elden ring weapon tier list

3 min read 22-01-2025

The Lands Between are overflowing with weapons, each with unique strengths and weaknesses. Choosing the right weapon can make or break your journey. This Elden Ring weapon tier list will help you navigate the vast arsenal, categorizing weapons based on their overall effectiveness and versatility. This guide focuses on PvE (Player versus Environment) combat, as PvP (Player versus Player) meta shifts frequently.

Understanding the Tier List

This Elden Ring weapon tier list uses a simple system:

S-Tier: Exceptional weapons, highly effective in most situations. These are top contenders for any build.
A-Tier: Excellent weapons with minor drawbacks. Strong choices for most players.
B-Tier: Good weapons with noticeable limitations. Situational but still viable.
C-Tier: Average weapons that require specific builds or playstyles to shine.
D-Tier: Weak weapons, generally outclassed by others. Avoid unless you have a specific reason.

It's important to remember that this is a general guideline. The "best" weapon depends heavily on your build, playstyle, and personal preference. A weapon's effectiveness can also change based on upgrades and Ashes of War.

S-Tier Weapons: The Elite

These Elden Ring weapons consistently deliver outstanding performance.

Moonveil Katana: High damage, excellent range, and powerful special attack. A popular choice for Intelligence builds.
Rivers of Blood Katana: Exceptional bleed build-up, high damage output, and strong special attack. Requires skill to use effectively.
Godslayer's Greatsword: Massive damage, good range, and a devastating special attack. Excellent for Strength builds.
Malenia's Blade (Waterfowl Dance): Incredibly powerful and stylish weapon, but requires a significant commitment to a specific build. (Requires defeating Malenia)

A-Tier Weapons: The Reliable Standouts

These weapons are strong contenders, offering excellent performance with minor drawbacks.

Bloodhound's Fang: High damage, good range, and impressive special attack. Excellent for Dexterity builds.
Nagakiba: Fast attacks, high bleed build-up, and good range. A solid Dexterity katana.
Prelate's Inferno Crozier: High damage, strong fire damage, and a unique special attack. Requires Faith scaling.
Golden Halberd: Excellent reach and damage, perfect for staggering enemies.

B-Tier Weapons: Situational Powerhouses

These weapons have specific uses and are excellent in certain situations but may struggle against other weapon types.

Winged Scythe: Unique attack patterns and high damage. Can be difficult to master.
Claymore: A classic, reliable weapon; good for beginners. Lacks the damage output of higher-tier weapons.
Zweihander: High damage and range; slow attacks make it vulnerable.

C-Tier Weapons: Niche Picks

These weapons can be effective with specific builds and playstyles, but often lack the overall power of higher-tier weapons.

Longsword: A common early-game weapon; easily outclassed later.
Scimitar: Fast attacks, but low damage compared to other options.

D-Tier Weapons: Generally Avoid

These weapons are typically outclassed and rarely worth using.

Choosing the Right Weapon for Your Build

Your Elden Ring build significantly influences your weapon choice. Consider these factors:

Stats: Ensure your stats (Strength, Dexterity, Intelligence, Faith, etc.) meet the weapon's requirements.
Playstyle: Do you prefer fast, agile attacks or slow, powerful strikes?
Ashes of War: These can drastically change a weapon's capabilities. Experiment with different Ashes to find what works best.

Remember: This tier list is a starting point. Experiment with different weapons to discover your favorites and find what works best for your build and playstyle. The joy of Elden Ring lies in exploration and finding what resonates with you! Don't be afraid to try out weapons that are outside of the S-Tier!

(Image: A collage of S-Tier weapons from Elden Ring with appropriate alt text: "S-Tier Weapons in Elden Ring: Moonveil, Rivers of Blood, Godslayer's Greatsword, Malenia's Blade")

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the best weapon in Elden Ring?

A: There isn't a single "best" weapon. The ideal choice depends on your build, playstyle, and personal preference. However, the weapons in the S-Tier are consistently top performers.

Q: How often is this tier list updated?

A: This tier list will be updated periodically to reflect changes to the game and player feedback. Check back for the latest version.

This comprehensive guide to Elden Ring weapons should give you a solid foundation to build upon. Happy Tarnished!