One of the most amazing feelings we can experience in gaming today is being thrust into a full, new open world with a whole plethora of possibilities spread out right before your eyes. ELDEN RING has launched and we absolutely love it but it’s not an easy journey, especially for newcomers to the series. So, whether you are a veteran or a complete noob, these tips should get you started on the incredible journey that awaits. There are some light spoilers ahead so if you want to stay completely clear of ANY spoilers, you have been warned.

Don’t Stress Out On Character Appearance

While normally I would say take your time and create the character you want right from the start, you will have opportunities to change your character looks and even gender. So, don’t stress too much on the cosmetics piece. On the other hand, selecting your stats is much more important. While you will have limited opportunities to reallocate stats later in the game, it is a very limited item and very difficult to get.

Start With A Class That Has Ranged Combat Options

I can’t tell you how many times I have been in mini-boss and boss fights thinking “That would have SUCKED being melee focused!” Yes folks, magic and bows/crossbows are almost obligatory from all that I have seen so far. While melee only characters can take hits, I can’t imagine not having spells, incantations, or bow options. I went with Astrologer and haven’t looked back, with a killer dagger that mixed well with spells.

Collect Every Glowing Skull For 200 Runes

Especially early on in the game, you will want every rune you can lay your hands on and in this case, hunting for these runes is a game changer. You will find them laying around almost everywhere and it’s well worth your time to crush them, collect 200 runes, rinse, and repeat!

The Best Dagger In The Game Is In The Starting Area

Reduvia. Remember and memorize this name as it will serve you well! Bloody Finger Nerijus holds this amazing weapon and invades you near Murkwater Cave, east of the swamp in the starting area. This enemy is TOUGH but if you dodge his attacks and survive, another hunter comes to help you beat this incredibly dangerous foe. Trust me though, it’s worth it. Not only does this dagger have awesome bleed capabilities, but it also has a skill that launches bloody projectiles. This is an absolutely fantastic weapon that has saved me from magic-resistant enemies and close calls.

Almost Every Enemy In The Game Drops Their Own Unique Weapon and Armor

If you want a true test of patience and commitment, I challenge you to collect every droppable weapon and piece of armor from enemies. There were times I killed over 50 enemies of the same type and didn’t get the drop I was looking for. Some, I am still hunting down after 70 hours of gameplay! Either way, it adds an awesome loot hunt aspect to the game that I am having a blast with.