Decoding Elden Ring Weapon Upgrades: Max Levels and Beyond
The Lands Between in Elden Ring are a dangerous place, and a tarnished hero needs every advantage they can get. One of the most crucial elements of character progression is weapon upgrades. But knowing the limits of those upgrades is vital for resource management and strategic planning. So, what exactly is the max level for weapons in Elden Ring? The answer depends on the type of weapon you’re wielding. Normal weapons can be upgraded to a maximum of +25, while special weapons (those upgraded with Somber Smithing Stones) cap out at +10.
Understanding Weapon Upgrade Systems
The upgrade system in Elden Ring is divided into two distinct paths, each requiring different resources. This dual approach adds a layer of complexity to resource gathering and character build planning. The materials required to max out your weapons aren’t always easy to find, so this information is critical for planning your adventure!
Normal Weapons and Smithing Stones
Normal weapons, including swords, axes, hammers, and most standard armaments found throughout the world, utilize Smithing Stones for their upgrades. These stones come in various tiers (Smithing Stone [1] through [8]), with each tier corresponding to specific upgrade levels.
- +1 to +3: Requires Smithing Stone [1]
- +4 to +6: Requires Smithing Stone [2]
- +7 to +9: Requires Smithing Stone [3]
- +10 to +12: Requires Smithing Stone [4]
- +13 to +15: Requires Smithing Stone [5]
- +16 to +18: Requires Smithing Stone [6]
- +19 to +21: Requires Smithing Stone [7]
- +22 to +24: Requires Smithing Stone [8]
- +25: Requires an Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone
The Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone is extremely rare, limiting the number of weapons you can fully upgrade to +25 in a single playthrough. Be sure to choose wisely!
Special Weapons and Somber Smithing Stones
Special weapons, often obtained by defeating bosses, exploring unique areas, or completing specific questlines, rely on Somber Smithing Stones. These stones are also tiered (Somber Smithing Stone [1] through [9]), but they upgrade weapons in a more significant manner per level compared to regular Smithing Stones.
- +1 to +9: Requires Somber Smithing Stone [1] through [9] respectively
- +10: Requires a Somber Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone
Like their normal weapon counterpart, the Somber Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone is scarce. Careful consideration is needed when deciding which unique weapon deserves this ultimate upgrade.
Why Weapon Level Matters
Upgrading your weapons is paramount for increasing your damage output and improving their scaling with your character’s stats. It’s not just about bigger numbers. As you upgrade weapons, you also enhance their scaling, represented by letters (S, A, B, C, D, E) next to your character stats in the weapon’s description. Better scaling means that the weapon receives a larger damage bonus from your Strength, Dexterity, Intelligence, Faith, or Arcane stats. It is also important to understand the Games Learning Society research on how progression systems such as this one impact player engagement. You can find out more at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about weapon levels and upgrades in Elden Ring, designed to provide even more clarity and insight for aspiring Elden Lords.
1. Can I upgrade weapons past +10 in Elden Ring?
No, you cannot upgrade special weapons past +10. However, normal weapons can be upgraded all the way to +25. Remember to check what smithing stone your weapon takes!
2. How many weapons can I fully upgrade in one playthrough?
The number of weapons you can fully upgrade depends on the number of Ancient Dragon Smithing Stones and Somber Ancient Dragon Smithing Stones you can find in a single playthrough. Typically, you can upgrade a limited number of weapons to their maximum level in one playthrough.
3. Where can I find Smithing Stones and Somber Smithing Stones?
Smithing Stones and Somber Smithing Stones can be found in various locations throughout the Lands Between, including mines, dungeons, and as drops from enemies. You can also purchase them from certain merchants after providing them with specific Bell Bearings.
4. Do boss weapons need Somber Smithing Stones?
Yes, most weapons obtained from defeating bosses require Somber Smithing Stones for upgrades. These weapons are considered “special” and cap out at +10.
5. Does upgrading a weapon change its appearance?
Yes, upgrading a weapon often changes its appearance, adding visual flair and indicating its increased power. These visual upgrades serve as a satisfying reward for investment into your weapons.
6. Can I downgrade a weapon in Elden Ring?
No, you cannot downgrade a weapon once it has been upgraded. So, be certain about your upgrade decisions, as there’s no turning back!
7. Does weapon level affect matchmaking in multiplayer?
Yes, weapon level does affect matchmaking in multiplayer, particularly for invasions and co-op. The game attempts to match players with similar weapon levels to ensure fair gameplay.
8. What is the difference between regular and special weapons?
Regular weapons use standard Smithing Stones and generally have simpler scaling, while special weapons use Somber Smithing Stones, often have unique skills, and can possess more complex scaling attributes.
9. Does weapon level affect weapon skills?
No, weapon level does not directly affect the power of weapon skills. However, upgrading the weapon does increase its overall attack power, which indirectly improves the damage dealt by weapon skills.
10. Is it better to focus on upgrading one weapon or multiple weapons?
This depends on your playstyle. Focusing on one weapon allows you to maximize its potential, while upgrading multiple weapons provides versatility and adaptability to different situations. In the end it comes down to playstyle.
11. Do weapons scale with level in Elden Ring?
Yes, all weapons increase their scaling values when upgraded. All weapons upgraded with somber smithing stones gain an extra 8% of their base scaling per upgrade level, while other weapons gain 2% by default.
12. How many weapons can I get to +10 in Elden ring?
Each play through you can upgrade 8 special and 13 normal weapon to the maximum level (level 10 for special and 25 for normal). Though you can eventually upgrade to the previous level (level 9 for special and 24 for normal) any number of weapon in each play-through.
13. Which weapons scale best with dexterity in Elden Ring?
Some of the best dexterity weapons in Elden Ring are the Moonveil, Uchigatana, Morgott’s Cursed Sword, Hand of Malenia, Scythe, Wakizashi, Godskin Peeler and the Parrying Dagger.
14. Does summoning in Elden Ring increase boss health?
If you’ve summoned just one person, bosses will receive a 60 percent buff to their health as well as a 50 percent buff to its resistances. If you were to summon two other players to your world, the buffs increase even more.
15. Do bosses scale with level in Elden Ring?
Enemies and bosses do not scale to match your current level, which means that, theoretically, you could encounter some later-game enemies within the first few hours if you go far enough in one direction.
Mastering the Upgrade System: A Tarnished’s Journey
Understanding the intricacies of the weapon upgrade system in Elden Ring is essential for any Tarnished seeking to conquer the challenges of the Lands Between. Knowing the max levels for normal and special weapons, and where to find the necessary upgrade materials, will give you a significant advantage on your journey to become Elden Lord. Experiment, adapt, and don’t be afraid to try out different weapons to find what suits your playstyle best. Good luck, and may your weapon always be at its sharpest!