How Should I Approach Combat at the Start?

The first thing most new players ask themselves is: “Do I just swing wildly and hope for the best?” The answer is no. Elden Ring combat rewards patience and observation. Take your time to learn enemy attack patterns and timing. A well-timed dodge or block can save you far more than a full-on assault.

Also, don’t be afraid to use jump attacks. They deal great damage and can stagger certain enemies, giving you a short window to follow up. Personally, I used to ignore jump attacks because they seemed clunky, but they’re surprisingly effective in the early game.

Where Should I Focus My Rune Farming?

Early on, runes are gold—without them, leveling up feels like an uphill battle. A tip I wish I knew: you don’t always have to grind endlessly in dangerous areas. There are safe spots where you can farm runes efficiently. If you’re looking to speed things up without wasting hours, you might consider sources like buy Elden Ring runes to supplement your collection. It saved me from countless frustrating deaths when I needed a few levels to tackle a tough boss.

Which Weapons Should I Prioritize?

At first, it’s tempting to stick with whatever weapon looks cool, but stats matter. Weapons that scale well with your starting stats are the real game-changers. Don’t stress about collecting every weapon; focus on one or two that fit your build. Also, keep an eye out for weapons with bleed or fire damage—these can make early bosses much easier.

And remember: upgrading your favorite weapon often gives a bigger advantage than constantly switching to “better” ones you just found. Patience here pays off.

How Can I Manage Inventory Without Feeling Overwhelmed?

The inventory system in Elden Ring is surprisingly flexible, but early on, it can feel chaotic. My biggest mistake was hoarding every consumable and weapon I found. Instead, prioritize essentials: flasks, useful buffs, and one or two weapons you actually use. If you find yourself low on resources, don’t forget there are reliable sources where you can find cheap Elden Ring runes for sale. This can help you stock up on essentials without grinding endlessly.

Should I Explore Everything or Stick to the Main Path?

Exploration is tempting, and yes, Elden Ring rewards curiosity, but there’s a balance. Wandering too far too soon often leads to encounters that are way above your level. A good rule is to explore gradually, using sites of grace as checkpoints and always being mindful of enemy levels.

Personally, I spent hours in one area thinking I’d missed some secret, only to get obliterated by a roaming giant. Don’t be afraid to retreat and return later; sometimes the game’s world design wants you to come back stronger.

How Do I Avoid Getting Frustrated Early On?

Let’s be real—Elden Ring can be brutal. The key is mindset. Don’t treat deaths as failures; treat them as lessons. Every time you die, you learn a bit more about timing, enemy behavior, and your own strategy. I used to rage quit a lot, but stepping back, breathing, and thinking: “What did I miss?” really changed the experience.

Also, consider using external resources wisely. Sites like U4GM provide helpful guidance or ways to supplement your runes without breaking immersion. They can be a nice crutch if you feel stuck, but the real fun is still in the journey.

Any Final Advice for New Players?

Take your time. Don’t rush. Experiment with builds, weapons, and spells. Enjoy the world. The challenge is part of what makes Elden Ring special. Some days you’ll feel unstoppable, and other days, a single enemy can make you question your life choices. That’s normal.

And finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help or check out tips. Even the best players have needed guidance at some point. The more you learn early on, the more fun the mid-game and late-game will be.

Fast Progression: Elden Ring Arrows: A Complete Guide to Types, Merchants, and Usage