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A Guide to Shadow Keep in the Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree DLC

Shadow of the Erdtree provides an expansive environment filled with hidden caves and impressive legacy dungeons. One of the notable dungeons is Shadow Keep, located in the northern part of Scadu Altus. This heavily fortified area is occupied by Messmer, the Impaler, along with his formidable forces, making it tough to conquer.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through accessing the Shadow Keep dungeon in the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC and help you collect every item found within its walls. Additionally, we’ll provide strategies for defeating the two major bosses encountered inside.

Getting Started: Recommended Levels

Before venturing into this dungeon, we suggest reaching at least Level 12 of the Scadutree Blessing to effectively combat the powerful enemies lurking inside. If your level is below 10, it’s best to hold off on attempting this dungeon, as the Fire Knights will overwhelm you. Ready? Let’s dive in!

Finding Shadow Keep in Elden Ring

Shadow Keep is an essential legacy dungeon in Elden Ring. As the first major dungeon in the Scadu Altus region, you’ll need to defeat Messmer to obtain the flame necessary for burning the seal blocking your progress.

To access Shadow Keep, head directly north of Castle Ensis, following the most straightforward route through the castle itself. After defeating Rellana, the Twin Moon Knight, continue north until you spot the entrance to Shadow Keep. Expect to encounter many enemies along the way, so proceed with caution. Utilize the lift near the entrance to reach the first site of grace, just before facing the Golden Hippopotamus boss.

Facing the Golden Hippopotamus Boss

The Golden Hippopotamus presents a significant challenge with its powerful attacks and devastating abilities. Avoid its bite, which can cause instant death if you’re caught.

The hippo also executes slam attacks with its body and limbs that can be dodged by moving to the side. Stay alert when it rolls on the ground—it’s an indicator to run away. Once its health drops to half, it transitions into a more aggressive second phase.

In this second phase, the Golden Hippopotamus summons spikes around its body, making it resemble a hedgehog. These spikes launch at you and are nearly impossible to evade, so brace yourself as best as you can.

After defeating the Golden Hippopotamus, a new site of grace will appear. Feel free to rest before continuing to explore Shadow Keep.

Exploring the Ramparts of Shadow Keep

From the Golden Hippopotamus site of grace, head left into a small chamber containing a ghost. Engage with the ghost to gather information.

Ascend the stairs to reach the ramparts, but remain cautious as multiple enemies await in this region. These foes can bolster their poise using a roaring skill. Once you defeat them, you can collect items such as 1x Festive Grease, and they might also drop Smithing Stone 5 randomly.

Turn right to discover a small room. Dispatch the two lesser enemies before confronting a Black Knight using a Twinblade. Be careful in this area, and remember to bypass the open window for now.

Gardens of Shadow Keep Exploration

Head back up, where you’ll find even more enemies: the Messmer Soldiers. They occasionally drop Messmer Soldier’s Greaves or Gauntlets upon defeat. Keep an eye out for a Redflesh Mushroom as well.

Try to avoid engaging multiple enemies at once, especially in the Dining Hall, where a group waits for you.

After you clear the area, interact with a dead body hanging from a window to retrieve the Golden Vow item.

Next, proceed with exploring the Gardens and eliminate more enemies for valuable drops.

Specimen Storehouse and Fire Knights

Now, your goal is to reach the Specimen Storehouse. This area houses many strange foes, so rest up at the Golden Hippopotamus site of grace. Ascend the ramp and take the stairs, but be prepared as a Messmer Knight awaits.

Engage and defeat this powerful knight to collect essential items such as 8x Bone Dart and 8x Smithing Stone 2. You’ll find the Specimen Storehouse is one of the largest and most intricate zones within Shadow Keep.

Building Your Strategy Against Messmer

To take down Messmer the Impaler, stay on your toes as he is one of the most formidable bosses in Elden Ring. He deals heavy damage and employs a variety of explosive attacks.

When he jumps down with a fire bomb, only dodge away during the explosion to minimize damage. Use agility and avoid blocking his attacks. As his health diminishes, expect a cutscene where he brings forth a primordial serpent, signaling a shift in the battle.

Remember to use summons to distract Messmer, and despite possible setbacks, maintain your determination. Your reward for this challenging endeavor will include the Remembrance of the Impaler and Messmer’s Kindling along with an impressive 400,000 Runes.

With this guide, you should be well-prepared to explore Shadow Keep and defeat its challenges. Good luck!