The Grand Lift of Dectus is an iconic landmark in Elden Ring, and navigating the blockade guarding it can be a challenge. The area is filled with tough enemies, but also rewarding loot for those who manage to clear it. Here's a breakdown of your options and what to expect as you approach the Grand Lift:

Key Areas and Enemies in the Blockade

Raya Lucaria Soldiers and Catapults:

The blockade is heavily defended, so you'll need to work your way through enemy camps.

Use the high path on the right to avoid confrontation with the barricades and catapults. You can drop down onto the two catapults on the right, potentially sneaking up on the operators.

Spirit Summon and Raya Lucarian Knights:

A Raya Lucarian Knight on horseback guards the catapults, making the battle more challenging. Summoning a spirit to help take down the knights and other enemies can be a smart move, especially for dealing with the mounted knights.

Foot Soldiers and Raya Lucarian Soldiers will be scattered around, especially guarding chests and loot like the Great Mace.

Flame Chariot:

Be wary of the Flame Chariot, which is flanked by a knight and will make the central road dangerous.

Have your Spirit Summon run interference while you focus on attacking from behind, or use Torrent to quickly dodge and maneuver around it. The Flame Chariot's operator is a prime target once you can safely get to them.

Catapult on the West Side:

The final catapult is on the west side, with a Raya Lucarian Knight on foot. Don't forget to loot the 3 Cuckoo Glintstone from the corpse nearby and find the Crimson Teardrop Scarab hidden in the ledge below.

Giant Tombstones:

To the south, giant tombstones create a makeshift path leading down, where you'll find another Rune Arc on a body. This is a great item to pick up before you leave.

The Grand Lift of Dectus Itself

Dragonwound Grease can be found on the steps leading up to the lift, giving you a helpful boost for dragon-related battles or enemies weak to fire.

Dectus Medallion: The lift won't work unless you have both halves of the Dectus Medallion, which are hidden in Fort Haight (East Limgrave) and Fort Faroth (Dragonbarrow, Northern Caelid). Once you've collected both halves, you'll be able to use the lift to access new regions.

Optional Loot

Don't miss the Somber Smithing Stone 3, which you can find by chasing a Scarabe in the small woods near the lift.

This area has a mix of challenging enemies and rewarding loot, so take your time to clear it out and make sure to grab everything before heading to the next adventure.

If you've got any Elden Ring items you're trying to get or need help with Elden Ring runes farming in the area, I can offer tips on what enemies drop the best loot too! Are you stacking up for a specific boss fight, or just exploring and leveling up at the moment?