Elden Ring, FromSoftware’s critically acclaimed 2022 action RPG, immerses players in the vast and treacherous world of the Lands Between. A collaborative creation of Hidetaka Miyazaki and George R.R. Martin, this realm is brimming with secrets, formidable enemies, and a staggering array of weaponry that defines the core combat experience. This comprehensive guide delves into the intricate weapon system of Elden Ring, exploring the diverse categories, highlighting exceptional examples, and outlining effective strategies for utilizing them to conquer the game’s challenges. We will also examine how the passionate community continues to shape the weapon meta through online discussions and shared experiences.
Elden Ring boasts an impressive arsenal, featuring over 30 distinct weapon types. These are broadly categorized into familiar archetypes such as swords, axes, spears, hammers, and bows. However, the game also introduces more unconventional options like whips, claws, and even colossal weapons requiring immense strength to wield effectively. Each weapon type caters to specific character builds, aligning with attributes like Strength, Dexterity, Intelligence, Faith, or Arcane. A Strength-focused build, for example, might favor greatswords or colossal weapons for their raw damage output, while a Dexterity build might opt for katanas or curved swords for their speed and finesse. Hybrid builds, combining multiple attributes, open up even more possibilities, allowing players to tailor their weapon choices to a personalized playstyle.
The effectiveness of a weapon extends beyond its base stats. Elden Ring distinguishes between Physical Damage, Fire Damage, Lightning Damage, Holy Damage, and Magic Damage as well as a variety of status effects. The enemies in Elden Ring can be afflicted by status effects like poison, bleed, frostbite, sleep and madness. The weapon and the build influence the rate at which status effects are applied.
Weapon upgrades are crucial for maintaining damage output as players progress. Standard weapons can be upgraded up to +25 using Smithing Stones, while unique weapons, often acquired from bosses or special locations, are upgraded using Somber Smithing Stones up to +10. Furthermore, many weapons can be infused with different affinities, such as Heavy, Keen, Magic, Fire, Sacred, or Occult. These infusions modify the weapon’s scaling, further tailoring it to a specific build. For instance, a Heavy infusion increases Strength scaling while reducing Dexterity scaling, making it ideal for Strength-focused characters. A Keen infusion, conversely, enhances Dexterity scaling. Magic, Fire, Sacred and Occult infusions adds to the respective status attribute of the weapon, but also scales damage by its corresponding attribute.
While Elden Ring encourages players to experiment with the vast array of weapons, certain options have emerged as particularly powerful or versatile, earning them a prominent place in the community’s collective consciousness. These weapons often possess unique mechanics or exceptional scaling that makes them stand out. It’s worth noting that the "best" weapon is subjective and often depends on individual playstyle and build preferences. However, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of these popular choices can inform your own weapon selection.
A defining feature of Elden Ring’s weapon system is the Ashes of War. This system allows players to customize the skills associated with most standard weapons, adding a layer of depth and strategic flexibility. Ashes of War can be acquired throughout the Lands Between, dropped by enemies, found in chests, or purchased from merchants. Each Ash of War grants a unique skill, ranging from powerful attacks and defensive maneuvers to buffs and utility abilities.
Experimenting with Ashes of War is a key element of Elden Ring’s gameplay. Players can swap Ashes of War at Sites of Grace or by visiting Smithing Master Hewg in Roundtable Hold. This allows them to adapt their weapon’s skillset to different situations or to refine their build. For example, the "Bloodhound’s Step" Ash of War provides exceptional mobility, allowing players to quickly dodge attacks and reposition themselves. The "Lion’s Claw" Ash of War, on the other hand, delivers a powerful leaping attack that can stagger enemies.
Unique weapons, upgraded with Somber Smithing Stones, typically have fixed skills that cannot be changed. However, these unique skills often possess potent effects that compensate for the lack of customization. For instance, the Rivers of Blood katana boasts the "Corpse Piler" skill, a rapid flurry of blood-infused slashes that can inflict massive damage and build up the bleed status effect.
The Elden Ring community remains deeply engaged with weapon diversity and build optimization. Online platforms are filled with discussions, guides, and videos showcasing different weapon combinations and strategies. Players frequently share clips of impressive feats, such as one-shotting bosses with optimized builds. These shared experiences contribute to the evolving meta, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of different weapons and builds.
While the meta often focuses on high-damage skills and efficient boss strategies, the community also celebrates off-meta choices. Players showcase the Flamberge greatsword, praising its stylish moveset and bleed buildup, or the Godskin Stitcher spear, admiring its unique weapon art and reach. These off-meta choices demonstrate that success in Elden Ring is not solely dependent on using the most powerful weapons, but also on mastering a weapon’s intricacies and adapting it to one’s individual playstyle.
Ultimately, Elden Ring’s weapons are more than just tools for combat; they are an integral part of your Tarnished’s identity within the Lands Between. Whether you prefer the brutal power of a colossal weapon, the swift strikes of a katana, or the arcane might of a magical staff, the game offers a diverse range of options to suit your preferences. The key to success lies in experimentation, exploration, and a willingness to learn.
To find your perfect weapon, venture into the Lands Between, test different Ashes of War, and consult community resources for inspiration. As the world of Elden Ring continues to expand with downloadable content, the possibilities for weapon combinations and builds will only grow. So, grab your weapon of choice, embrace the challenge, and forge your own legend in the Lands Between.
What is your favorite Elden Ring weapon? Share your thoughts, strategies, and build ideas with the community.
Remember to consult reliable sources like the Elden Ring Fextralife wiki for the most up-to-date weapon stats, locations, and DLC additions. And if you need help analyzing specific online discussions or building a particular weapon, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance.
