Elden Ring Best Early Game Weapons

Key Takeaways

Starting with a weapon that feels right is essential for survival in
Elden Ring
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Players can acquire already upgraded weapons early on, such as the Banished Knight’s Halberd +8 or the Spear +7, both of which offer higher damage than their unupgraded counterparts.
The early areas of the game provide plenty of great options, including powerful choices like the Greatsword, the Meteorite Staff, and the Great Stars. However, some of these weapons may require players to venture further into the world to obtain them.

As a seasoned adventurer with countless hours spent traversing the lands of Elden Ring, I must say that the weapons and items featured here are absolute game-changers for any Tarnished seeking to dominate their foes.

Similar to numerous other games from FromSoftware, Elden Ring can prove quite formidable. Players who are familiar with the series may recall their initial experience with a FromSoftware title, where the first boss left them feeling utterly defeated. These games often present a steep learning curve, and if the Tarnished fails to adapt, they will soon find themselves on the receiving end of a stern lesson from the Tree Sentinel boss.

In Elden Ring, it effectively communicates when parts of the game are too tough for the player, encouraging them to prepare more. After repeated defeats at the hands of a boss, players often respond by improving their weapons. Choosing a weapon that is strong yet comfortable to use is crucial for success in this vast and challenging title.

1 Banished Knight’s Halberd +8

Players Can Get An Upgraded +8 Variant Of The Halberd From Edgar The Revenger

Location: A +8 version is dropped by Edgar the Revenger upon his defeat at either Castle Morne or the Revenger’s Shack.
Max Upgrade Damage: 306
Max Upgrade Scaling: Strength C, Dexterity C
Weight: 8.0
Weapon Skill: Charge Forth or Spinning Strikes (+8 version)
Build Recommendations: Str 40, Dex 40

The can be challenging to obtain early on, but players have the opportunity to acquire an upgraded +8 variant relatively early, ensuring high damage output right from the start with no extra investment. While the base Halberd is farmable from Banished Knight enemies — who can be tough in the early hours — the +8 version, along with the Spinning Strikes Ash of War, is dropped by Edgar the Revenger after his defeat either at Castle Morne (Weeping Peninsula) or the Revenger’s Shack (Liurnia of the Lakes).

Boasting an appealing aesthetic, good damage output, extended reach, and a powerful jabbing attack, the Halberd of the Banished Knight is an excellent pick for any melee character who values keeping their distance from foes. Obtaining its +8 version significantly boosts the player’s power throughout much of the game, enabling them to deal heavy blows and thrusts. Moreover, its versatility lies in its ability to scale well with both Strength and Dexterity stats, making it suitable for a variety of character builds.

2 Spear +7

Players Can Get An Upgraded +7 Variant Of The Spear From Patches Early

Location: A +7 version is dropped by Patches in Murkwater Cave if he is killed after pleading for mercy.
Max Upgrade Damage: 279
Max Upgrade Scaling: Strength D, Dexterity C
Weight: 4.5
Weapon Skill: Impaling Thrust
Build Recommendations: Str 35, Dex 45

The is a powerful weapon with excellent reach, although its playstyle can feel somewhat repetitive due to its reliance on poking attacks. What makes the Spear particularly valuable early in Elden Ring is that players can obtain an upgraded +7 variant in Limgrave. This enhanced version is dropped by Patches when defeated in Murkwater Cave, provided the player chooses to kill him despite his pleas for mercy. With this high-damage melee weapon, Tarnished can easily defeat several early- to mid-game bosses with minimal effort.

As a fan, I’d say: I’ve found the Impaling Thrust from The Spear to be particularly handy against sluggish foes with hefty health bars. Yet, for those who choose not to harm Patches, there’s an unupgraded version of The Spear that can be gathered from Stormveil Castle soldiers carrying it. Luckily, these enemies are abundant in the legacy dungeon, so obtaining one won’t take too long.

3 Uchigatana

One Of The Best Starting Weapons With A Sleek Moveset

Location: Found on a dead body inside the Deathtouched Catacombs, Stormhill, Limgrave.
Max Upgrade Damage: 281
Max Upgrade Scaling: Strength D, Dexterity C
Weight: 5.5
Weapon Skill: Unsheathe
Build Recommendations: Str 30, Dex 50

In Elden Ring, the initial weapon for Samurai class, known as, serves as a great choice for early-game combat and can be obtained by other character classes as well. This blade, sharp on both edges, inflicts piercing and slashing damage while causing bleeding effects – making it ideal for beginners. Additionally, its scalability allows it to excel in both Strength and Dexterity builds, guaranteeing substantial damage regardless of the chosen playstyle.

If you’re a player who wants to utilize this potent weapon from the get-go, opting for the Samurai class would be a logical decision. However, for those choosing other classes, the Uchigatana can be found in the Deathtouched Catacombs, located in Stormhill, Limgrave. You’ll find it on a corpse hanging over a platform’s edge following the activation of a lever that opens a door within one of the dungeon’s initial corridors.

4 Meteorite Staff

Essential As A Secondary Weapon For Many Early-Game Builds

Location: Found on a corpse in the Street of Sages Ruins, Aeonia Swamp, Caelid.
Non-upgradeable. Damage: 39
Scaling: Strength D, Intelligence S
Weight: 4.5
Passive Effect: Boosts Gravity Sorcery
Build Recommendations: Str 30, Int 30

In early to mid-game, there are few tools as indispensable as the Meteorite Staff, particularly when combined with the Rock Sling spell. This weapon is a perfect fit for character builds that lean slightly towards Intelligence, serving as an effective replacement for other ranged weapons. It dishes out substantial damage and poise damage, making it potent against numerous bosses. With just 18 Intelligence needed to wield the Rock Sling, this spell’s power increases by 30% when cast with the Meteorite Staff. Despite being non-upgradable, the staff remains a reliable choice throughout the game once players have mastered its straightforward yet devastating attack pattern.

As a fearless gamer, if I want to snag the Meteorite Staff early on, I’ve got to conquer the treacherous Aeonia Swamp, nestled within Caelid. The fastest route is by unlocking the trapped chest hidden in the Dragon-Burnt Ruins. After successfully navigating the Sellia Crystal Tunnel and escaping its clutches, you’ll find the staff on a body hanging from a ledge in a small poisonous flower-filled room located within the southwestern building of the Street of Sages Ruins. Remember, to maximize the potential of your newfound staff, don’t forget to snag the Rock Sling spell from a chest hidden in an underground cellar just north of these ruins!

5 Greataxe

One Of The Highest Swing Damage Weapons For Pure Strength Warriors

Location: Found in a chest inside the moving carriage followed by a caravan of Wandering Nobles in Limgrave.
Max Upgrade Damage: 369
Max Upgrade Scaling: Strength C, Dexterity D
Weight: 13.0
Weapon Skill: Barbaric Roar
Build Recommendations: Str 55, Dex 25

This brutal, heavy is one of the earliest and strongest weapons of its class that Elden Ring players can obtain. It’s not only great for the early game, but powerful enough to carry players through the entire journey. The Greataxe’s charged attacks deliver devastating knockdown damage, further enhanced by its skill, Barbaric Roar. When activated, Barbaric Roar transforms the Heavy Attack into a three-hit combo with enormous damage potential. In fact, this weapon boasts the highest base attack damage in its class, though it requires a hefty Strength (80) to unleash its full potential.

Lucky for you, you can grab the Greataxe in just a short while after arriving in Limgrave. You’ll find it inside a chest on a cart being pulled by a pair of Trolls, along with a group of Wandering Nobles near the Ruins Waypoint. Keep in mind that this weapon requires at least 20 Strength to use efficiently, so consider leveling up before you start swinging this powerful axe around!

6 Shortbow

A Fast-Firing Bow That Can Be Used While Mounted

Location: Can be purchased from a merchant near Coastal Cave.
Max Upgrade Damage: 159
Max Upgrade Scaling: Strength D, Dexterity D
Weight: 2.5
Weapon Skill: Barrage
Build Recommendations: Str 30, Dex 50

In Elden Ring, the Shortbow can inflict significant damage when utilized skillfully, and what’s more, you can obtain it (or buy it) quite early in the game. Interestingly, this is one of the starting weapons for the Bandit class. The Shortbow offers players an extended range and swift attack pace.

As an enthusiast, I can’t help but sing praises about the Shortbow! Compared to its larger counterparts, this little gem offers some remarkable benefits. For one, it allows me to let an arrow fly even while jumping and swiftly fires another shot upon landing – a feature that leaves other bows in the dust. What’s more, I can use it effortlessly when riding a horse at top speed. Unless you’re specifically focusing on a bow-centric build, I’d strongly advise against investing time with any other type of bow.

7 Nightrider Glaive

Superb Range And Quick Attack Speed Make It Ideal For Horseback Combat

Location: Dropped by the Night’s Cavalry, found patrolling the road between Bellum Church and the East Raya Lucaria Gate (only appears at night).
Max Upgrade Damage: 316
Max Upgrade Scaling: Strength B, Dexterity E
Weight: 12.0
Weapon Skill: Spinning Slash
Build Recommendations: Str 60, Dex 20

Halberds are an often overlooked weapon type — which is a shame. These weapons provide superior reach, high damage attacks, and can be swung fairly quickly. Among the best of this weapon type in Elden Ring, and one that can be picked up reasonably early into the game, is the Nightrider Glaive.

As a passionate wielder of this weapon, I’ve discovered an intriguing detail that sets it apart from others: it deals significantly more damage when used while mounted. For those aiming to maximize its potential, focusing on Strength is key. And if you infuse it with Heavy, the scaling for Strength skyrockets to S, making it a formidable choice in combat.

8 Nagakiba

A Larger Version Of The Katana That Causes Bleed Damage

Location: Dropped by Bloody Finger Hunter Yura, either north of Murkwater Cave or at his camp near the Seaside Ruins.
Max Upgrade Damage: 281
Max Upgrade Scaling: Strength D, Dexterity B
Weight: 7.0
Weapon Skill: Unsheathe
Build Recommendations: Str 40, Dex 40

The katana in question boasts an elongated blade, offering the user the same swiftness as a typical katana but with a broader reach. This extended sword also possesses the unique trait of inflicting bleed damage, and its rapid strike rate ensures that this bleed damage accumulates at a speedy pace.

As a fan, I’ve discovered that obtaining the formidable Nagakiba weapon isn’t too demanding in terms of abilities required. However, to lay my hands on this beast, I must first vanquish the Bloody Finger Hunter Yura. This sword can be enchanted with Ashes of War. Interestingly, the Cold infusion seems to complement it perfectly, and when combined with its bleeding damage, it becomes an unstoppable force!

9 Twinblade

A Double-Bladed Spinning Sword With Excellent Crowd Control Potential

Location: Found inside a chest in the underground cellar with four intact walls, located at the entrance of the Dragon-Burnt Ruins.
Max Upgrade Damage: 291
Max Upgrade Scaling: Strength D, Dexterity C
Weight: 7.0
Weapon Skill: Spinning Slash
Build Recommendations: Str 25, Dex 55

The Twinblade weapon empowers players to unleash their inner Sith warrior, akin to Darth Maul. This unique dual-sword consists of two blades connected at the handle, making it extraordinarily swift in combat. With this weapon, players can slice through hordes of enemies as if they were a whirlwind. The Twinblade’s special move, Spinning Slash, enables players to assault an entire group of adversaries, provided they are clustered near the player. This ability is also advantageous in PvP battles, serving to retaliate against opponents who roll towards you. In essence, it’s ideal for exacting revenge on approaching foes.

You can make the Twinblade even more lethal by adding the Hemorrhage skill to it. This allows for rapid stacking of bleed damage on the target. Additionally, cold infusions complement the Twinblade nicely. One of its finest features is that it has minimal requirements and is easily accessible; in fact, this weapon is almost within arm’s reach from your starting location.

10 Great Stars

Massive Damage And Healing Perk, But Slower Than Most Weapons

Location: Located on a guarded carriage in Altus Plateau, along the road southwest of the Road of Iniquity Side Path.
Max Upgrade Damage: 330
Max Upgrade Scaling: Strength C, Dexterity D
Weight: 10.0
Weapon Skill: Endure
Build Recommendations: Str 55, Dex 25

For those seeking an alternative to bladed weapons, consider trying out the mighty Great Hammer named [Name]. Due to its size, mastering this weapon necessitates a strong character build. However, the advantage lies in its ability to obliterate foes with just one or two swings.

This particular weapon induces a “Bleeding” condition on the opponent, dealing continuous harm over time. However, what makes it exceptional is that Great Stars also restores 1% of the user’s health for each strike, regardless of whether the attack was blocked or not. With this weapon, players can deal massive damage in a single hit, shatter armor, inflict bleed damage, and recover their own health simultaneously. Not too shabby!

11 Grafted Blade Greatsword

A Very Massive, Hard-Hitting Behemoth Of A Weapon

Location: Defeat the Leonine Misbegotten optional boss in Castle Morne, Weeping Peninsula.
Max Upgrade Damage: 396
Max Upgrade Scaling: Strength B, Dexterity D
Weight: 21.0
Weapon Skill: Oath of Vengeance
Build Recommendations: Str 55, Dex 25

In the region of Southern Limgrave lies a colossal weapon known as Castle Morne, which is one of the superior early weapons in Elden Ring. This castle, embroiled in a siege by the Misbegotten forces, can be found midway through the conflict. Apart from an engaging NPC side quest and a captivating castle to traverse, the Tarnished will eventually encounter the area’s boss, the Leonine Misbegotten. This boss fight offers a great opportunity for beginners to grasp the game’s fundamentals. It may not deal substantial damage, but it will certainly penalize aggressive players.

Once the player vanquishes the Leonine Misbegotten, they will receive an enormous sword as a reward. This sword is renowned for its exceptional skill enhancement. It could serve as an excellent strength weapon for your character or a temporary choice until something better comes along. The sword possesses a powerful punch and looks impressive while doing so. Its Ash of War, Oath of Vengeance, amplifies all the user’s attributes, offering that crucial boost to help defeat the following boss.

12 Axe Of Godrick

A Great Reward For The First Major Victory

Location: Trade with Enia at Roundtable Hold after defeating Godrick the Grafted in Stormveil Castle.
Max Upgrade Damage: 347
Max Upgrade Scaling: Strength C, Dexterity C
Weight: 11.0
Weapon Skill: Command Thee, Kneel!
Build Recommendations: Str 40, Dex 40

In the realm of Elden Ring, I stumbled upon an exceptional axe hidden within the Stormveil Castle legacy dungeon – a treasure waiting to be claimed early in the game. This bad boy is not just any ordinary axe; it boasts a C scaling in both strength and dexterity, making it an ideal fit for players who fancy a “quality” build.

This Ash of War, I Command Thee, Kneel!, unleashes an impressive shockwave from where the axe strikes the ground. Anyone playing as Tarnished who employs this ability is well aware of its destructive potential – a fact they’ve likely experienced firsthand during their numerous encounters with Godric, given how frequently it may have claimed their in-game life.

13 Reduvia

A Great Dagger For Dealing Bleed Status From Afar

Location: Defeat the Bloody Finger Nerijus invader near the Murkwater Catacombs.
Max Upgrade Damage: 193
Max Upgrade Scaling: Strength E, Dexterity C, Arcane B
Weight: 2.5
Weapon Skill: Reduvia Blood Blade
Build Recommendations: Arc 40, Dex 40

One of the initial weapons inflicting a ‘bleed’ status is this compact blood-infused weapon. Players can acquire it by navigating the right cliffside in Agheel Lake, which leads them against Bloody Finger Nerijuss. As players journey upstream, they will encounter an invasion from Nerijuss. Upon defeating him (with Yura’s assistance), the weapon is rewarded to the player.

The weapon in question isn’t particularly strong in terms of basic damage, but its unique qualities make it quite formidable. Its charm lies in its status effect and skill. The bleed status effect, when applied to a boss, can significantly reduce its health due to the numerous swings the weapon allows before you need to dodge an enemy’s attack. This bleeding effect more than compensates for the lack of base damage. To add to this, the Reduvia’s impressive projectile ensures that enemies won’t want to get too close or too far away from it.

14 Bloodhound’s Fang

Can Easily Carry Players Through The Entire Game

Location: Kill Bloodhound Knight Darriwil optional boss at the Forlorn Hound Evergaol, Limgrave.
Max Upgrade Damage: 345
Max Upgrade Scaling: Strength C, Dexterity B
Weight: 11.5
Weapon Skill: Bloodhound’s Finesse
Build Recommendations: Str 30, Dex 50

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but sing praises about this Curved Greatsword that has been garnering quite a buzz among our gaming community. Here’s the scoop: This weapon is none other than the one you earn by vanquishing Bloodhound Knight Darriwil in Limgrave. What sets it apart is its exceptional scaling for quality-based builds, and let me tell you, the damage it dishes out is nothing short of extraordinary!

Typically, larger weapons inflict more damage but come with a downside of slower swing speed. However, the Bloodhound’s Fang and its Ash of War buck this trend. The Ash of War, Bloodhound’s Finesse, allows for a swift attack followed by a quick retreat, making it an effective escape maneuver if the player is overly aggressive. This weapon’s unique lack of drawbacks makes it one of the most lethal starting weapons in the game.

15 Golden Halberd

Hard To Get, But One Of The Best In Its Class

Location: Kill the Tree Sentinel in Limgrave.
Max Upgrade Damage: 328
Max Upgrade Scaling: Strength B, Dexterity D, Faith D
Weight: 13.5
Weapon Skill: Golden Vow
Build Recommendations: Str 55, Dex 25

Among all weapons in the game, the Golden Halberd has defeated more players’ characters, or Tarnished, than any other. Ever since the game was launched, the Tree Sentinel, who carries this powerful weapon, has been a nuisance to new Tarnished. Once you manage to defeat this boss, you will obtain the Golden Halberd. Its impressive range makes it an excellent choice for beginners in the game.

Players may discover that they are frequently eliminated when they push forward too aggressively or overextend themselves in games like FromSoftware’s. These bosses seem to enjoy meting out punishment for those who act with excessiveness. Yet, the one wielding the larger weapon tends to be the last one laughing. The Golden Halberd, similarly, boasts an extraordinary Ash of War known as Golden Vow, which amplifies both attack and defense capabilities. These characteristics make it a fantastic starting weapon.

16 Lordsworn’s Greatsword

A Reliable Choice With Decent Damage And Scaling

Location: In a chest located at the back of a carriage along the western road leading out of Gatefront Ruins.
Max Upgrade Damage: 333
Max Upgrade Scaling: Strength C, Dexterity D
Weight: 9.0
Weapon Skill: Stamp – Upward Cut
Build Recommendations: Str 40, Dex 40

Occasionally, I find that as a Tarnished, I don’t always need the flashiest weapons adorned with sparks and tricks. Don’t get me wrong, they’re a blast to wield, but when it comes to getting the job done right, a dependable tool is invaluable. That’s where the (found in the Gatefront Ruins) truly shines.

Featuring a minimal learning curve and exceptional power once optimized, this choice serves as a dependable pick during the initial phase of gameplay. Moreover, players have the freedom to equip it with any Ash of War they prefer, adding to its adaptability. This flexibility might make it an ideal selection for beginners due to its versatility.

17 Morning Star

A Great Choice For Quickening Fights While Carrying A Shield

Location: Found in a chest within a broken carriage located just south of the bridge in Weeping Peninsula, Limgrave.
Max Upgrade Damage: 289
Max Upgrade Scaling: Strength C, Dexterity D
Weight: 5.0
Weapon Skill: Kick
Build Recommendations: Str 50, Dex 30

If you’re a player who prefers the classic combination of a weapon and shield, the Morning Star from Limgrave could be an excellent choice for you. In many cases, using a shield can slow down combat to a near standstill, making it more of a block-and-wait game. However, this strategy introduces a potential solution to that issue: bleed. This feature allows you to inflict damage over time on your enemies, keeping the fight dynamic and preventing it from becoming too static.

In the game Elden Ring, bleeding weapons are dominating due to their high damage from the status effect. The Morning Star’s inherent bleed ability helps expedite battles that would otherwise be sluggish. Additionally, players can infuse it with any Ash of War they choose, enhancing its adaptability and usefulness in various situations.

18 Greatsword

A Versatile Colossal Sword For Heavy Weapon Builds

Location: Found inside a chest in the back of a carriage guarded by giant dogs northwest of the Caelem Ruins Site of Grace, Dragonbarrow, Caelid.
Max Upgrade Damage: 401
Max Upgrade Scaling: Strength B, Dexterity D
Weight: 23.0
Weapon Skill: Stamp – Upward Cut
Build Recommendations: Str 65, Dex 15

Ideal for players who prefer an aggressive playstyle, this weapon is a great fit. Located in Caelid, it belongs to the Colossal Greatsword class, which gives it considerable heft. As such, newcomers known as the Tarnished may need to discard some armor early on to manage this weapon’s substantial weight.

In the long run, the sacrifice will prove to be valuable, given that this weapon is simply incredible. With every strike, it will rapidly deplete enemies’ health, thanks to its colossal size. Moreover, players have the freedom to infuse it with their preferred Ash of War.

19 Demi-Human Queen’s Staff

An Easy-To-Get And Potent Staff For Glintstone Sorceries

Location: Defeat the Demi-Human Queen optional boss in Demi-Human Forest Ruins, Weeping Peninsula.
Max Upgrade Damage: 54
Max Upgrade Scaling: Strength C, Intelligence S
Weight: 3.0
Weapon Skill: N/A
Build Recommendations: Str 15, Int 65

Individuals who lean towards sorcery and magical abilities may find this item particularly appealing. Known as one of the top staffs within Elden Ring, it can be obtained in the Demi-Human Forest Ruins located on the Weeping Peninsula.

This staff boasts an S-rank scaling and is an excellent pick for anyone aiming to explore various realms of sorcery. It also allows for Ash of War infusion, although this doesn’t significantly alter its performance, it adds a touch of coolness. This weapon is highly recommended for both sorcerers and casters alike.

20 Dragon Communion Seal

One Of The Best Early Game Seals For Dragon Spells

Location: Dropped by a Banished Knight enemy in Fringegolk Hero’s Grave, Limgrave (need two Stonesword Keys to unlock).
Max Upgrade Damage: 61
Max Upgrade Scaling: Faith B, Arcane S
Weight: 0.0
Passive Effect: Boosts Dragon Communion Incantations
Build Recommendations: Fai 25, Arc 55

As a fan who loves a bit of zaniness in my gaming experience, I can’t wait to give the Sacred Seal a whirl in Elden Ring! This unique weapon type opens up the opportunity to cast Incantations, a variety that primarily focuses on healing and restoration. But for those daring Tarnished who dare to take on dragons, there’s a fresh breed of incantation waiting to be discovered.

Dragon Communion incantations are a style of spells that call on the power of slain dragons. The Dragon Communion Seal, which can be found by beating the boss in Fringefolk Hero’s Grave, boosts these incantations.

2024-10-14 23:56