The Greatsword in Elden Ring: A Tarnished’s Guide to Colossal Power
The Greatsword in Elden Ring is, simply put, a behemoth. A Colossal Sword that embodies the raw power and staggering might that defines a strength-focused build. It’s not flashy, it’s not adorned, and it certainly isn’t subtle. It’s a slab of iron, plain and brutal, designed for one purpose: obliterating anything that stands in your way. Its wide swings can cleave through groups of enemies, making it a fantastic choice for crowd control and delivering devastating blows to larger foes. This weapon scales primarily with Strength, making it a natural choice for players looking to maximize their physical damage output.
The Allure of Simplicity: Why Choose the Greatsword?
While Elden Ring offers a dizzying array of weaponry, the Greatsword’s appeal lies in its straightforwardness. There are no complex combos to master, no arcane requirements to fulfill. It’s a weapon that rewards a fundamental understanding of spacing, timing, and raw aggression. Its moveset is relatively simple, focusing on powerful overhead swings and sweeping attacks that cover a wide area. This simplicity makes it accessible to new players, while its sheer damage potential keeps it relevant throughout the entire game.
The Greatsword isn’t about finesse; it’s about dominance. It’s about planting your feet, charging your swing, and watching enemies scatter before the might of your fully-charged attack. It’s a statement. A declaration that you are not to be trifled with.
Acquiring the Greatsword: A Journey to Caelid
The path to claiming this iconic weapon leads to northwestern Caelid, a region notorious for its harsh environment and formidable enemies. Specifically, you’ll find the Greatsword on the road leading south toward the Cathedral of Dragon Communion.
The most straightforward route is to start at the Smoldering Church Site of Grace and follow the road east. Be warned: Caelid is not for the faint of heart. You’ll encounter powerful enemies along the way, including packs of carrion dogs, massive crows, and formidable knights. Consider summoning spirit ashes or relying on stealth to navigate this perilous journey.
The Greatsword itself is located on a carriage being pulled by two trolls. You do not have to fight these trolls. Just wait for the carriage to stop. Then, open the chest.
Mastering the Greatsword: Tips and Tricks
While the Greatsword’s moveset is relatively simple, mastering it requires understanding its strengths and weaknesses. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of this colossal weapon:
- Two-Handing is Key: While the Greatsword can be wielded one-handed with sufficient Strength, two-handing it significantly increases your damage output. Embrace the power of both hands and unleash the full potential of this weapon.
- Charged Attacks are Your Friend: The Greatsword’s charged heavy attacks deal massive damage and can stagger even the toughest enemies. Learn to time your charges effectively to maximize their impact.
- Jump Attacks for Airborne Foes: The Greatsword’s jump attack is an effective way to deal with flying enemies. It’s also a useful tool for creating distance and controlling the battlefield.
- Utilize Ashes of War: Experiment with different Ashes of War to customize the Greatsword to your playstyle. Some popular choices include Lion’s Claw and Giant Hunt, which provide powerful offensive options.
- Stamina Management is Crucial: Swinging a colossal sword consumes a significant amount of stamina. Pay attention to your stamina bar and avoid over-extending yourself. A well-timed dodge or block is often more valuable than an extra swing.
- Armor Up!: Since you’ll likely be trading blows with enemies, invest in armor with high poise to avoid being staggered during your attacks.
FAQs: Demystifying the Greatsword
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Greatsword in Elden Ring:
What is the minimum strength for the Greatsword in Elden Ring?
The Greatsword requires 31 Strength to wield effectively.
What is the best early game Greatsword in Elden Ring?
While the Greatsword itself is a great early-game option due to its location and damage, the Lordsworn’s Greatsword is another excellent choice. It’s often easier to acquire early on, particularly if you focus on exploring Limgrave thoroughly.
How many Greatswords are in Elden Ring?
There are a multitude of Greatswords. The article stated that there are 21 Greatswords. The game is still constantly being updated, therefore that number has the potential to change.
Is the Claymore better than the Greatsword in Elden Ring?
It depends on your playstyle. The Claymore offers a more versatile moveset with its thrusting attack, while the Greatsword excels in raw power and sweeping attacks. The Claymore is a Greatsword. Both are strong weapons in Elden Ring.
Is it better to two-hand the Greatsword in Elden Ring?
Yes, generally. Two-handing the Greatsword increases your strength by 50%, boosting your damage output significantly.
Can the Greatsword be infused with Ashes of War?
Yes, the Greatsword can be infused with a wide variety of Ashes of War, allowing you to customize its moveset and damage type.
Does the Greatsword scale with any stats besides Strength?
While it primarily scales with Strength, the Greatsword also has some scaling with Dexterity.
Where can I find Somber Smithing Stones to upgrade unique Greatswords?
Somber Smithing Stones are found throughout the Lands Between, often in dungeons, caves, and near powerful enemies. Exploration is key to finding them.
What is the best Ash of War for the Greatsword in Elden Ring?
The “best” Ash of War is subjective and depends on your playstyle. Popular choices include Lion’s Claw, Giant Hunt, and Bloodhound’s Step.
Is the Greatsword good for PvP?
The Greatsword can be effective in PvP, particularly for catching opponents off guard with its charged attacks. However, its slow attack speed can make it vulnerable to faster weapons.
How does poise affect the Greatsword?
Having high poise allows you to withstand attacks without being staggered, letting you complete your swings and trade blows more effectively.
Can you parry with the Greatsword?
No, the Greatsword cannot be used to parry enemy attacks.
What is the weapon art on the Moonlight Greatsword?
The unique skill of the Dark Moon Greatsword is called Moonlight Greatsword. It shoots out beams of moonlight.
Is the Greatsword considered a Colossal Weapon or a Greatsword?
The Greatsword in Elden Ring is classified as a Colossal Sword.
Is the Greatsword worth using in a Strength build?
Absolutely! The Greatsword is one of the most effective weapons for Strength builds in Elden Ring, offering excellent damage and crowd control capabilities.
Beyond Brute Force: Exploring Elden Ring’s Depths
The Greatsword is more than just a weapon; it’s a symbol of raw power and unwavering resolve. It represents the spirit of the Tarnished, facing insurmountable odds with nothing but grit and a colossal blade. As you journey through the Lands Between, remember that the Greatsword is just one piece of the puzzle. Experiment with different weapons, armor, and spells to find your own unique playstyle and forge your own legend.
To further your knowledge of gaming and its impact on education and society, consider exploring the resources available at the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org. The Games Learning Society is a great resource that provides a platform for researchers, educators, and developers to share their insights and best practices in the field of game-based learning.