How to Defeat the Ghostflame Dragon in Elden Ring
Whether you're a first-time Tarnished or a seasoned dragon-slayer, here's everything you need to know to bring this beast down and claim its rewards.
Where to Find the Ghostflame Dragon
The Ghostflame Dragon appears in several locations throughout the Lands of Shadow, often guarding high-value areas or perched near hidden loot. While the dragon is considered a Field Boss, it doesn't have a dedicated arena, you'll usually find it soaring above open fields or guarding cliffside plateaus.
Be warned: engaging the Ghostflame Dragon can also draw nearby mobs into the fray, so be sure to clear the surrounding area before initiating the fight.
What Makes the Ghostflame Dragon Unique
While it shares many basic mechanics with earlier dragons like Flying Dragon Agheel, Borealis the Freezing Fog, and Glintstone Dragon Smarag, the Ghostflame Dragon adds a deadly twist: ghostflame attacks.
This spectral fire deals Frostbite and Magic damage, making it particularly dangerous for players with low resistance to cold or magic. Unlike traditional fire breath, ghostflame lingers on the ground for several seconds, creating deadly zones that punish poor positioning.
The dragon's decayed wings and exposed bone structure are purely visual, but they add a chilling reminder that this is no ordinary wyrm.
Best Elden Ring Items to Bring
To give yourself the best shot at survival, bring the following Elden Ring Items:
1. Spelldrake Talisman +2
Reduces Magic Damage, which helps mitigate the worst of the ghostflame breath and projectiles.
2. Boltdrake or Flamedrake Talismans (Optional)
If you're also fighting enemies nearby with elemental attacks, swap in accordingly.
3. Armor with High Frost Resistance
The Fire Prelate Set and Carian Knight Set are both good choices to resist Frostbite buildup while maintaining solid defenses.
4. Preserving Boluses
Essential if you're inflicted with Frostbite and need to recover quickly mid-fight.
5. Wondrous Physick Mix
Combine Magic-Shrouding Cracked Tear (for boosted damage) with Opaline Bubbletear (to absorb one big hit).
Recommended Weapons and Ashes of War
The Ghostflame Dragon is weak to Fire and Bleed, so gear up accordingly:
Rivers of Blood Katana – Its fast bleed buildup and ranged weapon art make it ideal for mid-range damage.
Blasphemous Blade – A great choice due to its healing on hit and fire-based weapon art.
Nagakiba or Uchigatana with Fire infusion – Long reach and enhanced damage with the right build.
Bloodflame Blade (Incantation) – If you're running a Faith build, this adds both Fire and Bleed to your melee weapons, perfect for this encounter.
Recommended Spirit Ashes
Summoning Spirit Ashes can greatly reduce the difficulty of this fight. Recommended options include:
Mimic Tear – Always reliable, especially if you're using a strong Fire or Bleed setup.
Latenna the Albinauric – Her long-range frost and magic shots are great for dealing passive damage while you distract the dragon.
Greatshield Soldier Ashes – These tanky summons can help pull aggro and let you land powerful charged attacks.
Ghostflame Dragon Battle Strategy
Phase 1: Opening Attacks
The Ghostflame Dragon often starts by flying into the air and breathing ghostflame down in a wide arc. Sprint sideways to avoid the breath and circle behind the dragon.
After landing, it will try to stomp or swipe with its claws. These attacks are slow but powerful, roll towards the dragon's body to avoid damage and counterattack.
Phase 2: Lingering Flames
As its health drops below 50%, the dragon will use a ghostflame explosion, creating multiple patches of ghostly fire that linger for several seconds.
Avoid standing in the glowing ground effects. Instead, bait attacks until the fire fades, then strike during cooldowns.
Mounted Strategy (Torrent)
Fighting on Torrent gives you mobility, but it's risky. If you're comfortable with mounted combat, use hit-and-run tactics on the dragon's legs.
Use charged heavy attacks to stagger the dragon and possibly trigger a critical hit if it collapses.
General Tips
Attack the hind legs to avoid frontal flame breaths.
Keep your camera centered manually, auto lock-on can get disorienting when the dragon flies or repositions.
Be patient. It's a war of attrition, especially with ghostflame zones limiting safe ground.
Rewards
Defeating the Ghostflame Dragon earns you more than just pride. Upon victory, you'll receive a significant amount of Elden Ring Runes, which can be used to level up, buy upgrade materials, or stockpile consumables for your next challenge.
Likely Drops:
50,000 to 80,000 Elden Ring Runes (depending on NG+ and your Rune-enhancing gear)
Ghostflame Dragon Heart – Can be exchanged for powerful incantations at the Cathedral of Dragon Communion.
Unique crafting materials or gear, such as Ancient Dragon Smithing Stones or Ghostflame-infused Ashes (if available).
Final Thoughts
While the Ghostflame Dragon is not a required fight in Shadow of the Erdtree, it offers a thrilling challenge, valuable Elden Ring Items, and a satisfying pool of Elden Ring Runes. With its frost-laced fire and bone-chilling design, it serves as a worthy successor to the iconic dragons of the base game.
Come prepared, watch the skies, and don't stand in the flames, and you'll walk away victorious, empowered, and one step closer to mastering the darkness of the Lands of Shadow.