Unleashing Chaos: The 12 Must-Defeat NPCs in Elden Ring

Highlights

Elden Ring is an open-world game with a vast landscape and a variety of non-playable characters (NPCs) to encounter with different personalities.

In Elden Ring, players are faced with the decision of killing or sparing various NPCs, each with their own potential in-game rewards or value when kept alive. Players assume the role of judge, jury, and executioner in making these choices.

Elden Ring is an expansive open-world game teeming with formidable enemies that players must vanquish, while also accepting the risk of being defeated themselves. The Tarnished embark on a remarkable journey through a breathtaking landscape, venturing into every nook and cranny. Along their path, they will encounter a diverse array of personalities. This land is populated with non-playable characters, each harboring their own unique stories waiting to be unveiled. Some of these individuals exude warmth and hospitality, while others are less inviting.

Regardless of whether an NPC is amiable or not, many share a common trait: vulnerability. In Elden Ring, like in other beloved titles by FromSoftware, a number of NPCs can be slain. In fact, there are even certain characters whose demise may yield advantageous rewards for players. Conversely, there are others who should be preserved, their lives proving invaluable.

Regardless, the Tarnished holds the authority to act as the arbiter for these non-playable characters (NPCs), assuming the roles of both judge and executioner.

As of October 7th, 2023, updated by Jacob Buchalter, the anticipation for the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC in Elden Ring has captured the unwavering attention of its passionate fanbase. This game remains a constant topic of discussion within the gaming community. While it is not recommended to eliminate any NPCs during the initial playthrough, many players choose to do so nevertheless. Surprisingly, there are a few NPCs whose demise yields valuable rewards. For those who do not hold a deep investment in the intricate narratives of every NPC in Elden Ring, here is a list of those worth considering to eliminate early on.

12 Iron Fist Alexander

Commencing with a somewhat controversial initial choice, the revered character known as Iron Fist Alexander bestows a rather commendable reward upon his untimely demise. However, only a handful of individuals naturally opt for this path, due to his overwhelmingly beloved status. Nevertheless, those players who fail to resonate with the exuberant sentient pot can swiftly eliminate him upon their rendezvous near the Saintsbridge Site of Grace, thus acquiring the coveted Warrior Jar Shard Talisman. Naturally, those who undertake his entire questline will ultimately be endowed with the ever-superior Shard of Alexander Talisman, a substantial upgrade from its predecessor. It is worth noting that this particular reward can solely be obtained towards the culmination of the game.

11 Knight Diallos

Although Diallos initially appears to be the typical innocent aristocrat with a handsome appearance, he carries the weight of tragedy within him. Continuously belittling himself, he considers himself the disgrace of House Hoslow and presumes that others perceive him in the same unfavorable light.

10 Tanith Of The Volcano Manor

However, by progressing through the questline, players will witness a significant change in Diallos' character, as he gradually begins to make independent choices and discovers his own happiness in the town of Jarburg. It should be noted that reaching Jarburg in Elden Ring requires substantial progress. For those who are not interested in Diallos' questline, his story, or acquiring the Companion Jar Talisman, they have the option to eliminate him upon encountering him outside the Roundtable Hold. This decision will yield both the coveted Hoslow's Petal Whip and his Mask.

The Volcano Manor side plot in Elden Ring is incredibly intriguing and adds depth to the overall story. It provides valuable information about the time before the Erdtree, details about the Crucible Knights, and introduces a faction in the Lands Between that opposes the Erdtree's influence. While the Greater Will, Marika, and the Tarnished are also captivating characters, Rykard and the Volcano Manor offer players a wealth of knowledge.

However, uncovering these details requires thorough exploration of conversation logs and item descriptions. Many players simply view the Volcano Manor as an optional path to reach Rykard more quickly and obtain additional gear. For those uninterested in delving into the side plot, there is the option to "kill" Tanith in the Volcano Manor. They may alternatively complete the Vocalno Manor questline and then defeat her at the end. Regardless of the chosen approach, dispatching Tanith while she is "feasting" rewards players with the Aspect of the Crucible: Breath.

9 Kenneth Haight

Kenneth Haight presents himself as a helpless individual in dire need of assistance. Located within the initial region of the game, known as Limgrave, Kenneth has endured being removed from power within his fortress and finds himself marooned on a fragment of a dilapidated structure. As players traverse nearby, they can hear Kenneth's desperate pleas for aid.

Unfortunately for Kenneth though, he loses a crucial item in the beginning stages of the game. Upon his demise, Kenneth releases a Golden Seed that can be utilized to enhance the player's capacity for holding healing flasks. Regrettably, it appears that the Tarnished is not the heroic savior Kenneth had anticipated.

8 Gatekeeper Gostoc

In the first major dungeon of Elden Ring, Stormveil, players will encounter a tightly shut front gate. Unable to continue, they will enter a small room beside the gate where they will meet an intriguing individual known as Gatekeeper Gostoc. Gostoc, harboring a strong dislike for Godrick, offers assistance to the player in navigating the castle. However, it becomes evident that Gostoc is not as benevolent as he appears.

Throughout the dungeon, players may spot Gostoc stealthily following them or conveniently appearing in hidden spots nearby as they progress. This is because when the player meets their demise, Gostoc will claim 30 percent of the Runes they had dropped. Moreover, Gostoc actively attempts to ensnare the players in perilous situations to ensure their demise, such as trapping them in a pitch-black room with the Banished Knight.

7 Merchant Kale & All The Other Nomadic Merchants

Encountered frequently during their journeys in the Lands Between, players will meet the Nomadic Merchants, non-playable characters who readily offer a vast array of resources and items in exchange for a fair price. Delving into their past reveals a chilling history that surpasses that of any other individual in the world of Elden Ring, yet their willingness to assist players remains unaffected, making them invaluable NPCs.

Most of the individuals are exceptionally amiable and amicable, and this factor intensifies the difficulty in eliminating them. The vendors are spread out across the globe, which can be quite bothersome to relocate them. Consequently, numerous players resort to exterminating them in order to obtain their Bell Bearings, thus rendering the Twin Maiden Husks a convenient hub for all their requirements.

6 Knight Bernahl

Located in Limgrave, the Warmaster's Shack is where Knight Bernahl assists the Tarnished by selling and teaching various types of Ashes of War. This service proves particularly valuable for players who are just starting their journey in Elden Ring, as they often have limited options when it comes to AoW. While Bernahl offers only the most fundamental choices, even these can greatly impact the outcome of battles.

Interestingly, Knight Bernahl plays a significant role in the Volcano Manor quest line, adopting the name Recusant Bernahl during this period. Upon completing the quest line, however, he departs from the Manor and later reappears to challenge the player. It is advisable to defeat him during this encounter rather than doing so earlier, although either approach is viable.

5 Ensha Of The Royal Remains

This audacious emaciated individual serves under Gideon Ofnir and can frequently be spotted leaning against the entrance of Gideon's residence within Roundtable Hold. Unbeknownst to unsuspecting adventurers, Ensha would unexpectedly strike, ambushing them within the confines of the hold shortly after they procured either segment of the Haligtree Secret Medallion.

4 Patches The Untethered

In light of this occurrence, Ensha's transformation into an aggressor and subsequent assault on the Tarnished within their sanctuary, known as the Roundtable Hold, become inevitable. Consequently, numerous players find themselves obliged to terminate Ensha's existence. However, this is not a significant concern since Ensha's lack of meaningful interaction made it challenging for players to develop any emotional attachment to him in the first place.

When discussing killable non-player characters (NPCs) in FromSoftware games, it would be sacrilegious not to mention the ultimate king of such NPCs. Patches is a recurring character in the series, known for his consistent attempts to deceive and betray the player in every possible appearance. Veteran players of the franchise are well acquainted with the tricks of this mischievous character, encountering him in games like Bloodborne, Armored Core, Dark Souls, and Elden Ring.

In Elden Ring specifically, Patches offers a variety of interactions. Although many players have a fondness for Patches, it is peculiar that killing him in the early stages of Elden Ring can actually be a wise decision. By defeating Patches, players will obtain a valuable +7 Spear, a weapon of considerable strength considering how early it can be obtained. However, these rewards pale in comparison to the benefits of completing Patches' entire questline, purchasing items from his shop, and keeping him as an NPC Merchant.

3 Millicent

When venturing through the disease-infested territories of Caelid, lending assistance to others is likely to be the least of most players' concerns. Having traversed treacherous marshes, enduring relentless attacks by oversized avian creatures, evading ravenous colossal 'canines', and even experiencing the gruesome fate of being disemboweled by gargantuan sea crustaceans, players are naturally inclined to view anything with suspicion.

However, should players choose to explore the intriguing locales of Caelid, they will stumble upon a sick woman by the name of Millicent, who suffers from the affliction known as the Scarlet Rot. Surprisingly, Millicent bears a peculiar 'genetic' connection to Malenia, prompting her to seek the assistance of the Tarnished in finding a cure. Once this task is fulfilled, players can continue their quest, delving deep into Miquella's Haligtree, where a multitude of fateful decisions await. Among the available choices is the option to end Millicent's life, which rewards the player with Millicent's Prosthesis Talisman. It is worth noting that players have the option to eliminate her even earlier on, although her questline remains one of the most comprehensive and intricate in the entire game.

2 Preceptor Seluvis

One of the most arrogant characters in any of From's games appears early on in The Lands Between. Seluvis is a self-absorbed, deeply disturbed, and outwardly snobbish sorcerer whom the Tarnished encounters during Ranni's extensive questline.

While the player cannot directly kill this NPC, Seluvis will meet his demise while fulfilling Ranni's quest. Unfortunately, the player won't be the one to strike the final blow, but they will certainly reap the rewards. Moreover, they have the option to actively contribute to Seluvis's demise. Once he's deceased, Seluvis will drop his Bell Bearing, providing access to his sinister shop of Spirit Ash "puppets."

1 Blaidd, The Shadow Of Ranni The Witch

Throughout Ranni's epic journey in Elden Ring, players will have the chance to encounter a diverse range of NPCs, some of whom are truly remarkable while others may leave much to be desired. Among the exceptional individuals is the esteemed Blaidd, who serves as Ranni's devoted ally, discreet confidant, and unwavering protector. Blaidd's loyalty extends beyond mere companionship, as he valiantly aids the Tarnished not only in their perilous encounters with formidable adversaries such as Radahn but also whenever he makes a genial appearance, offering solace and reassurance.

Blaidd will become hostile towards the end of Ranni's quest, and this is unavoidable. The ensuing battle is emotionally challenging, not due to its difficulty, but because Blaidd is a close friend. However, defeating him does yield the player his extraordinary armor. Additionally, a mask resembling Blaidd's head/face can be discovered nearby. It is worth noting that this is a rare instance where killing Blaidd prematurely offers no rewards, making it imperative for players to progress through the questline to obtain the desired benefits.

Price: $49 (original price: $60), saving $11

Platforms: PS5, Xbox One, PS4, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PC

Release Date: February 25, 2022

Developed by: From Software

Published by: Bandai Namco Entertainment, From Software

Genres: RPG, Action

Available for purchase at: Amazon for $49