Introducing Messmer the Impaler: A Standout Boss in Elden Ring’s Shadow of the Erdtree
Elden Ring’s highly anticipated 2024 expansion, Shadow of the Erdtree, has fans buzzing with excitement, especially after the introduction of ten new bosses, including the unforgettable Messmer the Impaler. This unique boss blends beauty and horror, reminiscent of the Sphinx from Dragon’s Dogma. As the son of Queen Marika, Messmer is a demigod adorned in stunning regal armor, yet his elongated, wiry limbs and claw-like nails evoke a sense of unease. Adding to the mystery is a two-headed abyssal serpent housed within his armor—a gift from his mother, who also replaced one of his eyes with a protective seal to thwart the serpent’s powers.
True to his fearsome title, Messmer wields an enormous spear with devastating precision and commands fire magic while being immune to Sleep and Madness. Players should prepare for fire resistance, but the initial phase of the battle is relatively manageable. Early spear attacks allow players to dodge and land a few strikes.
However, the real challenge emerges once Messmer’s health drops to 50%. In a surprising twist, he pauses to apologize to his mother, then plucks and crushes his artificial eye, unleashing his full power. The battle transitions into a more terrifying phase as players face Base Serpent Messmer, a grotesquely transformed version of the demigod characterized by twisted limbs and ruined flesh. His spear assaults become increasingly punishing, forcing players to strategize between healing and attacking while evading his onslaught. In a climactic moment, Messmer transforms into a colossal serpent that breathes fire and lunges at players with deadly intent.
Amidst the ferocity of this boss fight, players may find themselves empathizing with Messmer, briefly haunted by the tragedy of his transformation at the hands of his mother. His hesitation before sacrificing his eye suggests a lingering sense of pain and humanity. This captivating and chilling encounter solidifies Messmer the Impaler as a memorable addition to Elden Ring, ensuring that this battle lingers in the minds of players long after they put down the controller.
