Elden Ring boasts a vast array of character builds for players to choose from, cementing its position as a standout RPG title. With 10 unique starting classes, each with their own distinct playstyles, players can delve into the game's stat progression system to further customize their character. Additionally, players can also choose from a selection of starting gift items, following the tradition of FromSoftware's Soulslike RPG genre. These Keepsakes offer varying degrees of usefulness in The Lands Between, providing players with even more options to tailor their gameplay experience.
Elden Ring's Keepsakes
Elden Ring offers players a variety of Keepsakes to choose from at the start of their adventure. These include Shabriri's Woe, a multiplayer-only talisman that draws enemy aggression towards the player. Additionally, players can start with three Cracked Pot crafting materials to use as projectiles, five Boiled Prawn consumables to boost their defense, and a Golden Seed upgrade material for their healing flask. The Lands Between Rune is also available as a consumable that grants players 3000 Runes. For those seeking to make enemies more friendly, there are five Bewitching Branch consumables to choose from. Finally, players can equip the Crimson Amber Medallion, a talisman that provides a permanent +6% HP buff, as well as two Stonesword Keys to access locked areas and Fanged Imp Ashes for summoning fanged imp ally spirits.
The usefulness of Keepsakes varies greatly among players, with some like Elden Ring's Bewitching Branch proving to be more beneficial than others. The best choice largely depends on the player's class and build, as the right Keepsake can greatly enhance each of these builds.
Strength builds in Elden Ring are often associated with the iconic knight imagery that is present in FromSoftware's RPGs. These builds prioritize slower, more powerful gameplay by utilizing thick armor, heavy shields, and large weapons. Even when combined with other builds, strength characters typically invest heavily in the vigor HP stat. To further increase their HP, players can use the Crimson Amber Medallion, which provides a percentage-based boost. Additionally, the Keepsake talisman can be a valuable item for strength builds throughout much of the game.
For players who prefer a quick and agile playstyle, dexterity builds offer a more offensive approach, sacrificing defensive capabilities. However, players must be cautious as taking damage can quickly lead to defeat. To counter this, the Golden Seed upgrade item is a valuable Keepsake that can enhance the early healing abilities of a dexterity-focused character.
On the other hand, faith builds focus on using magic-based Incantations that become more powerful as the player increases their faith stat. These Incantations can be utilized for both offensive and defensive purposes, and even provide healing capabilities in Elden Ring. For players in need of extra support, the Fanged Imp Ashes can effectively replenish their FP during challenging situations.
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The intelligence build is ideal for wizards who rely on powerful Sorceries to deal massive damage. As Sorceries consume a lot of FP, intelligence builds typically invest in the mind stat to ensure they have a steady supply of FP for spellcasting. For those who prefer a caster playstyle, the Fanged Imp Ashes is a reliable Keepsake choice.
On the other hand, the arcane build offers a more advanced playstyle focused on status effects, making it a great option for players interested in exploring Elden Ring's deep RPG mechanics. However, setting up an arcane build can be time-consuming as it requires proper equipment and stat distribution. Choosing the Stonesword Key items as a Keepsake grants early access to a dungeon where players can acquire the Dragon Communion Seal, an invaluable item for arcane builds.
Elden Ring is available now for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.