Mastering the Greatsword: Stats and Strategies in Elden Ring
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The Greatsword in Elden Ring is an iconic weapon, known for its massive damage output and satisfying weight. To effectively wield this behemoth, you’ll need to meet specific stat requirements. Specifically, to wield the Greatsword effectively, you’ll need 31 Strength and 12 Dexterity. This guide will delve deep into the stat requirements, scaling, and strategic considerations for incorporating the Greatsword into your Elden Ring build.
Understanding the Greatsword’s Stat Requirements
The Greatsword, a classic colossal sword, is a powerhouse of raw physical damage. Before you can start cleaving through enemies, you’ll need to ensure your character meets the necessary stat thresholds. As stated before, you will need:
- Strength: 31
- Dexterity: 12
Failing to meet these requirements will result in your character flailing and struggling to swing the weapon effectively, leaving you vulnerable.
Why These Stats Matter
- Strength: Strength is the primary stat for the Greatsword. It dictates how well you can handle the weapon’s weight and power, directly impacting your attack damage. Meeting the strength requirement is non-negotiable.
- Dexterity: While not as crucial as Strength, Dexterity still plays a role. It contributes to the weapon’s scaling, albeit to a lesser extent than Strength. Meeting the dexterity requirement will ensure that you get the most effective attacks from the Greatsword.
Two-Handing for Strength Optimization
One of the classic strategies for Strength-based builds is two-handing your weapon. In Elden Ring, two-handing a weapon grants you a 50% Strength bonus. This means if you’re just shy of the 31 Strength requirement, you can two-hand the Greatsword with only 21 Strength (approximately, since the game rounds down). Two-handing not only opens the possibility of effectively swinging the weapon if you are slightly short of the 31 Strength Requirement, but it will also boost your damage output as the weapon scales with Strength.
To two-hand your weapon:
- PlayStation: Hold Triangle and press R1.
- Xbox: Hold Y and press RB.
Scaling: How Stats Influence Damage
The Greatsword scales primarily with Strength, indicated by its scaling grades in the weapon’s stat menu (typically shown as letter grades, like C, D, or E). This means that as your Strength stat increases beyond the minimum requirement, the weapon’s attack power will also increase, albeit at a decreasing rate of return. Dexterity also contributes to scaling, but to a lesser degree.
To maximize your damage output, you’ll want to invest heavily in Strength after meeting the minimum stat requirements. However, don’t neglect other important stats like Vigor (for health) and Endurance (for stamina), as you’ll need to survive encounters and have enough stamina to swing the Greatsword effectively.
Greatsword Strategies and Combat Style
The Greatsword is best suited for a slow, deliberate, and powerful playstyle. Due to its weight and attack speed, you’ll want to focus on:
- Spacing: Maintain a safe distance from enemies, allowing you to time your attacks effectively.
- Staggering: The Greatsword excels at staggering enemies, creating opportunities for critical hits.
- Charged Attacks: Utilize charged heavy attacks to deal significant damage and break enemy stances.
- Jump Attacks: Jump attacks can be effective for initiating combat or dealing with groups of enemies.
Infusing the Greatsword
Infusing your Greatsword with Ashes of War can significantly alter its damage output and scaling. Some popular infusions for Strength builds include:
- Heavy: Enhances Strength scaling, making it ideal for pure Strength builds.
- Fire/Flame Art: Adds fire damage, scaling with Strength and Faith.
- Blood/Poison: Adds bleed or poison buildup, scaling with Arcane.
Experiment with different infusions to find the one that best suits your playstyle and build. Always consider your stat distribution when choosing an infusion, as it can dramatically affect the weapon’s performance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What happens if I don’t meet the Strength requirement for the Greatsword?
If you don’t meet the Strength requirement, your character will struggle to wield the Greatsword effectively. Your attacks will be slow and deal significantly reduced damage, and you’ll be more vulnerable to enemy attacks. You can, however, two-hand the Greatsword to reduce the strength requirements.
2. Is it better to two-hand the Greatsword?
Two-handing the Greatsword provides a 50% Strength bonus, which can increase your damage output. It also alters the weapon’s moveset, offering different attack options. It’s generally recommended for Strength builds to two-hand the Greatsword.
3. How important is Dexterity for the Greatsword?
Dexterity is less important than Strength for the Greatsword. While it contributes to scaling, the Strength stat has a much bigger effect on damage output. You only need 12 Dexterity, and you do not need to invest further into this stat for the Greatsword.
4. What other weapons pair well with the Greatsword?
The Hatchet, Bow, and Sword and Shield are other weapons that pair well with the Greatsword.
5. Can I dual-wield Greatswords in Elden Ring?
Yes, you can dual-wield Greatswords in Elden Ring. However, this requires significant Strength and Endurance to manage the weight and stamina consumption.
6. How does the Greatsword compare to other Colossal Swords?
The Greatsword is a versatile and reliable Colossal Sword, offering a good balance of damage, range, and speed. Other Colossal Swords may have higher damage potential or unique abilities, but the Greatsword is a solid choice for any Strength build.
7. Is the Greatsword viable for PvP combat?
Yes, the Greatsword can be viable for PvP combat. Its high damage and stagger potential can punish opponents who make mistakes. However, its slow attack speed can make it vulnerable to faster weapons.
8. How do Ashes of War affect the Greatsword’s scaling?
Ashes of War can change the Greatsword’s scaling, making it prioritize different stats. For example, a “Heavy” infusion will enhance Strength scaling, while a “Keen” infusion will enhance Dexterity scaling.
9. Is the Claymore better than the Greatsword?
The Claymore is a versatile Greatsword that requires 16 Strength and 13 Dexterity. Both weapons are effective, but the Greatsword generally deals more damage due to its higher Strength scaling. The Claymore is a better option for players who prefer a faster weapon.
10. What is the best Talisman for a Greatsword build?
Some of the best Talismans for a Greatsword build include:
- Claw Talisman: Enhances jump attacks.
- Green Turtle Talisman: Increases stamina recovery speed.
- Erdtree’s Favor: Increases HP, stamina, and equip load.
- Great-Jar’s Arsenal: Significantly increases equip load.
11. How important is Endurance for a Greatsword build?
Endurance is crucial for a Greatsword build, as it determines how much stamina you have to attack, block, and dodge. Invest enough points into Endurance to comfortably manage your stamina consumption.
12. Can I use magic with a Greatsword build?
Yes, you can incorporate magic into a Greatsword build. However, this requires investing points into Intelligence or Faith, depending on the type of magic you want to use.
13. What is the best armor for a Greatsword build?
The best armor for a Greatsword build depends on your desired balance between protection and mobility. Heavier armor offers more protection but reduces mobility, while lighter armor offers less protection but allows for faster movement and dodging.
14. Where can I find the Greatsword in Elden Ring?
The Greatsword can be looted off a Caravan located in Dragonbarrow. Dragonbarrow is a region in Caelid.
15. How does the Giant-Crusher compare to the Greatsword?
The Giant-Crusher has the highest Strength stat requirement in Elden Ring. The Greatsword offers a good balance of damage, range, and speed, making it a more versatile option.
Conclusion
Mastering the Greatsword in Elden Ring requires understanding its stat requirements, scaling, and optimal combat strategies. By investing in Strength and Dexterity, experimenting with different infusions, and adapting your playstyle, you can unleash the full potential of this iconic weapon. Remember to explore various builds and strategies to find what works best for you, and don’t hesitate to seek out guidance from experienced players and online communities. Learn more about the intersection of gaming and education at the Games Learning Society (GamesLearningSociety.org). Happy adventuring, Tarnished!