Deep within the world of Black Myth: Wukong, a formidable foe awaits those seeking the ultimate challenge: Erlang Shen, the revered warrior god. Known for his unwavering resolve and mastery of multiple weapons, Erlang Shen stands as a gatekeeper to the game’s secret ending. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and strategies needed to conquer this challenging boss, detailing everything from locating his hidden lair to mastering the intricacies of both phases of the fight. Prepare to test your skills against a divine adversary, for the path to victory against Erlang Shen is not for the faint of heart.
Reaching Mount Mei: Unlocking the Secret Path to Erlang Shen
The journey to face Erlang Shen begins with uncovering a hidden path, accessible only after completing specific tasks throughout the game. Before you can even think about challenging this divine warrior, you must first prove your worth by completing a series of secret quests scattered throughout Chapters 1 through 6. These quests are not part of the main storyline and can easily be missed if you’re not thorough in your exploration.
Completing Hidden Quests in Chapters 1-6
Each chapter holds a crucial piece of the puzzle that unlocks access to Mount Mei. Here’s a breakdown of the requirements for each chapter:
- Chapter 1: Ring the three bells and defeat Elder Jinchi.
- Chapter 2: Complete the Yellow Robed Squire’s quest and defeat Fuban.
- Chapter 3: Follow the Treasure Hunter and locate the Watermelon Fields. This step is crucial, as it sets the stage for later accessing Mount Mei within this very chapter.
- Chapter 4: Track down the Venom Daoist, enter Purple Cloud Mountain, and defeat the Duskveil.
- Chapter 5: Complete the Pale-Axe Stalwart’s quest, enter Bishui Cave, and defeat the Bishui Golden-Eyed Beast.
- Chapter 6: Assemble Sun Wukong’s armor by defeating the Gold Armored Rhino, Feng-Tail General, Emerald-Armed Mantis, and Cloudtreading Deer. Then, travel to Water Curtain Cave and claim the Jingubang staff to complete the Heaven’s Equal set.
Locating the Great Pagoda in Chapter 3
Once you’ve fulfilled the prerequisites in the previous chapters, the path to Mount Mei reveals itself within Chapter 3. The key lies within the Great Pagoda, a location easily overlooked if you’re not actively searching for it.
To find the Great Pagoda, start from the Snow-Veiled Trail Shrine in Chapter 3, The New West. Immediately turn right, and follow the winding path. It’s a linear route, so you won’t get lost. This path will lead you directly to the Great Pagoda. If you’ve completed the necessary quests in the other chapters, you’ll notice five murals adorning the walls, with Bodhisattva Maitreya standing before a blank central wall.
Meeting Bodhisattva Maitreya to Unlock the Secret Entrance
Upon reaching the Great Pagoda and observing the five murals, approach Bodhisattva Maitreya. Speaking with him will trigger a cutscene, revealing the secret entrance to Mount Mei. This hidden area houses the formidable Erlang Shen, awaiting your challenge. This marks the true beginning of your arduous journey to unlock the secret ending.
Preparing for the Battle Against Erlang Shen (Phase 1): Equipping for Success
Erlang Shen is a formidable opponent, boasting a diverse moveset and powerful abilities. Preparation is key to surviving this encounter. Before stepping onto the battlefield, ensure you’ve equipped yourself with the right skills, spells, and items to maximize your chances of victory.
Build 1
Skills/Spells
- These are the inherent abilities of the main character that do not consume items to function:
- Cloud Step: This spell allows you to quickly move short distances. This appears to function similarly to a dash or teleport.
- Staff Spin: This defensive maneuver allows you to deflect incoming projectiles, specifically swords thrown by Erlang Shen.
- Immobilize: This offensive ability temporarily stuns Erlang Shen, preventing him from acting. Using this ability when Erlang Shen has his shields up will cause it to be reflected back at the player.
- Unveiling Strike: This attack is enhanced by the “Spread of Fire” drink infusion.
Items
Weapons: recommends using the weapon with the highest attack power available to the player.
Armor: The full Yaka set provides a 25% damage bonus at the cost of increased damage taken.
Curios: The source specifically mentions the following curios:
- A pendant that reduces spell cooldown, especially for Cloud Step.
- A curio set that grants a 3% damage bonus.
- “Cat eye beads” that grant 3% increased critical hit chance.
- “Tiger tally” that benefits players who use light attacks often.
- A curio that grants bonus Mana, health, and stamina upon resurrection.
Plon Fan Vessel: This item is used to break Erlang Shen’s shield.
Iron Ball Spirit: This is a spirit that can be used to attack and is particularly useful for breaking Erlang Shen’s shield when upgraded to at least level 4.
Drink: The “Sunset of the Nine Skies” drink is recommended for restoring Chi and increasing Mana recovery. It uses three infusion slots, which are filled with “Spread of Fire”, “Turtle Tier”, and “Be Mountain Stone” in the source.
Gourd: The “Supreme Gourd,” an upgraded version of the player’s starting gourd, is recommended for its maximum number of charges.
Medicines: While not required, the source suggests having medicines on hand, especially the “life-saving pill” and “Mirage pills.” The “life-saving pill” is used to prevent death when the gourd is empty. The “Mirage pill” allows the player to reuse transformations.
Transformations – Azur Dust : This transformation allows the player to execute a combo of four light attacks that deal heavy damage to Erlang Shen’s shield.
Relics
- Eagle Eye: This relic reduces Cloud Step’s cooldown when the player hits an enemy while under its effect.
- Lingering Aroma: The function of this relic is not described.
- Tongue of a Connoisseur: This relic increases the amount of healing received.
- Everlasting Vitality: This relic increases maximum health.
Build 2
Erlang Shen’s shield is his primary defense, absorbing a significant amount of damage. Therefore, focusing on skills and spells that can quickly deplete his shield is crucial. Here are a few recommendations:
- A Pluck of Many (creates illusory clones to attack): This spell overwhelms Erlang Shen’s shield with a barrage of attacks from your clones, making it an invaluable tool for quickly breaking through his defenses.
- Plantain Fan (creates a damaging vortex): The Plantain Fan’s sustained damage is exceptionally effective against the shield, making it another excellent choice for this fight.
- Staff Spin (a rapid spinning attack): While requiring close-range combat, Staff Spin’s quick successive hits can rapidly chip away at Erlang Shen’s shield. This skill is particularly useful during the first phase of the fight.
Beyond skills and spells, certain items will prove invaluable in your fight against Erlang Shen. These items can provide crucial defensive and offensive advantages, turning the tide of battle in your favor.
- Shock Quelling Powder (removes shock status): Erlang Shen utilizes lightning attacks that can inflict the Shock status ailment, increasing the damage you take. Having a supply of Shock Quelling Powder on hand is essential to mitigate this threat.
- Flower of Prime Soak (absorbs elemental damage): Erlang Shen can imbue his weapons with elemental properties, making the Flower of Prime Soak a vital defensive tool. This soak absorbs a portion of incoming elemental damage, significantly increasing your survivability.
Understanding Erlang’s Shield Mechanic
Erlang Shen’s shield mechanic is central to the fight. Understanding how it works is crucial for success. The shield absorbs a set amount of damage before breaking, leaving him vulnerable for a short period. However, the shield regenerates if you don’t maintain consistent pressure.
- Breaking the Shield: Focus on using the skills and spells mentioned earlier — A Pluck of Many, Plantain Fan, and Staff Spin — to quickly deplete the shield. Charged Heavy Attacks are less effective against the shield, as Erlang Shen can evade them.
- Shield Regeneration Timing: Erlang Shen’s shield will regenerate at 75%, 50%, and 10% health if you don’t damage him quickly enough. Therefore, maintaining a relentless offense is paramount to preventing the shield from regenerating and prolonging the fight. Be prepared for heightened aggression during these phases, as Erlang Shen will likely attempt to create distance and allow his shield to recover.
Erlang Shen (Phase 1) Boss Fight Strategy: A Step-by-Step Guide
This section details a step-by-step strategy for tackling the first phase of the Erlang Shen encounter, covering his attack patterns, optimal counter strategies, and key moments to exploit.
Phase 1: Continuous Assault and Swift Shield Breaking
The initial phase of the fight is all about aggression and swift shield breaking. Erlang Shen starts with his basic moveset, giving you an opportunity to learn his attack patterns and establish an offensive rhythm.
- Prioritize Shield Destruction: From the outset, focus on breaking Erlang Shen’s shield. Utilize A Pluck of Many and Staff Spin to quickly deplete his defenses. Save your Plantain Fan for later phases, when your other resources might be depleted.
- Learn His Basic Attacks: Pay close attention to his thrust attacks, as they often end with a grab. Dodge these attacks to avoid being caught in a damaging combo. Be mindful of his dog companions, whose attacks can be difficult to avoid and inflict shock.
- Capitalize on Shield Breaks: Once the shield is down, Erlang Shen is momentarily vulnerable. Use this opportunity to unleash your most potent attacks and deal significant damage.
Transition Phase 1 (75% HP): Dodging the Axe and Shockwaves
At 75% health, Erlang Shen initiates his first transition, summoning a massive axe. This marks a significant shift in his attack patterns, introducing new challenges to overcome.
- The Axe Attack: As Erlang Shen summons his axe, it crashes down onto the battlefield. Be prepared to dodge this initial attack, as it covers a wide area.
- New Axe Combos: From this point forward, Erlang Shen incorporates his axe into his combos. These attacks are slower but pack a considerable punch. Focus on dodging rather than parrying, as the timing can be tricky.
- Shockwave Attacks: The axe’s attacks also generate shockwaves that ripple outwards. Dodge through these shockwaves, getting close to Erlang Shen to minimize the distance you need to travel and avoid being caught by the expanding wave.
Transition Phase 2 (50% HP): Evading Eye Beams and the Sword Storm
At 50% health, Erlang Shen undergoes his second major transition, introducing even more devastating attacks. This phase requires precise dodging and quick reflexes.
- The Eye Beam Barrage: The transition begins with a series of eye beam attacks from various locations. To avoid these, run to the edge of the arena and position yourself directly beneath Erlang Shen. He never aims directly downwards, making this a safe spot during this attack.
- The Sword Storm: Erlang Shen now wields a sword, unleashing a dangerous sword storm attack. This barrage of projectiles can be avoided by sprinting, using Cloud Step, or, more effectively, deflecting them with Staff Spin. This not only negates the damage but also allows you to maintain offensive pressure.
- The Red Lightning Finisher: Be wary of the red lightning that surrounds Erlang Shen during this phase. It signals an impending, highly damaging attack. Dodge this attack at all costs.
Final Phase (10% HP): Focusing on Maximum Damage Output
At 10% health, Erlang Shen enters his final phase. While he receives one last shield, there’s no extended transition period. This presents a prime opportunity to unleash your remaining resources and finish the fight.
- Burst Damage is Key: This is the time to utilize your most potent attacks and spells. Combining the stagger from the Plantain Fan with the damage from A Pluck of Many can quickly deplete his remaining health.
- Manage Your Resources: The fight against Erlang Shen is a battle of attrition. If you’ve managed your healing gourds and spells effectively throughout the encounter, you’ll be in a much better position to capitalize on this final phase.
- Press the Advantage: Erlang Shen is at his most vulnerable in this phase. Don’t hesitate to press your advantage and unleash everything you have.
Analyzing Special Attacks
Throughout the fight, Erlang Shen employs several special attacks that require specific counter strategies. Understanding these attacks is crucial for survival.
- Red Lightning Combo: This devastating combo involves Erlang Shen charging his spear with red lightning before unleashing a series of rapid strikes, culminating in an aerial slam. Watch for the red lightning charging animation and time your dodge carefully to avoid the final slam. This attack is particularly dangerous in the later phases of the fight.
- Eye Beam: Erlang Shen unleashes a sweeping beam attack from his third eye. While dodging directly through the beam is possible, it’s often safer to approach Erlang Shen and get behind him during the attack animation. This allows you to continue your assault while he’s momentarily occupied.
- Elemental Weapon Infusion: Erlang Shen can absorb elemental powers into his weapon, empowering his attacks with those elements. The Flower of Prime Soak is invaluable in mitigating this threat, absorbing a portion of the incoming elemental damage.
Dodging, Countering, and Exploiting Attack Opportunities
Mastering the art of dodging, countering, and exploiting openings in Erlang Shen’s attacks is essential to victory. This involves careful observation, precise timing, and a thorough understanding of his moveset.
- Prioritize Dodging: Erlang Shen is a relentless attacker. Dodging effectively is crucial for survival. Learn the telltale signs of his attacks and dodge accordingly. Dodging through attacks, rather than away from them, can often place you in a better position for a counterattack.
- Counterattacking: After successfully dodging an attack, look for opportunities to counter. Don’t be greedy; short, controlled combos are often more effective than lengthy, risky ones.
- Exploiting Openings: Erlang Shen’s longer attack strings create brief openings for you to attack. Study his patterns and learn to recognize these moments. However, be prepared to dodge if he changes his attack mid-combo.
The Stone Monkey Form and the Four Heavenly Kings: Unleashing Overwhelming Power
After defeating Erlang Shen in his first form, the fight transitions to a cinematic battle against the Four Heavenly Kings. You’ll take on the form of the Stone Monkey, gaining access to a powerful new set of abilities.
Overview of Stone Monkey Abilities
The Stone Monkey form grants you overwhelming power, making this phase of the fight significantly easier than the first. Here’s a breakdown of your new abilities:
- Light Attack Combo (Punches): A series of powerful punches that build Focus (the resource used for Heavy Attacks). The finisher in this combo is particularly effective at generating Focus.
- Heavy Attack (Slams): Consume Focus to unleash devastating slams. A fully charged Heavy Attack at 4 Focus deals immense damage and heals you proportionally to the Focus consumed.
- Rock Solid (Deflect): This ability allows you to deflect enemy attacks, building Focus and disrupting their combos. Since the Stone Monkey doesn’t use Mana, spam Rock Solid whenever you see an incoming attack.
- Elemental Empowerment: You can imbue your attacks with ice and fire, further enhancing your damage output. However, prioritize using Rock Solid to deflect attacks and build Focus.
Tips for Fighting the Four Heavenly Kings
While facing all four Heavenly Kings simultaneously can seem daunting, the fight is designed to become progressively easier.
- Focus on One King: Although all four are present, they generally attack in pairs. Concentrate your attacks on one king at a time to whittle down their health more efficiently.
- Utilize Rock Solid: The Heavenly Kings attack frequently, providing ample opportunities to use Rock Solid. Deflecting their attacks builds Focus for your devastating Heavy Attacks and keeps you relatively safe.
- Exploit Executions: At certain health thresholds (around 60%, 40%, and 20%), you’ll perform an execution, instantly eliminating one of the Heavenly Kings. This makes the fight progressively easier as you thin their ranks.
Erlang Shen (Phase 2) Boss Fight Strategy: Mastering the Stone Monkey’s Might
After defeating the Four Heavenly Kings, you’ll face Erlang Shen in his second, more powerful form. However, you’ll still retain the immense power of the Stone Monkey.
Utilizing the Stone Monkey’s Abilities for Counterattacks and Offense
This phase is more of a cinematic experience, designed to showcase the Stone Monkey’s overwhelming power.
- Rock Solid is Your Best Friend: Erlang Shen’s relentless attacks provide constant opportunities to use Rock Solid. Deflect his attacks to build Focus and maintain a steady stream of powerful Heavy Attacks.
- Unleash Charged Heavy Attacks: Prioritize fully charged Heavy Attacks (4 Focus) for maximum damage and healing. This self-sustain makes surviving this phase relatively straightforward.
- Manage Your Dodges: While Rock Solid is your primary defense, you’ll still need to dodge occasionally to avoid certain attacks. Don’t rely solely on deflecting; learn Erlang Shen’s attack patterns and dodge when necessary.
Navigating the Cutscenes and Health Regeneration Sequence
The fight against Erlang Shen in his second form features several cutscenes, adding a cinematic flair to the encounter. One notable cutscene involves Erlang Shen breathing fire, seemingly depleting your health. However, this is a scripted event, and your health will fully regenerate immediately afterward, empowering the Stone Monkey with fiery energy. Don’t panic during this sequence; it’s part of the narrative and won’t result in a game over.
Rewards and the Secret Ending: Claiming Your Prize and Unlocking the True Conclusion
Triumphing over Erlang Shen in both forms grants you access to unique rewards and unlocks the game’s true ending.
Listing the Rewards
Defeating Erlang Shen yields several powerful rewards:
- Tri-Point Double-Edged Spear: Erlang Shen’s signature weapon. This mythical spear enhances Thrust Stance attacks, adding a devastating sword storm to the Forceful Thrust varied combo.
- Azure Dome Transformation: This transformation allows you to assume the Stone Monkey form at will, unleashing its devastating power upon your enemies.
- Freed Mind Relic Perk: You’ll unlock a perk for the Freed Mind Relic. If you already possess the relic from a previous playthrough, the perk is available immediately. Otherwise, you’ll gain access to it upon starting New Game+. Note: Fully unlocking all Freed Mind perks requires defeating Erlang Shen three times across three separate playthroughs.
How to Unlock the Secret Ending
Unlocking the secret ending is directly tied to defeating Erlang Shen. By conquering this challenging boss, you’ll witness the true conclusion to Black Myth: Wukong, experiencing a different ending than the standard one obtained by completing the main storyline. This secret ending provides additional lore and context to the narrative, offering a more complete understanding of the game’s story and characters.