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Introduction
Elden Ring is more than just a game—it's a sprawling, mysterious, punishing, and deeply rewarding world. Whether you're a seasoned Soulsborne veteran or a newcomer to FromSoftware's brutal gameplay style, Elden Ring offers one of the most open-ended experiences in gaming. This guide is built to walk you through every essential aspect of surviving and thriving in the Lands Between—from your first few steps out of the cave to conquering the toughest bosses. Let's rise, Tarnished.
1. Choosing the Right Starting Class
Understanding Your Playstyle
Your starting class sets the tone for your early journey. Do you want to crush foes with brute force or sling spells from a distance? Each class comes with its own stats, gear, and spells.Popular Choices:
- Vagabond: Great for beginners who want melee combat
- Astrologer: Ideal for players who prefer magic
- Samurai: Balanced agility and damage
Don’t Stress Too Much
Your starting class doesn’t limit your long-term build. Elden Ring allows full customization later with level-ups and rebirths using Larval Tears.2. Surviving the First Hours in Limgrave
Explore, Don’t Rush
Limgrave is your training ground. Avoid rushing into major boss fights like Margit. Instead, level up, gather gear, and explore caves, catacombs, and ruins.Essential Early Stops:
- Church of Elleh: First vendor and upgrade materials
- Gatefront Ruins: Map fragment + Steed Torrent
- Warmaster’s Shack: Great early Ashes of War
3. Leveling Up Efficiently
Focus Stats Early
Don’t spread your stat points too thin. Focus on your build path. For example, strength-based characters should level up Vigor, Strength, and Endurance.General Stat Guidelines:
- Vigor: Health pool. Crucial for all builds
- Mind: FP for magic users
- Dexterity: Faster weapons, better casting time
Rune Farming Spots
Find efficient rune farms like the Boulder near Lenne’s Rise or the birds in Mohgwyn Palace later on. These will boost your level quickly.4. Mastering Combat Mechanics
Dodge Timing and Stamina Management
Combat in Elden Ring punishes impatience. Learn enemy attack patterns, time your rolls, and never spam attacks. Always leave stamina for an emergency dodge.Basic Combat Tips:
- Two-hand your weapon for more damage
- Use Guard Counter (block → heavy attack)
- Backstab for easy damage when sneaking
Parrying and Critical Hits
Parrying is high risk, high reward. Practice on low-level enemies before attempting it against bosses.5. Utilizing Spirit Ashes and Summons
Companions for Tough Battles
Spirit Ashes summon AI allies to help you in boss fights or tight situations. You can upgrade them at Roderika in Roundtable Hold.Best Early Spirit Ashes:
- Lone Wolf Ashes
- Skeletal Militiamen (revive after death!)
- Mimic Tear (late game, but very powerful)
Multiplayer Summons
You can also summon other players using the Furled Finger. Always keep Furlcalling Finger Remedy stocked if you want help.
6. Exploring the Lands Between Effectively
Use Map Fragments
Each region requires map fragments to reveal terrain. These are found on stone markers along roads. You should always prioritize grabbing them early.Hidden Secrets and Side Dungeons
There are over 100 optional areas with unique gear, weapons, and lore. Some are hidden behind illusory walls or require creative jumping.Tips for Exploration:
- Use Torrent for mobility and double jumps
- Mark caves and NPCs on your map
- Look for Sites of Grace near major landmarks
7. Weapon Upgrades and Ashes of War
Enhancing Your Gear
Weapons can be upgraded at the Roundtable Hold or any smithing table. Use Smithing Stones for regular weapons and Somber Stones for special ones.Customizing Movesets
Ashes of War change weapon skills and affinities. For example, "Flaming Strike" adds fire damage, while "Bloody Slash" inflicts bleed.Upgrade Priorities:
- Main weapon to +3 or +6 ASAP
- Shield or staff depending on build
- Spirit Ashes for boss fights
8. Beating Major Bosses Like Margit and Godrick
Studying Attack Patterns
Each boss has specific tells. Observe their animations before rushing in. Dodging is more effective than blocking in most cases.Boss-Specific Tips:
- Margit: Use Spirit Ashes, summon Rogier
- Godrick: Stay behind him during dragon phase
Buffs and Consumables
Use Grease (Fire, Holy, Rot), Flask of Wondrous Physick, and Talismans to give yourself an edge before tough fights.9. Managing Questlines and NPCs
NPC Quests Can Affect the Ending
NPCs like Ranni, Fia, and Goldmask have deep questlines that shape the story. Missing a dialogue can lock you out of their arcs.Keeping Track
Since Elden Ring doesn’t have a quest log, use physical notes or interactive maps online to track quest progress.Must-Do Questlines:
- Ranni the Witch (Moonlight Greatsword + secret ending)
- Alexander the Jar Warrior
- Millicent’s quest (Malenia connection)
10. Reaching the Endgame and Choosing Your Path
Entering Leyndell and Beyond
As you defeat major bosses and collect Great Runes, you’ll gain access to Leyndell, Mountaintops of the Giants, and finally the Erdtree.Endgame Challenges
Prepare for some of the hardest bosses in the genre: Maliketh, Mohg, and Malenia. Each requires a mastery of everything you've learned.
Multiple Endings:
- Age of Fracture: Default ending
- Age of Stars: Ranni’s ending
- Lord of Frenzied Flame: Most chaotic path
