The early stages of Elden Ring can be both exhilarating and overwhelming, as you are introduced to a vast, dangerous world filled with enemies, secrets, and items that can aid your journey. Understanding how to efficiently use your Elden Ring items during the early game can make a significant difference in your progress and survival. Whether you’re focusing on combat, exploration, or upgrading your gear, the right items can ease your path and set you up for long-term success. Here are 10 tips to help you make the most of your items in the early game.
- Prioritize Healing Items
One of the first things you’ll need in Elden Ring is a reliable source of healing. Early on, your Flask of Crimson Tears will be your go-to for restoring health. Make sure to upgrade it as soon as you can by obtaining Sacred Tears, which can be found in churches scattered throughout the game world. Don’t forget to also equip the Flask of Cerulean Tears to replenish your FP for magic, as it will be essential if you're using spells. These early Elden Ring items will be crucial for surviving tougher encounters.
- Stock Up on Boluses for Status Effects
Status effects like poison and Scarlet Rot can cripple your progress early in the game. Boluses such as the Neutralizing Boluses and Preserving Boluses will be invaluable when you face enemies that inflict these conditions. Keep a small supply of these on hand so you’re not caught off guard by status effects while exploring dangerous areas or battling tough foes.
- Use Spirit Ashes for Early Boss Fights
Spirit Ashes can help you summon NPC allies to assist you during boss fights and tougher enemy encounters. These summons are incredibly helpful in the early game, as they can distract bosses, provide additional damage, and reduce pressure on you. Take advantage of the Spirit Ashes you find early on and experiment with different summons to see which ones best complement your playstyle.
- Don’t Overlook Crafting Materials
Crafting is a key element in Elden Ring, and many items required for crafting can be found as you explore. Early on, focus on gathering basic crafting materials such as Herbs, Sombra Smithing Stones, and Golden Rune items. These will allow you to create useful items like healing potions, buffs, and even arrows. Don’t be afraid to craft consumables and tools that can enhance your combat capabilities, especially for tougher enemy encounters.
- Prioritize Weapon and Armor Upgrades
In the early game, weapon and armor upgrades are critical for improving your survivability and damage output. Elden Ring items like Smithing Stones will allow you to upgrade your weapons at Sites of Grace or blacksmiths. Investing in upgrading your weapon early on will help you take down enemies more efficiently and make boss fights less challenging. Don’t neglect your armor either—upgrading your gear can significantly increase your defense and help mitigate damage from enemy attacks.
- Use Rune Arcs for Extra Power
Rune Arcs are powerful consumables that grant temporary stat boosts when used in conjunction with Great Runes. Early in the game, they can make a significant difference in your damage output and survivability during difficult battles. Use them strategically in tough boss fights or when you need an extra edge against challenging enemies. These items are rare early on, so save them for moments when they’ll provide the most benefit.
Elden Ring Items
- Explore Early for Valuable Elden Ring Items
Exploration is one of the key aspects of Elden Ring, and many valuable items are hidden throughout the world. Take the time to explore early locations for useful consumables, upgrade materials, and special weapons. Keep an eye out for items like Stonesword Keys, which allow you to access hidden areas and powerful items. The earlier you begin searching, the more resources you’ll accumulate to help you progress.
- Know Where to Buy Items in Elden Ring
While many Elden Ring items are found through exploration, some essential items can be purchased from NPCs in the game. For example, vendors in the Roundtable Hold or other areas will sell useful consumables like arrows, crafting materials, and upgrade materials. Knowing where to buy items in Elden Ring early on can save you time and ensure you have the necessary resources for difficult sections. Don’t be afraid to visit merchants regularly and keep track of their inventory.
- Conserve Your Use of Rare Items
While powerful items like Rune Arcs, Golden Seeds, and Sacred Tears can be extremely helpful, they are often limited in supply. Use these rare items wisely and conserve them for the most challenging sections of the game. For instance, save your Rune Arcs for boss battles or tough enemies that require a boost in your stats, and use Golden Seeds to upgrade your Flask only when necessary. Efficient use of rare items early on will help you avoid running out when you need them most.
- Keep a Variety of Ranged Items in Your Inventory
Ranged combat can be extremely useful in Elden Ring, especially in the early game when you’re not yet confident in your close-quarters combat abilities. Items like bows, crossbows, and throwing weapons are great for picking off enemies from a distance, and they give you the option to engage without risking too much exposure. Stock up on arrows and throwing items early on so you have a variety of options when facing groups of enemies or hard-to-reach targets.
Mastering the early game in Elden Ring is all about utilizing the right items at the right time. From healing and crafting to weapon upgrades and summons, the Elden Ring items you collect can make your journey smoother and more efficient. By following these tips and knowing
where to buy items in Elden Ring, you'll be well on your way to surviving the early stages and setting yourself up for success in the more challenging parts of the game. Stay prepared, gather resources, and make the most of your items, and you'll find yourself progressing with confidence.
Pro Guide:
Elden Ring: How to Avoid Losing Your Runes