Can I Drop a +10 Weapon to My Friend in Elden Ring? The Ultimate Trading Guide

The Lands Between are a harsh place, and sometimes, a little help from your friends is exactly what you need. Trading weapons and items is a core part of the Elden Ring multiplayer experience. However, there are limitations that you need to understand. So, let’s get right to it:

No, you can’t directly drop a +10 weapon to a friend in Elden Ring if their highest upgraded weapon is below that level. The game’s trading system is designed to prevent high-level players from overly boosting low-level characters. There are restrictions that you must understand to make trading work between you and your friend.

Understanding Elden Ring’s Trading Mechanics

The key to trading successfully in Elden Ring lies in understanding how the game restricts item visibility. The game’s multiplayer system is built around balance, and therefore, it employs a specific upgrade level mechanic to prevent imbalances.

• Weapon Upgrade Level Matters: The most important restriction is the weapon upgrade level. If you try to drop a weapon that is of a higher upgrade level than the highest upgraded weapon your friend has ever possessed, they will not be able to see the item on the ground. This applies to both regular weapons (upgraded with Smithing Stones) and unique weapons (upgraded with Somber Smithing Stones).

• The “Highest Ever Held” Rule: The game remembers the highest weapon level you have ever held on your character. This means if you had a +10 weapon at one point but discarded it, you can still see a +10 weapon someone else drops.

• Base Level Weapons Can Always Be Traded: You can always trade un-upgraded (i.e., +0) weapons. This allows your friend to pick up the weapon and then upgrade it themselves using materials acquired in-game.

• Runes are Fair Game: Thankfully, there are no restrictions on dropping Runes. This is one workaround to give your friend a boost. You can drop them a large amount of Runes to level up their character and purchase upgrade materials.

How to Trade Items in Elden Ring

Here’s a quick refresher on the steps to trade items once you’ve confirmed you meet the level requirements:

1. Summon Your Friend: Use a Tarnished’s Furled Finger (you drop it) and have your friend use a Furlcalling Finger Remedy to summon you into their world.
2. Open Your Inventory: Navigate to the item you wish to drop.
3. Select “Leave”: Choose the “Leave” option. This will place the item on the ground for your friend to pick up.
4. Confirmation: Make sure your friend can see the item before moving on.

Overcoming Trading Limitations

While the upgrade level restriction might seem limiting, here are a few strategies to work around it:

• Cooperative Progression: The most reliable method is to progress through the game together. This ensures that both of you naturally acquire higher-level weapons as you advance.

• Rune Drops: As mentioned before, dropping a large quantity of Runes allows your friend to level up and purchase Smithing Stones or Somber Smithing Stones to upgrade their weapons themselves.

• Early Game Weapons: Focus on trading un-upgraded versions of powerful early-game weapons. Weapons like the Uchigatana, Bloodhound’s Fang, or Greatsword can be very effective even at lower levels.

The Importance of Community and Collaboration

Elden Ring, like many FromSoftware games, fosters a strong sense of community. Players often share knowledge and assistance to help each other overcome challenges. Understanding the trading limitations and how to work around them is part of that collaborative spirit.

Many players find joy in helping others, and this is what makes the community thrive. If you are interested in understanding how games foster collaboration and knowledge sharing, visit the GamesLearningSociety.org website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about trading in Elden Ring:

Can I drop armor for my friends in Elden Ring?

Yes, you can drop armor for your friends. There are no level restrictions for trading armor pieces.

Can I drop consumables like healing items or crafting materials?

Yes, you can drop consumables and crafting materials. These do not have level restrictions, making them easy to share with your friends.

Can I drop spells or incantations?

No, you cannot drop spells or incantations. These must be acquired through normal gameplay, such as finding scrolls or purchasing them from merchants.

Can I drop key items?

No, you cannot drop key items. These are essential for game progression and cannot be traded.

Can I drop Spirit Ashes?

Yes, you can drop Spirit Ashes. There are no level restrictions on dropping Spirit Ashes for your friend.

What happens if my friend can’t see the item I dropped?

This usually means that the item is of a higher upgrade level than what they can currently see. Double-check their highest upgraded weapon and try dropping a lower-level item. If that doesn’t work, verify both of your internet connections and summoning status.

Is there a limit to how many items I can drop at once?

Yes, there is a limit to how many items you can drop consecutively. After dropping a few items, you might need to wait a short period before dropping more. This prevents potential exploits and server issues.

Can I drop weapons from boss fights?

Yes, you can drop weapons acquired from boss fights, as long as the upgrade level is within your friend’s range of visibility.

Can I drop larval tears?

Yes, you can drop Larval Tears. There are no level restrictions for trading larval tears.

Can I drop smithing stones?

Yes, you can drop most tiers of Smithing Stones and Somber Smithing Stones, allowing your friend to upgrade their equipment faster.

What is the most efficient way to help a new player in Elden Ring?

The most efficient way is to drop a combination of Runes, an un-upgraded version of a powerful weapon, and some upgrade materials. This gives them a solid foundation to build upon.

Does weapon scaling affect trading?

Weapon scaling doesn’t affect trading eligibility. The only factor affecting eligibility is the weapon’s upgrade level.

If I’ve reached the maximum upgrade level with any of my weapons, can I still trade with a lower-level player?

Yes, as long as you drop a weapon that is equal to or below the highest upgrade level they have ever possessed. Dropping a +0 weapon is always an option.

If I accidentally drop an item, can I pick it back up?

Yes, you can pick up any items you drop as long as another player hasn’t already grabbed them. If you have enough time to retrieve it before your friend gets it.

Is trading allowed in Elden Ring?

Yes, trading is allowed in Elden Ring.

Conclusion

While Elden Ring’s trading system has limitations, understanding these mechanics allows you to effectively assist your friends and engage with the community. Remember that sharing knowledge and cooperating are core aspects of the Elden Ring experience. By using these tactics, the Lands Between don’t have to be as harsh as they are, and you and your friends can explore the land in peace. Good luck, Tarnished, and may your trading endeavors be fruitful!