Among the many grotesque enemies scattered throughout Elden Ring, the Grafted Scion stands out as both terrifying and memorable. This monstrous mass of fused bodies wields a pair of swords and a massive greatshield, moving with uncanny speed and strength despite its grotesque form.

 

The Grafted Scion is classified as a Field Boss, appearing in several locations across the Lands Between. Its most prominent encounter is within Stormveil Castle, though many players first experience the fight during the game's prologue. The Grafted Scion is technically optional, you don't need to defeat it in order to progress. However, overcoming it is a rewarding challenge, both narratively and mechanically.

 

This guide explores where to find the Grafted Scion, how to prepare for the battle, and the best tips for victory.

 

Where to Encounter the Grafted Scion

 

The first time many players meet the Grafted Scion is during the tutorial sequence at the very beginning of Elden Ring. This fight is deliberately overwhelming, designed to set the tone of struggle in the Lands Between. Dying here is expected and even scripted, though exceptionally skilled players can defeat it at this stage.

 

Later, players will encounter the Grafted Scion in Stormveil Castle, where it serves as one of the more challenging enemies inside the Legacy Dungeon. These later encounters are fairer than the prologue fight, giving you access to better weapons, spells, and Spirit Ashes.

 

Why Fight the Grafted Scion

 

Since it's an optional boss, you may wonder why it's worth the trouble. The rewards make the challenge worthwhile:

 

Defeating the Scion grants a significant haul of Elden Ring Runes, allowing for valuable level-ups early on.

 

It drops unique Elden Ring Items, such as weapons or crafting materials, depending on where you encounter it.

 

Conquering the prologue version gives players bragging rights and an early advantage before entering the wider world.

 

Beyond tangible rewards, defeating the Grafted Scion provides a sense of accomplishment. This twisted monster symbolizes the grotesque theme of grafting found throughout Stormveil Castle, and overcoming it ties directly into the game's lore.

 

Best Tips for Defeating the Grafted Scion

 

The Grafted Scion can be overwhelming, especially during the first encounter. These tips will help you manage its attacks and strike back effectively:

 

1. Prioritize Rolling Over Guarding

 

The Scion's dual swords and greatshield allow it to unleash relentless combos. Guarding will quickly shred your stamina and leave you vulnerable. Instead, focus on rolling through its swings. Learning the rhythm of its combos is essential for survival.

 

2. Use Quick-Cast Spells

 

For magic users, speed is key. Spells like Glintstone Pebble are excellent options, allowing you to deal steady damage without long casting animations. Heavier spells leave you open to punishment, as the Scion closes distances quickly.

 

3. Exploit Stance-Breaking Weapons

 

Certain starting classes, like Vagabond and Samurai, excel against the Scion. Their weapons can stagger the boss, creating openings for critical hits. Skills that break stance quickly are invaluable during this fight, especially when combined with jump attacks.

 

4. Keep Your Distance When Needed

 

The Scion can overwhelm melee fighters with its speed. Don't hesitate to back off, heal, or reposition before re-engaging. The arena in Stormveil provides room to maneuver if you stay aware of your surroundings.

 

5. Summon Spirit Ashes

 

In later encounters, Spirit Ashes can make a huge difference. Summons like the Lone Wolf Ashes or Kaiden Sellsword can distract the Scion, giving you time to land safe attacks. This is particularly helpful for fragile magic builds.

 

Recommended Builds and Strategies

 

Different builds approach the Grafted Scion in unique ways:

 

Melee Builds: Use heavy-hitting weapons with good stagger potential. Jumping attacks or charged heavy strikes can break the Scion's posture, opening it up to critical hits. Stay aggressive but disciplined, avoiding panic rolls.

 

Magic Builds: Rely on quick spells like Glintstone Pebble or Magic Glintblade. Keep your distance, cast quickly, and reposition often. Spirit Ashes are almost mandatory for giving you the space to work safely.

 

Hybrid Builds: Combine ranged magic with melee stance-breaking. Open with a barrage of spells to whittle down health, then rush in for posture breaks when the Scion leaves itself vulnerable.

 

Rewards for Victory

 

Defeating the Grafted Scion offers excellent rewards:

 

Elden Ring Runes: These fuel your character's growth, enabling level-ups to increase stats and survivability. The Runes gained are substantial compared to regular enemies, making the fight well worth your time.

 

Elden Ring Items: Depending on where you encounter the Scion, it can drop useful items. In Stormveil Castle, this may include materials, gear, or consumables that aid your progression.

 

Satisfaction and Lore Significance: Beating the Scion in the prologue grants you early access to items before entering Limgrave, while also deepening your connection to the grafting theme central to Stormveil Castle.

 

Final Thoughts

 

The Grafted Scion may not be required to progress in Elden Ring, but it is one of the most memorable optional bosses in the game. Whether you face it in the prologue or within Stormveil Castle, it pushes players to master dodging, spacing, and patience.

 

The rewards, both in terms of Elden Ring Runes and valuable Elden Ring Items, make the fight worthwhile for any Tarnished seeking to strengthen their character. More importantly, defeating the Scion is a triumph over one of the game's earliest and most intimidating challenges, setting the stage for the countless battles still to come in the Lands Between.