Messmer is one of the hardest DLC bosses with his long-range spear attacks and fire snake summons. Patience and the right build make this fight significantly more manageable.
Recommended Builds
#1: Rivers of Blood
Bleed is Messmer's biggest vulnerability. Corpse Piler's range matches his spear.
Why it works: Messmer's bleed resistance is low enough that Corpse Piler procs hemorrhage reliably. The weapon's range is critical — shorter weapons struggle to reach past his spear.
#2: Moonveil Magic
Transient Moonlight punishes Messmer's recovery frames from safe distance.
Why it works: After Messmer's extended combo strings, he has recoverable windows where Transient Moonlight can land safely. The stagger buildup interrupts his more dangerous follow-ups.
#3: Frost Mage
Frost sorceries work well and the absorption debuff helps break through his high HP.
Why it works: Messmer's frost resistance is moderate, allowing frost procs to debuff his absorption. Follow up with high-damage sorceries during the debuff window for amplified damage.