Upgrading weapons in Elden Ring is one of the most crucial aspects of surviving the game’s punishing world. Whether you’re wielding a humble shortsword or a legendary greatsword, enhancing your equipment can significantly improve your chances against formidable bosses and relentless enemies. This guide explores the various Elden Ring items used in the weapon upgrading process, tips for efficient enhancement, and how to obtain safe Elden Ring items without risking bans or account issues.
Understanding Weapon Upgrades in Elden Ring
FromSoftware has integrated a familiar but refined weapon enhancement system in Elden Ring. Weapons can be upgraded at a Smithing Table or by Master Blacksmiths like Smithing Master Hewg in Roundtable Hold. The process requires specific materials that increase in rarity and potency as your weapon’s level rises.
There are two main upgrade paths:
- Standard Weapon Upgrades (up to +25) using Smithing Stones
- Special Weapon Upgrades (up to +10) using Somber Smithing Stones
Each path caters to different weapon types, and understanding which route your weapon falls under is key to using the right enhancement materials.
Essential Elden Ring Items for Upgrading
To upgrade your gear, you’ll need to gather or purchase enhancement items scattered throughout the Lands Between. Here’s a breakdown of the most important Elden Ring items used for weapon enhancement:
1. Smithing Stones (Standard Weapons):
These are tiered from Smithing Stone [1] to Smithing Stone [8], followed by the Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone. As your weapon level increases, you’ll need higher-tier stones.
2. Somber Smithing Stones (Special Weapons):
These are used for unique weapons and follow a scale from Somber Smithing Stone [1] to [9], culminating with the Somber Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone.
3. Bell Bearings:
These allow you to purchase Smithing Stones from the Twin Maiden Husks once given at the Roundtable Hold. They’re essential for players who prefer a more direct approach to gathering materials.
4. Gloveworts and Ghost Gloveworts:
Primarily used for upgrading Spirit Ashes, these also play a role in strengthening your overall combat strategy.
Where to Find Safe Elden Ring Items
In your journey to upgrade weapons efficiently, you may consider acquiring resources through external means. However, it’s important to emphasize the use of safe Elden Ring items. Here’s what that means:
- Legitimate Farming: Focus on acquiring materials through in-game methods such as looting dungeons, defeating minibosses, and exploring hidden paths. Sites like the Altus Plateau, Nokron, and Mountaintops of the Giants are rich in upgrade materials.
- Safe Trading Practices: If you decide to trade with other players, ensure it’s done through trusted communities and without using third-party hacks or cheats. Illegitimate items can result in account penalties.
- Avoiding Suspicious Sources: Never download enhancement tools or modified game files claiming to provide upgrade items. These can compromise your system and account integrity.
By sticking to safe Elden Ring items, you maintain the integrity of your playthrough and avoid the risk of bans or corrupted saves.
Tips for Efficient Weapon Upgrades
Upgrading weapons takes time and planning. Here are a few helpful tips:
- Specialize Early: Choose a weapon that fits your build and focus on upgrading it instead of spreading resources across multiple arms.
- Prioritize Availability: Use Smithing Stones on easily replaceable weapons and reserve Somber Smithing Stones for rare or unique finds.
- Explore Thoroughly: Many caves and legacy dungeons hold valuable upgrade materials, often guarded by optional bosses.
- Use Bell Bearings Wisely: Unlocking stone availability via Bell Bearings reduces farming time and streamlines the enhancement process.
Final Thoughts
Enhancing your weapons in Elden Ring isn’t just about increasing numbers—it’s about refining your combat style, preparing for the unexpected, and rising to meet the game’s brutal challenges. By utilizing the right Elden Ring items and ensuring you collect safe Elden Ring items, you empower yourself to face even the deadliest foes with confidence. Keep your weapons sharp, your instincts sharper, and remember: every upgrade is a step closer to conquering the Lands Between.