Elden Ring, the critically acclaimed action RPG from FromSoftware, is a game that rewards creativity and experimentation. While many players gravitate toward traditional melee or magic builds, unconventional approaches can often yield surprising results. One such build that has gained traction among players is the throwing weapons build, a unique playstyle that emphasizes ranged pressure, versatility, and strategic disruption. This guide will delve into the intricacies of Elden Ring Runes a throwing weapons build, exploring its key features, optimal setups, and strategies for dominating both PvE and PvP encounters.
Why Choose a Throwing Weapons Build?
Throwing weapons in Elden Ring are often overlooked in favor of more conventional weapons like swords, spears, or staves. However, a well-optimized throwing build can be incredibly effective, especially in PvP scenarios. The build revolves around maintaining distance while applying constant pressure on opponents with fast, projectile-based attacks. This playstyle is particularly effective against spellcasters and aggressive melee fighters, as it disrupts their rhythm and forces them to adapt to your tactics.
The throwing weapons build is not just about dealing damage—it’s about control. By keeping your opponents at bay and forcing them to play on your terms, you can dictate the flow of combat. Whether you’re chipping away at their health from a distance, interrupting their spells, or applying status effects like Frostbite, this build offers a dynamic and engaging way to experience Elden Ring’s combat system.
Key Features of a Throwing Weapons Build
To create an effective throwing weapons build, you’ll need to focus on several key components: weapon choices, stat allocation, talismans, and armor. Let’s break down each of these elements in detail.
1. Weapon Choices
The heart of any throwing weapons build is, of course, the weapons themselves. Elden Ring offers a variety of throwable items and weapons that can be used to great effect in this build. Here are some of the best options:
Throwing Axes: Throwing axes are a staple of this build. They can be thrown from a distance, allowing you to chip away at your opponent’s health while maintaining a safe distance. The axe’s jump attack is particularly effective, as it can catch enemies off guard and deal significant damage. Throwing axes are versatile, working well in both close and ranged combat.
Great Hammer: The Great Hammer may seem like an unconventional choice for a throwing build, but its heavy attack can combo into a throw at close range. This makes it a powerful and versatile weapon for this build, especially when you need to deal heavy damage to tougher enemies.
Shield: While shields are typically used for defense, they can also be thrown to deal damage. Although they no longer stun enemies as effectively as they once did, shield throws still deliver high damage and are particularly effective against spellcasters. A well-timed shield throw can interrupt a spell and leave your opponent vulnerable.
Throwing Pots: No throwing build is complete without a selection of throwable pots. Items like Fire Pots, Lightning Pots, and Frost Pots can deal significant damage and apply status effects. These are ideal for applying additional pressure on enemies and forcing them to react to your attacks.
2. Stats and Infusions
To maximize the effectiveness of your throwing weapons build, you’ll need to carefully allocate your stats and choose the right infusions. Here’s what you should focus on:
Cold Infusions: Cold-infused weapons are a great choice for this build, as they trigger Frostbite buildup. Frostbite not only deals significant damage when triggered but also reduces the target’s stamina regeneration, making it harder for them to sustain prolonged combat.
Strength and Intelligence: This build benefits from a combination of Strength and Intelligence. Strength enhances the damage of your throwing attacks, while Intelligence boosts the effectiveness of Cold-infused weapons and related talismans. Aim for a balanced distribution of these stats to get the most out of your build.
3. Talisman Choices
Talismans play a crucial role in enhancing the effectiveness of your throwing weapons build. Here are some of the best options:
Shard of Alexander: This talisman increases the effectiveness of Ashes of War, making it a must-have for any build that relies on weapon skills. Since many throwing weapons benefit from Ashes of War, this talisman is a great choice.
Two-Handed Sword Talisman: If you’re using heavier throwable weapons like the Great Hammer, this talisman can boost the effectiveness of two-handed attacks. It’s a solid choice for players who want to maximize their damage output.
Smithing Talisman: This talisman increases the damage output of throwing weapons, making your ranged attacks even more potent. It’s an excellent choice for players who want to focus on chip damage and ranged pressure.
4. Armor and Poise
While the throwing weapons build emphasizes ranged combat, you’ll still need to consider your defense. Here are some tips for choosing the right armor:
Poise: Poise is an important stat for any build, as it determines how easily you can be staggered by enemy attacks. Consider using armor that boosts your poise, allowing you to withstand attacks while throwing weapons. Alternatively, the Great Jar’s Arsenal talisman can provide additional weight capacity, enabling you to wear heavier armor without sacrificing mobility.
Mobility: Since this build relies on maintaining distance, mobility is key. Avoid wearing armor that is too heavy, as it can slow you down and make it harder to evade enemy attacks. Aim for a balance between defense and mobility to stay agile in combat.
Strategies for Effective Throwing Weapon Combat
Now that you’ve got your build set up, it’s time to put it into action. Here are some key strategies to maximize the potential of your throwing weapons build:
1. Chip Damage with Throws
One of the primary strengths of this build is its ability to deal chip damage from a distance. By constantly throwing axes, pots, and other projectiles, you can whittle down your opponent’s health over time. This strategy is particularly effective against aggressive melee fighters, as it forces them to close the gap while taking damage.
2. Disrupting Casters
Throwing weapons are highly effective against spellcasters, as they can interrupt spells and prevent enemies from casting. The shield throw, in particular, is a great tool for disrupting casters, as it deals quick damage and can stop spells in their tracks. Use this to your advantage to keep spellcasters on the defensive.
3. Frostbite Application
Cold-infused weapons are a key part of this build, as they build up Frostbite quickly. Frostbite not only deals significant damage when triggered but also slows down enemies and reduces their stamina regeneration. Use this to your advantage against slower-moving enemies or those who try to tank damage.
4. Using Environmental Advantages
Throwing weapons can be even more effective when used in conjunction with environmental obstacles. For example, you can throw axes from behind cover or use pots to force enemies into hazardous areas. This adds a strategic element to your combat, allowing you to control the battlefield and outmaneuver your opponents.
Conclusion
The throwing weapons build in Elden Ring is a unique and Elden Ring Items for sale versatile playstyle that offers a fresh take on the game’s combat system. By focusing on ranged pressure, disruption, and status effects, this build can be incredibly effective in both PvE and PvP scenarios. Whether you’re looking to disrupt enemy spells, apply chip damage, or take advantage of Frostbite buildup, this build offers a dynamic and engaging way to experience Elden Ring’s combat.
So, grab your axes, pots, and shields, and start throwing your way to victory! With the right setup and strategies, you’ll be a force to be reckoned with in the Lands Between.