
Cheesing Iudex Gundyr, the first major boss in *Dark Souls III*, involves exploiting specific mechanics or strategies to defeat him quickly or with minimal effort. Players often utilize tactics like summoning the NPC Black Hand Gotthard for assistance, which can significantly reduce the boss's health before the fight even begins. Another common method is to bait Iudex into performing his slow, predictable attacks and then punish him with high-damage combos or ranged attacks. Additionally, positioning yourself near the fog gate can limit his moveset, making the fight more manageable. While these strategies may not align with the intended challenge, they offer a practical approach for players seeking a quicker victory or struggling with the boss's aggressive combat style.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Boss Name | Iudex Gundyr |
| Location | Cemetery of Ash (Beginning of the Game) |
| Cheese Strategy | Lure and exploit specific mechanics to minimize direct combat |
| Recommended Level | 5-10 (Low level for easier cheese) |
| Required Items | None (optional: Firebombs, Arrows, or Spells for ranged attacks) |
| Key Mechanics to Exploit | - Gundyr's slow turn speed - His predictable attack patterns |
| Steps to Cheese | 1. Stay behind pillars to avoid attacks 2. Bait him into charging 3. Attack from behind during recovery 4. Repeat until defeated |
| Phase 2 Trigger | Below 80% HP (transforms into more aggressive form) |
| Phase 2 Cheese | Continue pillar strategy, focus on ranged attacks or quick strikes |
| Rewards | Souls, Coiled Sword Fragment, and progression to the next area |
| Difficulty | Easy with cheese strategy, Moderate without |
| Notes | Works best at low levels; higher levels may require more direct combat |
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What You'll Learn
- Exploit Roll Catch: Time attacks to catch Iudex in roll animations, creating free damage windows
- Parry Punish: Master parrying his slow attacks for massive riposte damage
- Pillar Bait: Lure Iudex into pillar slams, stun-locking him for easy hits
- Phase Rush: Burn him down in Phase 1 to skip harder Phase 2 mechanics
- Estus Deny: Pressure relentlessly to prevent his healing, forcing early kills

Exploit Roll Catch: Time attacks to catch Iudex in roll animations, creating free damage windows
Iudex Gundyr's roll animations are a double-edged sword: they grant him mobility but also leave him momentarily vulnerable. This vulnerability is the cornerstone of the "Exploit Roll Catch" strategy, a cheese tactic that hinges on precise timing and understanding of his attack patterns. By anticipating his rolls and positioning yourself optimally, you can create free damage windows that significantly shorten the fight.
Here's the breakdown: Iudex frequently incorporates rolls into his combos, especially after heavy attacks or when closing distance. These rolls have distinct startup and recovery frames, during which he's unable to attack or block. Your goal is to identify these roll animations and time your attacks to land during the recovery phase, catching him off-guard and dealing uninterrupted damage.
Mastering this technique requires patience and observation. Pay close attention to Iudex's attack sequences, noting which moves are typically followed by rolls. For instance, his overhead slam is often preceded by a telltale wind-up, making it a prime opportunity to anticipate a roll and position yourself for a counter-attack. Similarly, when he dashes towards you after a distance attack, he's likely to roll into a close-range combo, giving you a brief window to strike during his recovery.
The key to success lies in positioning and timing. You need to be close enough to reach Iudex during his roll recovery but not so close that you're caught in his subsequent attack. Practice rolling through his attacks to create distance, then quickly closing the gap during his recovery frames. Light, fast attacks are ideal for this strategy, as they allow you to maximize damage without risking getting caught in a lengthy animation.
While effective, the Exploit Roll Catch strategy demands precision and adaptability. Iudex's AI will eventually adjust to your tactics, so vary your approach and be prepared to dodge or block if your timing is off. Additionally, this method is most effective during the first phase of the fight, as Iudex's second phase introduces more aggressive and unpredictable attacks. With practice and a keen eye for his roll animations, you can turn Iudex's mobility against him, transforming a challenging boss fight into a manageable, even cheesy, encounter.
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Parry Punish: Master parrying his slow attacks for massive riposte damage
Iudex Gundyr's slow, deliberate attacks present a golden opportunity for the parry punish strategy, a high-risk, high-reward tactic that can turn the tide of battle in your favor. This approach leverages the predictable nature of his moveset, allowing you to counter with devastating riposte damage. To execute this effectively, timing is paramount. His overhead slam, for instance, has a noticeable wind-up, making it an ideal candidate for a well-timed parry. As his weapon descends, watch for the moment it begins its downward arc—this is your cue to parry. A successful parry will leave him vulnerable, granting you a brief window to unleash a riposte that deals massive damage.
Mastering this technique requires practice and patience. Start by observing his attack patterns in the first phase, where his movements are slower and more deliberate. Use a small shield with high parry animation, such as the Target Shield, to maximize your chances of success. Position yourself at medium range, just outside his attack reach, and focus on his weapon’s movement rather than his body. The key is to parry just as the attack becomes active, not too early or too late. If executed correctly, the riposte will deal upwards of 1000 damage, significantly shortening the fight.
One common mistake players make is overcommitting to the parry punish strategy. Iudex Gundyr’s attacks, while slow, can still catch you off guard if you’re too aggressive. Always maintain a defensive mindset and only attempt a parry when you’re confident in the timing. Additionally, be mindful of his phase transition, as his attacks become faster and more erratic in the second phase. If you struggle with consistency, consider using a parry animation tool or practicing against weaker enemies to refine your timing.
Comparatively, the parry punish strategy stands out as one of the most efficient ways to cheese Iudex Gundyr, especially for players who prefer a methodical approach. Unlike strategies that rely on exploiting AI behavior or using specific items, parrying tests your skill and reflexes, offering a satisfying challenge. It’s also highly effective in both the early and late game, as riposte damage scales with your weapon’s upgrade level. For example, a fully upgraded weapon can deal upwards of 1500 damage per riposte, making it a viable tactic even for seasoned players.
In conclusion, the parry punish strategy is a powerful tool for defeating Iudex Gundyr, but it demands precision and practice. By focusing on his slow attacks, mastering your timing, and maintaining a defensive stance, you can consistently land ripostes that deal massive damage. While it may not be the easiest method, the sense of accomplishment and efficiency it provides make it a worthwhile technique to master. Pair this strategy with patience and persistence, and you’ll find yourself dominating the fight with ease.
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Pillar Bait: Lure Iudex into pillar slams, stun-locking him for easy hits
Iudex Gundyr's arena is a deathtrap for the uninitiated, but a playground for the cunning. The pillars, seemingly obstacles, become your greatest allies in the "Pillar Bait" strategy. This tactic exploits Iudex's aggression and the arena's layout, allowing you to control the fight and chip away at his health with minimal risk.
Here's the core concept: lure Iudex into a position where he'll slam into a pillar, stunning him momentarily. This brief window grants you a few precious seconds to unleash a flurry of attacks before he recovers.
Execution is key. Position yourself near a pillar, preferably one with enough space behind it for maneuvering. Provoke Iudex into attacking you with a well-timed dodge or a light attack. As he winds up for a heavy strike, sidestep towards the pillar, ensuring he'll collide with it. The impact will stun him, leaving him vulnerable. Capitalize on this opening with a rapid combo, focusing on high damage, low-commitment attacks.
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Phase Rush: Burn him down in Phase 1 to skip harder Phase 2 mechanics
Iudex Gundyr's second phase introduces mechanics that can overwhelm even seasoned players, from aggressive combos to unpredictable dashes. By focusing on a Phase Rush strategy, you exploit the boss's vulnerability in Phase 1, burning him down before these mechanics come into play. This approach requires precise execution, optimal damage output, and a clear understanding of the boss's initial patterns.
To execute a successful Phase Rush, prioritize high burst damage in the first phase. Equip weapons with strong, fast combos like the Astora Greatsword or the Chaos Dagger, and infuse them with elemental damage if possible. Use buffs like Carthus Flame Arc or Crystal Magic Weapon to maximize your output. Consumables like the Gold Pine Resin or Lightning Urn can further amplify your damage. Position yourself aggressively but cautiously, focusing on the boss's left side to avoid his sweeping attacks.
Timing is critical. Iudex Gundyr's Phase 1 has predictable openings after his three-hit combo or his slow overhead slam. Use these moments to unleash your most damaging attacks, such as charged heavy strikes or spell casts. Avoid greediness; prioritize survival over maximizing every hit. If your health drops below 50%, consider using an Estus Flask to ensure you can sustain the pressure throughout the phase.
A common mistake in Phase Rush attempts is underestimating the boss's health pool. Iudex Gundyr has roughly 3,000 HP in Phase 1, so aim to deal at least 1,000 damage per minute. Monitor your damage output and adjust your strategy if progress seems slow. For example, if you’re using a strength-based build, switch to a weapon with higher base damage or incorporate poise-breaking attacks to stun the boss momentarily.
While Phase Rush is effective, it’s not foolproof. Players with lower damage output or suboptimal builds may struggle to execute this strategy. If you find yourself unable to burn down the boss in Phase 1, consider practicing the fight to improve your timing or respecing your character to prioritize damage. Alternatively, learn to manage Phase 2 mechanics, as this strategy is best suited for players seeking a challenge bypass rather than a universal solution.
In conclusion, the Phase Rush strategy offers a high-risk, high-reward approach to defeating Iudex Gundyr. By focusing on burst damage, exploiting openings, and maintaining consistent pressure, you can skip the boss's more challenging mechanics entirely. However, success relies on preparation, execution, and adaptability. Whether you’re a speedrunner or a casual player, mastering this technique can transform one of Dark Souls III’s earliest trials into a showcase of skill and efficiency.
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Estus Deny: Pressure relentlessly to prevent his healing, forcing early kills
Iudex Gundyr's reliance on Estus Flask healing is a double-edged sword. While it grants him survivability, it also presents a critical vulnerability. By denying him the opportunity to heal, you can exploit this weakness and secure an early victory. This strategy, known as "Estus Deny," requires relentless pressure and a deep understanding of his attack patterns.
Understanding the Window of Opportunity: Iudex Gundyr's Estus animation is slow, leaving him vulnerable for a significant duration. This is your window to strike. His first Estus attempt typically occurs around 70-80% health, making this phase crucial for executing the deny.
Phase One Pressure: During the first phase, prioritize dodging his slow, telegraphed attacks. Focus on punishing him after each swing, chipping away at his health. Aim for 2-3 hits per opening, ensuring you maintain distance when he's not vulnerable. This constant pressure will force him to attempt healing earlier than desired.
Phase Two Aggression: As he enters phase two, his attacks become more aggressive and less predictable. This is where the deny becomes crucial. When you see him reach for his Estus, immediately close the distance and unleash a flurry of attacks. Aim for a combination of light and heavy attacks to maximize damage during his lengthy animation.
Cautions and Adaptations: Be mindful of his grab attack, which can punish over-aggression. If he successfully heals, adjust your strategy by temporarily focusing on dodging and regaining stamina. Remember, this strategy requires patience and precision. One missed opportunity can give him the upper hand.
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Frequently asked questions
The easiest method is to use the Arbalest crossbow with Heavy Bolts to snipe Iudex Gundyr from the starting area. Stay near the fog gate, and aim for his head to deal significant damage while avoiding direct combat.
Yes, you can summon Hawkwood the Deserter at the beginning of the fight. He will distract Iudex Gundyr, allowing you to attack safely or snipe with a ranged weapon while the boss focuses on the summon.
Yes, you can use Soul Arrow or Great Soul Arrow spells to snipe Iudex Gundyr from the starting area. Alternatively, Fire Surge or Great Chaos Fire Orb can deal heavy damage from a distance while staying safe.
During Phase 2, focus on kiting him near the fog gate and using ranged attacks or spells. You can also bait his attacks and punish with quick strikes or continue sniping with the Arbalest or magic.
A Dexterity or Intelligence build with a ranged weapon like the Arbalest or spells like Soul Arrow works best. Ensure you have enough stamina for dodging and enough FP (Focus Points) for casting spells if using magic.

























