Since its release in February 2022, Elden Ring has taken the gaming world by storm, offering players a vast, open world filled with treacherous landscapes, powerful foes, and an intricate web of lore. As players venture into the Lands Between, there are several key things to do early on that can help you succeed in this unforgiving world. Whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned Soulsborne player, understanding what to prioritize early in your journey is crucial for both survival and progression.
When you first set foot in the Lands Between, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer scale of the world and the challenge ahead. However, there are a few key actions you should take early on that will give you a solid foundation for your journey. First and foremost, explore the open world around you. The early areas of Elden Ring are filled with important items, crafting materials, and hidden locations that will give you a head start.
Resting at these sites restores your health and flasks, but it also triggers enemy respawns. Early on, it’s also worth familiarizing yourself with the mechanics of leveling up at the Roundtable Hold, as you will need to collect Runes (the game’s currency) to upgrade your stats and grow stronger. In the beginning, it’s wise to prioritize leveling up your Vitality, Endurance, and whichever primary stat supports your build.
Strongest Builds in Elden Ring
One of the most compelling features of Elden Ring is the variety of builds you can create. Whether you prefer spellcasting, heavy melee combat, or stealthy ranged attacks, there’s a build for every play style. Some builds are stronger than others, depending on the type of combat you enjoy and the challenges you face.
- Intelligence Build (Mage) – If you enjoy using powerful ranged magic, an Intelligence build is an excellent choice. Mages in Elden Ring have access to a vast array of spells that deal high damage from a distance, and they can quickly clear out enemies before they get close. The key to a successful Intelligence build is to level up your Intelligence stat, invest in the most powerful sorceries available, and acquire gear that boosts your magic potency.
- Faith Build (Healer, Paladin) – If you prefer a hybrid playstyle that combines offensive spells with healing and support, a Faith build is a solid option. Faith builds can wield powerful incantations that heal, buff, and deal damage over time. Investing in the Faith stat also opens up the ability to wield powerful sacred weapons and incantations like Flame, Grant Me Strength or Blessed Weapon, which can provide significant damage boosts and healing effects.
- Strength Build (Tank, Warrior) – Strength builds are the archetypal “tank” playstyle, emphasizing high health, endurance, and powerful, slow but devastating weapons. With a Strength build, you’ll be able to wield massive swords, colossal hammers, and shields that can absorb incoming damage while you dish out punishing blows.
- Dexterity Build (Archer, Assassin) – Dexterity builds focus on agility, speed, and precise strikes. With a focus on weapons like bows, katanas, and curved swords, Dexterity users can easily dodge enemy attacks while dealing quick, lethal damage. This build excels in hit-and-run tactics, allowing you to engage enemies from a distance or quickly close the gap to land a flurry of strikes.
- Quality Build (Balanced Hybrid) – For players who want a more balanced approach to combat, a Quality build is a good choice. By evenly investing in both Strength and Dexterity, you gain access to a variety of weapons that scale with both stats, offering versatility in combat. This build is ideal for players who want to wield a wide range of weapons without focusing too heavily on either Strength or Dexterity, making it a great option for those who enjoy adaptability and experimentation.
Watch Live for Tips, Strategies, and Inspiration
Beyond the in-game experience, Elden Ring’s vibrant community of content creators offers a wealth of strategies, tips, and live gameplay that can enhance your understanding of the game. Watching live streams on platforms like Twitch or YouTube is an excellent way to see different builds in action, learn from experienced players, and get insights into difficult boss fights.
Engaging with live gameplay can also help you stay up-to-date with the latest strategies, as many streamers and YouTubers frequently share tips on how to overcome difficult challenges, hidden bosses, and rare items. The communal aspect of watching Elden Ring live makes the experience more immersive and engaging, as you can interact with others in real-time through chat and discussions.
Conclusion
Elden Ring offers an extraordinary, multifaceted journey through the Lands Between, where players can carve their path and face monumental challenges. By understanding the core elements of the game, including what to do first, building your ideal character, and watching live content for inspiration, you can make your journey more rewarding and enjoyable. Whether you’re experimenting with different builds, taking on formidable bosses, or simply watching others succeed in the game, the world of Elden Ring is vast and full of endless possibilities.
| Things to Do First | Strongest Builds | Watch Live |
|---|---|---|
| Explore the open world and gather items | Intelligence Build (Mage) | Follow top streamers for tips |
| Upgrade your flask (Crimson & Cerulean) | Faith Build (Healer, Paladin) | Join live gameplay for strategies |
| Experiment with different weapons | Strength Build (Tank, Warrior) | Watch live boss fights and tips |
| Focus on leveling up stats early on | Dexterity Build (Archer, Assassin) | Enjoy community challenges |