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The Best Early Game Weapon for the Elden Ring Vagabond: A Comprehensive Guide

So, you’ve chosen the Vagabond in Elden Ring, a solid starting class ready to tackle the Lands Between? Excellent choice, Tarnished! But the question that burns brightest in every new player’s mind is: what’s the best early weapon to equip this stalwart warrior with?

The answer, while surprisingly straightforward, comes with nuances: the Claymore. Yes, this unassuming greatsword is a true workhorse, offering a blend of damage, versatility, and accessibility that makes it the ideal early companion for any Vagabond build. Its relatively low stat requirements (16 Strength, 13 Dexterity) are easily met, even at the beginning of the game. It’s the weapon that will carry you from Limgrave to Liurnia and beyond if you let it.

Why the Claymore Reigns Supreme

Here’s why the Claymore stands out amongst a crowded field of early-game contenders:

Move Set Versatility: The Claymore boasts a fantastic moveset featuring both horizontal and vertical attacks, making it effective against a variety of enemies. The thrusting heavy attack is incredibly useful for staggering tough opponents and breaking their guard. This versatility will allow you to adapt to different encounters and enemy types without needing to constantly switch weapons.
Ash of War Compatibility: One of Elden Ring’s greatest strengths is the ability to customize weapons with Ashes of War. The Claymore, being a standard weapon, is compatible with a huge array of Ashes, allowing you to tailor it to your specific playstyle. Want to add some range? Slap on a projectile Ash. Need some crowd control? Something with a wide area of effect will do the trick.
Location, Location, Location: Unlike some other powerful early weapons that require defeating difficult bosses or navigating treacherous dungeons, the Claymore is conveniently located within Castle Morne in the Weeping Peninsula, south of Limgrave. While the Castle itself can be challenging for new players, the Claymore is found relatively early within the area, making it accessible with a bit of determination. It can be found on a corpse near the first courtyard area.
Damage Output: In the early game, the Claymore’s raw damage output is significant. Its scaling with both Strength and Dexterity means that as you level up, it will continue to be a viable weapon option. Upgrading the Claymore with Smithing Stones will further increase its damage, making it a formidable force on the battlefield.

Alternatives and Considerations

While the Claymore is our top pick, it’s important to consider alternatives, especially if the Claymore’s moveset doesn’t jive with your specific playstyle.

Lordsworn’s Greatsword: Dropped by skeletal enemies in Limgrave and the Weeping Peninsula. A solid alternative to the Claymore, offering a slightly different moveset and similar stat requirements.
Twinblade: Also mentioned in the supplied text, if you’re looking for something fast, consider this early weapon.
Reduvia: If you’re interested in a Dexterity/Arcane build focused on bleed damage, the Reduvia dagger, obtained by defeating the Bloody Finger Nerijus invader near Murkwater Cave, is a fantastic early option. However, it requires a different stat investment than the traditional Vagabond build.
The starting Longsword: Never underestimate your starting weapon. The Longsword is a very viable option for the early hours, especially when paired with a shield.

Beyond the Weapon: Building Your Vagabond

Remember, a weapon is only as good as the hand wielding it. Here are a few tips for building your Vagabond in the early game:

Prioritize Vigor: Health is king in Elden Ring. Increasing your Vigor to at least 20 (and eventually 40+) will drastically improve your survivability.
Invest in Strength and Dexterity: As a Vagabond, you’ll want to increase both your Strength and Dexterity to meet the requirements of your chosen weapon and increase your damage output.
Don’t Neglect Endurance: More Endurance means more stamina, allowing you to attack, block, and dodge more effectively.
Experiment with Ashes of War: Find an Ash of War that complements your playstyle and gives you a new tool to use in combat. Don’t be afraid to try different options!

The Journey Matters

Ultimately, the best early weapon is the one that feels best in your hands and allows you to overcome the challenges of the Lands Between. Experiment, explore, and find what works for you. The Claymore is a fantastic starting point, but the path to becoming Elden Lord is a long and winding one. And, consider reading this article, “Elden Ring as a Vehicle for Game-Based Learning Design”, created and housed by GamesLearningSociety.org, to help you on your journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to help you master the early game with your Vagabond in Elden Ring:

1. What stats should I focus on leveling up first as a Vagabond?

Vigor should be your top priority, followed by Strength and Dexterity to meet weapon requirements and increase damage. A little Endurance early on is also helpful for more stamina.

2. Is the Vagabond the easiest class for beginners?

Many consider the Vagabond to be one of the easier classes due to its balanced starting stats, high health, and access to decent armor and weapons.

3. What is the best starting Keepsake for the Vagabond?

The Golden Seed is an excellent choice, providing an extra Flask of Crimson Tears (healing) at the start of the game.

4. What are some good early-game shields for the Vagabond?

The Heater Shield, which the Vagabond starts with, is a solid choice. You can also find the Brass Shield dropped by soldiers, offering better protection but heavier weight.

5. Where can I find Smithing Stones to upgrade my weapon?

Smithing Stones can be found in various locations throughout the Lands Between, particularly in mines and dungeons. Early on, explore the Limgrave Tunnels for readily available Smithing Stones.

6. What is an Ash of War, and how do I use it?

Ashes of War are special items that can be applied to weapons to grant them new skills and change their scaling. You can apply Ashes of War at Sites of Grace after acquiring the Whetstone Knife from Gatefront Ruins.

7. How do I two-hand a weapon in Elden Ring?

To two-hand a weapon, hold the “Triangle” button (PlayStation) or “Y” button (Xbox) and press the “R1” button. This will increase your Strength stat by 50% for the purpose of meeting weapon requirements.

8. What is the difference between light rolling and heavy rolling?

Your equip load determines your roll speed. If your equip load is below 70% of your maximum, you will perform a fast, or light roll. Above 70%, you will perform a slow, or heavy roll, which has fewer invincibility frames.

9. How do I find the Claymore in Castle Morne?

The Claymore is found on a corpse in the courtyard area of Castle Morne, relatively early in the dungeon.

10. What are some effective early-game strategies for the Vagabond?

Focus on learning enemy attack patterns, using your shield to block attacks, and utilizing your weapon’s charged heavy attacks to stagger opponents. Backstabs and critical hits are also effective.

11. What are some good early-game armor options for the Vagabond?

The Vagabond Knight Set, which you start with, is a decent starting set. Look for pieces of armor that offer a balance of protection and weight, allowing you to maintain a light or medium equip load.

12. How do I respec my stats in Elden Ring?

You can respec your stats after defeating Rennala, Queen of the Full Moon, in the Academy of Raya Lucaria. You will need a Larval Tear to respec.

13. What is the best way to farm runes early in Elden Ring?

One popular early-game rune farming spot is near the Warmaster’s Shack in Stormhill. Defeating the trolls near the shack can net you a significant number of runes.

14. Should I use summons in Elden Ring?

Spirit Ashes can be incredibly helpful in challenging encounters. Experiment with different summons to find ones that complement your playstyle.

15. What is the end goal of Elden Ring?

The ultimate goal of Elden Ring is to collect the Great Runes, repair the Elden Ring, and become the Elden Lord. This is a sprawling journey through dangerous lands where you’ll need every bit of wit, skill, and powerful early-game weaponry you can get your hands on.

With these tips and the trusty Claymore by your side, you’re well-equipped to conquer the early game and embark on your epic adventure in the Lands Between! Good luck, Tarnished, and may your Elden Ring be mended!

What is the best early weapon in Elden Ring vagabond?