Elden Ring and its Shadow of the Erdtree expansion are landmark releases that have Soulsborne/Soulslike fans raving due to excitement. Still, given the genre, the journey won't be to be easy, but you don't need to just struggle with the same challenges for hours. We have countless tips to help you out, and this Elden Ring and Shadow of the Erdtree guides hub should act as your all-in-one link for helpful tips, secrets, and more as you venture across the Lands Between and the Realm of Shadow. Bookmark it before you jump in, then follow along as we continue to build it out with more guides in the hours, days, and weeks ahead.
Elden Ring guides (base game)
Get ready for a memorable trek through a massive world known as the Lands Between. We've got all the info regarding basic mechanics, NPC quests, campaign bosses, and endings.
Getting started: Basic mechanics
Tips for beginners
Once you're in The Lands Between, the world won't wait to hurt you. Take our Elden Ring tips for beginners to ensure you have a greater chance of survival.
Elden Ring: Which class is best for you?
Your very first move in the game is going to be deciding on a character class. Elden Ring's class list is extensive and varied, with both blatant and more nuanced tweaks that can be the determining factors for all sorts of players. Use our Elden Ring class guide to better understand what each class brings to the table, then pick the one that best suits your play style.
Keepsakes
As you pick your character, you'll also need to decide on a Keepsake, which are akin to Gifts in Dark Souls. These early items can be a big boon or a waste of time, so here's a list of the best Keepsakes in Elden Ring.
Stats and leveling explained
Where you pour your skill points is up to you, but there are better or worse ways to do this, so don't waste your vaulable time by making ineffective characters. Read this to better understand stats and leveling in Elden Ring.
What to do and where to go first
From Software games can be extremely dizzying, so we've laid out the optimal route for your first few hours of the game. Here's what to do first in Elden Ring.
Early shortcut in Limgrave
Soulsborne games are famous for their hidden passages that can help you get around the world more easily, and Elden Ring is no exception. Here's how to skip the game's first main boss and arrive in Liurnia early.
How to respec
Should you find your build to be lacking, or perhaps you just want to try something new, you can respec--reassign skill points--in Elden Ring. However, like always with a From Software game, the process is a bit confusing. Here's how to respec in Elden Ring.
How to change your appearance
If you'd rather change your hero cosmetically, you can do that too. You'll just need to make it a few hours into the game first. Here's how to change your appearance in Elden Ring.
How to play co-op
Elden Ring can be played fully in co-op, but the system is a bit convoluted--per tradition. Here's how to play Elden Ring in co-op, so you can join friends and make new ones.
Rainbow Stones explained
Dying to a tough enemy is expected. Dying to gravity is more of a slap in the face. Avoid fatal fall damage by using this one common but confusing item: Rainbow Stones.
How to get a horse
Elden Ring gives players From Software's biggest world yet, so you're best off using your trusty steed whenever it's safe to do so. Here's how to initially receive and eventually summon your horse.
How to two-hand weapons
Two-handing weapons in the right situations can be the deciding factor between life and death. If you're confused about how to use weapons in this way, don't sweat it. Here's how to two-hand weapons, plus an explainer about why you should sometimes consider doing so.
How to cure poison
Don't let your HP tick away from poison damage while exploring the Lands Between. You can quickly cure poison if you know how, so here's how!
Faster Vagabond rolling
If you chose a Vagabond character, you're going to be saddled with a slower roll ability than most, but there's a quick fix, so don't miss it. Here's how to remove the rolling penalty from your Vagabond hero.
Fia's offer: Let her hold you or not?
When you first arrive in Roundtable Hold, you'll meet several friendly NPCs. One of them, Fia, offers to give you a very special hug. Here's what happens next, so you can decide whether to let Fia hold you or not.
Bosses from the base game
Tree Sentinel boss guide
The Tree Sentinel is an intimidating roaming boss you'll come across early on in the game. if you'd rather face them head-on than run from them over and over, here's how to defeat the Tree Sentinel.
We're not nearly done with Elden Ring coverage. It's the biggest game of the year so far, and it might just end up that way come December, too. Keep it here as we update this hub for all things Elden Ring.
Margit The Fell Omen boss battle
Your first mainline boss will be the towering Margit. They're imposing as most monsters in a From game are, but they can be made easier to defeat with a few simple tricks. Here's how to defeat the first boss in Elden Ring.
Stuck on a boss? Try this!
The first two bosses of Elden Ring are there to teach you to explore first, fight later. If you're stuck, there's a lot you can do to improve your chances against Margit or Godrick, the game's first two main bosses. Here are some tips to help you out.
Radahn boss battle
As tough as Margit and Godrick may be, most people would argue that they've got nothing on Radahn. But there's one way you can take him down very easily. Here's how to beat Radahn.
Great Runes
Defeating bosses will grant you Great Runes, but what they do and how to activate them is, like most of the game, not so clear. Here's all you need to know about Great Runes.
More bosses and tough enemies
Of course, there's no shortage of unforgiving enemies in Elden Ring. Here's a collection of several more guides in case you're stuck.
Gear, items, flasks, and upgrades
Important early items to get
Ashes of War are important character buffs that you can stumble upon to enhance your hero. You'll not want to miss them, so be sure to find a few of the earliest in the game, including Unsheathe, Determination, and Gravitas. Aside from those, you should also be sure to grab your first torch for exploring dark areas, as well as your first map fragment, which acts as a tutorial on how to reveal the map.
Best weapons
Even the most adept players on the controller won't get far without some deadly weapons of their own. Here's where to find a few choice weapons early in Limgrave, including the coveted Twinblade. Later on, you'll want to look for an assortment of other weapons for all builds. We've got guides on where to find choice weapons such as:
- Meteorite Staff
- Rivers of Blood Katana
- Ordovis' Greatsword
- Moonveil Katana
- Icerind Hatchet
- Ghiza's Wheel
- Sword of Night and Flame
- Uchigatana
- Winged Scythe
Guts Dragonslayer Greatsword from Berserk
One of Elden Ring's many influences is the beloved anime, Berserk. You can even find the special sword from the series if you know where to look. Here's everything about the Guts Dragonslayer Greatsword in Elden Ring.
How to upgrade weapons
If you've managed to find some great early weapons, you should seek to make them even better by upgrading them. The process is a bit tricky and easy to miss, so don't miss it! For that matter, you'll also need the Miner's Bell Bearing.
Smithing Stone locations
Once you know how to upgrade weapons, you'll want to know where to find those all-important Smithing Stones. We've found a ton already, and we'll be showcasing more as we discover them. Here's all Smithing Stones and Somber Smithing Stones so far.
Spirit Calling Bell
You can rely on summons to aid you in combat, but not if you miss this early opportunity to find the all-important Spirit Calling Bell. Here's where to find it.
Mimic Tear
The Mimic Tear is one of the best Spirit Ashes in the game--some would say it's alone at the top--so you should make an effort to grab it. Here's where to grab the Mimic Tear and why you should.
Best early Rune farming spots
One of the best ways to level up quickly is to farm Runes from more approachable locations. The early hours of Elden Ring has several of these. Take note and you'll have deep pockets in no time. We've made a special note of the 80K Rune dragon you can slay too--it doesn't even put up a fight.
Flasks explained
Elden Ring adds some wrinkles to the familiar flask system From Software players will be familiar with, so it's important to understand what's different and what remains the same. Here's all you need to know about flasks.
Golden Seed and Sacred Tear locations
Your flask in Elden Ring is arguably more important than ever. You can customize it to suit your play style in special ways, so be sure to find Golden Seeds and Sacred Tears in these locations.
Grave Gloveworts and Ghost Gloveworts locations
For some weapons, you'll need Grave and Ghost Gloveworts, but these are also hard to find--what isn't in this game? Here's where to find Grave Gloveworts and Ghost Gloveworts.
Quest progression and late-game content
NPC questlines
Questlines in Elden Ring are among the most confusing elements of the game, but they don't have to be. Here are all of our walkthroughs for the many people you'll meet in the Lands Between.
- Rogier questline
- Hyetta questline
- Ranni The Witch questline
- Rya questline
- Dung Eater questline
- Millicent questline
How to unlock all endings
Elden Ring has several different endings, and each one requires very specific things. Luckily, not only do we have a guide on how to unlock all endings, we can also help you know when to save scum so you can see all endings in one go. Just make sure you pay extra attention to the Lord of Frenzied Flame ending.
New Game Plus (NG+)
Continuing a long-standing tradition for From Software games, Elden Ring does have a NG+ mode. Here's how to access it, what carries over, and what doesn't.
Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree guides
Fresh from your adventure in the Lands Between, you'll soon find yourself in the Lands of Shadow. This time, you'll search for Miquella the Empyrean, and you'll meet new characters who are also on a journey. Be ready for tough battles ahead.
The basics: General tips, starting out, and exploration
How to start the DLC
The whole process is convoluted to a fault, and you need to complete all the tasks if you want to step foot in the Lands of Shadow.
14 tips to know before playing
We've also got several tips to help you prepare for the journey.
Where to go first
Learn where to head first and what to do there in this Erdtree-focused guide.
Best gear to start with in Erdtree DLC
Take these base-game gear items into the DLC to give yourself a good head start.
World map: Exploring Realm of Shadow
There's a vast new realm to explore. We've got the full world map for you to check out.
Miquella Crosses
You should also be on the lookout for Miquella Crosses, which mark the path taken by your quarry.
Cerulean Coast and Charo's Hidden Grave
Make your way to the southern coast, with flowers in full bloom and deadly foes by the beach. These two regions are called Cerulean Coast and Charo's Hidden Grave.
Jagged Peak
The Jagged Peak is in the southeastern portion of the realm. It's also the domain of dragons. You might even notice some references to Game of Thrones.
Ancient Ruins of Rauh
The region to the northwest, the Ancient Ruins of Rauh, has temple complexes atop plateaus, as well as ravines and rivers that are crawling with hostiles.
Scaduview (secret area)
The northeast region, also known as Scaduview/Hinterlands can't be reached from the get-go. That's because there's a secret method that unlocks it.
Abyssal Woods (secret area)
Venture deep into the Abyssal Woods and be ready for madness-inducing monsters. The atmosphere of this place even gives horror vibes.
Gear and rewards: Weapons, armors, spells, summons, and DLC-only upgrade boosts
Shadow Realm Blessing: Scadutree Fragments
There are new upgrade materials that you can collect. The Scadutree Fragments boost the capabilities of your character.
Shadow Realm Blessing: Revered Spirit Ashes
Revered Spirit Ashes, meanwhile, further strengthen your summons.
Nameless Mausoleums
These points of interest, known as Nameless Mausoleums, have one opponent that you must face. Defeating them nets you unique armor sets and weapons.
DLC talismans
Acquire a multitude of new talismans to boost your offense and defense.
DLC spells
Unleash powerful magic spells that can only be obtained from DLC areas.
DLC summons
Have your spirit summons lend an aid in battle.
DLC ashes of war
Obtain ashes of war weapon skills for your armaments.
Monk/martial arts and armor set
Feel like punching and kicking your opponents? Beat them up with your signature unarmed combat style. Of course, you can also obtain a monk armor set that's in keeping with the theme.
Greatjar helm
Let Me Solo Her defeated Malenia countless times wearing only a ceramic container as an armor piece. Now, you can put a larger Greatjar on your head.
Night Armor
An armor that's pitch black makes you look ominous, and it's definitely cool. You can learn more in our Night Armor guide.
Bosses
All major bosses in the DLC
There are 11 major bosses in the Realm of Shadow, and they will all test your mettle. We've got the details for you in our DLC bosses guide.
All boss Remembrances
Of course, taking out a great foe means that you get to choose a reward. Come take a look at our Remembrances guide if you're curious.
Progression: NPC quests and late-game areas
Thiollier's quest
While most of the NPCs are followers of Miquella, Thiollier himself is devoted to a particular being. You can complete Thiollier's quest, which takes you to various regions.
Ymir Finger Ruins quest
A wizard named Ymir wants you to do a few errands, and they lead you to some really unnerving places. We talk about these objectives in our Ymir Finger Ruins quest guide.
Belurat Tower of Shadow
So, what exactly do you need to do to complete the DLC's main arc? Well, the goal is to unseal the Belurat Tower of Shadow, which leads to a late-game area.
Note: We'll update our Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree guides hub with more articles for the DLC, so stay tuned.
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