Elden Ring: The Best Build For A Level 1 Run

As someone who’s spent countless hours navigating the treacherous lands of Elden Ring, I can confidently say that the builds and strategies I’m about to share are not for the faint-hearted. If you’re looking to take on the toughest challenges that FromSoftware has to offer, then buckle up, my friend!

In Elden Ring, running the game as a Level 1 character, often referred to as a Wretch start, is one of the most demanding feats a player can undertake. This means keeping your Rune level consistently at 1 and refusing Melina’s assistance when she suggests using your Runes effectively. This type of challenge has been a popular tradition in Soulsborne games, dating back to the original Dark Souls.

The adjustments made in Elden Ring have simplified and streamlined game mechanics, making even challenging runs like Level 1 runs more approachable for a broader range of players. For those who might be hesitant due to fewer options, this build offers a relatively effortless experience for a Level 1 run.

Let’s name this construction “The Struggler.” It draws inspiration from a specific manga and anime series with a somber and ominous atmosphere, featuring a main character who is desperate and melancholic, often facing contempt from his divine adversaries. This theme seems particularly fitting for initial level runs. Here’s what players should follow to make this build excel:

You should know that key items needed for this construction are readily available once you arrive in Limgrave. It’s advisable to gather them immediately.

Weapons

As a Wretch at Rune level 1, each player is awarded a fixed 10 points across all their stats. While leveling up offers no additional stat boosts, there are numerous methods to enhance those stats. Consequently, it’s advisable for players to seize every opportunity and make the most of their choices.

Weapon 1: Heavy Greatsword +25 w/ Lion’s Claw

Elden Ring: The Best Build For A Level 1 Run

Shocked? Makes sense. This large piece of iron demands a Strength level of 30. But, if players decide to wield it with both hands, their Strength increases by 1.5 times. In a beginning character (Level 1 Wretch), this equals 15 Strength points. Almost there! Additionally, the item grants an extra 5 points to Strength. Moreover, it adds another 10 points. That’s a total of 30 or more if the bonus from two-handing is included in the sum after adding all the points together.

In a surprise twist, gamers can now wield the Colossal Greatsword, an action highly recommended given its devastating effect when partnered with a specific ability. This duo promises to decimate all obstacles in its wake, proving instrumental for players during their Level 1 campaign. Repeatedly using Lion’s Claw followed by Critical Hits becomes excessively powerful in Player vs Environment (PvE). Not even Radagon can withstand this onslaught, and Malenia barely stands a chance against this weapon and Ash of War synergy.

In the region of Caelid, it’s relatively simple for players to grasp, but they’ll encounter a mini-boss known as the Lion Guardian in Fort Gael first. This mini-boss can be effortlessly defeated using the standard Ash of War ability of the Greatsword.

Here are two ways to rephrase the given text while maintaining its original meaning:

If players find it difficult to meet the Strength threshold needed for wielding this Greatsword, then they might want to consider using a

Weapon 2: Heavy Misericorde +25 w/ Flames of the Redmane

Elden Ring: The Best Build For A Level 1 Run

An effective alternative when dealing with numerous adversaries or a foe too massive for the Lion’s Claw to stagger is this Ash of War. You can acquire it conveniently outside Fort Gael; simply pick it up from an inconspicuous beetle during your journey toward obtaining Lion’s Claw.

In the game, Flames of the Redmane can make most enemies unsteady with just two uses at the maximum. Following this, players have an opportunity for a critical strike, which can be executed using a heavy weapon or their heavy greatsword.

In Stormveil Castle, you can effortlessly get your hands on the Misericorde. However, do keep in mind that it requires a Dexterity level of 12 to wield, which shouldn’t be too much of an issue because you’ll likely need Radagon’s Soreseal regardless.

Weapon 3: Anything with Bloodhound’s Step

For emergency defense, nothing quite beats as the most generous evasion skill in the game. On top of that, it’s also great for moving across poison swamps or magma patches quickly, ignoring the penalty to movement speed. Putting it on the lightest dagger available is a sound idea.

Unfortunately, you can only get it in an advanced region after defeating a Night Cavalry boss. However, once players acquire the Greatsword infused with a Lion’s Claw, the boss becomes less challenging.

Off-Hand: Commander’s Standard

If the weight capacity permits an additional weapon, then this particular choice is worth considering. It serves no other function except for enhancing players with a stronger variant of Golden Vow. This can be quite beneficial during boss encounters. Players can acquire it post-defeat of Commander O’Neil in the rot swamp of Caelid.

Armor

In this context, the type of armor usually isn’t crucial. Players may opt for the lightest piece they come across which features a cape or accommodates a moderate weight capacity. However, for players focused on optimizing their characters, these suggested armors are recommended:

Imp Head (Wolf)

As a keen explorer, you can acquire the coveted Imp Head (Wolf) by vanquishing the wolf-headed imps nestled within the Minor Erdtree Catacombs of Caelid. Once you’ve mastered the art of swift travel with Torrent, this location should be on your radar as soon as it becomes accessible. This enigmatic item offers a 2-point boost to your Endurance, making it an invaluable asset for any situation you may encounter during your journey.

Raptor’s Black Feathers

As a fan, I can tell you that boosting my jump attack damage by 10% is quite exciting! Instead of relying solely on the Lion’s Claw or roll-pokes, I now have an enhanced alternative in my jump attacks. This added buff makes it more viable and fun to incorporate into my combat strategy.

Omensmirk Mask

Boosts strength by 2, which could enhance the damage dealt or make it simpler for players to fulfill the Greatsword’s strength prerequisite.

Talismans

Red-Feathered Branch Sword / Ritual Sword Talisman

In this scenario, players face a decision between two options. One option provides a 20% boost to their attacking power when their health points (HP) are low. Conversely, the other choice offers just a 10% enhancement, but it’s only activated when players have maximum HP.

As a seasoned gamer with countless hours under my belt, I’ve come to realize that when it comes to Level 1 runs in Elden Ring, you might as well embrace the danger and opt for the more challenging talismans after leaving Limgrave. Most enemies will take you down with just one hit anyway, so why not up the ante? However, I can understand that lowering HP can be a tedious task, especially if you’re short on time or patience. In such cases, the Ritual Sword Talisman can serve as a useful alternative, offering a more manageable challenge while still allowing you to progress through the game.

Shard Of Alexander / Warrior Jar Shard

Unfortunately, players can’t acquire this item until later stages of the game, however, there’s a slightly weaker but still effective version if they manage to defeat Alexander earlier. This item mainly enhances the power of Lion’s Claw and Flames of the Redmane by increasing their damage output.

Dagger Talisman

As a seasoned gamer with years of experience under my belt, I can confidently say that this talisman is a game-changer. In my many battles, I’ve found that staggering enemies is crucial for landing critical hits, which are key to emerging victorious in most encounters. This talisman, with its ability to stagger foes using Lion’s Claw and Flames of the Redmane, will be an invaluable asset in my arsenal. I can only imagine how much more successful my gaming sessions will be now that I have this tool at my disposal. It’s safe to say that this talisman will see a lot of action in my world!

Radagon’s Soreseal

Obtaining the item in Fort Faroth is quite straightforward, and it significantly boosts all crucial melee stats by +5. However, there’s a catch: it also increases the amount of damage you take. Fortunately, this downside isn’t significant during a Level 1 run as players die with just one strike anyway.

Flask Of Wondrous Physick

Strength-knot Crystal Tear

The Item, crucial in game construction, empowers players with the ability to wield the Greatsword or enhance its strikes. It temporarily boosts your Strength by 10, maintaining this bonus for approximately 3 minutes. This duration often suits players as they traverse between Grace spots or engages in boss battles.

Players can obtain this one at the start of the game just by exploring Stormhill.

Cerulean Hidden Tear / Greenburst Crystal Tear

In this construction, the item specifically functions to enable players to conjure their chosen Ash or Spirit Summon, regardless of low Focus Points (FP). This feature simplifies boss battles significantly.

If you prefer to tackle Level 1 runs on your own without any summons, consider swapping out the Cerulean Hidden Tear for a Greenburst Crystal Tear instead. The latter provides enhanced Stamina recovery.

Consumables/Buffs

Bloodboil Aromatic

As a seasoned gamer with countless hours spent battling bosses and honing my skills, I must say that this buff is truly remarkable. It significantly boosts my physical damage by an impressive 30 percent and increases my maximum stamina by 20 percent within just one minute – talk about instant gratification! This rapid-fire enhancement has been a game-changer for me during those intense boss fights, especially when I’m trying to transition into phase two.

Exalted Flesh

As a game enthusiast, cranking up my physical damage by an impressive 20% for just 30 precious seconds is perfect for aggressive gamers like me. This power surge could potentially last through an entire initial phase of a boss battle, making it a valuable asset in the heat of combat.

Ash/Spirit Summons

From my perspective as a gamer, I don’t mind having summons tag along during a Level 1 adventure. I understand that some might argue it’s cheating because we’re already disadvantaging ourselves by not leveling up. But here’s the thing: summons thrive in these types of challenges, and they can make the game more exciting and less tedious for us low-level players.

Jellyfish +10

It’s pretty tanky once players have upgraded the summon to max. This allows players to avoid getting hit or sneak in some tactical Lion’s Claws against fast bosses like Malenia. As an added bonus, the Jellyfish deals poison damage to enemies.

Black Knife Tiche +10

Tiche, who requires time and a lengthy questline to be unlocked, has the advantage of applying a debuff that reduces an enemy’s maximum health.

Omenkiller Rollo +10

As a gamer, I’ve found Rollo to be an invaluable asset in my team. He excels not only as a tank, providing a much-needed buffer during intense battles, but also functions as a Stagger bot, giving us precious moments to regroup when things get hectic. In certain situations, he even unleashes a fiery breath attack, but most of the time, he’s slashing at enemies with his swords. His substantial health pool ensures he stays in the fight longer, and his bleed-inducing abilities can make all the difference against tough bosses.

Other Items

These extras can enhance the construction process, however, they are optional and primarily beneficial for added convenience or optimizing game mechanics.

Godrick’s Great Rune (Optional)

Boosts all attributes by 5 for the players, as long as they have sufficient Rune Arcs to sustain its energy. Maintaining it might become costly or laborious, but if the characters aren’t frequently meeting their demise, this Grand Runestone will be less of a burden on resources.

Freezing Pot (Optional)

Almost every player should consider using The Freezing Pot to avoid being hit by Malenia’s deadliest move, the Waterfowl Dance. Although players may already possess Bloodhound’s Step, its low FP and stamina make it ineffective for dodging Malenia’s Waterfowl Dance effectively.

If you’ve figured out how to dodge the Waterfowl Dance by simply rolling, then this item in your inventory might not be essential for you, as a masterful player like myself!

2024-08-18 10:24