The Beastman of Farum Azula is one of the earliest and most atmospheric boss encounters players can face in Elden Ring. While not mandatory for story progression, this boss offers valuable combat experience, early rewards, and insight into the ancient lore surrounding Farum Azula. Encountering the Beastman introduces players to the brutal, feral combat style associated with creatures descended from a long-lost civilization in the sky.

 

Unlike major story bosses, the Beastman of Farum Azula is classified as an optional boss. Players are not required to defeat it to advance through Elden Ring's main narrative. However, taking on this fight can provide useful Elden Ring Items and a modest boost of Elden Ring Runes, especially helpful during the early stages of the game.

 

Lore and Background

 

The Beastmen are said to originate from a doomed city in the sky, widely believed to be Farum Azula itself, an ancient, crumbling metropolis suspended beyond time. These creatures were once part of a proud civilization, but have since devolved into savage, animalistic warriors. Their attacks are relentless, aggressive, and instinct-driven, reflecting their fall from order into chaos.

 

The Beastman of Farum Azula fights with the ferocity of a wild predator. Rather than relying on complex magic or divine powers, it overwhelms foes with speed, raw strength, and unpredictable movement. This makes the encounter feel more primal compared to many other bosses in Elden Ring, especially those steeped in sorcery or holy power.

 

Boss Overview and Behavior

 

The Beastman of Farum Azula is a humanoid enemy with bestial features, moving low to the ground and striking quickly. Its combat style emphasizes aggression and pressure. The boss frequently chains attacks together, leaping toward players, slashing rapidly, and giving very little time to recover if caught off guard.

 

Despite its intimidating speed, the Beastman has relatively low defenses compared to later bosses. This makes it a good test of basic combat fundamentals such as dodging, stamina management, and recognizing attack patterns. Players who learn to stay calm and avoid panic rolling will find openings to counterattack after the Beastman finishes its flurries.

 

Because this is an optional boss, many players encounter it early while still learning Elden Ring's mechanics. As such, the fight serves as an excellent training ground before facing more punishing encounters later in the game.

 

Where to Find Beastman of Farum Azula

 

There are two locations where players can encounter a Beastman of Farum Azula:

 

Groveside Cave

 

Groveside Cave is often the first place new players meet this boss. Located in Limgrave, this cave is accessible early and acts as a tutorial-style dungeon. The Beastman found here is usually one of the first true boss fights for many Tarnished, making it an important learning experience.

 

Dragonbarrow Cave

 

A second Beastman of Farum Azula can be found in Dragonbarrow Cave, a much more dangerous region. Players encountering the Beastman here are likely to be more experienced, but the surrounding area significantly raises the stakes. Proper preparation is essential before challenging this version.

 

Combat Tips and Strategy

 

Success against the Beastman of Farum Azula depends largely on patience and positioning. The boss's attacks are fast, but often leave it open after committing to long combos. Rolling sideways rather than backward can help avoid being clipped by follow-up slashes.

 

Stamina management is critical. Blocking too many attacks can quickly drain stamina, leaving players vulnerable to sudden lunges. Light armor builds may find dodging more effective, while shield users should be selective about when to block.

 

Using Elden Ring Items such as throwing knives, fire pots, or temporary buffs can give players a slight edge, particularly when learning the boss's behavior. Healing windows are safest after the Beastman finishes a leap or extended attack chain.

 

Spirit Ashes are not always available in early encounters, but if summoned, they can help distract the Beastman and create valuable openings.

 

Rewards and Progression Value

 

Defeating the Beastman of Farum Azula rewards players with Elden Ring Runes, providing a useful boost for early leveling or upgrading gear. While the rune reward is modest compared to late-game bosses, it can make a meaningful difference early on.

 

Additionally, the boss may drop unique Elden Ring Items depending on the location and version encountered. These rewards encourage exploration and reinforce the value of tackling optional content, even when it isn't required for progression.

 

Why Fight an Optional Boss

 

Although optional, the Beastman of Farum Azula represents the core design philosophy of Elden Ring: risk and reward through exploration. Players who seek out hidden caves and confront dangerous foes are often rewarded with experience, resources, and a deeper understanding of the game's world.

 

This boss also provides a narrative glimpse into the tragic fate of Farum Azula's inhabitants. Each Beastman encountered is a reminder of a once-great civilization reduced to savagery, echoing one of Elden Ring's recurring themes, decay and loss over time.

 

Final Thoughts

 

The Beastman of Farum Azula may not be the most powerful boss in Elden Ring, but it plays an important role in shaping a player's early journey. Its aggressive combat style teaches valuable lessons, while its lore enriches the broader mystery of Farum Azula.

 

For players willing to take on optional challenges, defeating the Beastman offers worthwhile Elden Ring Runes, useful Elden Ring Items, and a satisfying sense of accomplishment. Whether encountered in Groveside Cave or Dragonbarrow Cave, this feral warrior stands as a memorable introduction to Elden Ring's unforgiving yet rewarding world.