Should I do Mountaintops of Giants or Volcano Manor First?

The decision to explore Mountaintops of Giants or Volcano Manor first in the vast world of Elden Ring depends on your current progress and preferences, but it is generally recommended to complete Volcano Manor before heading to Mountaintops of Giants to avoid missing out on certain quests and items. By completing Volcano Manor and its associated quests, you can ensure a more comprehensive and rewarding experience, especially considering that killing Rykard locks you out of all Volcano Manor quests.

Understanding the Context

To make an informed decision, it’s essential to understand the context and the implications of choosing one over the other. The Mountaintops of Giants offer a unique set of challenges and rewards, including the fight against Whip Boy and eventually Rykard, but Volcano Manor provides a compelling narrative and quests that are worth exploring.

Related FAQs

General Questions

1. What is the recommended order for exploring Elden Ring? The recommended route often starts with West Limgrave, followed by East Limgrave & Mistwood, Weeping Peninsula, and so on, but the game offers a lot of flexibility.
2. Should I go to Volcano Manor or Capital first? Volcano Manor is generally easier, but it’s advisable to complete its quests without killing the final boss to avoid missing items in Leyndell.
3. When should I go to Volcano Manor? It’s recommended to go to Volcano Manor when you’re around Level 50, as the area is filled with powerful enemies.

Quest and Storyline Considerations

4. Will Volcano Manor ruin my ending? Nothing you do in Volcano Manor can change the endings, but it can lock you out of some NPC quests.
5. Does Volcano Manor lock you out of quests? Completing Volcano Manor assassinations can prevent you from finishing Rya’s quest, but killing NPCs and crossing points of no return have more significant implications.
6. Can you get to Mountaintop of the Giants without the lift? To reach the Mountaintops of the Giants, you’ll need a special medalion and the Grand Lift of Rold.

Level and Difficulty Considerations

7. What level should I be for Morgott? It’s recommended to be at least Level 75 before challenging Morgott.
8. What level is Caelid? There’s no strict level requirement for Caelid, but Level 60-70 is recommended for a balanced challenge.
9. What level should I be for Malenia? You should be at least Level 120, ideally Level 150, with fully upgraded gear before facing Malenia.

Specific Location and Quest Details

10. Should I join Lady Tanith? Joining Lady Tanith can provide a path of least resistance towards Rykard, but consider your progress and the area’s difficulty.
11. Can you still do Volcano Manor quests after killing Rykard? Killing Rykard locks you out of all Volcano Manor quests, so it’s best to complete them first.
12. Does killing Godskin Noble affect anything? Killing Godskin Noble doesn’t affect the story but is required to face Shardbearer Rykard.

Choose Your Path

13. Is Mountaintops of Giants optional? Yes, exploring the Mountaintops of the Giants is optional, allowing players to choose their own path and priorities.
14. Does going to Mountaintops of the Giants ruin quests? Simply reaching Mountaintops of the Giants won’t break any quests, but progressing certain NPC quests might be affected by reaching Altus or Mt. Gelmir.
15. Can you do Ranni’s Quest and Volcano Manor? Yes, you can complete both Ranni’s quest and Volcano Manor; in fact, Ranni’s quest is considered one of the most enjoyable in the game and can be done alongside Volcano Manor without significant conflict.