The Ultimate Elden Ring Starter Gear Guide: Best Armor, Weapons, and More
Figuring out the best starter gear in Elden Ring can significantly impact your early game experience. The Lands Between are unforgiving, and having the right equipment from the start can make the difference between struggling and thriving. So, what is the best starter gear? It’s not a single item but rather a combination of armor, weapons, and strategic choices that cater to your chosen playstyle. This guide breaks down the optimal early-game setups to give you the best possible start.
Best Early Armor Sets: Balancing Protection and Mobility
The best early armor in Elden Ring depends greatly on your preferred playstyle. However, some sets stand out for their balance of defense and weight:
Carian Knight Set: For the Dexterous and Agile
The Carian Knight Set is an excellent choice for players aiming for a low-weight but reliably-defensive build. It provides decent protection without hindering your agility, which is crucial in the early game. This armor allows you to move swiftly, crucial for dodging enemy attacks and weaving in your own. Its location, while not in the very first area, is attainable relatively early on for the astute explorer.
Twinned Armor Set: A Solid All-Around Option
Another strong contender is the Twinned Armor set. This is the armor worn by D, and looting it early on will likely provide you with some of the best overall protection you’ll encounter early in your journey through the Lands Between. It offers solid defense stats while maintaining a manageable weight, making it suitable for a variety of builds.
Sage Set: The Magic-User’s First Choice
For players focusing on magic, the Sage Armor set is a must-have. This set, comprising the Sage Hood, Sage Robe, and Sage Trousers, significantly boosts your magic and elemental defenses while offering improved immunities and a light equipment load. It’s ideal for the aspiring mage looking for maximum effectiveness in the early stages.
Best Early Weapons: Powering Your Offensive
Choosing the right weapon early on can drastically impact your combat effectiveness. Here are some of the most impactful options available in the starting areas:
Uchigatana: The Bleed-Inflicting Powerhouse
The Uchigatana stands out as not only one of the best early weapons but also one of the best throughout the entire game. This katana is accessible early and scales exceptionally well into the late game. Its bleed status effect is particularly useful against early bosses like Margit the Fell Omen, providing an edge in challenging encounters.
Grafted Blade Greatsword: A Colossal Early Game Weapon
The Grafted Blade Greatsword, found in Castle Morne in the Weeping Peninsula, is remarkably strong for such an early-game weapon. It’s a colossal sword that, while slow, delivers massive damage, making it ideal for players who prioritize power over speed. It can carry you through a significant portion of the game, truly earning its reputation as an “overpowered” early-game choice.
Reduva Dagger: The Perfect Anti-Margit Tool
The Reduva Dagger is a fantastic option, especially for players struggling with Margit. This dagger is known for its rapid slashes and its ability to break an opponent’s posture easily, making them vulnerable to critical hits. It’s an excellent choice if you prefer a fast, aggressive combat style.
Strategic Early Game Tips
Beyond gear, here are some strategic approaches to maximize your chances of success in Elden Ring’s initial hours:
Level Up Smartly
Don’t underestimate the importance of leveling up. Focus on stats that complement your chosen build. For melee builds, prioritize strength, dexterity, and vigor, while magic builds should focus on intelligence, mind, and faith. The recommended level for fighting Margit is at least 20, ideally 25+, so make sure to explore and gain levels before challenging him.
Explore Limgrave Thoroughly
Limgrave is rich with resources, dungeons, and valuable items. Exploring thoroughly and engaging in side activities will provide you with essential gear, runes, and experience. Don’t rush into the main story path; explore before tackling bigger challenges.
Upgrade Your Weapons
Upgrading your weapons is just as important as finding new ones. Ensure you are upgrading your chosen weapon with Smithing Stones to maximize its potential, giving you an edge in early-game battles. A +3 weapon or higher is strongly recommended before fighting Margit.
Utilize Crafting
Gathering materials and crafting is invaluable in Elden Ring. Learn how to craft useful items like healing pots, throwing knives, and other consumables to help you survive the harsh environments and encounters.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the best starter gear and strategies in Elden Ring:
What armor set is best for melee builds early game?
For melee builds, the Twinned Armor Set or Banished Knight Set provide the best balance of protection and weight in the early game. Consider the Bull-Goat Set later on if you don’t mind the heavy weight and are focused on maximum poise.
Is the Carian Knight set really the best early armor for a low-weight build?
Yes, the Carian Knight Set is widely regarded as the best early armor for players prioritizing low-weight and good defensive stats. It lets you dodge and weave with ease while still providing necessary protection.
What is the best weapon for a mage early in Elden Ring?
While you might not get a “magic sword” early, focusing on spells and using a straight sword or katana alongside your magic is a solid start. The Uchigatana, for example, is effective with magic builds, too, thanks to its bleed effect.
Can I skip fighting Margit in Elden Ring?
Yes, you can. Elden Ring allows you to skip Stormveil Castle entirely and head straight to Liurnia of the Lakes. This is an option for players who might be struggling with Margit. However, you do need to defeat Morgott later in the game, making combat experience against bosses beneficial.
What is the best armor set against scarlet rot?
The Mushroom Set provides significant boosts to Immunity, Focus, Robustness, and Vitality, making it effective against Scarlet Rot. This is vital when traversing areas filled with rot.
How important is armor in Elden Ring?
Armor provides protection, but not to an excessive degree. It can change a three-hit kill to a four-hit kill in some cases. However, the poise offered by armor is vital, especially when facing bosses and powerful enemies.
Why are some players not wearing armor in Elden Ring?
Some players intentionally avoid wearing armor to keep their equipment load light, enabling them to perform faster dodges and maintain agility. This strategy can be useful for players skilled at avoiding attacks rather than tanking them.
What is the best weapon for defeating Margit the Fell Omen?
Weapons that can deliver rapid slashes or heavy attacks, such as scimitars, twinblades, and greatswords, are effective against Margit. The Reduva Dagger is also a particularly strong choice for this fight.
Does armor in Elden Ring ever break?
No, armor does not break in Elden Ring. You don’t need to worry about repairing your equipment in this game.
What are some general tips for starting Elden Ring as a new player?
Focus on exploring Limgrave, level up strategically, upgrade your weapons, and learn how to craft essential items. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to use co-op or summon NPC allies to help with bosses.
What is the easiest starting class in Elden Ring?
The Vagabond class is generally considered the easiest for beginners due to its starting health and armor, which provide a buffer against mistakes and an easier time exploring.
How many runes does Margit drop, and what else?
Margit drops 12,000 runes, which will help you level up or upgrade your equipment early on. He also drops the Talisman Pouch, an item that allows you to equip an additional talisman, offering an additional boost to your build.
What is the final boss in Elden Ring?
The final boss of Elden Ring is the Elden Beast. This boss is encountered after defeating Radagon of the Golden Order in the final area of the game.
What level should I be for Morgott?
It’s best to be at least level 75 before challenging Morgott, ensuring you have the stats and equipment to survive the fight.
Can I beat Elden Ring without killing Margit?
Yes, you can bypass Margit and Stormveil Castle entirely, but you’ll need to defeat Morgott later in the main storyline.
Choosing the right starter gear in Elden Ring is essential for a smooth and enjoyable experience. By focusing on armor that provides adequate protection without hindering mobility, selecting powerful early weapons, and implementing strategic exploration and leveling techniques, you can be better equipped to face the challenges the Lands Between throw your way. Good luck, Tarnished!