Starting out in Elden Ring can be intimidating given its sprawling world and complex mechanics. One of the best ways to ease into the game is to choose a build that remains viable not only in the early stages but also grows strong enough to carry you through late-game challenges. Whether you’re focused on melee combat, magic, or a hybrid approach, certain beginner builds scale well with level progression and gear upgrades.
Here are 10 beginner-friendly builds that evolve well into late game, helping you maximize your use of Elden Ring Runes and making the most of the Elden Ring Items you buy along the way.
1. Quality Build (Balanced Strength and Dexterity)
A quality build is a classic for a reason. By investing evenly in Strength and Dexterity, you can wield a wide range of weapons, giving you flexibility to adapt your playstyle. This build benefits from weapon buffs and Ashes of War, making it viable against tough late-game bosses.
2. Pure Strength Build
If you like smashing enemies with heavy weapons, a pure Strength build will serve you well throughout your journey. Greatswords, colossal weapons, and certain powerful shields scale with Strength and can be upgraded with runes to maintain high damage output in late game.
3. Dexterity Build
Focused on speed and precision, Dexterity builds excel with katanas, daggers, and bows. Their fast attacks help in both PvE and PvP, and many Dexterity weapons come with powerful weapon arts that stay relevant late into the game.
4. Intelligence Caster
Magic users can start strong with sorceries that deal massive damage from a distance. By investing heavily in Intelligence and FP, this build gains access to high-damage spells and utility incantations, which can be further improved by buying Elden Ring Items that boost sorcery effectiveness.
5. Faith Build (Healer and Buffer)
Faith builds provide a mix of offensive miracles and healing support. They are especially useful in multiplayer and long boss fights. Healing spells and buffs evolve with better talismans and consumables purchased throughout the game.
6. Arcane Build (Status Effects Focus)
Arcane builds specialize in poison, bleed, and other status effects. Early on, they may seem niche, but with the right weapons and Elden Ring Items, this build becomes a late-game nightmare for enemies susceptible to sustained damage over time.
7. Bleed Build
Centered around rapid attacks that build up bleed, this build is incredibly effective against bosses and tougher enemies. Katanas like the Rivers of Blood scale well with Dexterity and Arcane, making it strong throughout the game.
8. Tank Build (Heavy Armor and Shields)
For those who prefer absorbing hits and controlling the battlefield, a tank build focusing on high Vitality and Endurance is perfect. Upgrading your armor and shields with Elden Ring Runes keeps you durable when facing late-game threats.
9. Hybrid Melee/Magic Build
Mixing melee combat with offensive spells or buffs allows for a versatile playstyle. Investing in both Intelligence or Faith and Strength or Dexterity enables you to adapt to different combat scenarios, which is invaluable as enemies grow tougher.
10. Summoner Build
Focusing on Spirit Ashes and enhancing their power through specific Elden Ring Items, summoner builds let you rely on AI allies to distract foes while you chip away safely. This build scales well as you unlock more powerful summons and upgrade your gear.
Making the Most of Your Runes and Items
No matter which build you choose, managing your Elden Ring Runes effectively is crucial. Spend runes wisely on leveling up the stats most relevant to your build. Also, be strategic about when and where you buy Elden Ring Items such as talismans, weapons, and consumables that boost your strengths or cover weaknesses.
Late-game success often depends on how well your early decisions set you up for growth. These builds provide solid foundations, allowing you to experiment and customize while ensuring you’re never too weak for the challenges ahead.
