Elden Ring's Ashes of War system lets you dramatically change your weapons' movesets and capabilities. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to effectively utilize this powerful mechanic.
Understanding Ashes of War
Ashes of War are essentially weapon upgrades that alter your weapon's attacks, adding unique effects and abilities. They're not just about raw damage; they can change your playstyle entirely, offering options for everything from straightforward damage boosts to powerful status effects and elemental attacks. Understanding which Ash of War best suits your build and playstyle is key to success in the Lands Between.
Key Aspects of Ashes of War:
- Weapon Arts: Each Ash of War grants a unique weapon art, a special attack activated by holding down L2/LT. These range from devastating area-of-effect attacks to defensive maneuvers.
- Scaling: The effectiveness of an Ash of War often scales with various stats like Strength, Dexterity, Faith, or Intelligence. Consider your character's build when selecting an Ash.
- Requirement: Some Ashes of War have specific stat requirements. You won't be able to equip an Ash if your stats don't meet the minimum requirements.
- Affinity: Ashes of War also change your weapon's affinity, impacting damage type and scaling. This can be a significant buff to your overall damage output.
How to Equip and Use Ashes of War
The process is relatively straightforward, but here's a step-by-step guide:
- Obtain Ashes of War: You'll find Ashes of War scattered throughout the Lands Between, often as rewards for defeating challenging enemies or exploring hidden areas. Some are also purchased from specific merchants.
- Access the Weapon Menu: Open your inventory and select the weapon you wish to modify.
- Select "Ashes of War": Choose the "Ashes of War" option to view your currently available Ashes.
- Choose and Equip: Select the Ash of War you want to apply to your weapon and confirm.
- Using Your Weapon Art: Once equipped, hold down L2/LT to activate your weapon's new Weapon Art. Mastering the timing and application of this attack is crucial.
Strategically Choosing Your Ashes of War
Choosing the right Ash of War is crucial. Don't just equip the first one you find! Consider these factors:
- Your Playstyle: Are you a fast-paced, aggressive player? Or do you prefer a more defensive, strategic approach? The Ash of War should complement your preferred tactics.
- Weapon Type: Certain Ashes of War are better suited for specific weapon types. Experiment to see what works best.
- Enemy Weaknesses: Understanding enemy weaknesses will help you select the most effective Ash of War for the encounter.
- Build Synergy: The Ash of War should synergize with your character's overall stats and build.
Advanced Techniques and Tips
- Experimentation is Key: Don't be afraid to try different Ashes of War on different weapons to discover what works best for you.
- Upgrade Your Ashes: Some Ashes of War can be upgraded at certain locations, enhancing their effectiveness.
- Consider Your Build: Your stat distribution significantly impacts which Ashes of War are most effective.
Mastering Ashes of War in Elden Ring is a journey of experimentation and discovery. By understanding their mechanics and strategically choosing the right ones, you'll significantly improve your combat prowess and overall chances of success.
