What are the Benefits of Two-Handing Weapons in Elden Ring?
In Elden Ring, two-handed weapons have long been a topic of discussion among gamers. Are they worth wielding, or is it better to dual-wield multiple weapons? In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of two-handing weapons in Elden Ring and examine whether it’s a viable playstyle option.
Deals More Damage
The most obvious benefit of two-handing a weapon in Elden Ring is the increased damage it deals. When you two-hand a weapon, your damage output is significantly boosted, making it easier to take down even the toughest enemies. This increased damage comes from the added strength of using both hands to wield the weapon, resulting in a more effective and destructive blow.
Attack Speed and Efficiency
In addition to dealing more damage, two-handed weapons can also increase your attack speed. When wielding a one-handed weapon, you often need to time your attacks carefully to maximize your damage output. With a two-handed weapon, however, you can attack with more frequency, making you a more effective and deadly opponent. This is particularly useful for taking out clusters of enemies or executing complex combos.
Easier to Maintain a Grip
One often-overlooked benefit of two-handed weapons is their improved handling. When dual-wielding weapons, you need to manage two different attacks and weapon swings simultaneously, which can be mentally taxing and challenging to control. Two-handed weapons, on the other hand, offer a more predictable and responsive handling experience, making it easier to land hits and execute complex movements.
Can be Dual-Wielded with Other Weapons
If you still want to benefit from dual-wielding, you can always choose a two-handed weapon with a secondary off-hand option. Some two-handed weapons can be paired with shields, greatswords, or other weapons for added versatility, giving you more options on the battlefield.
Dual-Wielding Limitations
While dual-wielding is an option in Elden Ring, there are limitations to its effectiveness. When using multiple weapons, you can struggle with the added weight and complexity, leading to decreased accuracy and attack speed. Additionally, certain enemies or boss encounters may require specialized strategies to effectively take down. As such, two-handing a single weapon may be a better option in these situations.
Gameplay Styles and Strategy
When deciding which playstyle to adopt in Elden Ring, two-handing can be particularly effective in a slow-and-steady, build-focused build, where increasing damage and attack speed takes precedence over flashy combos or complex button inputs. However, it may not be the best option for speed-focused builds or players who thrive on intricate combat mechanics. It’s essential to experiment and adapt your gameplay style to the situation to get the most out of your weapons and build.
In conclusion, two-handing weapons in Elden Ring offers several benefits, including increased damage, attack speed, and a more stable and responsive handling experience. While it may not be the only viable option, two-handing is certainly a competitive choice, offering a reliable and damaging way to clear out tough enemies and make quick work of bosses.
Recommended Two-Handed Weapons in Elden Ring:
| Weapon Name | Requirements | Damage Type |
|---|---|---|
| Rivers of Blood | C, C+, D+, D+ | Physical/Chaos |
| Wild Strikes Sword | C+, C++, D, D+ | Physical/ Fire |
| Grafted Swordsman Sword | B, C, D+, D | Physical/Slash |
By considering your playstyle and the needs of your character, two-handing a weapon can be a vital part of your Elden Ring arsenal. Experiment with different two-handed weapons to find what works best for you!