Is the Moonveil Katana Still Good in 2023? A Tarnished’s Take

Yes, the Moonveil Katana is absolutely still good in 2023. Despite initial concerns following various patches, this Intelligence-scaling weapon remains a powerhouse in Elden Ring. Its unique blend of melee combat and ranged magic, coupled with its bleed buildup and respectable damage output, solidifies its place as a top-tier weapon for both PvE and PvP scenarios. Let’s dive into why Moonveil continues to shine and how to make the most of it.

The Moonveil’s Enduring Appeal

The Moonveil’s greatness stems from several key factors:

• Intelligence Scaling: It perfectly complements Intelligence-based builds, allowing for seamless integration of sorceries and weapon arts.
• Unique Weapon Art: “Transient Moonlight,” provides both a quick and powerful ranged attack and a close-quarters strike, making it incredibly versatile.
• Bleed Buildup: While not solely a bleed weapon, the Moonveil’s ability to inflict blood loss adds a significant damage boost, especially against bosses and tougher enemies.
• Accessibility: While it requires defeating the Magma Wyrm in Gael Tunnel, it’s attainable relatively early in the game, making it a popular choice for new builds.
• Versatility: Works in a wide range of builds – pure int, Dex/Int hybrid, and even works in a pinch for specific builds.

Many were worried that with patch updates, specifically poise damage that would occur, but it remains one of the best weapons for tackling almost anything the Elden Ring has to throw at you!

Maximizing Moonveil’s Potential

To truly unleash the Moonveil’s power, consider these strategies:

• Stat Allocation: Prioritize Intelligence to maximize weapon scaling. Dexterity is also important, but Intelligence should be your primary focus.
• Talismans: Equip talismans that boost spell damage, FP recovery, and poise.
• Armor: Opt for armor that provides a balance of protection and mobility. Light to medium armor allows for faster rolls and more efficient FP usage.
• Sorceries: Complement your melee attacks with powerful sorceries like Comet Azur, Ranni’s Dark Moon, and Terra Magica.
• Upgrading: Fully upgrade the Moonveil using Somber Smithing Stones to maximize its damage potential.

Moonveil’s Place in the Current Meta

Even with the introduction of new weapons and balance adjustments, the Moonveil remains a consistent performer. While some may argue that other weapons offer higher raw damage or more specialized utility, the Moonveil’s balanced skillset and ease of use make it a reliable choice for any Intelligence-focused build.

In PvE, it excels at clearing groups of enemies and inflicting significant damage on bosses. In PvP, its fast attacks and ranged capabilities can catch opponents off guard, leading to quick victories. Of course it goes without saying that a lot of the game’s challenge is directly related to how many Rune Arcs you are using.

FAQs: Delving Deeper into the Moonveil Katana

1. Can Moonveil Katana be upgraded?

Yes, the Moonveil Katana can be upgraded using Somber Smithing Stones. It requires regular reinforcement, so make sure to collect these stones throughout your adventure to maximize its damage potential. Fully upgrading the Moonveil is crucial for optimal performance, especially in the late game.

2. What stats should I prioritize for a Moonveil build?

Focus on leveling Intelligence and Dexterity. Intelligence will significantly boost the damage output of your Transient Moonlight weapon art and sorceries. Dexterity will improve your weapon handling and casting speed. Consider a stat distribution of around 60 Intelligence and 40 Dexterity for a well-rounded build.

3. What sword pairs well with Moonveil?

Pair Moonveil with another Intelligence-based katana like the Meteorite Ore Blade to take advantage of shared scaling, or use classics like Rivers of Blood or the Hand of Malenia to complement Moonveil’s buildup of Bleed. For a pure Intelligence build, consider pairing it with a staff like the Lusat’s Glintstone Staff to maximize your sorcery damage. The Dark Moon Greatsword or the Wing of Astel are also good choices.

4. Is Moonveil better than Rivers of Blood?

It depends on your build and playstyle. Rivers of Blood excels at inflicting bleed damage, making it a powerful choice for bleed-focused builds. The Moonveil shines in Intelligence-based builds, offering a balance of melee and magic. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal preference and how you want to approach combat. It really comes down to play style.

5. Is Moonveil Katana 2-handed?

The Moonveil Katana doesn’t have to be 2-handed, but its destructive special strikes, which require players to sheathe the weapon before releasing catastrophic waves of energy, are most effective when two-handed. These attacks are only possible with the Moonveil is Two Handed in Elden Ring.

6. Does Moonveil Katana scale with Dex?

Yes, the Moonveil Katana scales with Dexterity and Intelligence. It favors a playstyle that combines close-quarters swordplay with midrange spellcasting. While Intelligence should be your primary focus, investing in Dexterity will improve your weapon skills and overall combat effectiveness.

7. Is it worth upgrading Moonveil?

Absolutely. Upgrading the Moonveil is essential for maximizing its damage potential. Pour upgrade points into Intelligence and Dexterity to boost your weapon’s scaling and overall effectiveness. A fully upgraded Moonveil can handle even the toughest enemies and bosses in Elden Ring.

8. What is the best bleed talisman in Elden Ring?

For a Moonveil build that incorporates bleed, the Lord of Blood’s Exultation is essential. It increases your attack power when blood loss is inflicted on a nearby enemy. Other useful talismans include the Marika’s Soreseal for boosting Intelligence, Dexterity, Arcane, and Faith, and the Radagon Icon for reducing spellcasting time.

9. How do I make my Moonveil Katana stronger?

To strengthen your Moonveil Katana, focus on upgrading your Intelligence and Dexterity stats. These stats directly influence the weapon’s damage output and overall effectiveness. Additionally, equip talismans that boost your spell damage, FP recovery, and poise to further enhance your combat capabilities.

10. Is Moonveil the strongest Katana?

The Moonveil is arguably the best Intelligence-based Katana in Elden Ring. Its unique weapon art, bleed buildup, and Intelligence scaling make it a top-tier choice for hybrid builds. While other Katanas like Rivers of Blood may offer higher raw damage or specialized utility, the Moonveil’s versatility and ease of use make it a consistent performer.

11. Can you put an ash of war on a katana?

Yes, you can apply Ashes of War to katanas to customize their skills and damage types. However, the Moonveil Katana has a unique, unchangeable weapon skill called Transient Moonlight. This signature move is one of the weapon’s biggest strengths, so you won’t want to replace it. That goes without saying.

12. Is Rivers of Blood weak now?

While Rivers of Blood has seen some adjustments since its initial release, it remains a strong weapon, especially in PvE. In PvP, it may be slightly less dominant due to its popularity and predictable moveset. However, with a well-optimized build and skilled gameplay, Rivers of Blood can still be a formidable choice.

13. What is the best late game katana in Elden Ring?

The Moonveil Katana is a strong contender for the best late-game katana in Elden Ring, especially for Intelligence-based builds. Its combination of melee combat and ranged magic makes it versatile and effective against a wide range of enemies and bosses.

14. What is the best and easiest katana in Elden Ring?

For beginners, the Uchigatana is often considered the best and easiest katana to use in Elden Ring. It’s available early in the game and has a simple yet effective moveset. However, the Moonveil is easy to obtain and utilize effectively with the right build, making it a solid choice for newcomers as well.

15. What makes the Moonveil Katana unique?

The Moonveil Katana stands out due to its unique blend of melee and magic. Its weapon art, Transient Moonlight, allows you to unleash powerful ranged attacks and devastating close-quarters strikes. This versatility, combined with its bleed buildup and Intelligence scaling, makes it a truly exceptional weapon in Elden Ring.

Final Verdict

The Moonveil Katana has aged like a fine wine. It’s a reliable, powerful, and versatile weapon that remains a top choice for Intelligence-based builds in Elden Ring. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the Lands Between, the Moonveil is well worth considering for your next playthrough.

If you are interested in the intersection of games and learning, be sure to check out the work being done at the Games Learning Society via GamesLearningSociety.org.

Embrace the power of the Moonveil, Tarnished, and may your Transient Moonlight guide you to victory!