How to Play Elden Ring: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

Elden Ring, the highly acclaimed action RPG from FromSoftware, offers players a vast open world filled with challenging enemies, intricate lore, and rewarding exploration. If you’re new to the game and overwhelmed by its depth, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate through The Lands Between and thrive in your journey. Here’s how to play Elden Ring like a pro!

1. Select Your Class Wisely

When starting your adventure, choosing the right class that aligns with your playstyle is crucial. Elden Ring features several classes, each catering to different combat styles:

• Vagabond: A balanced choice for melee enthusiasts.
• Astrologer: Perfect for players who want to wield powerful sorceries.
• Warrior: Ideal for those favoring high dexterity and light weaponry.
• Confessor: A hybrid class for players who enjoy mixing combat and incantations.

Consider your preferred style: melee, magic, or a mixture of both. This decision shapes how you will approach the game.

2. Understand the Stats and Upgrades

The character progression system in Elden Ring allows you to invest in various stats. Here are some key attributes you should focus on:

• Vigor: Increases health, vital for survivability.
• Mind: Increases Focus Points (FP), necessary for casting spells.
• Endurance: Governs stamina and equip load, crucial for melee combat.
• Strength: Increases the damage of heavy weapons.
• Dexterity: Beneficial for faster weapon handling and casting spells.
• Intelligence: Essential for sorcery usage.
• Faith: Necessary for incantations and healing spells.
• Arcane: Influences item discovery and certain magic capabilities.

As you gain Runes from defeated enemies, invest in stats that bolster your class’s strengths and address any weaknesses.

3. Explore Carefully and Thoroughly

Elden Ring boasts a sprawling world filled with secrets and dangers. Taking the time to explore will yield great rewards, including unique weapons, armor, and items. Here are tips for effective exploration:

• Follow the Guidance of Grace: The golden light will lead you to critical paths and objectives.
• Keep an Eye Out for Sites of Grace: These checkpoints allow you to save your progress, level up, and replenish health and resource items.
• Engage with NPCs: Interacting with the various characters in the game can unlock quests and valuable lore.

Don’t rush through the game; sometimes veering off the beaten path can yield significant benefits.

4. Master Combat Mechanics

Combat in Elden Ring can be punishing, but mastering the mechanics will ensure your survival:

• Learn Enemy Patterns: Every opponent has unique attack patterns. Watch and learn when to dodge and counter.
• Utilize Stealth: Sneaking allows you to ambush enemies and take them down quietly.
• Combine Ranged and Melee Attacks: Depending on your class, integrating both can give you a tactical advantage.
• Utilize Spirit Summons: Summoning spirits can help distract enemies and provide additional damage in combat.

Practice makes perfect. Don’t hesitate to retry sections to better your skills and learn from your mistakes.

5. Level Up Strategically

Leveling up in Elden Ring isn’t just about raising your character’s level; it’s also about enhancing your gear:

• Spend Runes Wisely: Focus on stats that improve your overall gameplay. Avoid spreading your Runes too thin across all attributes.
• Upgrade Your Weapons: Use Smithing Stones to enhance weapons, making them more potent against foes.
• Mix and Match Equipment: Experiment with different armor and weapons to find the best synergy for your playstyle.

6. Embrace the Challenge

Ultimately, Elden Ring is designed with challenging gameplay in mind. Embrace the highs and lows:

• Don’t Get Discouraged: Expect to die often; learn from each failure.
• Seek Help if Needed: Multiplayer options allow you to summon friends or other players for assistance.
• Take Breaks: Stepping away can sometimes provide clarity and a fresh perspective.

Conclusion

Elden Ring is a vast and immersive experience that rewards exploration, thoughtful combat, and strategic planning. By following this guide, you can navigate The Lands Between more confidently and enjoy your adventure to the fullest. Remember, above all, to enjoy the journey and the stories that unfold along the way!