So, you’re wondering how to conquer the formidable Silksong Moorwing? This boss from Greymoor is a truly formidable foe, particularly if you’re caught off guard. Expect rapid, unpredictable attacks combining both close-quarters combat and projectiles, each hit dealing double damage. It’s a significant leap in challenge, but we’ve got your back!
Moorwing stands out as one of the most challenging bosses in Silksong, largely because he can be encountered so early in your journey. Depending on your path through the map or how diligently you complete quests, you might even bypass him initially. But fear not, we’ll guide you through locating and decisively defeating this formidable opponent.
Where to Find the Silksong Moorwing
You’ll find Moorwing tucked away in the southwest corner of Greymoor, specifically on the winding path that eventually leads to Bellhart.
Initially, a silver gate directly to Moorwing’s lair will be locked, forcing you to navigate a longer route. Descend the platforms, carefully bypassing the Silk Snippers, and follow the lowest passage indicated by a sign.
Continue to the right, using your Needle to sever the rope supporting the platform beneath you. The boss arena for Moorwing awaits just beyond the ledges on your immediate left.
It’s worth noting that your first encounter with Moorwing at this specific spot is contingent on whether you’ve already finished the Lost Fleas questline. If so, a flea caravan will occupy the area instead, but rest assured, Moorwing will reappear later in your adventure.
For a significant reduction in frustrating runback time, prioritize completing the Chapel of the Reaper before confronting Moorwing. Doing so will ensure you respawn directly outside his door, cutting your travel time from the main Greymoor bench to a mere 20 seconds.
Mastering the Moorwing Battle: Strategies for Victory
Moorwing is a lethal combination of speed and aggression, making patience your greatest asset in this fight. When Hornet gets too close, Moorwing will quickly recoil and unleash a furious flurry attack with the blades on his feet. This can devastate your health bar in seconds, so a swift dash out of the attack animation is crucial.
During the encounter, the boss will summon spinning blades that traverse horizontally across the ground before arcing upwards in a wide circle. Initially, he’ll summon one, then quickly escalate to two at a time. The dual-blade variant has a tighter turning radius, so position yourself carefully between them to avoid damage as they return.
The most challenging version of this projectile attack emerges in the fight’s second phase. Moorwing will look down and roar, launching two blades from either side that converge in the center before spreading outwards along the floor. The most effective counter is to sprint in the opposite direction, then perform a timely leap over the blade as it closes in – but be ready, as Moorwing often swoops in right behind it.
While it’s tempting to land a diagonal dive attack when Moorwing descends, you risk getting caught by the blade he summons immediately after. Instead, try sneaking in a quick hit from behind him, then swiftly dashing away to avoid his follow-up.
Remember, your Drifter’s Cloak is invaluable here; it can slow your descent if you misjudge a jump, allowing you to float safely past Moorwing and his projectiles. Don’t underestimate its utility!
Moorwing will be temporarily stunned and knocked to the floor several times throughout the battle. These are your prime opportunities to heal. We strongly advise conserving your silk for healing during these moments rather than for Silkspear attacks, unless you are exceptionally confident in your damage output. If you opt for offense, ensure you prioritize repositioning yourself to avoid his hitbox before delivering your strikes.
Ultimately, this fight is a test of precise timing and prioritizing evasion. Despite his relentless aggression, Moorwing isn’t the most intelligent foe in Pharloom and can often be disoriented if you stand directly beneath him. Just be prepared to quickly dodge behind him when he prepares his foot-knives.
The Moorwing “Cheese” Strategy (Emergency Plan)
If all else fails and Moorwing continues to be a nuisance, it’s time to deploy our emergency “cheese” strategy. First, venture to the Chapel of the Reaper on the western side of Greymoor. Conquer its challenges to earn the coveted Reaper Crest, which transforms Hornet’s standard attack into a wider arc slash.
With the Reaper Crest equipped, initiate the Moorwing boss fight, but immediately turn around. Ride the wind current that leads towards Garmond and Zaza. Position yourself on the far left of the platform suspended directly above the boss arena. Wait for Moorwing to approach you on the opposite side. From this vantage point, you can safely defeat him without being in direct danger. This method might eventually be patched, but for now, it’s a foolproof way to dispatch this troublesome foe!
Enlisting Allies for the Moorwing Encounter
If you’ve previously encountered Garmond and Zaza in Greymoor, you have the option to recruit them to your aid after your initial defeat by Moorwing. To find them, simply take the wind current on the platform located to the right of Moorwing’s boss room.
Engage Garmond in conversation and accept their offer to help. Then, return to the boss arena and initiate the fight. Garmond and Zaza will join you after a brief moment; they can be temporarily knocked down, but they cannot be permanently defeated. Just remember that if you exit the game, you’ll need to speak with them again to re-recruit them for the battle.
With Moorwing vanquished, remember to seek out the invaluable Needle upgrade after rescuing Bellhart. Pharloom is teeming with fierce adversaries, so be sure to check out our other boss guides for defeating the Silksong Widow and Sister Splinter, ensuring you’re prepared to squash every pesky bug that stands in your way.