Apart from the various strong bosses in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree, there are also weaker ones that don't stand out in terms of strength. However, they should not be overlooked as they offer valuable rewards. One such enemy is the optional boss Ancient Dragon-Man, who resides in Dragon's Pit. This guide will detail where to find him and how to defeat him.

Ancient Dragon-Man Location

When you first encounter the Ancient Dragon-Man, he will appear as an invader rather than a boss. However, the second encounter will present him as a boss. To find him, head to the Pillar Path Waypoint Site of Grace, where you'll find Igon, a fallen warrior who curses Bayle the Dread.

Passing by Igon, you will face the Ancient Dragon-Man invader form. Wielding the Dragon-Hunter’s Great Katana, he will charge at you. Despite his threatening appearance, he is relatively easy to handle. Without armor, the Ancient Dragon-Man's defense is weak, making him vulnerable to your attacks. Be cautious of his weapon, which shoots an energy wave, but with his low health, he shouldn't pose a significant threat.

After defeating the invader, continue south along the road to find the entrance to Dragon’s Pit. This dungeon is relatively straightforward, with the main challenge being a jump into a pit at the end. Don't worry, the fall won't kill you, and you'll end up right at the entrance to the boss arena, where you'll face the Ancient Dragon Man again.

Battle with Ancient Dragon-Man

Unlike traditional boss battles, this encounter feels more like an invasion you would experience during regular gameplay. Apart from memorizing some attack moves and choosing the right moments to strike, your success depends on the mistakes the Ancient Dragon Man makes.

Despite wielding a large weapon, his attacks are quick, making patience and timing crucial in this fight. Wait for him to use his dragon head strike, which leaves him vulnerable due to its slow recovery time.

Summoning a spirit ash, especially a strong one like Mimic Tear, can significantly simplify the battle. Focus on striking when he isn't targeting you, and avoid his ranged attacks.

The fight takes place in a cave, surrounded by rocky walls, so be mindful not to back into a wall. The boss's greatsword causes bleed damage, which can be deadly if the corresponding bar fills up. Fortunately, the Elden Ring Ancient Dragon Man is also susceptible to bleed damage, giving you a strategic advantage if you can land enough hits to stagger him.

Dragon head attacks are the most dangerous. He can either spew lava on the floor or launch a fireball at you. Both attacks are easy to dodge, and with careful timing, you can avoid them and counterattack effectively. Summoning Mimic Tear Ash can be helpful, but this boss can be handled solo if you remain focused and avoid his attacks.

Melee Strategy

This fight can be straightforward for melee fighters, especially those proficient in parrying. However, rely only a little on your shield, as his attacks cause bleed damage even through blocks. His agility makes him a difficult target, but it also means he is easier to knock down. Land light hits at the end of his combo or after his jumping attack. If you hit, keep attacking until he dodges. If you miss, be ready to dodge his counterattack.

Dragon head attacks are slow, and while they provide an opportunity to hit, the risk may not be worth it. Even if he starts one of these attacks nearby, you should have enough time to retreat safely. Focus on striking during recovery periods and avoid his special moves.

Ranged Strategy

Ranged fighters will need patience, as the Ancient Dragon Man can effectively dodge projectiles. When he targets you, dodge until your spirit ash distracts him or until he uses a dragon head attack.

This attack can provoke a lava eruption from his mouth, with a wide range, but after dodging, you’ll have ample time for ranged attacks. His most significant threat is the "Aerial Strike" ranged attack, where he jumps and sends a piercing wave at you. This move is fast and can catch you off guard. Always be ready to dodge.

Having a strong melee spirit ash to draw his attention can greatly help. Summons like Black Knife Tiche or Banished Knight Oleg are excellent choices.

Ancient Dragon Man Moves and Attacks

Ancient Dragon-Man’s attacks are primarily executed with his great katana, along with some unique dragon abilities.

Great Katana Attacks:

• Downward Jump: The boss jumps and delivers a powerful blow, whether running or standing still. It causes damage but allows a counterattack due to slow recovery.
• Piercing Strike: Dragon-Man directs his sword straight at you, which may be a series of hits turning into a combo, so be cautious.
• Rushing Strike: Running towards you, the boss can perform a rushing-jumping or piercing strike or a left-to-right attack. These can be dodged and then countered if there is enough distance between you.
• Basic Great Sword Combo: A standard five-hit combination.

Special Moves:

• Dragon Head Magma: A dragon head appears, spewing magma. The attack has a limited range but leaves a dangerous puddle.
• Dragon Head Bite: The horned dragon head performs a strong bite. To avoid this attack, stay at a two-roll distance.
• Aerial Strike: The boss jumps and performs a circular strike with red energy. It’s not a very dangerous attack, but still requires caution.
• Aerial Wave: Similar to the previous aerial attack, but the boss sends a piercing wave. It’s fast and has a wide range.

General Tips for Defeating Ancient Dragon-Man

The best time to counterattack is after his jumping attack. At one point, the boss may drink a flask to restore a quarter of his health, so be prepared for a somewhat prolonged fight. However, you can always interrupt this attempt.

Always roll back when he attacks with the dragon head, and dodge sideways when he glows in the air. Melee fighters should use the recovery time after the dragon head attack. He flinches from attacks, so if your first light attack lands, continue hitting. Don’t use shields to block his bleed-inducing attacks. A strong spirit ash can significantly simplify the battle.

Rewards for Defeating Ancient Dragon-Man

Though the Ancient Dragon-Man is one of the easiest bosses in the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion, defeating him will earn you a substantial amount of runes and a powerful new weapon, the Dragon Hunter's Great Katana. With these tips and strategies, you’ll easily defeat the Ancient Dragon-Man and continue your journey through the world of Elden Ring.