Elden Ring Samurai Walkthrough: A Strategic Guide to Mastering the katana
Elden Ring, the latest masterpiece from FromSoftware, has captivated players worldwide with its vast open world, intricate lore, and challenging gameplay. Among the various builds and playstyles, the Samurai build stands out as a popular choice, combining elegance and lethality. This walkthrough is designed to help you navigate the Lands Between as a katana-wielding warrior, offering strategic insights and practical tips to enhance your journey.
Choosing the Right Starting Class
When embarking on your adventure, the Samurai class is the most fitting choice. This class begins with a katana and a longbow, perfectly aligning with the traditional Japanese warrior aesthetic. The Samurai class also starts with high Dexterity, which is crucial for wielding katanas effectively. If you prefer a more customized experience, the Vagabond class can also be molded into a Samurai build with the right equipment and stat allocation.
Understanding the Core Mechanics
Mastering the Samurai playstyle requires a deep understanding of Elden Ring’s combat mechanics. Here are the key elements to focus on:
Posture System: Unlike previous FromSoftware games, Elden Ring introduces a posture system that rewards patience and timing. A well-timed block or dodge can lead to a devastating counterattack, which is especially satisfying with a katana.
Ashes of War: These powerful abilities can significantly enhance your combat style. For a Samurai build, Lion’s Claw and Flaming Strike are excellent choices, offering both offensive and defensive capabilities.
Stamina Management: Katanas are fast weapons but consume stamina quickly. Make sure to manage your stamina effectively to avoid leaving yourself vulnerable.
Crafting the Perfect Build
Building a formidable Samurai requires careful stat allocation and equipment choices. Here’s a breakdown of what you need:
Stats:
Dexterity: This is your primary stat, as katanas scale heavily with Dexterity. Aim for at least 40 points by the mid-game.
Endurance: Invest in Endurance to increase stamina and equip heavier armor without sacrificing mobility.
Mind/Vigor: These stats are less critical but can be useful for certain Ashes of War or incantations.
Weapons:
Katana: The Longsword or Nagakiba are excellent starting points. As you progress, consider upgrading to the Claymore or Greatsword for more versatility.
Shield: A medium shield with 100% block is essential for a balanced playstyle. The Erdtree Greatshield is a fantastic late-game option.
Armor: Opt for a mix of light and medium armor to maintain mobility while offering decent protection. The Raging Wolf Set is a stylish and functional choice.
Exploring the Lands Between
The Lands Between are vast and filled with secrets. As a Samurai, you’ll want to explore areas that complement your playstyle:
Limgrave: Start your journey here to get accustomed to the controls and enemy patterns. The Dragon-Burnt Ruins are an excellent spot to test your katana.
Weeping Peninsula: This area is teeming with enemies that will challenge your reflexes and strategy. The Tombsward Cave is particularly rewarding for Samurai players.
Altus Plateau: By the time you reach this late-game area, your Samurai build should be in its prime. The Erdtree Sanctuary is a must-visit, offering both lore and loot.
Advanced Strategies for Mastery
To truly excel as a Samurai, incorporate these advanced strategies into your gameplay:
Parrying and Counters: Master the art of parrying to turn the tide of battle in your favor. A well-timed parry followed by a counterattack is both rewarding and effective.
Ashes of War Rotation: Experiment with different Ashes of War to create a fluid combat style. For example, use Flaming Strike to apply pressure and Lion’s Claw to finish off staggered enemies.
Exploration and Loot: Don’t neglect exploration. Hidden caves, optional dungeons, and off-the-beaten-path areas often contain valuable weapons, armor, and talismans.
Case Study: Defeating Margit, the Fell Omen
Margit, the first major boss in Elden Ring, can be a challenging encounter for new players. Here’s how a Samurai build can approach this fight:
Keep Your Distance: Margit is aggressive, so maintain a safe distance to avoid her rapid attacks. Use your bow to whittle down her health from afar.
Look for Openings: After her