Introduction
The teleportation chest. It’s a classic trope, isn’t it? You open a seemingly innocuous container, only to be whisked away to a location you never expected, facing horrors beyond comprehension. In Elden Ring, few experiences encapsulate this feeling better than stumbling upon the path that leads to Astel, Naturalborn of the Void. One moment, you’re exploring Ainsel River or a hidden area, and the next, you’re staring down a colossal, winged monstrosity steeped in cosmic dread. Astel isn’t just another boss; it’s an encounter that embodies the strangeness and terror that Elden Ring excels at. This creature isn’t just a challenge; it is a reflection of the cosmic horrors woven into the tapestry of the Lands Between.
This guide will serve as your complete resource for understanding and conquering Astel, Naturalborn of the Void. We will delve into the creature’s attack patterns, identify its weaknesses, and arm you with effective strategies for victory. Beyond mere tactics, we will also explore the lore implications of Astel’s existence, unraveling its connection to the larger mysteries of Elden Ring and the Outer Gods that exert their influence. Prepare yourself, Tarnished, for a journey into the abyss.
Where to Find Astel
There are actually two versions of Astel you can encounter in Elden Ring, each with slightly different stats and locations. The primary and more iconic Astel is **Astel, Naturalborn of the Void**, and finding it requires a significant commitment to Ranni the Witch’s questline.
To reach Astel, Naturalborn of the Void, you must progress through Ranni’s quest until you reach the Grand Cloister in Lake of Rot. From there, you must traverse a river of rot filled with Basilisks. Once you reach the end you must interact with a coffin at the end of the grand cloister. You’ll then be transported to a boss arena, where Astel awaits. Completing Ranni’s questline is crucial not only for reaching Astel but also for unlocking one of Elden Ring’s several endings. So, consider it a necessary step for those aiming to experience all that the game has to offer.
The second version of this boss is **Astel, Stars of Darkness**, which is found in the Yelough Anix Tunnel of the Consecrated Snowfield. Reaching the Consecrated Snowfield requires collecting both halves of the Haligtree Secret Medallion and using it at the Grand Lift of Rold. Astel, Stars of Darkness is generally considered slightly easier than the Naturalborn of the Void due to its lower health pool and damage output. This also is a more accessible fight for those not interested in completing Ranni’s questline.
Understanding Astel’s Attacks
Astel’s attack arsenal is a terrifying mix of melee brutality and gravity-defying magic. Understanding these attacks is paramount to survival. Categorizing them helps to grasp the rhythm of the fight.
Melee Attacks
Astel possesses a long, sweeping tail, which it uses to deliver punishing blows. These tail swipes have a wide arc and can easily catch you off guard if you’re too close to its rear. Its massive claws also pose a significant threat, capable of ripping through armor with ease. Be wary of its mandibles, which it uses for quick, close-range attacks that can stagger you. These melee attacks are more common when you are in melee range of Astel. Staying aware of the attacks and moving out of their range is the best way to avoid them.
Magical Attacks
Astel is a master of gravity magic, summoning exploding stars that rain down on the arena. These stars have a wide area of effect, so constant movement is key to avoiding them. One of its most iconic moves involves creating a swirling nebula that deals continuous damage to anyone caught inside. Be ready to dodge out of the nebula as soon as it appears. Perhaps the most unsettling ability is Astel’s teleportation. It can vanish and reappear elsewhere in the arena, often followed by a surprise attack. Pay attention to the visual cues and prepare to dodge immediately after it reappears. Astel’s magic attacks are heavily telegraphed, the best way to avoid these attacks is to watch out for the animations associated with them.
The key to surviving Astel’s onslaught lies in recognizing the telegraphing of each attack. Every move has a distinct windup animation, giving you a brief window to react. Observe these patterns closely, and you’ll be able to anticipate and evade even the most devastating blows. Remember to maintain a balanced approach, dodging effectively and strategically positioning yourself to exploit openings.
Strategies for Defeating Astel
Defeating Astel requires a combination of strategic thinking, skillful execution, and a well-prepared character build. Here are some essential tips and strategies to increase your chances of success.
General Tips
Spirit Ashes are invaluable in this fight. Summons like the Mimic Tear or Black Knife Tiche can draw Astel’s aggro, giving you breathing room to heal or unleash powerful attacks. Focusing your attacks on Astel’s head is generally recommended. Doing so deals more damage and increases the likelihood of staggering it, opening it up for critical attacks. Stance breaking Astel can deal a huge amount of damage.
Recommended Builds and Weapons
For weapons, consider Fast-hitting weapons like katanas or curved swords allow you to quickly capitalize on openings. Colossal weapons, while slower, can inflict massive damage and stagger Astel more easily. As for Ashes of War, Hoarfrost Stomp is excellent for dealing frostbite damage, while Bloodflame Blade adds bleed buildup to your attacks. Talismans that boost FP (Cerulean Amber Medallion), stamina recovery (Green Turtle Talisman), or magic damage (Magic Scorpion Charm, if you’re using magic-based attacks) can provide significant advantages. For armor, focus on physical damage negation to mitigate the impact of Astel’s melee attacks.
Phase Transitions
Astel’s attack patterns may change as the fight progresses, so adapt your strategy accordingly. It might introduce new attacks or become more aggressive in later phases. Finally, consider your specific location. Astel, Naturalborn of the Void, in the Grand Cloister has a relatively open arena. Use this space to your advantage, maintaining distance when necessary and closing in for opportunistic strikes.
Astel’s Lore and Significance
Beyond the mechanical challenges of the fight, Astel’s true significance lies in its lore implications. It represents a chilling glimpse into the cosmic horrors that lurk beyond the perceived reality of the Lands Between.
Cosmic Horror and Outer Gods
Astel’s connection to the is undeniable. It is believed to be a being of the Void, a realm beyond human comprehension, and possibly influenced by the Formless Mother or other Outer Gods. These entities represent forces that exist outside the established order, often bringing chaos and destruction in their wake.
Fallen Stars and the Destruction of Civilizations
Astel’s influence extends to the . The game’s lore suggests that Astel is responsible for destroying Eternal Cities like Nokron and Nokstella. These cities, once bastions of advanced civilization, were brought to ruin by falling stars and the creatures that accompanied them. This devastation hints at a larger conflict between the Outer Gods and the civilizations of the Lands Between.
Astel’s Motivation
The question of remains largely unanswered. Is it acting on a specific agenda, or is it simply a destructive force of nature? Its origins are shrouded in mystery, and its true purpose remains elusive. Some speculate that it serves as a guardian of the Void, while others believe it is merely a tool of the Outer Gods, used to punish those who defy their will.
Drops and Rewards
Upon defeating Astel, you’ll receive the , which can be traded for powerful weapons and spells. This reward further solidifies Astel’s significance, connecting its defeat to the acquisition of greater power and knowledge. Remember to take this to Enia at Roundtable Hold.
In Conclusion
Astel, Naturalborn of the Void, is more than just a difficult boss in Elden Ring; it’s a terrifying embodiment of cosmic horror. It challenges your skills, tests your patience, and forces you to confront the unsettling mysteries that lie at the heart of the game’s lore.
Mastering Astel requires a deep understanding of its attack patterns, a well-optimized character build, and a willingness to adapt your strategy on the fly. But beyond the mechanical challenges, it’s crucial to appreciate the significance of Astel’s presence within the larger narrative of Elden Ring.
So, to all Tarnished struggling against this cosmic horror: persevere. Learn from your mistakes, refine your tactics, and embrace the challenge. For in overcoming Astel, you not only prove your worth as a warrior but also gain a deeper understanding of the dark and wondrous world of Elden Ring. Good luck, and may the Great Runes guide you.
