Once you’ve fought through the dungeon of The First Berserker: Khazan’s Forgotten Temple, you’ll be confronted by Viper. This imposing foe has a lethal set of attacks and closes gaps in an instant. To add insult to injury, right when you think the battle is done, he reveals a second form.
This guide will cover Viper’s varied moveset, his few windows of vulnerability, and the strategies you will need to best this dangerous foe. This battle may be daunting, but we will help you bare your fangs and win!
Defeating the Blade Phantom in The First Berserker: Khazan
The Blade Phantom is a rather aggressive boss, but he leaves ample chances to heal between attacks. Most of his attacks can be blocked by a well-timed Brink Guard, but getting the timing right is key. He mixes between fast and delayed attacks, meaning you will have to tap the guard button many times just to have a chance of executing a Brink Guard.
His grab attack is the only move he does that you need to play extra carefully around — be ready for the audio cue that he’s about to do this, then use a dodge as soon as you hear it, if you get caught, it will take half your health at least and is an unnecessary risk. The most critical attack to perfect guard is his Dual Blades combo. This six-hit sequence will make a sizable dent in the boss’s stamina, making it prone to a Brutal Attack by breaking his posture.
During this fight, you can take advantage of the Skill Tree, so ensure you have a few active Spirit Skills ready. One particularly useful option is Ruthless from the Frenzy category. This skill consumes one Spirit and deals significant damage to the boss’s health bar—making it especially effective when used right before a Brutal Attack.
As the second phase begins, the boss will initiate a Claw attack followed by a spear throw. Stay alert, as this sequence doesn’t end there—the boss can instantly teleport to your location and follow up with a greatsword combo. It’s crucial to have at least two heals saved for this phase. Another attack to watch out for involves the boss summoning a spear from the ground, teleporting to your position, and delivering a leg stomp. Fortunately, both of these attacks can be blocked, so you won’t need to worry about the spikes.
Unlike the previous battle with Yetuga, this fight rewards you with both Skill Points and Lacrima based on the damage you deal. This makes repeated attempts beneficial, as even in defeat, you can improve your stats and unlock new skills at the Blade Nexus.
Breakdown of Blade Phantom’s Attacks in The First Berserker: Khazan
The Blade Phantom is found near the Battered Blade Nexus in Tempest Cliff. After completing the final trial, head up the slope, cross the wooden bridge, and follow the mountain path. You’ll come across the Blade Nexus beside a group of statues. Interacting with it allows you to restore health, upgrade your stats, and trigger the boss cutscene.
Phase 1
6-Hit Combo: The boss unleashes a rapid six-hit sequence consisting of four fist strikes followed by two slightly delayed kicks, designed to disrupt your guard timing.
Dive Kick: Blade Phantom starts with a kick before leaping into the air and following up with a powerful dive kick.
Dual Blades Combo: This attack begins with a red slash indicator on your screen, signaling the boss to draw his dual blades. He then executes a fast six-hit combo, which can be relatively easy to Brink Guard.
Grab & Stomp: Occasionally, the boss cancels his combos and transitions into a grab animation. A distinct audio cue provides enough time to react. Whether the grab connects or not, he follows up by charging his foot and stomping the ground, causing spikes to erupt in the surrounding area.
Greathammer Slam: Blade Phantom summons a greathammer, charges forward, and slams it into the ground, triggering spikes to rise. This is a heavily delayed attack.
Spear Jab: The boss dashes backward and conjures a spear, which he then thrusts forward in a jabbing motion.
Phase 2
Claws & Spear Throw: At the start of the second phase, Blade Phantom wields his claws and delivers a rapid multi-hit combo. He then leaps into the air and hurls a spear at your location. After a brief delay, the spear erupts, generating spikes in the area.
Greatsword & Greathammer Combo: The boss draws his greatsword and launches into a multi-hit combo before summoning a greathammer. He then slams it down at your location, causing spikes to emerge from the ground.
Rewards for Defeating Blade Phantom in The First Berserker: Khazan
Defeating the Blade Phantom will grant you the following rewards:
- 7,200 Lacrima
- Soul Eater’s Helm
- Soul Eater’s Pants
- Necklace of Resolve
- Netherworld Mineral
