In Chapter 7 of Crimson Desert, you’ll face off against Ludvig. This boss guide walks you through the fight step by step.
Chapter 7 of Crimson Desert is essentially one long, grueling battle, culminating in a showdown with the leader of the Jackals. Ludvig is a fast, aggressive opponent who combines rapid melee combos with deadly ranged lightning attacks. In the tight arena, you’ll need precise dodging, solid parries, and the right abilities to make it through this encounter.
Boss Fight Against Ludvig: Preparing for the Battle
For your base stats, you should have at least Level 2 Spirit, Level 4 Stamina, and Level 6 Health. Anything lower will make it difficult to block attacks and keep up with the constant dodging required in this cramped arena.
Weapons and Equipment
Make sure to carry a greatshield with solid defensive stats. As for weapons, Wolf’s Fang or the Tauria Curved Sword (dropped by the Crowcaller) are excellent choices. For this fight, equip Kliff with as much lightning resistance as possible. Level 2 is the bare minimum.
No matter which weapon you choose, it should have an attack value of at least 18. Aim for over 800 Health, at least 200 Stamina, and at least 50 Spirit.
Essential Abilities
Your Armed Combat skill should be upgraded to at least Level 5. Clothesline, Shield Bash, and Forward Slash are all effective for breaking Ludvig’s stance.
A strong Force Palm at Level 2 or higher is also crucial for interrupting the boss. However, the most important ability in this fight is Nature’s Snare.
Boss Fight Against Ludvig: Phase 1
The fight against Ludvig unfolds over two phases. The first phase, in particular, is difficult to survive without a key ability.
Deflecting and Countering Melee Attacks
In Phase 1, expect a barrage of fast melee combos. If you’re confident with parries, this is your best chance to land counters. Follow up immediately with Forward Slash, Force Palm, or Clothesline to fill Ludvig’s stagger bar and break his stance.
If his attacks feel too fast, keep your greatshield raised and use the brief window after his combos to land quick sword strikes.
- Warning: Ludvig may occasionally follow up a completed sword combo with a quick three-shot burst of lightning projectiles. Dodge sideways or raise your shield.
Interrupting His Pull Attack
If Ludvig pauses and starts pulling you toward him, a powerful lightning attack is coming. Interrupt him during the charge-up using Force Palm or your sword’s light reflection (Blinding Flash).
If you fail to interrupt him in time, roll away as far as possible to avoid the incoming area-of-effect blast.
Dealing with Lightning Projectiles
Ludvig’s lightning projectiles are by far the most dangerous attack in this phase. Your shield alone won’t be enough, and dodging is tricky since the projectiles track you.
Your best option is Nature’s Snare. This ability lets you absorb the projectiles and fire them back. Enter Focus Mode (L3+R3) as soon as Ludvig begins charging, then rotate the right stick clockwise. Once you’ve absorbed all volleys, send them back with L1/LB.
Boss Fight Against Ludvig: Phase 2
In Phase 2, Ludvig transforms, turning himself into lightning at times and becoming far less predictable. If you struggle to track him, use Focus to briefly slow time. His melee strikes can still be parried or blocked.
Countering Lightning Attacks
Ludvig continues using ranged lightning attacks here. The answer remains Kliff’s Nature’s Snare. Absorb the projectiles and send them back, just like in Phase 1. You’ll recognize the move when he raises his right arm and charges a bolt.
Lightning Sword and Area Attacks
In this phase, Ludvig frequently unleashes large-scale area attacks.
- When he pulls out his massive lightning sword, expect two sweeping horizontal or vertical strikes. Afterward, lightning bolts will surge across the arena. You can block or dodge all sword attacks. Stay close to Ludvig to avoid the follow-up lightning.
- If he deploys an energy grid across the arena, switch to Focus and find a safe gap. Hold your shield up and wait out the explosion.
- If he raises his fist, he’s about to slam the ground and trigger multiple lightning strikes. Block with your shield, dodge quickly, or parry just as his fist comes down.
Best Opening for Attacks
Between his rapid attacks, Ludvig will occasionally pause to charge energy. While he appears invulnerable, you can interrupt him with Force Palm or distract him using your sword’s light reflection, creating a brief window to attack. Use your strongest abilities here and go all in.
