Have you ever faced a foe so formidable, so utterly terrifying, that even after defeating it, a part of you yearns for a rematch? Perhaps for redemption, for a better performance, or simply to re-experience the thrill of the challenge? If you're a Demon's Souls player, and that foe is the Vanguard Demon, then you've come to the right place! This isn't just a guide; it's your comprehensive strategy for a glorious rematch.
Are you ready to face your fears (and potentially many deaths) once more? Then let's dive into the intricate dance of dodging, striking, and strategic planning required to fight the Vanguard Demon again!
Step 1: Understanding the "Again" - Why and How it's Possible
Before we charge headfirst into battle, let's understand the mechanics. For most players, the Vanguard Demon is a one-time encounter, a brutal tutorial boss that often ends in a swift, humiliating demise in the tutorial area. But what if I told you there's a way to rekindle that fiery encounter?
The "Again" Factor: The key to fighting the Vanguard Demon "again" lies in a specific game mechanic: Pure Black World Tendency. This isn't just about a harder game; it's about unlocking new events, enemies, and yes, even bosses.
Sub-heading: Why Pure Black World Tendency? Pure Black World Tendency (PBWT) is the darkest state a world can be in. It occurs when you die repeatedly in human form in a specific world, or by defeating certain Black Phantoms. When a world reaches PBWT, new, more powerful enemies appear, and certain events are triggered. In the case of the Vanguard Demon, reaching PBWT in World 4 (Shrine of Storms) is crucial.
Sub-heading: How to Achieve Pure Black World Tendency in World 4
This is the most critical first step. You need to intentionally lower your World Tendency in the Shrine of Storms. Here's how:
Option A: The Most Common Method (and painful): Die Repeatedly in Human Form.
Go to World 4-1 (Island's Edge).
Shift to Human Form: Use a Stone of Ephemeral Eyes.
Die: Let yourself be killed by enemies. Each death in human form significantly shifts World Tendency towards black.
Repeat: Do this roughly 7-8 times. You'll notice the world getting darker, and eventually, the enemies becoming more aggressive.
Check World Tendency: In the menu, go to the "Tendency" tab. The icon for World 4 should be glowing black.
Option B: Defeat Black Phantoms (Less Common for Initial PBWT):
This is usually done after you've already achieved PBWT, as many Black Phantom events are tied to it. However, if you happen to encounter and defeat an invading Black Phantom in World 4 while in human form, it will also shift the tendency towards black. This is less reliable for initially getting to PBWT.
Important Note on Nexus Deaths: Dying in the Nexus in human form does not affect World Tendency. You must die within the specific world (World 4 in this case) for the tendency to shift.
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| How To Fight Vanguard Demon Again |
Step 2: Locating the Rematch Arena
Once your World 4 is firmly entrenched in Pure Black World Tendency, the stage is set for the Vanguard Demon's return.
Sub-heading: Where to Find Him The Vanguard Demon in PBWT World 4 appears in 4-1 (Island's Edge), specifically in the same area where you encounter the first Red Eye Knight.
From the Archstone of the Island's Edge (4-1): Proceed through the level as you normally would.
Look for the Shortcut: After passing the first skeleton ambush and making your way through the narrow cliff path, you'll reach the area with the first Red Eye Knight. This is the large open courtyard-like area just before the fog gate leading to the Adjudicator.
The Vanguard Awaits: In PBWT, the Vanguard Demon will be standing prominently in this area, ready to engage. He's hard to miss!
Tip: Don’t skip — flow matters.
Step 3: Preparing for a True Boss Battle
This isn't the tutorial Vanguard. This is a Pure Black World Tendency Vanguard. He's stronger, hits harder, and his attacks might feel a bit more relentless. Preparation is key to avoiding another swift demise.
Sub-heading: Essential Gear and Stat Checks
Armor: While mobility is important, some physical defense is crucial. Don't be afraid to wear some medium armor, as long as it doesn't severely restrict your roll speed. Anything that provides good Blunt defense is a plus, as most of his attacks are blunt.
Weapons: The Vanguard is weak to magic and blunt damage.
For Melee Builds: A good mace, club, or hammer will be highly effective. Upgrade your chosen weapon as much as possible. Consider the Crushing upgrade path if you have the materials and strength.
For Magic Builds: Soul Arrow, Homing Soul Arrow, or Fire Spray (if you have it) will deal significant damage. Ensure your Magic stat is high and your catalyst is upgraded.
For Faith Builds: Blessed weapons, or miracles like God's Wrath if you're feeling brave and want to risk the cast time.
Shield: A shield with high physical block (100%) and good guard stability is invaluable. The Heater Shield or Kite Shield are good early-game options, while the Dark Silver Shield (if you have it) or Large Brushwood Shield (if you can carry it) offer even better protection.
Healing Items: Stock up on as many healing grasses as you can carry, especially the stronger varieties like Full Moon Grass and New Moon Grass.
Rings:
Ring of Great Strength: If you're struggling with equip load.
Cling Ring: Essential for all builds, as it increases your maximum HP in soul form.
Fragrant Ring / Regenerator's Ring: For passive HP regeneration, useful for sustained fights.
Thief's Ring: Can help with aggro management, though the Vanguard is pretty focused.
Sub-heading: Character Build Considerations
Stamina is King: You'll be rolling, blocking, and attacking. High endurance means more actions before needing to recover.
Vitality is Life: More HP gives you more room for error.
Strength/Dexterity/Magic/Faith: Focus on the stats that scale with your chosen weapon or spells.
Step 4: Mastering the Vanguard's Moveset (Again!)
The Vanguard's attacks are predictable, but they hit like a truck. Learning his tells and the best way to respond is paramount.
Sub-heading: Understanding His Attacks and Your Counters
Overhead Smash: His most common attack. He'll raise his axe high above his head and bring it down with immense force.
Counter: Roll forward and to the side. Rolling backwards often puts you still in the AoE. Rolling forward brings you under his armpit, giving you a small window for an attack.
Horizontal Swing (Sweeping Attack): He'll sweep his axe across in a wide arc.
Counter: Roll through the attack or backwards away from it. If you're close, rolling through is often safer.
Ground Slam (AoE Attack): He'll slam his axe into the ground, creating a small shockwave.
Counter: Roll backwards multiple times or sprint away from the impact point. This attack has a surprisingly wide area of effect. If you're too close, block with a high stability shield.
Double Slam (Less Common): Sometimes he'll do two quick overhead slams in succession.
Counter: Treat each slam like a separate overhead smash, rolling through each one.
Sub-heading: Strategic Positioning and Attacking Windows
Stay Close, but Not Too Close: Maintaining medium range allows you to bait his overhead smash and punish it.
Punish the Overhead: This is your primary opening. Roll forward and land 1-2 hits on his legs or back. Do not get greedy! One or two hits, then prepare to roll again.
Target the Legs/Back: These are his weak points. Aim for them to maximize damage.
Stamina Management: Never completely deplete your stamina. Always save enough for at least one defensive roll.
Patience is a Virtue: This is a war of attrition. Don't rush. Wait for your openings, deal damage, and disengage.
Step 5: The Battle Strategy - From Engagement to Victory
You've prepared, you know his moves. Now, it's time for the actual fight.
Sub-heading: Initial Engagement
QuickTip: The more attention, the more retention.
Approach Cautiously: As you enter the Vanguard's area, he will aggro. Don't sprint directly at him.
Bait an Attack: Let him initiate the first move. This allows you to get into a rhythm of dodging and attacking.
Sub-heading: Melee Combat Tactics
Dodge, Don't Block (Mostly): While a shield is useful for emergencies, relying solely on blocking will drain your stamina quickly and leave you vulnerable. Prioritize dodging.
Circle Strafe: Try to move around him, baiting the overhead slam.
One or Two Hits: After dodging his overhead, get in 1-2 hits on his legs or back. If you're using a slow weapon, maybe just one.
Disengage and Reset: Immediately roll away and reposition yourself for his next attack.
Healing: Only heal when you have a clear opening, usually after a successful dodge and when he's recovering from an attack. Never heal when he's actively winding up for an attack.
Sub-heading: Ranged Combat Tactics (Magic/Bow)
Maintain Distance: Keep as much distance as possible while still being able to lock on.
Fire When Safe: Cast spells or shoot arrows when he's recovering from an attack or moving.
Dodge Rolls are Still Key: Even at range, you need to be prepared to dodge his ground slam or any unexpected lunges.
Conserve MP/Arrows: Don't just spam. Make each shot count. If you run low, switch to a melee weapon or use spices.
Sub-heading: Dealing with the Environment The area where you fight him is relatively open, but be mindful of the edges and the small staircase. Don't back yourself into a corner!
Step 6: The Sweet Taste of Victory (Again!)
After a grueling battle, when the Vanguard finally lets out his guttural roar and dissipates, you'll feel a unique sense of accomplishment. Not only have you defeated a challenging foe, but you've mastered a game mechanic to bring him back and overcome him on his terms.
What You Get: Upon defeating the Vanguard Demon in World 4 PBWT, you will receive the Grey Demon's Soul. This soul can be used to purchase the Fire Spray spell from Freke or the God's Wrath miracle from Urbain. It's a valuable prize for your efforts!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to get Pure Black World Tendency faster?
The fastest way to achieve Pure Black World Tendency is to die repeatedly in human form within the specific world you want to shift (e.g., World 4 for the Vanguard Demon). Each human form death significantly darkens the world's tendency.
QuickTip: Copy useful snippets to a notes app.
How to check my World Tendency?
You can check your World Tendency by going to the main menu, selecting "Tendency," and then looking at the icons for each archstone. A black-glowing icon indicates Pure Black World Tendency.
How to reverse Pure Black World Tendency?
You can reverse Pure Black World Tendency by defeating a boss in that world, defeating a Primeval Demon (which only spawn in PBWT), or defeating an invading Black Phantom player.
How to make the Vanguard Demon easier?
Making the Vanguard Demon easier primarily involves having a highly upgraded blunt weapon (like a mace or club) or strong magic spells, high vitality, and a good understanding of his attack patterns for effective dodging.
How to farm healing items for the fight?
You can farm healing items like various grasses from many enemies throughout the game. The Dreglings in World 1-1, or the various skeletons in World 4 are good early-game options for farming grasses.
How to increase my damage against the Vanguard Demon?
QuickTip: Reading twice makes retention stronger.
To increase your damage, use weapons with blunt damage (maces, clubs, hammers) or magic spells, and ensure your relevant stats (Strength for blunt, Magic for spells) are high and your weapons/catalysts are upgraded. Applying buffs like Sticky White Stuff can also help for melee builds.
How to avoid the Vanguard's ground slam?
To avoid the Vanguard's ground slam, roll backwards multiple times immediately when you see him winding up for it, or sprint away from the impact zone.
How to distinguish the tutorial Vanguard from the World 4 Vanguard?
The tutorial Vanguard is encountered in the tutorial area. The World 4 Vanguard only appears in the Shrine of Storms (4-1) when that world is in Pure Black World Tendency. The World 4 version is also significantly tougher.
How to use the Grey Demon's Soul?
The Grey Demon's Soul obtained from defeating the Vanguard Demon in World 4 PBWT can be given to Sage Freke to learn the Fire Spray spell, or to Saint Urbain to learn the God's Wrath miracle.
How to know if my weapon is effective against him?
Weapons dealing blunt damage (maces, clubs, hammers) and magic spells are highly effective against the Vanguard Demon. Check your weapon's damage type in its description or simply observe the damage numbers you deal to see if they're high.
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