The Malformed Dragon Set in Elden Ring is one of the most visually striking and unique armor sets available in the game. Known for its grotesque and fearsome design, this heavy armor provides excellent protection and is highly sought after by players who favor a tanky build. Getting the Malformed Dragon Set requires dedication and some endgame progress, making it a valuable reward for those willing to venture deep into challenging areas. Understanding where to find the set and how to farm it efficiently is key for players aiming to add this intimidating gear to their collection.
Where to Find the Malformed Dragon Set
Enemy Source: Draconic Tree Sentinel
The Malformed Dragon Set is not found in a chest or given as a reward through quests. Instead, it is dropped by a specific enemy in the game the Draconic Tree Sentinel found in Crumbling Farum Azula. This late-game location is known for its difficulty and intense atmosphere, but it is also home to some of the most powerful gear in Elden Ring, including this set.
The Draconic Tree Sentinel enemy that drops the Malformed Dragon Set is not a boss, but rather a powerful regular enemy. There are a few of them located throughout Crumbling Farum Azula. One of the most reliable farming spots is near the ‘Beside the Great Bridge’ Site of Grace. From there, you can quickly access and engage one of these enemies repeatedly.
Preparation Before Farming
Recommended Level and Gear
Since Crumbling Farum Azula is an endgame zone, players are advised to be at least level 100 or higher before attempting to farm the Malformed Dragon Set. The Draconic Tree Sentinels in this area hit hard and have large health pools. Bringing upgraded weapons, a strong shield or Spirit Ashes, and powerful healing flasks is essential.
- Use weapons that deal high physical or lightning damage
- Equip gear with high lightning resistance to mitigate their attacks
- Consider using Mimic Tear or Black Knife Tiche for help during the fight
Additionally, boosting your item discovery stat with the Silver-Pickled Fowl Foot or the Silver Scarab Talisman can significantly improve the drop rate of the armor pieces. Since the full set is dropped in separate pieces (helm, chest, gauntlets, and greaves), it may take several runs to collect them all.
How to Defeat the Draconic Tree Sentinel
Battle Strategy
The Draconic Tree Sentinel uses a mix of heavy melee and lightning-based attacks. These include wide swings, shield smashes, and lightning projectiles. Dodging or blocking at the right moments is critical to surviving these encounters. Here are a few useful strategies:
- Keep your distance when it starts charging lightning attacks
- Dodge to the side rather than backward to avoid getting caught
- Capitalize on openings after its shield bash or overhead slam
- Use ranged attacks or summons to draw aggro and create space
Once defeated, the enemy has a chance to drop one piece of the Malformed Dragon Set. Unfortunately, the drop is not guaranteed, which is why boosting your item discovery and preparing for multiple runs is essential.
Farming Tips for the Malformed Dragon Set
Efficient Farming Route
The best farming route begins at the Beside the Great Bridge Site of Grace. From this point, head forward and find the Draconic Tree Sentinel patrolling nearby. Defeat it, then warp back to the Grace to reset and repeat the process. The run from the Grace to the enemy is short, making this method the fastest and most efficient.
Item Discovery Boosting
Improving your chances of getting drops is vital in Elden Ring farming. Here’s how to increase item discovery while hunting for the Malformed Dragon Set:
- UseSilver Scarab Talisman(+75 discovery)
- ConsumeSilver-Pickled Fowl Foot(+50 discovery temporarily)
- Increase your Arcane stat (each point adds to item discovery)
Combine these bonuses to reach a much higher chance of receiving armor pieces per run. If you’re persistent, you’ll eventually obtain all four pieces needed for the complete Malformed Dragon Set.
Malformed Dragon Set Stats and Appearance
Armor Details and Defense
The Malformed Dragon Set is a heavy armor set known for its unique dragon-like aesthetic, with jagged scales and a warped silhouette. It offers strong resistance against physical attacks, particularly against strike and standard damage types, making it ideal for front-line combat.
- Helm: Offers high poise and decent protection for the head
- Armor: Excellent physical and lightning defense
- Gauntlets: Good balance of weight and protection
- Greaves: Completes the set with strong leg defense
This set is especially favored by players who build around Strength or Faith and want a visually intimidating look to match their powerful loadout. However, due to its high weight, it’s best used with a high Endurance stat or equipment load buffs.
Fashion Souls Appeal
Beyond stats, the Malformed Dragon Set is popular among players who care about aesthetics. The grotesque design evokes a corrupted dragon knight, perfect for players pursuing a dark, mythic roleplay style. Paired with dragon-themed weapons or incantations, this set makes for a fearsome appearance in both PvE and PvP.
How to Complete Your Set
Drop Rates and Persistence
Since each piece of the Malformed Dragon Set drops individually and randomly, it may take many runs to complete the full armor set. Be patient, and keep an eye on your inventory to make sure you haven’t overlooked a dropped item on the ground.
If you’re only missing one or two pieces after multiple runs, stick to the same route and use maximum item discovery buffs. Eventually, you’ll collect all four pieces and have the full set ready to equip or showcase in your collection.
Alternative Armor Sets to Consider
If the Malformed Dragon Set is taking too long to farm, or if you’re experimenting with other builds, there are a few other heavy armor sets that offer similar protection and style:
- Bull-Goat Set: Extremely high poise and defense
- Veteran’s Set: Well-balanced with excellent physical protection
- Crucible Tree Set: Great for Faith builds with high resistances
Each of these sets can be obtained through different means and provide alternative options for tanky builds. However, none quite match the twisted visual flair of the Malformed Dragon Set.
The Malformed Dragon Set stands out as one of Elden Ring’s most iconic armor sets, combining strength with a corrupted elegance. Although obtaining it requires venturing into dangerous territory and fighting powerful enemies repeatedly, the reward is more than worth the effort. By following efficient farming techniques and boosting your item discovery, you can collect this fearsome armor and wear it with pride as a true warrior of the Lands Between. Equip your best weapon, steel your nerves, and face the Draconic Tree Sentinels head-on to earn this exceptional gear.