Elden Ring Early Game Weapons: Best Weapons to Get First
Starting your journey through the Lands Between can be an intimidating task, especially when early encounters leave little room for error. Securing a powerful weapon early in the game significantly eases combat challenges and helps you build momentum before facing major bosses like Margit and Godrick. Knowing which gear to prioritize and where to find it ensures your initial hours in Limgrave and surrounding regions are both productive and rewarding.
Top Slash and Speed Weapons for Early Dexterity Builds
For players favoring speed and agility, the Bloodhound's Fang stands out as a premier curved greatsword acquired by defeating Bloodhound Knight Darriwil in Limgrave. Its built-in Bloodhound's Finesse skill offers incredible mobility paired with heavy damage, while its natural bleed status buildup makes quick work of tough foes. Alternatively, the classic Uchigatana provides excellent rapid slashing, solid posture damage, and seamless integration with various Ashes of War.
Heavy Hitting Options for Early Strength Builds
Strength-focused adventurers can quickly claim the Zweihander by purchasing it from the Nomadic Merchant located in the Weeping Peninsula. This colossal sword delivers massive reach and heavy stagger power, allowing players to interrupt enemy attacks consistently. Another outstanding pick is the Claymore, hidden inside a chest at Castle Morne, which features a highly versatile moveset combining sweeping strikes and piercing thrusts.
Unique Weapons and Rapid Status Effect Options
If you prefer status-based tactics, the Reduvia dagger drops after defeating the invading Bloody Finger Nerijus near Agheel Lake. Its unique skill fires projectiles made of blood, rapidly building up hemorrhage status on targets from a safe distance. For those interested in thrusting combat, seeking out the Elden Ring Great Epee Location: Where to Find the Weapon provides access to a heavy thrusting sword that allows for offensive thrusts while maintaining guard behind a shield.
How to Choose the Right Weapon for Your Playstyle
Selecting the best starting weapon ultimately depends on your stat distribution and preferred combat pacing. While heavy weapons offer high poise damage and safety through staggered enemies, faster weapons excel at applying status effects like blood loss. Experimenting with different weapon types during early exploration helps establish a firm foundation before investing rare Somber and standard Smithing Stones into upgrades.