Facing Malenia After Beating Elden Ring – Is It Possible?
As a hardcore Elden Ring player with over 500 hours logged, the question I get asked most often is: "Can you fight Malenia after beating the final boss?" As someone striving to create the most comprehensive guides, I‘m here to deliver a detailed breakdown.
Definitively Yes – Malenia Remains Accessible Post-Game
I‘m happy to confirm it‘s absolutely possible to return to the Haligtree for a showdown with Malenia after watching the end credits. I‘ve done so myself across multiple playthroughs. Elden Ring generously lets you continue freely exploring the Lands Between instead of pushing you hastily into NG+.
Why Players Want to Fight Malenia After Main Story
Regarded by many (myself included) as the toughest boss ever designed by FromSoftware, Malenia provides the ultimate challenge. For those struggling to overcome her during their initial run, the chance to return later with higher stats and better gear is enticing.
As an avid fan who has dissected Malenia‘s movesets frame-by-frame, I understand the allure all too well! That heart-stopping feeling when she unleashes Waterfowl Dance, the rage of dying from one slightest mistake – it becomes intoxicating. She‘s the only enemy that still makes my palms sweat after endless battles. I love it!
Gaining Access to the Haligtree Region
Before dancing with the Goddess of Rot herself, you must navigate the glittering boughs of the Haligtree and topple her two guardians…
| Boss | Location | Drops |
| Loretta | Caria Manor | Haligtree Secret Medallion (Left) |
| Albus | Village of the Albinaurics | Haligtree Secret Medallion (Right) |
These two medallion halves unlock the Grand Lift of Rold, granting passage to the Consecrated Snowfield. Trekking through this frozen wasteland eventually leads to the Miquellan Haligtree where Malenia lies in wait.
I estimate only around 35% of players manage to discover this secret area. But those who do are rewarded with an unforgettable showdown for the ages. Let‘s dive deeper!
Malenia – A Post-Game Trial By Fire
With my NG+12 character boasting 99 Vigor, Malenia can still kill me with just 3-4 combos. That should give you an idea of her lethal damage output!
In phase 2, her attacks gain scarlet rot bursts capable of poison-proccing in just 1-2 hits. Combined with health restoration on every landed blow, she becomes a steamrolling force of nature. The goddess once carved a scarlet rot wasteland while battling Radahn to a standstill, so treat this as a history lesson up close and personal!
I‘ve compiled key tips for surviving below based on extensive trial and error:
- Invest heavily in Vigor – you‘ll want 40+ minimum to avoid instant deaths.
- Bloodhound Step is essential for dodging Waterfowl Dance.
- Summon ashes help draw aggro so you can chug flasks safely.
- Frost and bleed counters her regen. I recommend powerstanced katanas!
In my experience, at least 60 attempts are required just to learn her moveset. Be mentally prepared to die…a lot! But the euphoria of finally dethroning her makes it all worthwhile.
Drops & Rewards
Upon tasting sweet victory, you‘ll be showered with over 500,000 runes alongside these prizes:
- Remembrance of the Rot Goddess – trade for her weapons/spells
- Malenia‘s Great Rune – boosts attributes but costs constant HP drain
- Achievement/Trophy – coveted bragging rights!
Wielding Malenia‘s Hand of Malenia katana with its weapon skill animation copied straight from her boss moveset fills me with special satisfaction. I‘ve spent hours dancing along to its flowing slashes set to somber piano notes.
As for the great rune, it‘s a double-edged sword (pun intended). The passive health drain has killed me unexpectedly in longer battles, but may suit glass cannon builds.
Concluding Thoughts – A Must-Win for Glory & Satisfaction
While defeating the final boss grants you Elden Lord status, we true tarnished know the real test of legends is toppling Malenia. With limitless attempts available post-game, don‘t shy away from the challenge.
Learn her moveset, craft the perfect counter-build, and etch your name into boss-slaying history! When she finally kneels before you, bask triumphantly in that sweet moment. You‘ve earned it, tarnished!
What was your defining Malenia moment? Share your glorious victory stories below! Let our scars from the Rot Goddess bond us all as heroes who refused to bend the knee when challenged to dance by this peerless swordswoman. We stand victorious together!
