Elden Ring is as much about patience and adaptability as it is about raw power. Whether you're fighting towering dragons, cunning invaders, or relentless dungeon bosses, understanding combat mechanics is key to surviving—and thriving—in the Lands Between.
After hundreds of hours spent experimenting with different builds, weapons, and scenarios, here are 17 combat strategies that every Elden Ring player should have in their arsenal. These tips are especially useful if you’re heading into NG+, PvP, or just trying to overcome that one boss that’s been driving you crazy.
1. Learn Enemy Patterns First
Before committing to aggressive play, take a moment to observe your enemy’s attack animations and timing. Most threats in Elden Ring can be countered if you recognize their cues. This simple habit dramatically reduces panic deaths.
2. Two-Handing Isn’t Always Best
Two-handing your weapon gives a damage boost, but in many cases, having a shield or catalyst in your off-hand offers better versatility. Swap based on situation, not just preference.
3. Use Jump Attacks to Stagger
Jump attacks deal more poise damage and are great for staggering humanoid enemies. Pair them with heavy weapons or colossal blades for maximum effect.
4. Mix Light and Heavy Rolls
Not every situation calls for a light roll. Sometimes medium load gives you just enough poise and defense without sacrificing too much mobility. Aim for adaptability, not just speed.
5. Manage Stamina Like a Resource
Never let your stamina hit zero. Always leave a bit in reserve so you can dodge or block in emergencies. It’s often the difference between a near-miss and a frustrating death.
6. Use Ashes of War Creatively
Ashes of War can completely change how a weapon plays. Test different options and match them with your build. Some Ashes add range, others poise damage, and some give you powerful buffs.
7. Bait Attacks in Tight Spaces
In narrow areas like caves or castle corridors, baiting enemies into confined areas gives you the advantage. You’ll avoid ambushes and force enemies into chokepoints.
8. Quick Item Swaps Can Save You
Keep a few utility items—like throwing knives, grease, or cure items—on your quick slot. These little tools can tip a tough fight in your favor, especially in PvP or sudden invasions.
9. Guard Counter for the Win
After successfully blocking, immediately use a strong attack to trigger a guard counter. It deals massive damage and often staggers smaller enemies. Combine this with a shield that has 100% physical resistance for maximum value.
10. Use Terrain to Your Advantage
Fight on high ground, behind obstacles, or near cliffs where applicable. Enemies aren’t always smart about terrain, and even bosses can get stuck or fall with some clever footwork.
11. Stay Buffed
Use your incantations or consumables before entering battle. Temporary buffs to attack, defense, or resistances are often overlooked, but they provide a huge advantage.
12. Don’t Ignore Spirit Summons
Spirit Ashes aren’t just distractions—they can turn the tide of a battle by splitting aggro and letting you reposition or heal. Upgrade them when possible using relevant Elden Ring items to keep them viable late game.
13. Heavy Weapons = Poise Breakers
If you struggle with enemies constantly attacking through your hits, use heavy weapons. They stagger faster and give you more control over fights, especially in PvE.
14. Don’t Forget About Ranged Options
Even melee-focused builds benefit from having a ranged tool. A bow, spell, or throwable item can deal with archers, trigger traps, or pull enemies one at a time.
15. Practice Parrying with Low-Stakes Enemies
If you're looking to get better at parrying, practice on lower-risk enemies. Once you’re confident, you can apply that skill in more dangerous encounters with satisfying results.
16. Switch Builds Strategically
If a fight feels impossible, it might be a sign your build isn’t well-suited for it. Switching gear, adjusting stats, or using different Elden Ring items can make all the difference. Platforms like U4GM are known among the community as a quick solution when you're in need of specific gear or if you're searching for the best place to buy Elden Ring runes to afford a new strategy.
17. Stay Calm and Reset When Needed
If you find yourself tilting after repeated deaths, walk away or reset your mindset. Frustration leads to rushed decisions. A calm player makes fewer mistakes and sees more opportunities in battle.
Elden Ring’s combat system is deep, flexible, and endlessly satisfying once you understand its layers. These strategies aren’t just for surviving—they’re for dominating every challenge the game throws your way. Whether you prefer raw power, calculated finesse, or magical destruction, refining your approach to combat will only make your journey through the Lands Between more rewarding.
And remember, there's no shame in looking for ways to optimize your time—some players use resources like U4GM to get ahead, especially when tracking down rare weapons or runes.