How to Handle Flying Enemies in Elden Ring

Why Are Flying Enemies So Tough?

Have you ever noticed how difficult it is to hit a flying enemy consistently? That’s because they often stay just out of melee range and swoop down unpredictably. Many flying foes in Elden Ring are designed to punish players who rely solely on sword swings or basic dodging. Their high ground advantage allows them to rain attacks from above while staying mobile.

The key here is to recognize patterns. Most flying enemies will circle, dive, or hover at certain points before striking. Observing these behaviors and timing your responses makes all the difference.

Should You Always Engage Flying Enemies Up Close?

Not necessarily. One of the biggest mistakes is rushing in with a melee weapon. Flying enemies excel against unprepared close-range fighters. Instead, try using ranged attacks to soften them up first. Bows, magic, and throwable items are perfect for keeping them at bay while chipping away at their health.

If you’re struggling to keep up your rune count while farming areas with flying enemies, sometimes it’s helpful to buy Elden Ring runes to replenish your resources. This can save you from unnecessary deaths and allow you to stay focused on learning enemy patterns without worrying too much about running out of currency.

What’s the Best Way to Dodge Their Attacks?

Dodging flying enemies requires patience. They often telegraph a dive or swoop, giving you a small window to roll or step aside. Timing is crucial—roll too early or too late, and you’ll take damage. I like to stay just outside their attack range and watch for visual cues, like the way they lean or pause before diving.

Sometimes it helps to remember that you don’t always need to fight immediately. Let them come to you instead of chasing them around, especially in open areas where their mobility gives them the upper hand.

Are There Weapons or Builds That Make Flying Enemies Easier?

Absolutely. Certain weapons with vertical reach or magic attacks can make life much easier. Spears, halberds, and polearms allow you to hit enemies while keeping a safer distance. For magic users, homing spells or area-of-effect attacks can lock down erratic flyers more reliably than aiming manually.

Some players even turn to external resources to optimize their builds. A platform like U4GM can provide insights or tips for gearing up effectively, which can be a big help if you want to fine-tune your approach for aerial combat.

Is Summoning Help Worth It?

Yes. Spirit summons are extremely effective against flying enemies because they create distractions and split their attention. While the enemy targets the summon, you get windows to land your own attacks or reposition safely. This is particularly useful against bosses or elite flying enemies that hit hard and move fast.

Personally, I always keep a couple of summon options handy, especially in areas where aerial mobs appear frequently. They’re like having a buddy who never complains about being dragged into battle.

Quick Tips for Handling Flying Enemies

1. Observe first, attack second: Don’t rush in. Watch for dive patterns and swoops.

2. Use ranged or vertical attacks: Bows, magic, or long-reach weapons reduce risk.

3. Keep rolling timing tight: Visual cues matter—don’t roll randomly.

4. Consider rune management: If you’re low on runes, sometimes it’s worth it to buy Elden Ring runes to keep farming safely.

5. Use summons or distractions: Spirit summons or environmental hazards can make a huge difference.

6. Stay patient: Flying enemies are frustrating, but patience pays off more than brute force.

Flying enemies may feel overwhelming at first, but Elden Ring rewards players who take the time to study enemy behavior. By observing patterns, using ranged attacks wisely, and keeping smart rune management in mind, you can turn these aerial threats into manageable challenges. A little practice and patience go a long way, and soon you’ll find yourself enjoying the thrill of landing that perfect hit from below while dodging a swooping attacker.

Community Pick: Game mechanics and Weapons changes for Elden Ring DLC