
Cheesing Dragonrider in video games, particularly in titles like *Elden Ring* or similar RPGs, refers to exploiting mechanics or strategies to defeat the formidable Dragonrider boss with minimal effort or skill. Players often seek out these methods to bypass the challenge, relying on tactics such as summoning overpowered NPC allies, using specific items or builds to trivialize the fight, or exploiting the boss's AI to avoid direct confrontation. While cheesing can provide a sense of accomplishment for some, it also sparks debate about the balance between accessibility and preserving the intended difficulty of the game. Understanding how to cheese Dragonrider highlights both the creativity of players and the complexities of game design.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Game | Elden Ring |
| Boss | Dragonlord Placidusax (Dragonrider) |
| Cheese Strategy | Rooftop Sniping |
| Required Items | 1. Rivers of Blood (Katana) or other high bleed weapon 2. Poison or Scarlet Rot (optional for debuffs) |
| Location | Crumbling Farum Azula, Rooftop near the boss arena |
| Difficulty | Relatively easy with proper execution |
| Phase 1 Strategy | 1. Lure the boss below the rooftop 2. Jump down and use Rivers of Blood's WA (Weapon Art) for bleed procs 3. Retreat to the rooftop to avoid attacks |
| Phase 2 Strategy | Repeat Phase 1 strategy, focusing on bleed buildup and avoiding close combat |
| Key Tips | 1. Use poison or Scarlet Rot for additional damage 2. Time your jumps and attacks carefully 3. Stay patient and avoid greed |
| Patch Relevance | Effective as of patch 1.08 (latest data) |
| Success Rate | High with proper execution and build |
| Recommended Build | Bleed-focused build with high dexterity and arcane |
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What You'll Learn
- Exploit Terrain Advantages: Use cliffs, narrow paths, and obstacles to limit Dragonrider's mobility and attack options
- Focus on Weak Points: Target the Dragonrider's exposed areas, like the dragon's underbelly or rider’s blind spots
- Use Crowd Control Abilities: Stun, slow, or knockback the Dragonrider to disrupt their combos and positioning
- Abuse Range Disadvantages: Stay at maximum range to avoid melee attacks and chip away at their health
- Exploit Cooldown Windows: Time attacks during the Dragonrider’s ability cooldowns to maximize damage and minimize retaliation

Exploit Terrain Advantages: Use cliffs, narrow paths, and obstacles to limit Dragonrider's mobility and attack options
Terrain can be your greatest ally when facing a Dragonrider, transforming a seemingly insurmountable challenge into a calculated engagement. Cliffs, for instance, offer a natural barrier that restricts the dragon's aerial dominance. Position yourself at the edge of a cliff, forcing the Dragonrider to approach from a limited angle. This not only reduces their attack options but also exposes them to counterattacks as they navigate the precarious terrain. A well-timed strike as they maneuver close to the edge can unbalance both rider and beast, turning the tide of battle in your favor.
Narrow paths, such as those found in mountain passes or dense forests, serve as another effective tool to neutralize a Dragonrider's mobility. These confined spaces limit the dragon's ability to gain speed or execute wide-ranging attacks. Lure the Dragonrider into these areas, and use the terrain to funnel their movements. Place traps or obstacles along the path to further impede their progress, creating opportunities for hit-and-run tactics. Remember, the goal is to control the engagement, forcing the Dragonrider to fight on your terms rather than theirs.
Obstacles like boulders, fallen trees, or even man-made structures can be strategically employed to disrupt a Dragonrider's attack patterns. Position yourself behind a large boulder, using it as a shield against the dragon's breath or claws. Alternatively, create chokepoints by arranging obstacles in a way that forces the Dragonrider to slow down or dismount. This not only limits their offensive capabilities but also exposes the rider to ground-based threats. For maximum effectiveness, combine obstacles with environmental hazards like unstable ground or overhanging branches that could dislodge under the dragon's weight.
A comparative analysis of successful engagements reveals that terrain exploitation is most effective when paired with knowledge of the Dragonrider's tactics. For example, if the rider favors aerial strafing runs, cliffs and narrow paths can negate their speed advantage. Conversely, if they rely on ground-based assaults, obstacles and chokepoints can neutralize their brute force. By studying their preferred strategies, you can tailor your terrain-based approach to counter their strengths, turning the battlefield into a weapon against them.
In practice, mastering terrain advantages requires preparation and adaptability. Scout the area beforehand to identify potential cliffs, paths, and obstacles that can be leveraged. During the encounter, remain observant, adjusting your position and tactics as the Dragonrider responds. For instance, if they attempt to bypass a narrow path by taking to the skies, reposition to another cliff or use ranged attacks to deter their aerial maneuvers. With patience and strategic thinking, even the most formidable Dragonrider can be outmaneuvered by a commander who understands the power of terrain.
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Focus on Weak Points: Target the Dragonrider's exposed areas, like the dragon's underbelly or rider’s blind spots
The dragon's underbelly is its most vulnerable spot, a fact known to any seasoned warrior. This soft, unarmored area is a stark contrast to the creature's scaled, impenetrable hide elsewhere. When facing a dragonrider, this knowledge becomes your greatest asset. The rider, often perched atop the beast's neck, has limited visibility directly beneath the dragon's body. This blind spot is your opportunity to strike. A well-aimed arrow or a swift dagger throw can incapacitate the dragon, leaving the rider exposed and vulnerable.
Tactical Approach:
- Positioning: Maneuver yourself to the dragon's side, slightly behind its front legs. This angle provides a clear shot at the underbelly while keeping you out of the rider's direct line of sight.
- Timing: Wait for the dragon's wing beats; as it lifts off or lands, the underbelly is momentarily more exposed.
- Precision: Aim for the soft tissue between the ribcage and the hind legs. A single, well-placed strike can be more effective than a barrage of random attacks.
In the heat of battle, it's easy to be intimidated by the dragon's size and the rider's skill. However, remember that every creature has its weaknesses. The dragonrider's strength lies in their bond with the dragon, but this also creates a critical vulnerability. The rider's focus is primarily forward, leaving their sides and the dragon's flanks less guarded.
A Comparative Strategy:
Imagine a knight in heavy armor; their mobility is restricted, and certain areas, like the joints, become prime targets. Similarly, the dragonrider's mobility is limited by their mount. While the dragon's scales may be impenetrable, the rider's armor is not. A swift attack on the rider's side, targeting the gap between their armor and the dragon's neck, can be devastating. This approach requires speed and precision, but it can quickly turn the tide of battle.
For those seeking a more subtle approach, consider the art of distraction. Dragonriders often rely on their mount's agility and their own combat skills, but this can be used against them.
A Descriptive Tactic:
Create a diversion, perhaps a controlled explosion or a decoy, to draw the dragon's attention. As the beast reacts, its body twists, exposing its underbelly and the rider's back. In this moment, a well-trained assassin could strike, delivering a fatal blow. This method requires coordination and a deep understanding of dragon behavior, but it showcases how exploiting weak points can be a strategic, calculated process.
In the realm of combat, knowledge of anatomy and behavior is power. By focusing on these exposed areas, you shift the battle in your favor, turning a seemingly invincible foe into a conquerable challenge. Each successful strike weakens the dragonrider's defense, bringing you closer to victory. This strategy demands practice, precision, and a keen eye, but it is a proven method to overcome even the most formidable dragonrider.
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Use Crowd Control Abilities: Stun, slow, or knockback the Dragonrider to disrupt their combos and positioning
Crowd control abilities are your secret weapon against the Dragonrider, a foe whose strength lies in precision and momentum. Stuns, slows, and knockbacks aren’t just tools—they’re disruptions. A well-timed stun can halt their mid-air dash, a slow can delay their ultimate charge, and a knockback can send them tumbling out of position. These abilities don’t just deal damage; they dismantle the Dragonrider’s rhythm, turning their calculated attacks into chaotic flails. Master this strategy, and you’ll transform their greatest strengths into vulnerabilities.
Consider the timing and duration of your crowd control abilities. A stun lasting 1.5 seconds might seem brief, but it’s enough to interrupt their combo chain or prevent a critical leap. Slow effects, applied strategically, can reduce their movement speed by 30-50%, forcing them to burn precious cooldowns or retreat. Knockbacks, while flashy, require precision—misplace one, and you might inadvertently grant the Dragonrider a better angle. Pair these abilities with environmental hazards, like cliffs or narrow corridors, to maximize their impact. For instance, a knockback near a ledge can waste 2-3 seconds of their time as they recover, giving you a window to strike.
Not all crowd control abilities are created equal. Stuns are most effective during their high-damage phases, like when they’re mid-air or charging a slam. Slows shine in open arenas, where you can kite them away from allies or objectives. Knockbacks are best saved for moments when the Dragonrider is overextended, such as after a missed dash. Coordinate with your team to layer these effects—a stun followed by a slow, for example, can render them nearly helpless for 3-4 seconds. Communication is key; a single misaligned ability can leave the Dragonrider free to retaliate.
The psychological impact of crowd control cannot be overstated. A Dragonrider thrives on predictability, chaining abilities with surgical precision. Introduce unpredictability, and you sow doubt. Each stun, slow, or knockback forces them to recalculate, to hesitate. Over time, this hesitation becomes their undoing. They’ll second-guess their positioning, delay their attacks, and ultimately play into your hands. Crowd control isn’t just about disabling—it’s about destabilizing.
In practice, prioritize abilities with short cooldowns and high reliability. A 10-second stun on a 30-second cooldown is more valuable than a 3-second stun on a 60-second cooldown. Equip items or runes that enhance your crowd control effects, such as increasing slow duration by 20% or adding a stun effect to your basic attacks. Test your abilities in controlled scenarios to understand their range and timing. Remember, the goal isn’t to outdamage the Dragonrider—it’s to outmaneuver them. With patience, coordination, and a well-executed crowd control strategy, even the most formidable Dragonrider can be reduced to a grounded, frustrated opponent.
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Abuse Range Disadvantages: Stay at maximum range to avoid melee attacks and chip away at their health
Dragonriders, with their formidable melee prowess and devastating breath attacks, can be a daunting challenge in any fantasy RPG or tactical game. However, their strength often comes with a critical weakness: limited ranged capabilities. By exploiting this vulnerability, you can turn the tide of battle in your favor. The key lies in maintaining maximum distance, forcing the dragonrider into a disadvantageous position where their primary strengths are neutralized.
To execute this strategy effectively, prioritize equipping your party with long-range weapons or abilities. Bows, crossbows, and magic spells with extended reach are ideal. Ensure your characters have sufficient dexterity or intelligence to maximize accuracy and damage output. Position your ranged attackers on elevated terrain or behind cover to further minimize the risk of retaliation. If the game allows, invest in skills or items that increase movement speed, enabling you to kite the dragonrider more efficiently.
A common mistake players make is underestimating the dragonrider’s ability to close the distance. Always keep an eye on their movement patterns and be prepared to reposition if they attempt to charge. Use terrain features like chokepoints or obstacles to slow their advance, buying precious time to unleash more attacks. If the dragonrider has a ranged attack, albeit weaker, maintain a distance that minimizes its effectiveness while maximizing your own.
This tactic is particularly effective in games where dragonriders have slow movement speeds or limited stamina for sprinting. For example, in *Elder Scrolls Online*, dragonriders often rely on short bursts of speed, making it easier to maintain distance if you stay vigilant. In *Dark Souls III*, the Ancient Wyvern’s lack of ranged attacks makes kiting a viable strategy, especially when combined with the terrain of Archdragon Peak.
While this approach may require patience, its effectiveness lies in its simplicity. By staying at maximum range, you not only avoid the dragonrider’s deadly melee attacks but also chip away at their health steadily. Over time, this attrition wears them down, turning a seemingly insurmountable foe into a manageable target. Remember, the goal isn’t to outmatch them in close combat but to deny them the opportunity to engage on their terms. With discipline and precision, even the most fearsome dragonrider can be defeated through this methodical, range-focused strategy.
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Exploit Cooldown Windows: Time attacks during the Dragonrider’s ability cooldowns to maximize damage and minimize retaliation
Dragonriders are formidable opponents, but their power isn’t infinite. Every ability they wield comes with a cooldown—a brief window of vulnerability. Identifying and exploiting these cooldown windows is the cornerstone of cheesing this enemy. Most Dragonrider abilities, such as breath attacks or aerial sweeps, have cooldowns ranging from 8 to 15 seconds. During these intervals, their defensive capabilities drop, and their movement patterns become predictable. By timing your attacks to coincide with these moments, you can maximize damage output while minimizing the risk of retaliation.
To effectively exploit cooldown windows, start by observing the Dragonrider’s ability patterns. Note the duration between consecutive abilities and the telltale signs of an incoming attack, such as a specific roar or wing flap. For instance, if the Dragonrider uses a fire breath attack every 12 seconds, mark the 8-second window after the attack ends as your prime opportunity to strike. Use high-damage, quick-cast abilities during this time to deal significant damage before the next ability is unleashed.
However, exploiting cooldowns isn’t just about offense—it’s also about survival. During these windows, the Dragonrider’s aggression often decreases, making it easier to reposition or heal. If you’re playing in a group, coordinate your attacks to overlap with these cooldowns. For example, a tank can taunt during the cooldown to draw aggro, while DPS players focus on dealing damage. Healers should prioritize shielding or healing during the Dragonrider’s active phases and save mana during cooldowns.
One practical tip is to use a stopwatch or in-game timer to track ability cooldowns. Mark the start of each ability and calculate the optimal window to attack. If the Dragonrider has a 10-second cooldown on its tail sweep, initiate your assault 3 seconds before the cooldown ends to catch it off guard. Additionally, prioritize abilities that stun or immobilize the Dragonrider during these windows to further reduce its retaliatory potential.
In conclusion, exploiting cooldown windows is a strategic, high-reward tactic for cheesing Dragonriders. By understanding their ability patterns, timing your attacks, and coordinating with your team, you can turn their moments of weakness into your victory. Master this technique, and even the most fearsome Dragonrider will fall to your calculated assault.
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Frequently asked questions
Cheesing refers to using unconventional or exploit-based strategies to defeat the Dragonrider boss with minimal effort or risk, often bypassing intended mechanics.
Common methods include using ranged attacks from safe distances, exploiting terrain to avoid attacks, or using specific builds or items to trivialize the fight.
No, cheesing methods may vary or be patched out depending on the game version or updates, so check for current strategies.
Cheesing is subjective; some players view it as a fun challenge, while others consider it a way to bypass the intended difficulty. It depends on personal preference and the game’s community standards.

























