and timings. Take note of his combos and the moments he transitions between phases. By understanding his behavior, you can anticipate his moves more effectively and respond accordingly. Patience is crucial in this battle, as rushing in recklessly will likely result in swift defeat.
Summon Assistance:
If you find yourself struggling against Pontiff Sulyvahn, consider summoning assistance to aid you in the fight. By summoning cooperative players or NPCs, you can divert his attention and create opportunities to attack. Having additional allies can also help manage aggro, giving you breathing room to heal or reposition during intense moments. Coordination with your summoned helpers is essential, as a cohesive strategy can turn the tide in your favor.
Environmental Awareness:
Utilize the arena to your advantage by understanding its layout and leveraging it during the battle. Positioning yourself strategically can create distance between you and Pontiff Sulyvahn, allowing you to recuperate or plan your next move. Be mindful of any environmental hazards that can hinder your movements or obscure your vision. By staying aware of your surroundings, you can avoid unnecessary pitfalls and maintain control over the pace of the fight.
Patience and Persistence:
Remember that defeating Pontiff Sulyvahn in Dark Souls III is a challenging endeavor that requires patience and persistence. Each attempt brings you closer to unraveling his patterns and mastering the necessary tactics to emerge victorious. Stay focused, learn from your mistakes, and remain determined in your pursuit of conquering this formidable foe. With practice and perseverance, you can overcome the Pontiff's relentless assault and claim victory in this demanding battle.