Understanding the Challenge of Commander Honglan
Wuchang: Fallen Feathers has quickly become one of the most anticipated Soulslike games of the year. However, it’s not just a game of skill—it’s also a test of patience and strategy. One of the most challenging encounters in the game is the battle against Commander Honglan, who serves as a significant hurdle for players. Located at the Lotus Pond within the Place, this boss is designed to push players to their limits, making it an essential skill check that must be overcome before moving forward.
Preparing for the Fight
Before attempting to face Commander Honglan, it’s crucial to ensure you’re adequately prepared. This includes leveling up your character to a sufficient level. While it’s possible to fight any boss at level 1, doing so is not advisable unless you’re a speedrunner. Ideally, you should have at least five Manna Vase charges to manage your health effectively. Additionally, your weapons should be upgraded to plus-3 to ensure they can deal enough damage.
You should also consider unlocking specific nodes in the skill tree. The Rapid Temperance node is particularly useful, as well as either the Blight, Corruption, or Poise Break Bone Needles, which are effective against her. Blight and Corruption will slowly reduce her health, while Poise Break can cause significant damage when it builds up to 100%.
Choosing the Right Weapon
It’s important to switch up your weapon selection when facing Commander Honglan. If you’ve been using the axe or war staff, it might be time to try something different. The longsword is a better choice for this encounter, as it allows for more precise attacks and better control during the fight.
Mastering the Sword Counter
The Sword Counter ability is a key element in defeating Commander Honglan. This unlockable ability is part of the longsword path in the skill tree and is essential for deflecting her attacks. The game even hints at this before entering the Lotus Pond, though it may not be immediately clear that you need this specific skill to parry effectively.
With the Sword Counter, you can deflect her sword attacks if timed correctly. The window for this isn’t as tight as expected, so hitting the button as soon as an attack starts should work. Unlocking variant nodes connected to Sword Counter can allow you to land two free hits after a successful deflection, which can be very beneficial.
Managing Your Resources
Having extra healing items on hand is crucial during this fight. Nothing is more frustrating than being one hit away from victory only to run out of health. Bring at least one additional consumable healing item, such as a Steamed Bunny Bun, Soulgrass, or Cornucopia Elixir. These items won’t auto-replenish, so use them wisely when you’re close to defeating her.
Preparing Your Equipment
Before engaging in the fight, make sure to prepare your equipment. Use items like Temperance to gain an attack buff on your weapon, Lantern Fruit to reduce stamina costs for dodges, and Soft Rush to increase stamina recovery. Equipping two pendants to reduce damage and one to increase stamina recovery can also give you an edge.
Your armor should focus on slash, stab, and blunt resistance since her attacks primarily deal with these types of damage. Her kicks, for example, deal blunt damage, so having the right armor is essential.
Acquiring the Divine Ward Spell
Outside the Shu Sanctum, there is a path leading to a Panda merchant who trades in bamboo shoots. These can be obtained from Bamboozlings, small creatures that run away when approached. Attacking them will drop a Bamboo Shoot, which can be used to acquire special items, including the Divine Ward spell. This spell reduces physical damage, which is invaluable given the number of dodges required during the fight.
Observing Her Moves
Understanding Commander Honglan’s moveset is crucial for success. Here are some key moves to watch for:
- Lunge Attack: This is her first move and is easily counterable. After a successful deflection, hit her twice, but avoid getting greedy.
- Punch and Kicks: Avoid trying to counter these attacks; instead, keep dodging.
- Dagger Throw: Easy to block or dodge if you’re far away.
- Wind Slash: In the second phase, she uses wind slashes. Vertical ones are easier to dodge, while horizontal ones require careful timing.
- Quick Lunge: Better to dodge than to try to counter, as it’s very fast.
- Spinning Sword Attacks: The first hit can be deflected, but follow-ups cannot, so it’s better to dodge.
- Leap Attack: This is her most open move. Dodge it and then dash in for follow-up attacks.
Conclusion
Commander Honglan’s fight in Wuchang: Fallen Feathers may seem daunting at first, but with the right preparation and strategy, it’s definitely achievable. Wuchang: Fallen Feathers is available now for $50 on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series consoles. Xbox Game Pass subscribers can enjoy the game as part of their subscription.