Should I Use the First Stonesword Key? A Tarnished’s Guide to Early Choices in Elden Ring

In the vast and unforgiving world of Elden Ring, every decision matters. One of the earliest and most perplexing choices new players face is whether or not to use their first Stonesword Key. These precious items unlock hidden areas, often guarded by imp statues, promising valuable rewards but also potentially overwhelming challenges. The short answer? It depends. Weigh the risks against the rewards and consider your current build and playstyle. While the allure of early loot is strong, hasty decisions can lead to frustration.

Understanding Stonesword Keys and Their Purpose

Before diving into specific locations, let’s clarify what Stonesword Keys are and how they function. These are consumable Key Items used to break the seal on imp statue seals, which block access to specific areas. Once used, the key is consumed, highlighting the importance of choosing your unlocks wisely. Some seals require one key, others require two or even more.

The game presents you with several opportunities to acquire Stonesword Keys early on. You can choose them as your Keepsake at the start of the game, find them scattered throughout the world, or purchase them from certain merchants. Regardless of how you obtain them, scarcity is a factor, especially in the early hours. You can find more information and discussions related to gaming and learning on platforms such as the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.

Early Stonesword Key Locations and Their Risks

Fringefolk Hero’s Grave

Perhaps the most infamous early Stonesword Key usage is the Fringefolk Hero’s Grave, accessible immediately upon entering the open world. This area is notorious for its difficulty, especially for new players. It features a challenging dungeon with a deadly chariot constantly patrolling its corridors and a pool of poison that can quickly drain your health.

Rewards:

• Erdtree’s Favor Talisman: Increases HP, Stamina, and Equip Load. A fantastic early-game boost.
• Banished Knight Set: A decent armor set offering good protection.
• Golden Seed: Used to increase the number of flasks.

Risks:

• Extremely challenging for low-level characters.
• The chariot requires precise timing and can easily kill you in one hit.
• The poison swamp can quickly deplete your health.

Verdict: While the rewards are tempting, the Fringefolk Hero’s Grave is generally not recommended for your first Stonesword Key usage, particularly if you’re new to Elden Ring or Souls-like games. The frustration may outweigh the benefits.

Murkwater Cave

Another early option lies in the Murkwater Cave, located along the river in Limgrave. This cave is relatively straightforward but features a boss fight against Patches, a recurring character in the Souls series.

Rewards:

• Patches’ Bell Bearing: Allows you to purchase items from the Twin Maiden Husks at the Roundtable Hold after defeating (or sparing) Patches.
• Mushroom: A useful crafting material.

Risks:

• The cave can be a bit confusing to navigate.
• Patches, while not a particularly difficult boss, can still pose a challenge to unprepared players.

Verdict: The Murkwater Cave is a more reasonable option for your first Stonesword Key. The difficulty is manageable, and Patches’ Bell Bearing is a valuable item to obtain early on.

Stormveil Castle (Rune Farming Spot)

Within Stormveil Castle, a Stonesword Key can unlock a room containing a large number of rats. While this might sound unappealing, it provides an excellent early-game rune farming opportunity.

Rewards:

• Numerous Runes from defeating the rats.

Risks:

• The sheer number of rats can be overwhelming if you’re not careful.
• You’ll need to clear a portion of Stormveil Castle to reach the door.

Verdict: If you’re struggling with leveling up, this is a decent option. However, consider that there are other viable rune farming methods that don’t require a Stonesword Key.

Factors to Consider Before Using Your Key

Before committing to unlocking a specific area, consider these factors:

• Your Build: Are you a melee-focused character who can handle close-quarters combat, or a mage who prefers to stay at range? Different areas favor different playstyles.
• Your Level: Are you appropriately leveled for the area you’re trying to unlock? Trying to tackle a high-level dungeon early on is a recipe for disaster.
• Available Resources: Do you have enough healing flasks, weapon upgrades, and summons to survive the challenges ahead?
• Online Messages: Pay attention to the messages left by other players. They often provide valuable insights into the difficulty of an area and potential dangers.

General Recommendations

As a general rule of thumb, it’s best to err on the side of caution when using your first Stonesword Key. Don’t rush into areas that are clearly above your current level. Explore the open world, level up your character, and gather resources before tackling challenging dungeons. Consider watching gameplay videos or reading guides to get a better understanding of what to expect before committing your key.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do you need more than one Stonesword Key?

Yes, some seals require multiple Stonesword Keys. Plan accordingly and prioritize areas with rewards that align with your needs.

2. Do you use all Stonesword keys?

You do not need to use every single key. However, there are just enough to unlock every Imp Door, but there are way more keys available than doors if you include the ones sold by vendors.

3. Where should I use my first Stonesword Key?

For new players, the Murkwater Cave is generally considered a safe and rewarding option for your first Stonesword Key usage.

4. Should I use my Stonesword Key right away?

It’s not recommended to use your Stonesword Key immediately upon starting the game, especially if you chose them as your Keepsake. Exploring the open world first is generally a better strategy.

5. Can you only use Stonesword Key once?

Yes, a Stonesword Key is consumed upon use, meaning it can only unlock one seal.

6. How many times can you use Stonesword Key?

Each individual Stonesword Key can only be used once.

7. Do Stonesword keys carry over to NG+?

Yes, Stonesword Keys in your inventory will carry over to New Game Plus (NG+).

8. When should I use Stonesword Key?

Use a Stonesword Key when you feel you’re prepared for the challenge behind the seal and when the rewards are likely to be beneficial to your build and progression.

9. Should I use Stonesword Key at weeping Evergaol?

The Weeping Evergaol requires a Stonesword Key, but the boss fight is optional. Assess your readiness before committing.

10. Can you get two Glintstone keys?

Yes, there are multiple Glintstone Keys in the game.

11. How many Stonesword keys are in Limgrave?

There are twelve potential Stonesword Keys to find in Limgrave, including those obtained through exploring, quests, and purchasing from merchants.

12. Do you lose Stonesword keys?

Yes, Stonesword Keys are consumed upon use, so they disappear from your inventory after unlocking a seal.

13. Do Stonesword keys disappear?

As explained earlier, once used, the Stonesword Key is gone.

14. Should you enter Evergaol?

Evergaols are optional boss arenas. There’s no inherent risk in trying them, but be prepared for a challenging fight.

15. What happens if you refuse Melina?

You will be unable to level up or summon Torrent until you accept Melina’s accord. It is necessary to say yes to her.

Choosing when and where to use your first Stonesword Key is a crucial decision in Elden Ring. By understanding the risks and rewards associated with each location, considering your build and level, and carefully evaluating online messages, you can make an informed choice that sets you on the path to becoming an Elden Lord. Good luck, Tarnished!