Exploring the Fort of Reprimand: A Comprehensive Guide to Secrets and Strategies in Elden Ring

Investigating the expansive and intricate domain of the Elden Ring, players are often on the lookout for hidden gems that provide not just valuable items but also thrilling experiences. One such location is the Fort of Reprimand, a captivating dungeon nestled within the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC. This guide serves not only as an essential walkthrough but also as an exploration of the various paths that can lead players to uncover treasures and tackle challenges within this fortress. Whether you are looking to bypass formidable foes or simply want to soak in the atmosphere while collecting important resources, our detailed approach will ensure you have a fulfilling adventure.

Entering the Fort: Setting the Scene

The Fort of Reprimand beckons from the southern edge of Scadu Altus, presenting an enticing alternative route for players eager to avoid confrontations in Castle Ensis and the subsequent battle with the Rellana, Twin Moon Knight. Players may choose to engage with the fort before or after tackling Castle Ensis, creating a flexible exploration method that caters to individual play styles.

Starting Point: Moorth Highway, South

Having just survived an intense encounter with the Ghostflame Dragon, players can find respite at the Moorth Highway, South Site of Grace. Activating this checkpoint not only provides a place to rest but also functions as the entrance to the fort's entrance.

Facing the Masquerade Knight

Upon entering the courtyard, adventurers quickly confront a formidable masked knight armed with two massive swords capable of inflicting blood loss damage. This opponent also possesses a ferocious fire attack, adding to the immediate threats in the area. The key to overcoming this enemy lies in close engagements and precise dodging. Staying agile while evading attacks will create ample opportunities to strike back and emerge victorious.

Gathering Loot: The Treasure Trove

Within the courtyard, six corpses lie in wait, offering a bounty of items such as weapons, crafting materials, and consumables. Each piece will enhance your arsenal or provide needed assistance in the coming battles.

Descend into the Depths

Adventure beckons down the staircase into the fort basement. Here, players will discover a corpse holding a Fireproof Pickled Liver, a crucial item worth collecting. To the left lies another room, beckoning players down a ladder into an encounter with soldiers waiting to pounce.

Strategic Combat: Navigating the Basement

As combat engagement begins, players must be cautious of two soldiers armed with explosive fire bombs. Strategically luring them around corners to avoid their projectiles will significantly ease the fight. Once defeated, loot the valuable Smithing Stones and Spiritgrave Stones scattered amongst the fallen foes, along with the rare Furnace Visage found in a nearby chest.

Hidden Path Discovery

Before vacating the basement area, players should use their lanterns to illuminate hidden passages cloaked in darkness. Clambering over cages will reveal a hidden treasure chest containing the Flamedrake Talisman +3, a game-changing item that enhances fire resistance.

Ascending the Fortress

Backtracking to the staircase leading up, players should be vigilant as they may encounter another knight prepared to launch a surprise attack. Utilizing the tactics learned earlier will aid in overcoming this challenge as players approach the Site of Grace 'Fort of Reprimand'.

Ascending Further: The Twinblade Encounter

As players venture upwards onto the ramparts, they are greeted with another boss confrontation against Black Knight Edredd. He wields a powerful twinblade spear capable of delivering devastating blows, particularly with its fiery wing attack. Patience and strategic dodging will be integral to defeating him. Conquer this foe to earn valuable runes and the Ash of War called 'Aspects of the Crucible: Wings'.

Looting the Battlefield Priest’s Cookbook

After dealing with Edredd, players are urged to explore the tower’s height for a treasure chest containing the Battlefield Priest’s Cookbook (2), which further expands cooking options—vital for character upgrades in the game.

Alternative Routes: Strategies from Gravesite Plain

Players keen to explore the Fort of Reprimand can also take an alternative route from Gravesite Plain. Unlocking a Sealed Spiritspring opens the door to Scadu Altus and grants access to the fort without going through Castle Ensis. This route allows players to activate the 'Behind the Fort of Reprimand' Site of Grace.

A Sneaky Approach: Gaining the Upper Hand

Engagement can be tactically approached from behind, offering opportunities for critical hits on unsuspecting enemies. Players must remain alert and be prepared for further skirmishes as they press into the fort.

Reverse Exploration: Navigating the Unexpected

Players tackling the fort in reverse may find unique advantages but will need to collect items in a different sequence. Activating the Site of Grace and collecting Dewgems are crucial steps to ensuring resource availability for later challenges.

Revisiting the Main Courtyard

Upon returning to the main courtyard, players face an additional knight. Using stealth to gain critical strikes will mitigate risks from their fierce attacks. Search among the six nearby corpses for further valuable items to enhance your inventory.

Concluding the Adventure

With all treasures secured and adversaries bested, players are free to leave the Fort of Reprimand satisfied. The path ahead leads to the Moorth Ruins and potentially further explorations through Scadu Altus, each new area promising further challenges and treasures to be uncovered. As adventurers continue their journey, they may also set their sights on hunting the Ghostflame Dragon once more or pursuing other perilous paths that lie ahead.

Whether players opt for brute force or a stealthy approach, encounters within the Fort of Reprimand serve as a microcosm of the grander adventure that awaits in Elden Ring. Prepare well, adapt your strategies, and relish in the discoveries that will shape your journey in this richly crafted world.