Slaying the Giant: A Comprehensive Guide to Fire Giant Rune Rewards in Elden Ring
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
The Fire Giant is a formidable foe in Elden Ring, a colossal guardian standing between you and the Forge of the Giants, a pivotal point in your journey to burn the Erdtree. Defeating this behemoth is no easy feat, but the rewards are substantial, not least of which is a hefty sum of runes.
So, how many runes do you get for beating the Fire Giant? The answer is 180,000 runes in your first playthrough. This makes the Fire Giant a significant source of experience points (runes) to level up and strengthen your character. However, this number can be influenced by certain factors which we will explore later in this article. Now, let’s dive deep into answering some frequently asked questions that players have about the Fire Giant and its rune rewards.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Fire Giant and Rune Acquisition
1. Does difficulty level affect the rune reward from the Fire Giant?
No, the base rune reward from the Fire Giant remains consistent across different playthroughs (NG+, NG++, etc.). However, subsequent playthroughs (New Game Plus and beyond) typically increase the rune yield from all enemies and bosses, including the Fire Giant.
2. How can I maximize the runes I get from the Fire Giant?
Several items and status effects can significantly boost the number of runes you receive from defeating enemies:
- Gold Scarab Talisman: This talisman increases rune acquisition by approximately 20%. This is crucial for maximizing returns.
- Raptor’s Black Feathers: While not directly increasing rune acquisition, the improved jump attack offered by this armor set can allow for a more effective battle against the Fire Giant, leading to a quicker victory and therefore a faster turn around to obtain more runes.
- Consumable Items: The Gold-Pickled Fowl Foot temporarily boosts rune acquisition by around 30%. Use this right before the final blow on the Fire Giant to maximize your gain.
- Multiplayer: Playing in multiplayer can increase the difficulty of the boss, but it also may result in a faster fight (depending on the skill and build of your summons), therefore creating a quicker run for farming runes.
3. What level should I be before attempting the Fire Giant?
While player skill is paramount, a recommended level range for tackling the Fire Giant is between level 80-100. This ensures you have sufficient health, stamina, and damage output to withstand the Giant’s attacks and deal meaningful damage in return. Leveling vigor to at least 40 is highly recommended.
4. What are the Fire Giant’s weaknesses?
The Fire Giant is particularly vulnerable to Bleed and Frostbite damage. Weapons and skills that inflict these status effects can significantly shorten the fight. In the first phase, focus your attacks on the Giant’s left ankle, as this is his weak spot. In the second phase, his weak spot is the eye on his stomach.
5. What are some effective strategies for defeating the Fire Giant?
- Torrent is your Friend: Use your spectral steed, Torrent, to maintain distance and quickly reposition. This allows you to avoid the Giant’s devastating melee attacks and effectively target his weak points.
- Target the Ankles: In the first phase, focus your attacks on the Giant’s left ankle. This will eventually cause him to stagger, opening him up for critical hits.
- Phase Two Requires Range: In the second phase, the Giant gains new fire-based attacks. Staying on Torrent and using ranged attacks or spells is highly recommended.
- Bleed and Frostbite are Key: As mentioned before, utilizing weapons or spells that inflict bleed or frostbite damage will greatly increase your damage output against the Fire Giant.
6. What happens if I die during the Fire Giant fight?
If you die during the Fire Giant fight, you will lose any runes you were carrying. You can retrieve them by returning to the site of your death, but be cautious, as the Giant will still be waiting for you.
7. Can I summon Spirit Ashes to help me fight the Fire Giant?
Yes, you can summon Spirit Ashes to aid you in the Fire Giant fight. Spirit Ashes can provide valuable distractions and additional damage, making the encounter significantly easier. Mimic Tear Ashes is particularly effective for this boss fight.
8. Are there any specific weapons that are particularly effective against the Fire Giant?
Weapons that inflict Bleed or Frostbite are highly effective. Examples include the Rivers of Blood katana, the Mohgwyn’s Sacred Spear, and weapons infused with Frostbite Ashes of War. Melee weapons with high physical damage, like colossal swords, can also be effective.
9. What are the key attack patterns of the Fire Giant I need to be aware of?
- Foot Stomps: The Giant frequently stomps his feet, creating shockwaves. Time your rolls carefully to avoid these.
- Snow Shovels: In the first phase, the Giant uses his shield to scoop up snow and hurl it at you. Stay mobile to avoid these projectiles.
- Fire Attacks (Phase Two): In the second phase, the Giant gains fire-based attacks, including fireballs and a fire breath attack. Stay at a distance and watch for the tell-tale signs of these attacks.
- Rolling Attack: The Giant can roll across the arena, dealing massive damage. This is particularly dangerous and requires precise timing to dodge.
10. What should I do with the runes I get from the Fire Giant?
The 180,000 runes obtained from defeating the Fire Giant provides an amazing opportunity to drastically improve your character. Typically, you will want to pump the runes back into the following stats:
- Vigor: Increasing your health is always a good choice, especially before a boss fight.
- Endurance: Increasing your stamina will allow you to perform more actions such as rolling, attacking and blocking.
- Main Damage stat: Whether this be Strength, Dexterity, Intelligence, Faith or Arcane, dumping the runes into these stats will allow you to drastically improve your damage output, making the game easier.
11. What happens after I defeat the Fire Giant?
After defeating the Fire Giant, you will proceed to the Forge of the Giants and interact with the Flame of Ruin. This will trigger a significant event that advances the story, so be prepared for the next stage of your journey.
12. Is there a way to cheese the Fire Giant?
Yes, like many bosses in Elden Ring, there are cheese strategies for the Fire Giant. These typically involve exploiting the Giant’s AI or using specific environmental features to your advantage. However, these methods can be unreliable and may detract from the intended experience.
13. Are there any specific Talismans that are particularly useful for the Fire Giant fight?
Besides the Gold Scarab, other useful Talismans include:
- Crimson Amber Medallion: Increases your maximum HP.
- Green Turtle Talisman: Increases stamina recovery speed.
- Fire Scorpion Charm: Increases fire damage dealt, but also increases fire damage taken. Only recommended for experienced players.
- Erdtree’s Favor: Increases HP, stamina, and equip load.
14. Does the Fire Giant drop anything else besides runes?
Yes, the Fire Giant also drops the Remembrance of the Fire Giant. This item can be traded with Enia at the Roundtable Hold for either the Fire Giant’s Braid (a fire-based whip) or the Flame of the Fell God (a powerful fire-based incantation).
15. Can I explore the area around the Fire Giant’s arena for additional items or secrets?
Absolutely! The Mountaintops of the Giants area surrounding the Fire Giant’s arena is filled with secrets, dungeons, and valuable items. Take some time to explore this region thoroughly before progressing further in the game. Discovering these secrets can provide powerful upgrades and insights into the game’s lore. You might even learn something new about how Games Learning Society principles are reflected in Elden Ring’s game design!
Defeating the Fire Giant is a significant milestone in Elden Ring. The 180,000 runes reward, combined with the Remembrance and the subsequent story progression, makes this a rewarding encounter. By understanding the Giant’s weaknesses, utilizing effective strategies, and maximizing your rune acquisition, you can conquer this formidable foe and continue your journey to become Elden Lord. Remember to experiment with different builds and strategies to find what works best for you. Good luck, Tarnished!
Click here to learn more about game design and educational principles at the GamesLearningSociety.org website.