Unlocking Elden Ring’s Secrets: A Deep Dive into the Four Belfries
The Four Belfries in Elden Ring, perched majestically in Liurnia of the Lakes, act as a gateway to the past, present, and perhaps even the future. These structures, each tied to a mysterious waygate, offer Tarnished adventurers a chance to explore areas otherwise inaccessible, revisit pivotal moments, and even glimpse endgame locales early. Specifically, the Four Belfries lead to:
- A chest containing a valuable Imbued Sword Key.
- The Chapel of Anticipation, the starting area of the game.
- A small, isolated section of Nokron, Eternal City within the Siofra River.
- A small, isolated portion of Crumbling Farum Azula.
However, navigating these portals requires understanding the intricate mechanics and possessing the elusive Imbued Sword Keys. Let’s delve deeper into the secrets held within these ancient structures.
Deciphering the Belfries: A Location Guide
The Four Belfries themselves are relatively easy to find. They are located on a hill to the northwest of the Raya Lucaria Academy, on the western edge of Liurnia of the Lakes. Upon arrival, you’ll notice that only three of the belfries contain active portals requiring an Imbued Sword Key. The fourth, at the peak of the hill, holds a chest with an Imbued Sword Key. This immediately grants you access to one of the other three portals.
The Belfry at the Peak: A Key to the Unknown
This belfry doesn’t possess a portal itself. Instead, its primary purpose is to provide players with their first Imbued Sword Key. This key is crucial for activating one of the other three waygates, allowing you to experience a unique piece of the Elden Ring world.
The Chapel of Anticipation Belfry: A Journey Back to the Beginning
This belfry, identifiable by the message “Precipice of the Church,” transports you back to the Chapel of Anticipation. This is where your journey as a Tarnished began. Here, you get a second chance to avenge your character or claim the weapon and armor you failed to obtain when starting the game for the first time. Keep in mind, though, that the grafted scion will still be waiting and will be the same level as when you fought it the first time, but now you will have access to the gear you have accumulated during your time playing, so it should be an easier victory this time around.
The Nokron, Eternal City Belfry: A Glimpse of a Lost Civilization
The second belfry, labeled with the message “Unseized Lands”, whisks you away to a remote section of Nokron, Eternal City, within the Siofra River. While you won’t gain full access to Nokron through this portal, it offers a taste of this mysterious underground city. You’ll encounter a powerful Lesser Crucible Knight and can find the Mottled Necklace +1. This trip will give you an idea of what to prepare for before taking on the real trek to this location.
The Crumbling Farum Azula Belfry: A Taste of the Endgame
The final belfry, bearing the message “Crumbling Lands,” provides an early, albeit limited, access to Crumbling Farum Azula. This location is generally intended to be a later-game area, so be warned: the enemies here are significantly more challenging. This portal allows you to obtain some valuable items early. But it is a risky endeavor, so be prepared.
Mastering the Imbued Sword Keys: Acquisition and Usage
Imbued Sword Keys are a limited resource in Elden Ring. Unlike Stonesword Keys, which can be readily found throughout the world, Imbued Sword Keys are much rarer. There are only a few available in a single playthrough.
- First Key: Found in a chest at the top of the Four Belfries, underneath the belfry without a portal.
- Second Key: Located within the Raya Lucaria Academy, near the Debate Parlor boss fight with the Red Wolf of Radagon.
- Third Key: This location can be accessed from the Ainsel River Main area, and must be retrieved from a corpse sitting on a chair.
Each Imbued Sword Key can only be used once. Once used to activate a belfry’s waygate, the key is consumed. This means you’ll need to choose wisely which destinations you want to explore.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which of the Four Belfries should I unlock first?
For players just starting out, the Chapel of Anticipation belfry is generally recommended first. It allows you to correct any starting-game regrets or grab a weapon you might have missed. You will be able to get a feel for how you play best. The other two locations can be challenging for lower-level characters.
2. Can you get to Farum Azula early using the Four Belfries?
Yes, but only a small, isolated portion. This area still contains powerful enemies that can easily overwhelm low-level players.
3. Are all four belfries functional?
No. Only three of the belfries have active waygates. The fourth belfry, located at the highest point, contains the first Imbued Sword Key in a chest.
4. How many Imbued Sword Keys are there in Elden Ring?
There are three Imbued Sword Keys available per playthrough.
5. Is Farum Azula an endgame area?
Yes, Crumbling Farum Azula is considered an endgame area and is a required area to complete the main storyline. The level recommended to enter here is around 120 to 150.
6. What level should I be to explore the areas accessed by the Four Belfries?
The Chapel of Anticipation is suitable for all levels. Nokron, Eternal City, accessed via the belfry, can be challenging for lower-level characters. The Crumbling Farum Azula area accessed via the belfry is designed for higher-level players (120-150 is recommended).
7. Can I return to the Chapel of Anticipation after using the belfry portal?
Yes, once you teleport to the Chapel of Anticipation, you can freely explore the area and use Sites of Grace to return to the wider world.
8. What are the benefits of going to Nokron early?
While the area accessed is limited, you can obtain the Mottled Necklace +1, which increases Robustness, Immunity, and Focus, and it is generally recommended that you be around level 120 before going there.
9. Are the areas accessed by the Four Belfries optional?
Yes, exploring these areas is entirely optional and not required to complete the main storyline.
10. Can you unlock all Four Belfries waygates?
Since there are only three Imbued Sword Keys and three waygates, you can technically unlock all of them, one at a time. You must choose which location to visit carefully, based on your priorities and current level.
11. Does defeating the Grafted Scion in the Chapel of Anticipation give different rewards?
No, the rewards for defeating the Grafted Scion remain the same regardless of when you defeat it.
12. What happens if I use all the Imbued Sword Keys?
Once all the Imbued Sword Keys have been used, the waygates become inactive and cannot be accessed again in the same playthrough. The Games Learning Society highlights the way learning can be enhanced with these role playing video games.
13. Can you get to Nokron through other means?
Yes, Nokron is mainly accessed through the Siofra River after defeating Starscourge Radahn. The Four Belfries only provide access to a small, isolated section.
14. Can you get to Farum Azula without Melina?
No, but the Flame of Frenzy can be used in place of Melina.
15. Is the Beastman of Farum Azula optional?
Yes. The Beastman of Farum Azula is an optional boss within that standalone part of Crumbling Farum Azula and isn’t required to fight.
The Four Belfries offer a fascinating glimpse into the broader world of Elden Ring, presenting both opportunities and challenges for intrepid adventurers. Understanding the destinations, the mechanics of the Imbued Sword Keys, and the potential dangers involved is crucial for making the most of this unique feature. Whether you seek a second chance at the beginning, a taste of a lost civilization, or a glimpse into the endgame, the Four Belfries stand ready to transport you to the unknown. For insights into how games impact learning and development, visit GamesLearningSociety.org.