Elden Ring has captivated gamers with its intricate combat mechanics, deep customization, and thrilling PvP battles. With the release of its DLC, players have been exploring new builds and refining old ones. One of the most powerful and time-tested playstyles remains the Elden Ring Runes Pure Strength Build, which excels in overwhelming opponents with sheer force and strategic weapon selection.

This article will dive into the essential components of the Pure Strength Build, detailing weapon choices, armor preferences, talismans, playstyle strategies, and PvP insights. Whether you're a seasoned warrior or a newcomer seeking to dominate your foes, this guide will help you maximize your strength-based potential.

Weapon Choices for the Strength Build

One of the most crucial aspects of any build in Elden Ring is weapon selection. Strength builds benefit from colossal weapons, greatswords, and other hard-hitting armaments that can stagger and demolish enemies with heavy attacks. Below are some of the best weapon choices for this build:

1. Banished Knight Greatsword (Frostbite Infused)

This is a staple for many Strength builds due to its high damage output and versatility.

Infusing it with Frostbite enhances its effectiveness, especially in PvP, as it allows for a jumping light attack into a light attack combo, rapidly building up frostbite on opponents.

Chilling Mist Ash of War provides an excellent horizontal slash, making it useful for handling multiple enemies.

2. Colossal Weapons

Dragon Slayer Cragblade or Ruins Greatsword are excellent choices for dealing massive damage with high poise.

These weapons allow for hyper armor trading, making them effective against aggressive opponents.

Colossal weapons pair well with Endure to absorb damage while attacking.

3. Shamshir (For Speed and Precision)

While Strength builds generally focus on heavy weapons, having a quick, agile weapon like the Shamshir can be invaluable.

This weapon is great for whiff punishes and fast finishers when the opponent is low on health.

Sword Dance Ash of War adds another layer of aggression, pressuring enemies with rapid strikes.

4. Scythe (Anti-Shield Weapon)

Shields can be problematic for Strength builds, so having a Scythe is a good countermeasure.

Scythes bypass block damage, making them excellent for breaking turtle-style players.

5. Piercing Fang (For Shield Counters)

This move allows you to break through defensive playstyles effectively.

Strength builds don’t have many options like Knight’s Sword for Dex-based characters, so Piercing Fang is a valuable asset.

Talisman Selection

Talismans provide essential buffs that complement a Strength build’s power. Here are some of the best talisman choices:

1. Radagon’s Scarseal / Radagon’s Scarseal Talisman

Increases Strength and boosts overall melee damage.

2. Erdtree’s Favor

Increases HP, stamina, and equip load, which is essential for using heavy weapons and armor.

3. Retaliatory Cross Talisman

Boosts crouch attacks, which are often part of Strength build combos.

4. Dragoncrest Greatshield Talisman

Provides high physical damage resistance, making you tankier in fights.

5. Shard of Alexander

Boosts Ash of War damage, making skills like Flaming Strike and Solitary Moon Slash even more devastating.

Playstyle and Combat Strategy

Understanding your weapons and talismans is one thing, but knowing how to use them effectively in combat is where true mastery lies. Here are some important playstyle elements for a Pure Strength Build:

1. Weapon Swapping for Versatility

One of the biggest strengths of this build is the ability to swap weapons efficiently.

Keeping one primary weapon in a cross-shaped layout makes it easy to switch between heavy hitters and quick-strike weapons.

Having a big AoE Ash of War (e.g., Solitary Moon Slash) in your top slot allows for instant crowd control.

2. Hyper Armor Trading

Strength builds excel in trading hits using Endure or Colossal Weapon Attacks.

Knowing when to commit to an attack and take a hit can lead to favorable trades and enemy staggers.

3. Fast Weapons for Finishers

While heavy weapons deal high burst damage, having a Shamshir or Scythe allows for quick finishing blows.

Curved swords like Shamshir also work well in high-latency PvP situations where hit-trading is unpredictable.

4. Shield Bypass & Counters

Many players rely on shields, but using weapons like Scythes or moves like Piercing Fang ensures that you can still deal damage.

Flaming Strike into Charge Piercer is another unpredictable combo that breaks defensive players.

5. PvP and Invasions Strategy

Engage aggressively but smartly—Strength builds can dominate close combat, but they must be careful against high-speed Dex users.

Use jumping heavy attacks to break poise and force panic rolls from your opponents.

In team fights, AoE weapons like Colossal Swords or Flaming Strike help control multiple enemies.

Strength builds struggle against spells and ranged attacks, so always keep Endure or a quick-swap weapon ready.

Armor and Fashion Preferences

While armor is mostly about aesthetic preference, Strength builds do require certain considerations:

Heavy Armor like Lionel’s Set or Bull-Goat Set provides high poise, allowing you to trade blows effectively.

Medium Armor like Banished Knight Set allows for a balance of mobility and tankiness.

If poise isn’t a concern, mixing fashionable pieces with good defensive stats is always a fun option.

Final Thoughts

The Pure Strength Build in Elden Ring DLC remains one of the most satisfying and dominant playstyles. By optimizing weapon selection, talismans, and playstyle strategies, players can create an unparalleled powerhouse in both PvE and PvP. With each battle, Strength warriors refine their techniques, adapting to different opponents and circumstances.

As always, experimentation is key—try different weapons, swap out talismans, and adjust playstyles to find what works best for you. If you have suggestions for new weapons, builds, or PvP techniques, feel free to share them in the community. Happy hunting, Tarnished,Elden Ring Items and may your Strength always prevail!