Introduction

Elden Ring is one of the most rewarding — and punishing — open-world games ever made. FromSoftware's masterwork drops you into the Lands Between with little hand-holding, and that's part of its magic. But that can also make the early hours overwhelming. This guide covers the most important strategies and priorities for new players.

Choosing Your Starting Class

Your starting class determines your initial stats and equipment, but in Elden Ring, every class can eventually be built into anything. That said, here are the best choices for different playstyles:

  • Vagabond — Best for beginners. High Vigor and Strength, starts with solid armor and a longsword.
  • Astrologer — Great for magic users. Powerful early sorceries can keep enemies at range.
  • Wretch — For experienced Soulsborne veterans who want a challenge and total build flexibility.
  • Samurai — Strong all-rounder with a powerful bow for ranged options and a reliable katana.

The Golden Rules of Survival

  1. Explore before you fight bosses. The open world means you can almost always find better gear, level up more, or discover a Spirit Ash summon to help before tackling a difficult boss.
  2. Level Vigor first. Your HP pool is your most important stat early on. Aim to get Vigor to at least 40 before focusing on offensive stats.
  3. Use Spirit Ashes. Summoning spirit companions during boss fights isn't cheating — it's a core mechanic. The Lone Wolf Ashes (given to you early) are excellent.
  4. Don't hoard Smithing Stones. Upgrading your weapon is more impactful than leveling up. A +4 or +5 weapon makes early areas far more manageable.
  5. Roll into attacks, not away. Dodge towards and through most enemy strikes — it puts you in a better position to counter-attack.

Early Game Priorities

1. Reach the Church of Elleh

From the starting area (Stranded Graveyard), head north to the Church of Elleh. You'll find a merchant and a Site of Grace. This is your first safe hub.

2. Get Torrent (Your Horse)

Speak with Melina after resting at three Sites of Grace. She'll give you the Spectral Steed Whistle to summon Torrent, your mount. Mounted travel is faster and lets you escape dangerous encounters easily.

3. Farm Runes in Limgrave

The sleeping dragon near Fort Faroth in Caelid can be farmed for a massive Rune boost. It won't wake up if you use arrows or crouching melee from behind. A great way to jump several levels early.

4. Prioritize Flask Upgrades

Golden Seeds (found near golden trees) upgrade your flask charges. Sacred Tears (found in churches) upgrade how much HP/FP each flask restores. Both are essential to find early.

Key Tips to Remember

  • Always interact with every Site of Grace — they act as checkpoints and fast travel points.
  • Read item descriptions. Elden Ring tells its story through them.
  • If you keep dying in an area, it's a hint to go explore somewhere else and come back stronger.
  • Two-handing your weapon adds 50% to your Strength stat for damage calculations.

Final Thought

Elden Ring rewards patience and curiosity. Every death is a lesson. Take your time, explore freely, and don't be afraid to look up lore or tips when you're stuck. The Lands Between are vast — and unforgettable.