So, you're on the hunt for the Black Horseman in Elden Ring, huh? Well, you've come to the right place! These spectral steeds and their riders can be a real pain or a rewarding challenge, depending on how geared up you are. Let's dive into where you can find these nightmarish knights and how to deal with them.

Who is the Black Horseman?

Before we get into the where, let's quickly cover the what. The Black Horseman, more formally known as the Night's Cavalry, are formidable field bosses that roam the Lands Between, usually appearing at night. These guys are tough nuts to crack, riding spectral steeds and wielding powerful flails. Defeating them will net you some sweet loot, often in the form of unique weapons and Ashes of War that can significantly boost your character's abilities. But be warned, these encounters are not for the faint of heart! They hit hard, move fast, and can easily overwhelm unprepared players.

Understanding the Night's Cavalry

The Night's Cavalry operates under a simple rule: they only come out at night. If you arrive at their spawn location during the day, you'll find nothing. You'll need to pass the time at a Site of Grace until nightfall. Also, keep in mind that these bosses have specific patrol routes, so if you don't see them immediately, ride around the area. Typically, these routes are along major roads, making them easier to find but also more predictable once you know their patterns. Another critical thing to remember is that these bosses often appear alone, but some encounters feature multiple Night's Cavalry, turning an already challenging fight into a chaotic free-for-all. Always be aware of your surroundings and prepared for the worst.

Preparing for Battle

Before you even think about taking on a Night's Cavalry, you need to gear up properly. First, make sure your weapon is upgraded as much as possible. A +6 or higher weapon is generally recommended for early encounters, while later ones might require +12 or more. Next, consider your Spirit Ashes. A tanky summon like the Greatshield Soldiers or Lhutel the Headless can draw the boss's attention, giving you openings to attack. Armor-wise, focus on physical defense, as the Night's Cavalry deals primarily physical damage. Finally, stock up on useful consumables like Warming Stones for healing over time, and consider using weapon buffs like Bloodflame Blade to add extra damage to your attacks. Remember, preparation is half the battle!

Limgrave: The Starting Point

One of the earliest Black Horseman locations you can stumble upon is in Limgrave. Head to the Agheel Lake North Site of Grace. From there, ride north along the road leading towards the bridge. This is where the Night's Cavalry makes its appearance, but only when darkness falls.

How to Beat the Limgrave Night's Cavalry

Taking down the Night's Cavalry in Limgrave requires a bit of strategy. These guys are tough, especially early in the game. Here's a breakdown:

• Timing is Key: Only engage at night. If it's daytime, rest at a Site of Grace until nightfall.
• Utilize Torrent: Your spectral steed is crucial. Use hit-and-run tactics. Ride in, get a few hits, and then ride away to avoid taking damage.
• Jump Attacks: These are your bread and butter. Jumping attacks deal significant poise damage, making it easier to break the boss's stance and stagger them.
• Spirit Ashes: Summon a tanky Spirit Ash to draw aggro. This gives you openings to attack without being constantly targeted.
• Be Patient: Don't get greedy with your attacks. Focus on dodging and landing a few hits at a time. This fight is a marathon, not a sprint.
• Watch for the Dismount: When the Night's Cavalry is close to death, they might dismount. Focus your attacks on the rider to finish them off quickly.

Rewards

Defeating the Night's Cavalry in Limgrave rewards you with the Ash of War: Repeating Slash. This is a versatile Ash of War that can be applied to various weapons, allowing you to perform a series of rapid slashes. It's particularly useful for dealing with enemies that are weak to bleed damage.

Weeping Peninsula: Southward Journey

Another Black Horseman resides in the Weeping Peninsula, south of Limgrave. Travel to the Castle Morne Rampart Site of Grace and head south along the main road. The Night's Cavalry patrols this area at night, so be ready for a fight.

Strategy for Weeping Peninsula

The Night's Cavalry in the Weeping Peninsula is similar in strength to the one in Limgrave, but the terrain can make the fight slightly different. Here's what you need to know:

• Open Area: The road here is relatively open, giving you more room to maneuver on Torrent.
• Environmental Hazards: Be mindful of cliffs and ledges. Accidentally riding off a cliff can lead to a quick death.
• Same Tactics Apply: Use the same strategies as before: hit-and-run attacks, jump attacks, and Spirit Ashes.
• Pay Attention to Attack Patterns: Learn the boss's attack patterns to better time your dodges and counterattacks.

Rewards

For your efforts in the Weeping Peninsula, you'll receive the Ash of War: Poison Moth Flight. This Ash of War allows you to imbue your weapon with poison and unleash a flurry of poisonous attacks. It's particularly effective against enemies that are weak to poison or those that rely on healing.

Liurnia of the Lakes: Lakeside Menace

In Liurnia of the Lakes, you can find another Black Horseman patrolling the area near the Gate Town Bridge Site of Grace. This one is a bit tougher than the previous encounters, so make sure you're adequately leveled and geared up.

Tackling the Liurnia Night's Cavalry

The Night's Cavalry in Liurnia presents a tougher challenge due to the boss's increased damage and health. Here's how to approach this fight:

• Higher Level Recommended: This encounter is best tackled at a higher level, around level 40-50.
• Improved Gear: Make sure your weapon is upgraded to at least +8 or +9.
• Strategic Summons: Use Spirit Ashes that can survive longer and deal more damage, such as the Lone Wolf Ashes or the Marionette Soldier Ashes.
• Exploit Weaknesses: If you have access to magic or special weapon skills, use them to exploit any weaknesses the boss might have.

Rewards

Defeating the Night's Cavalry in Liurnia rewards you with the Glaive. This is a powerful weapon that scales well with Strength and Dexterity. It's a great choice for players who prefer to use polearms.

Caelid: A Dangerous Encounter

Caelid is known for its challenging enemies, and the Black Horseman here is no exception. You can find this one patrolling the road south of the Caelid Highway South Site of Grace. Be prepared for a tough fight, as this is one of the more difficult Night's Cavalry encounters.

Surviving the Caelid Night's Cavalry

Taking on the Night's Cavalry in Caelid requires a different level of preparation and strategy due to the region's overall difficulty. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:

• High-Level Zone: Caelid is a high-level area, so come prepared with upgraded gear and a decent level (60+).
• Scarlet Rot: Be mindful of the Scarlet Rot status effect, which is prevalent in Caelid. Stock up on Preserving Boluses to cure it.
• Aggressive Tactics: This Night's Cavalry is more aggressive, so you'll need to be quick on your feet and ready to dodge frequently.
• Powerful Summons: Use your strongest Spirit Ashes to draw aggro and deal significant damage.

Rewards

For braving the wilds of Caelid and defeating the Night's Cavalry, you'll be rewarded with the Nightrider Flail. This unique flail deals both physical and magic damage, making it effective against a wide range of enemies. It also has a unique weapon skill that can stagger even the toughest foes.

Altus Plateau: Capital Outskirts

As you journey towards the capital, you'll find another Black Horseman in the Altus Plateau. This one patrols the road near the Outer Wall Phantom Tree Site of Grace. This encounter is challenging but rewarding, offering valuable loot for your progress.

Strategy for Altus Plateau

The Night's Cavalry in Altus Plateau is another step up in difficulty. Here’s how to handle this encounter:

• Optimal Level: Aim to be around level 70-80 before tackling this boss.
• Weapon Upgrades: Ensure your weapon is upgraded to +15 or higher.
• Diverse Attacks: This Night's Cavalry has a wider range of attacks, so be prepared to dodge and adapt to different situations.
• Environmental Awareness: The terrain can be uneven, so be mindful of your surroundings while fighting on Torrent.

Rewards

Defeating the Night's Cavalry in Altus Plateau grants you the Ash of War: Blood Tax. This Ash of War allows you to perform a series of blood-infused attacks that can quickly build up the bleed status effect on enemies. It's a powerful tool for dealing with bosses and tough opponents.

Conclusion

The Black Horseman, or Night's Cavalry, are formidable foes scattered throughout Elden Ring. Each encounter offers unique challenges and valuable rewards. By understanding their attack patterns, utilizing strategic tactics, and preparing adequately, you can overcome these nightmarish knights and claim their treasures. So, gear up, Tarnished, and venture into the night to test your mettle against the Night's Cavalry! Good luck, and may the Grace guide you!