Where to Find the Best Starter Sword in Elden Ring
The best starter sword in Elden Ring depends heavily on your chosen playstyle, but generally, the Lordsworn’s Straight Sword, found early in West Limgrave, offers an excellent balance of damage, reach, and scaling for various builds. It’s a reliable choice for both Strength and Dexterity builds thanks to its C scaling in both attributes when upgraded. Alternatively, for those focused on a Faith-based build, the Broadsword, readily available from merchants like Kalé in the Church of Elleh, can be infused with Holy Ashes of War early on, offering a significant advantage against undead enemies.
Lordsworn’s Straight Sword: A Versatile Choice
The Lordsworn’s Straight Sword stands out due to its ease of acquisition and excellent scaling. It’s dropped by specific enemies in West Limgrave, primarily soldiers carrying the weapon. Farming these enemies near the Gatefront Ruins proves to be a relatively quick and painless process.
Key Advantages of the Lordsworn’s Straight Sword
- Versatile Scaling: C scaling in both Strength and Dexterity allows for hybrid builds and flexibility as you level up.
- Good Reach: Straight swords offer a decent range, allowing you to keep a safe distance from enemies.
- Weapon Skill: Starts with the Square Off Weapon Skill, a powerful stance that allows for strong attacks and guard breaks.
- Infusion Potential: Can be infused with Ashes of War to tailor its damage type and weapon skill to your specific build.
How to Obtain the Lordsworn’s Straight Sword
To obtain the Lordsworn’s Straight Sword, focus on defeating the Godrick Soldiers wielding it in West Limgrave. The Gatefront Ruins is an ideal location to farm them. It may take a few attempts, but the sword will eventually drop. Persistence is key. Remember to increase your Discovery stat (by using items or respec) to increase your drop rate.
Broadsword: Strength and Faith Options
The Broadsword offers a more direct approach, favored by Strength-focused characters or those wanting a simpler moveset. Available early from merchants, it’s a dependable weapon with solid damage output.
Key Advantages of the Broadsword
- Early Availability: Easily purchased from merchants like Kalé in the Church of Elleh.
- High Base Damage: Deals significant physical damage, especially early in the game.
- Simple Moveset: Offers a straightforward and effective attack pattern.
- Infusion Potential: As with the Lordsworn’s Straight Sword, it can be infused with Ashes of War. For Faith builds, infusing it with Holy damage can be devastating against undead enemies found throughout the early game.
How to Obtain the Broadsword
Simply visit a merchant like Kalé at the Church of Elleh and purchase the Broadsword. This easy access makes it a convenient choice for any starting class.
Considerations When Choosing Your Starter Sword
While the Lordsworn’s Straight Sword and Broadsword are excellent choices, remember that the best starter sword ultimately depends on your personal playstyle and preferred build.
- Stats: Consider your character’s starting stats and planned attribute allocation.
- Weapon Skills: Experiment with different Weapon Skills to find one that suits your combat style.
- Ashes of War: Don’t underestimate the power of Ashes of War to customize your weapon’s damage type and weapon skill.
- Personal Preference: Ultimately, the best sword is the one you enjoy using the most.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Starter Swords in Elden Ring
1. Can I get the Lordsworn’s Straight Sword at the very beginning of the game?
Yes, you can acquire the Lordsworn’s Straight Sword almost immediately after leaving the Stranded Graveyard. Head to the Gatefront Ruins in West Limgrave and start farming the Godrick Soldiers.
2. What’s the drop rate for the Lordsworn’s Straight Sword?
The drop rate is relatively low, so be prepared to farm for a while. Increasing your Discovery stat will significantly improve your chances of getting the sword.
3. What are the stat requirements for the Lordsworn’s Straight Sword?
The Lordsworn’s Straight Sword requires 10 Strength and 10 Dexterity to wield effectively.
4. Is the Broadsword better than the Lordsworn’s Straight Sword?
Neither sword is definitively “better.” The Broadsword is ideal for raw damage and Strength builds, while the Lordsworn’s Straight Sword offers more scaling versatility. Your choice depends on your build and preference.
5. Where can I find Ashes of War to infuse my starter sword?
Ashes of War are scattered throughout the Lands Between. Early options include the Stormhill Shack, and exploring Limgrave.
6. Can I upgrade my starter sword early in the game?
Yes, you can upgrade your starter sword at the Church of Elleh or at the Roundtable Hold. You’ll need Smithing Stones, which can be found in mines and purchased from merchants.
7. What’s the best Weapon Skill for the Lordsworn’s Straight Sword?
The default Square Off is quite effective, offering both strong attacks and guard breaks. However, experiment with other Ashes of War to find one that suits your playstyle.
8. Is there a better starter sword for a mage build?
For magic-focused builds, consider using a Staff or finding a weapon with innate magic scaling. Early options include using a short sword until you find a better weapon.
9. How does weapon scaling work in Elden Ring?
Weapon scaling indicates how much bonus damage a weapon receives based on your character’s attributes (Strength, Dexterity, Intelligence, Faith, Arcane). The scaling grades are S, A, B, C, D, and E, with S being the best.
10. Can I respec my stats later in the game?
Yes, you can respec your stats by using a Larval Tear after defeating Rennala, Queen of the Full Moon in Raya Lucaria Academy.
11. Are there any other good early-game swords besides the Lordsworn’s and Broadsword?
The Twinblade is a good option for Dex builds if you can reach it early, and certain colossal swords can be obtained relatively early for strength builds but require high stats.
12. What should I prioritize when leveling up my character early on?
Focus on vigor for increased health. Meeting the stat requirements for your chosen weapon. Then, allocate points to Strength or Dexterity based on your scaling.
13. How important is weapon upgrading in Elden Ring?
Weapon upgrading is crucial for increasing your damage output. Invest Smithing Stones into your preferred weapon as soon as possible.
14. What are some common mistakes new players make when choosing a starter weapon?
Ignoring stat requirements, not upgrading their weapon, and being afraid to experiment with different options. Don’t be afraid to try different weapons to find what works best for you.
15. Where can I find more information about Elden Ring builds and weapons?
Numerous online resources, including wikis, forums, and YouTube channels, offer detailed information about Elden Ring builds and weapons. Experimentation and research are key to finding what suits you best.