Shadow of the Erdtree is the Elden Ring DLC released in June 2024. Shadow of the Erdtree is a fully playable story expansion where the player arrives in the Land of Shadow and follows in the footsteps of Miquella — a demigod trapped in the body of a small child.

As in any RPG, both tactics and equipment are key elements of gameplay in Elden Ring (and its DLC, of course). In particular, the second element can determine the fate of our character — especially when we consider the boss fights, which (admittedly) in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree are extremely challenging and feature diverse and unpredictable attacks.

It’s known that as the game progresses, both the character’s equipment and skills will become more impressive, but the beginning of the game is rarely easy, often involving a fight for survival. Therefore, this guide includes tips on how to get the best possible early weapon, namely the Dragon-Hunter’s Great Katana!

Dragon-Hunter's Great Katana
Dragon-Hunter’s Great Katana, Image credit: FromSoftware

What is the Dragon-Hunter’s Great Katana?

The Dragon-Hunter’s Great Katana was primarily created for fighting dragons (dragon-type enemies receive additional damage), though it also performs excellently against other enemies. Its power scales with Dexterity and Strength, which in turn provides additional damage (including Blood Loss). Here are the stats:

Attack:

  • Phy 152
  • Mag 0
  • Fire 0
  • Light 0
  • Holy 0
  • Crit 100

Guard:

  • Phy 69.0
  • Mag 32.0
  • Fire 32.0
  • Light 32.0
  • Holy 32.0
  • Boost 37

To obtain it, we must first reach the Dragon’s Pit, where the Ancient Dragon-Man awaits us. How do we get there? We explain!

How to get the Katana?

  • Set off from the Gravesite Plain Site of Grace.
  • Head north until reaching Ellac Greatbridge.
  • Cross the bridge to see the Castle Front Site of Grace.
  • From Castle Front Site of Grace, head southeast to the landmark Pillar Path.
  • Continue south along the route marked by statues of headless dragons.
  • Upon reaching the Dragon’s Pit:

    • Many enemies will be hiding inside.
    • Defeating them may be too difficult, especially at the beginning of the game.
    • Avoid enemies, dodge attacks, and run along the designated path.
  • Eventually, reach a cliff that hides one of the many secrets of Elder Ring:

    • Jump down the cliff (no damage will occur).
    • At the bottom, the Ancient Dragon-Man awaits.
    • Defeat the Ancient Dragon-Man to receive the Dragon-Hunter’s Great Katana.
  • Mission complete!

Sources:

  • https://eldenring.wiki.fextralife.com/Dragon-Hunter’s+Great+Katana