Mastering Two-Handed Weaponry in Elden Ring: A Comprehensive Guide
This guide delves into the art of two-handing weapons in Elden Ring, exploring its benefits, drawbacks, and optimal weapon choices. We'll cover the mechanics, strategic advantages, and potential downsides to help you maximize your combat effectiveness.
How to Two-Hand Weapons
To wield a weapon with two hands, press and hold E (PC), Triangle (PlayStation), or Y (Xbox), then initiate an attack. This applies to both your left and right-hand weapons. Remember to check your control settings if you've customized them. This technique also functions while mounted, offering flexibility for those who utilize multiple weapons or switch between melee and magic. However, weapons requiring two hands due to Strength requirements must be two-handed before mounting your steed.
Why Two-Hand Your Weapon?
Two-handing offers significant advantages:
- Increased Damage: Your Strength stat receives a 50% boost, significantly amplifying the damage output of Strength-scaling weapons.
- Altered Movesets: Some weapons gain new attack animations and potentially damage types when wielded with two hands.
- Accessibility to Heavier Weapons: The Strength boost allows you to use weapons normally beyond your capabilities, enabling greater build flexibility.
- Ash of War Access: Using a shield prevents access to your right-hand weapon's Ash of War. Two-handing eliminates this limitation, unlocking valuable combat options.
The Drawbacks of Two-Handed Combat
While powerful, two-handing isn't always optimal:
- Altered Attack Patterns: The change in attack animations requires adjustment and strategic adaptation to your surroundings.
- Build Dependency: Two-handing is most effective for Strength builds; other builds might find less benefit. Experimentation is key.
Best Weapons for Two-Handing
Generally, large Strength-scaling weapons excel when two-handed. Consider these weapon types: Greatswords, Colossal Swords, Great Hammers, and Colossal Weapons. The Two-Handed Sword Talisman (available in Shadow of the Erdtree) further enhances damage with two-handed swords. Specific recommendations include the Greatsword, Zweihander, Fire Knight's Greatsword, and the Giant-Crusher for non-sword options.
Elden Ring is available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
Update: This article was updated on 1/27/25 by Liam Nolan to provide more insight into two-handed weapon combat in Elden Ring.
