Diving Deep into Eridium: Borderlands 3’s Purple Reign
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So, you’re wondering about that shiny purple stuff in Borderlands 3? Simply put, the purple currency in Borderlands 3 is Eridium. It’s not just pretty to look at; it’s essential for snagging unique cosmetics, powerful weapons, and generally becoming a more stylish and formidable Vault Hunter. Think of it as the key to unlocking some of the game’s most rewarding content. But where does it come from, how do you get your hands on it, and what exactly can you buy with it? Let’s break it all down.
Eridium: A Vault Hunter’s Best Friend
Eridium’s role in Borderlands 3 is much larger than just a pretty collectible. It serves as a key resource that ties into various gameplay systems, enhancing the overall experience. From customizing your appearance to acquiring powerful gear, Eridium is the currency that fuels the endgame.
Sourcing the Purple Goodness
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Breaking Eridium Crystals: The most obvious source is the abundance of purple crystals scattered throughout the game’s environments. However, you can’t smash these from the get-go. You need to complete Chapter 10 and defeat the boss guarding the first vault. This grants you a special artifact allowing you to melee the crystals.
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Completing Challenges: Check the map tab for challenges that reward Eridium upon completion. These can range from killing specific enemies in a particular way to discovering hidden locations.
Where to Spend Your Hard-Earned Eridium
The main destination for your Eridium is Crazy Earl’s shop, tucked away in the Cargo Bay of Sanctuary III. He’s behind a locked door, so keep an eye out. He deals in cosmetics and even some unique weapons. You can also gamble your Eridium at Vault Line slot machines for the chance of scoring legendary items or other goodies.
FAQs About Eridium in Borderlands 3
Let’s address some of the most common questions surrounding Eridium.
1. What is Eridium used for in Borderlands 3?
Eridium primarily fuels two activities: purchasing cosmetic items and gear from Crazy Earl and gambling at the Vault Line slot machines. With the Eridium Fabricator (if obtained), you can also shoot out legendary items.
2. How do I unlock the ability to collect Eridium?
You unlock Eridium collection by completing the first vault in Chapter 10. This unlocks a special artifact that allows you to smash Eridium crystals.
3. Where is Crazy Earl in Borderlands 3?
Crazy Earl’s shop is located in the Cargo Bay of Sanctuary III, behind a locked door.
4. What kind of items does Crazy Earl sell?
Crazy Earl sells a variety of cosmetic items, including character skins, weapon skins, Echo skins, and room decorations for your personal quarters on Sanctuary III. He also sometimes stocks unique weapons.
5. Can I farm Eridium in Borderlands 3?
Absolutely! One popular early-game farming spot is the Voracious Canopy Vault on Eden-6. This location contains a large cave with abundant Eridium crystals at the bottom.
6. What are Vault Line slot machines?
Vault Line slot machines are a form of gambling where you spend Eridium for a chance to win weapons, cosmetics, and other rewards. The results are random, so it’s a gamble, but it can be a fun way to spend excess Eridium.
7. Is there a limit to how much Eridium I can carry?
Yes, there is a limit to how much Eridium you can hold at any given time. The base capacity is 500, but this can be increased through Guardian Rank perks.
8. What is the Eridium Fabricator?
The Eridium Fabricator (also known as the Gun Gun) is a weapon that, when fed Eridium, shoots out weapons. It can even produce legendary weapons, although the chances are slim.
9. How do I get the Eridium Fabricator (Gun Gun)?
The Eridium Fabricator is typically acquired as a reward from a late-game quest. Be sure to follow the main storyline to unlock it.
10. Are there any special events that increase Eridium drops?
Yes! Gearbox often hosts in-game events that increase the drop rate of Eridium. Keep an eye on their official announcements and social media channels to stay informed.
11. What are Anointed weapons, and how are they related to Eridium?
Anointed weapons are special weapons with unique bonuses tied to specific character skills or abilities. While not directly purchased with Eridium, you might find Anointed weapons as rewards from activities that require Eridium, such as gambling at the Vault Line slot machines.
12. Can I trade Eridium with other players?
Unfortunately, you cannot directly trade Eridium with other players. However, you can use Eridium to purchase items from Crazy Earl and then trade those items with other players.
13. Are there any Guardian Rank perks that affect Eridium?
Yes! There are Guardian Rank perks that can increase your maximum Eridium capacity and improve your luck when gambling at the Vault Line slot machines. Investing in these perks can be very beneficial.
14. Does difficulty affect Eridium drops?
While playing on higher difficulties like True Vault Hunter Mode or with Mayhem Mode active doesn’t directly increase Eridium drop rates from crystals, it does increase the chances of finding better loot and more challenging enemies, which can lead to more opportunities to earn Eridium through challenges and other activities.
15. What is the best way to farm Eridium late game?
For late-game Eridium farming, consider running the Takedown at the Guardian Breach or participating in the Mayhem Mode challenges. These activities offer a high density of enemies and rewarding loot drops, including Eridium. Utilizing characters and builds optimized for speed and damage output will maximize your Eridium farming efficiency.
Mastering Eridium: A Few Extra Tips
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Maximize Guardian Rank: Invest points in the Guardian Rank perks that boost Eridium capacity and luck. This will significantly improve your Eridium earnings and spending potential.
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Stay Updated: Keep an eye on official Borderlands channels for events that increase Eridium drops or offer special Eridium-related challenges.
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Experiment with Builds: Optimize your character build for fast and efficient clearing of Eridium farming locations. Speed and damage are key.
Eridium is more than just a currency; it’s a gateway to unlocking the full potential of your Borderlands 3 experience. From cosmetic customization to powerful gear, mastering Eridium is essential for any aspiring Vault Hunter. So get out there, smash those crystals, complete those challenges, and start building your Eridium empire!
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