The Elder Scrolls Online lets you wander all of Tamriel with thousands of other players, from Morrowind's ashlands to the cliffs of Summerset. Combat rewards skill expression through weaving and resource management rather than gear score alone. You can level by questing, crafting, or grinding group content, and the whole map scales to you.
Boss fights are where The Elder Scrolls Online tests everything you've learned. This guide covers strategies for bosses across all areas, organized by progression order. For general combat techniques, see our combat guide.
Boss Difficulty Overview
| Area | Difficulty | Recommended Build | Key Equipment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vvardenfell | Easy | Sorcerer | Dual Wield Daggers |
| Summerset | Moderate | Sorcerer | Dual Wield Daggers |
| Western Skyrim | Hard | Templar | Two-Handed Greatsword |
| Elsweyr | Very Hard | Templar | Two-Handed Greatsword |
| Cyrodiil | Extreme | Templar | Two-Handed Greatsword |
Vvardenfell Bosses
Area difficulty: Easy Recommended level: Any Recommended build: Sorcerer with Dual Wield Daggers
Strategy
The first bosses teach core combat mechanics. Focus on learning patterns rather than dealing damage. Past level 50 you earn Champion Points that fill three constellation trees for combat, crafting, and survival. This is your primary tool here.
Key tips:
- Don't rush. Learn the attack patterns first.
- Use Champion Points to create safe windows.
- Dual Wield Daggers is enough to handle everything here.
Summerset Bosses
Area difficulty: Moderate Recommended level: Any Recommended build: Sorcerer with Dual Wield Daggers
Strategy
Early game bosses test your understanding of weaving light and heavy attacks. Players who skipped learning this mechanic will hit a wall here.
Key tips:
- weaving light and heavy attacks is critical for these fights.
- Farm Dual Wield Daggers upgrades if you're struggling.
- Consider switching to Sorcerer if your current setup isn't working.
Western Skyrim Bosses
Area difficulty: Hard Recommended level: Any Recommended build: Templar with Two-Handed Greatsword
Strategy
Mid-game bosses are the major skill check. They combine multiple mechanics and punish players who rely on a single strategy.
Key tips:
- You need both Champion Points and set bonuses mastery.
- Two-Handed Greatsword makes a significant difference. Get it before attempting these.
- See our combat guide for advanced techniques.
Elsweyr Bosses
Area difficulty: Very Hard Recommended level: Any Recommended build: Templar with Two-Handed Greatsword
Strategy
Late-game bosses are serious challenges. Build optimization matters as much as mechanical skill.
Key tips:
- Make sure your build is fully optimized.
- Two-Handed Greatsword at max upgrade is recommended.
- Study each boss's attack patterns. Most have 2-3 phases.
Cyrodiil Bosses
Area difficulty: Extreme Recommended level: Any Recommended build: Templar with Two-Handed Greatsword
Strategy
Endgame bosses are the ultimate test. They require mastery of all combat systems and an optimized build.
Key tips:
- Top-tier build with best-in-slot gear is mandatory.
- Master every mechanic. See our combat guide.
- These fights reward patience and pattern recognition above all else.
General Boss Tips
- Learn before you fight: Spend your first attempt observing attack patterns. Don't try to win on attempt one.
- Match your build: Some bosses favor certain builds over others. Don't be afraid to switch.
- Upgrade your equipment: A max-upgraded Two-Handed Greatsword trivializes fights that seem impossible with weaker gear.
- Use Champion Points: The core combat mechanic is your best defensive tool in every boss fight.
- Check the walkthrough: Our walkthrough tells you when you're ready for each boss.
More The Elder Scrolls Online Guides
- The Elder Scrolls Online The Elder Scrolls Online Overview
- The Elder Scrolls Online Best Builds
- The Elder Scrolls Online Tier List
- The Elder Scrolls Online Walkthrough
- The Elder Scrolls Online Beginner's Guide
- The Elder Scrolls Online Tips & Tricks
- The Elder Scrolls Online Weapons Guide
- The Elder Scrolls Online Combat Guide
- The Elder Scrolls Online Maps & Locations
- The Elder Scrolls Online Crafting Guide
- The Elder Scrolls Online Classes & Characters
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