Introduction
Astel, Naturalborn of the Void, stands as one of the most visually striking and narratively compelling bosses within the expansive world of Elden Ring. This creature, a terrifying amalgamation of insectoid and celestial horrors, is more than just a challenging combat encounter; it’s a window into the deepest, most unsettling corners of the Lands Between and the cosmic forces that shape its destiny. Elden Ring, developed by FromSoftware, plunges players into a sprawling open world filled with dangers and mysteries, where the shattering of the Elden Ring has plunged the realm into chaos. This article will delve into the chilling depths of Astel, exploring its captivating design, the intricacies of its challenging battle, the enigmatic lore that shrouds its existence, and its overall impact on the player’s journey through Elden Ring. Be warned that this deep dive may contain spoilers regarding boss locations, lore details, and late-game content.
First Impressions and Design: A Creature of Nightmare
Astel’s visual design is nothing short of breathtaking and terrifying. Its massive, skeletal frame is dominated by a head reminiscent of a cosmic insect, complete with glowing, menacing eyes that seem to pierce the very soul. Its body, adorned with crystalline formations and trailing ethereal appendages, evokes a sense of otherworldly power and decay. The color palette, a blend of deep purples, blues, and shimmering silvers, reinforces its connection to the void and the celestial unknown.
The inspirations behind Astel’s design seem to draw heavily from the wellspring of cosmic horror, particularly the works of H.P. Lovecraft. Elements of Cthulhu and other Great Old Ones can be seen in its otherworldly form and the sense of existential dread it inspires. The insectoid features may also allude to themes of corruption and parasitic influence, suggesting that Astel is not a natural inhabitant of the Lands Between but rather an invasive force from beyond.
This unsettling aesthetic profoundly impacts the game’s atmosphere, specifically in the areas where Astel resides. Lake of Rot, a crimson, disease-ridden swamp, is a testament to the corrupting influence of external forces. The Grand Cloister, with its imposing architecture and oppressive atmosphere, amplifies the sense of dread. Astel’s presence in these areas suggests a deep contamination, a cosmic infection that threatens to consume the world. The creature serves as a chilling reminder that the Lands Between are not merely threatened by internal conflicts, but also by entities from realms far beyond human comprehension.
The initial encounter with Astel is a moment of both awe and terror. Whether it’s the initial descent into the Lake of Rot or the journey to the Grand Cloister, the player is acutely aware that they are encroaching upon something ancient and immensely powerful. The oppressive silence, broken only by the ambient sounds of rot and decay, builds anticipation before the inevitable confrontation. The moment Astel reveals itself, its sheer size and alien form are enough to send chills down any player’s spine. It is a stark reminder of the sheer scale of the challenges that await them in their quest to become Elden Lord.
The Battle: Overcoming Cosmic Power
Engaging Astel in combat is a test of skill and patience. Its moveset is diverse and devastating, requiring players to master dodging, spacing, and exploiting brief windows of opportunity. Understanding Astel’s key attacks is crucial for survival.
One of Astel’s most iconic attacks involves the manipulation of gravity. It can summon orbs of gravitational energy that track the player, requiring precise dodging to avoid their explosive impact. It also has the ability to unleash a devastating gravity wave, capable of dealing massive damage to anyone caught in its path.
Meteor strikes are another hallmark of Astel’s arsenal. It can summon a barrage of celestial debris from the sky, forcing players to constantly move and avoid the falling projectiles. The sheer scale of these attacks can be overwhelming, demanding quick reflexes and an awareness of the battlefield.
Close-range combat with Astel is equally perilous. Its long, sweeping tail attacks can cover a wide area, making it difficult to stay out of range. The creature’s bite attack is incredibly fast and can easily catch players off guard. It is crucial to learn the tells for these attacks to anticipate and avoid them effectively.
Perhaps the most disorienting and potentially deadly ability Astel possesses is its teleportation. It can instantaneously vanish and reappear elsewhere in the arena, making it difficult to track its movements and anticipate its next attack. This ability forces players to remain vigilant and adaptable, constantly adjusting their position and strategy.
To triumph over Astel, various strategies can be employed depending on the player’s build and playstyle.
Melee builds will need to focus on closing the distance carefully, dodging attacks, and exploiting brief openings to unleash their own strikes. Weapons with high damage output and the ability to stagger Astel are particularly effective. Learning the timing of Astel’s attacks and identifying safe zones is crucial for survival. Consider using Ashes of War that grant mobility or increased damage output for short periods.
Ranged and magic builds have the advantage of being able to attack Astel from a distance, but they must be wary of its gravity spells and meteor strikes. Spells with high damage output and long range are ideal for this encounter. It is essential to maintain a safe distance and constantly reposition to avoid being caught in Astel’s more devastating attacks. Consider using summons to draw Astel’s aggro, allowing for more consistent ranged attacks.
Effective weapons for this fight include those that deal physical damage, as Astel has high resistance to magic. Greatswords, colossal swords, and katanas can be very effective when wielded skillfully. Ashes of War like “Bloodflame Blade” or “Black Flame Tornado” can add extra damage or utility. Spells like “Rock Sling” or “Comet Azur” can deal significant damage from a distance.
Regardless of the chosen build, patience and observation are key. Learning Astel’s attack patterns, understanding its weaknesses, and adapting to its unpredictable movements are essential for victory. The battle against Astel is a true test of a player’s skill and determination, rewarding those who persevere with a sense of accomplishment and a deeper understanding of the mysteries of Elden Ring.
Lore and Speculation: Unraveling the Enigma
The lore surrounding Astel, Naturalborn of the Void, is shrouded in mystery, leaving much to interpretation and speculation. The item descriptions, environmental storytelling, and cryptic NPC dialogues provide fragmented clues about its origins and purpose, but the complete picture remains elusive.
Based on the available information, Astel appears to be an extraterrestrial being, originating from the void between the stars. The title “Naturalborn of the Void” suggests that it is a creature born within this realm, not merely an inhabitant. This implies a fundamental connection to the cosmos and the forces that govern it.
Astel’s connection to the Greater Will and other Outer Gods is unclear, but its presence in the Lands Between suggests a potential link. Some theories propose that Astel is a tool or agent of one of these cosmic entities, sent to corrupt or influence the world. Others suggest that it is an independent force, drawn to the Lands Between by the presence of the Elden Ring and the power it wields.
The Lake of Rot, where one version of Astel resides, is a festering wound on the landscape, seemingly caused by an external influence. It is possible that Astel is responsible for the corruption of this area, or that it was drawn to the Lake of Rot by its inherent properties. The presence of the Scarlet Rot, a parasitic disease, further complicates the matter, suggesting a possible connection between Astel and other malevolent entities within the game.
There is also a connection between Astel and the Fallingstar Beasts, as well as Astel, Stars of Darkness. The Fallingstar Beasts are creatures found throughout the Lands Between that resemble meteors, and they are capable of manipulating gravity. Astel, Stars of Darkness, found in the Yelough Anix Tunnel is very similar to Astel, Naturalborn of the Void, only smaller. This connection may suggest that Astel is part of a larger cosmic entity, a species that roams the cosmos seeking to dominate.
Ultimately, the true nature and purpose of Astel remain open to interpretation. Is it a harbinger of destruction, sent to punish the Lands Between for its hubris? Or is it a force of cosmic balance, attempting to restore order to a world fractured by conflict? The answers to these questions are left for the player to ponder, adding to the mystique and intrigue of Elden Ring’s lore.
Impact and Significance: Leaving a Mark on the Journey
Defeating Astel is a significant accomplishment in Elden Ring, both in terms of gameplay and narrative progression.
In terms of gameplay, defeating Astel often grants access to new areas, items, and questlines. In the case of Astel, Naturalborn of the Void in the Grand Cloister, this grants access to the Moonlight Altar plateau, an area of great interest to Ranni the Witch and her questline. The rewards for defeating Astel are often powerful weapons, spells, or talismans that can aid the player in their journey.
Thematically, Astel embodies the cosmic horror and existential dread that permeates Elden Ring. Its presence challenges the player’s understanding of the world and the forces that govern it. The battle against Astel is a reminder that the Lands Between are not merely a battlefield for warring factions, but also a battleground for cosmic entities and unfathomable powers.
Astel’s design and lore have resonated deeply with players and critics alike. Its unique appearance and unsettling aura have made it a popular subject for fan art, cosplay, and discussions. Many players have expressed awe and terror at the creature’s power and beauty, cementing its place as one of the most memorable bosses in Elden Ring. Fan theories abound, attempting to unravel the mysteries of Astel’s origins and purpose, further contributing to its enduring legacy.
Conclusion: An Unforgettable Cosmic Encounter
Astel, Naturalborn of the Void, stands as a testament to the creative genius of FromSoftware. It is a challenging boss fight, a captivating lore element, and a visually stunning creation that leaves a lasting impression on players. Its presence enriches the world of Elden Ring, adding layers of cosmic horror and existential dread to the already complex tapestry of the Lands Between.
Whether it is a harbinger of destruction or a force of cosmic balance, Astel challenges players to confront the unknown and question the nature of reality itself. Its legacy will undoubtedly endure, inspiring discussion and speculation for years to come, solidifying its place as one of the most iconic and unforgettable bosses in the history of Elden Ring. What secrets remain hidden in the void that spawned this terrifying yet mesmerizing creature? The answer, perhaps, lies beyond the stars.
