Elden Ring: The Best DLC Boss Progression Route
Starting Point: Gravesite Plain
Your journey begins in the Gravesite Plain, where you first encounter the Furnace Golem, an optional elite enemy, and the Blackgoal Knight. Progress further to the Three-Path Cross Site of Grace, which serves as a hub linking the regions of Belurat and Castle Ensis.
First Legacy Dungeon: Belurat
From the Three-Path Cross Site of Grace, head west to Belurat, the first legacy dungeon of the DLC. At the dungeon's end, you'll face the Divine Beast Dancing Lion, a main boss. Defeating this formidable foe is crucial, though you cannot progress further in this area immediately.
Castle Ensis: Rellana, Twin Moon Knight
After clearing Belurat, return to the Three-Path Cross Site of Grace and head east towards Castle Ensis. Here, you'll encounter Rellana, Twin Moon Knight, who guards the entrance to the Scadu Altus Region. Defeat Rellana to gain access to this critical area.
Central Region: Scadu Altus
Scadu Altus acts as the heart of the Land of Shadow, connecting almost every other part of the map. While it may not feature major bosses, reaching Scadu Altus is essential for navigating to other key areas, making it a vital part of your journey.
Key Area: Shadow Keep
From Scadu Altus, venture to the Shadow Keep, where you'll find Messmer The Impaler, a main boss and demigod. Clearing this area is crucial for progressing certain NPC questlines.
Sub-Boss: Golden Hippopotamus
Before facing Messmer, defeat the Golden Hippopotamus at the entrance of Shadow Keep. While it doesn't drop a Remembrance, this sub-boss is vital for advancing the DLC story.
Main Boss: Messmer The Impaler
Messmer The Impaler, located on the top floor of the Specimen Storeroom in the Shadow Keep, is a popular boss in the DLC. Defeating Messmer grants you Messmer's Kindling, a key item, and access to the Ancient Ruins of Rauh region.
Scenic Detour: Cerulean Coast
The Cerulean Coast is a beautiful area accessible from the Gravesite Plain. It's advisable to explore this region after clearing the Shadow Keep, allowing you to head to the Stone Coffin Fissure, defeat its boss, and continue Thollier's Questline.
Boss: Putrescent Knight
In the Stone Coffin Fissure area, you'll encounter Putrescent Knight, a major boss guarding access to St. Trina. Defeat the Knight and return to the Scadu Altus region.
Darklight Catacombs and Abyssal Woods
After the Stone Coffin Fissure, navigate back to the Shadow Keep and proceed to the Darklight Catacombs, leading to the Abyssal Woods region.
Dungeon Boss: Jori, Elder Inquisitor
Within the Darklight Catacombs, you'll face Jori, Elder Inquisitor. Overcoming this challenge is necessary to progress further into the Abyssal Woods.
Major Boss: Midra, Lord of Frenzied Flame
Midra, Lord of Frenzied Flame, located in Midra's Manse in the Abyssal Woods, has two forms. Defeat its human form first to fight its Lord of Frenzied Flame form.
High Altitudes: Jagged Peak
After the Abyssal Woods, locate the map fragment revealing the Jagged Peak Region. Backtrack to the Castle Front Site of Grace near Castle Ensis and head southeast to reach Pillar Point Site of Grace.
Draconic Foes: Jagged Peak Drakes and Ancient Dragon Senessax
Progress through Foot of the Jagged Peak, encountering the Jagged Peak Drake and the Twin Jagged Peak Drakes battling each other. Further ahead, you'll face Ancient Dragon Senessax, similar to its base game counterparts.
Summit Boss: Bayle, The Dread
At the Jagged Peak summit, Bayle, The Dread awaits. Summoning Igon during this fight is crucial for completing his quest. Defeat Bayle and speak to the Dragon Communion Priestess Florissax to conclude her quest.
Final Areas: Scadutree Base and Scaduview
To reach the Scadutree Base, return to the Moorth Ruins in Scadu Altus, navigate to Bonny Village, and head northeast to the Shadow Keep, Church District Area. This path leads to the Scadutree Base, where the Scadutree Avatar resides. Defeat this boss to obtain its Remembrance and Miquella's Great Rune, both essential for the final DLC boss battle.
Final Encounter: Commander Gaius
To fight Commander Gaius, progress through the Shadow Keep's Church District area until reaching the Specimen Storehouse, leading to the Shadow Keep, Back Gate. The fight against Gaius occurs in an open area, so be prepared for unpredictable hitboxes. Defeating Gaius rewards you with the Remembrance of the Wild Boar Rider.
Cathedral of Manus Metyr
With access to the Scaduview region, proceed to the Cathedral of Manus Metyr. Engage in Count Ymir's quest, leading to the Finger Ruins of Rhia and Hinterland. Metyr, Mother of Fingers, is the final boss found at the Finger Ruins of Miyr beneath the Cathedral.
By following this optimized progression route, you'll efficiently conquer the main bosses in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, collecting essential Elden Ring Runes and Elden Ring Items along the way, ensuring a comprehensive and rewarding gameplay experience.