How to beat Hornsplitter in Crimson Desert

Hornsplitter provides the first proper combat trial in Crimson Desert, a clear step up from the wave-after-wave bandits you’ve fought so far. Some players will tear through him, but he can be a tougher fight if you haven’t embraced the combat and skill systems; beating him completes Chapter 2.

Bring a sword and shield for this encounter. The shield is stamina-efficient for blocking his wind waves. Hold CTRL (LB on controller to lock on and block), then press Caps Lock (or down on the D-pad on controller) to fix him as your sole target. Blocking at the right moment will produce a clang and a green echo effect, opening a chance to strike back with a parry.

If you’re struggling, respec to raise stamina and health and trade out less useful skills for Abyss Artifacts that boost survivability. Circle or dodge to avoid his wind shockwaves, and block the ones you can’t evade, lowering the shield between waves to recover stamina.

hornsplitter, crimson desert, sword, shield, stamina, blocking, parry, lock on, abyss artifacts, chapter 2