Xaldin emerges as a uniquely challenging secondary boss in The First Berserker: Khazan, taking inspiration from the Viper’s first form. Players who have journeyed through the game will find him both familiar and novel. You will confront Xaldin during the “Human Xilence”mission while Khazan aims to eliminate the last remnants of the Dragonkin soldiers in the area. While Xaldin shares a design lineage with Viper, his combat style introduces entirely new attacks, distinguishing him from other secondary bosses within the game.
After overcoming Maluca in The First Berserker: Khazan, players can head to the Nadin Quarry to engage in the “Human Xilence”mission directly. As you navigate through the quarry’s various sections, you’ll eventually reach the Main Cavern Stairway, where the confrontation with Xaldin occurs. Be advised, there’s a formidable elite enemy positioned outside the battle arena, so prepare yourself for a confrontation or make a strategic escape. Defeating this enemy will grant you valuable items from the Fallen Lord Set, which is especially beneficial for spear builds as you tackle the mid-game bosses.
Strategies for Defeating Xaldin in The First Berserker: Khazan
Beware of Xaldin’s Boomerang Spear Attack
Unlike typical secondary bosses who often have familiar attack patterns, Xaldin’s combat style diverges significantly from the first phase of the Viper boss. His attack set includes unique swinging and slashing movements, focusing intensely on close-range encounters rather than traditional patterns. Notable moves include a two-hit spinning and slashing combo alongside a distinct four-hit slash sequence that can be either dodged or defended against using the Brink Guard technique.
A key move to watch out for is Xaldin’s Spear Boomerang, which can severely drain your stamina and health. It’s crucial to dodge right when he throws it and avoid getting hit on its return trajectory. Alternatively, you can use the Brink Guard to deflect the spear, interrupting his subsequent attack. Throughout the encounter, there are numerous chances for Reflection and counter-attacks during his stabbing maneuvers, but always stay alert as a poorly timed evade can result in being skewered.
When Xaldin spins his spear over his head, this is often followed by a slow, descending slash, providing an excellent opportunity for a Reflection. Overall, defeating Xaldin is manageable, primarily requiring caution against his health-draining stabbing attack, which can launch you into the air multiple times. Thankfully, there’s no second phase, which stands in contrast to the challenge presented by Viper, but prepare yourself for a different challenge against a reskinned version of Viper’s second form, known as Xilence, in the subsequent mission.
Rewards for Overcoming Xaldin
The Fallen Lord Set: Ideal for Spear Builds
Upon defeating Xaldin, players are rewarded with two items randomly selected from the Fallen Lord Set, which is specifically designed for spear combatants and includes the Fallen Lord’s Spear. This set offers increased damage for abilities like Full Moon and Spiral Thrust, enhancing Khazan’s afterimage and Moonlight skills. Additionally, Xaldin drops Spirit Ore, a random weapon or accessory, and two Transmutation Mists to aid in your progression.
In summary, Xaldin presents a relatively straightforward challenge with a few tricky attacks. However, a well-timed Reflection or counter-attack can easily turn the tide in your favor. Pay close attention to his overhead spinning attack, as this signals an impending opportunity for a defensive maneuver. By effectively managing his stamina, you can unleash devastating counterattacks. The rewards from the Fallen Lord Set will greatly enhance your spear gear as you prepare for upcoming battles in The First Berserker: Khazan.