On June 20th, 2024, a major DLC for the game Elden Ring, titled Shadow of the Erdtree, was released.

In this title, we are transported to the Land of Shadow and gradually uncover the mysteries of the demigod Miquella and learn the secrets of the world presented in the game. Just a few days after its release, Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree received positive reviews and recognition among gaming fans. The game is a highly elaborate action RPG, where character development and skill-building are essential.

However, everyone has to start somewhere! Are you part of the group of beginners who have just started their adventure with Elden Ring and its fantastic expansion?

Today, we present you with 5 great weapons to get early in Shadow of the Erdtree and a few tips on how to find them!

5 Weapons
5 Good Weapons to Get Early, Image credit: FromSoftware

1. Beast Claw (weapon)

The Beast Claw, of course, belongs to the type of beast claw fists weapons that we could find in the base version of the game. This weapon allows for slash attacks that cause blood loss buildup. Additionally, it can be upgraded with the help of Ashes of War. Its statistics:

Attack:

  • Phy 98
  • Mag 0
  • Fire 0
  • Light 0
  • Holy 0
  • Crit 100

Guard:

  • Phy 35.0
  • Mag 20.0
  • Fire 20.0
  • Light 20.0
  • Holy 20.0
  • Boost 20

Obtaining them is straightforward. Head to Gravesite Plains to the forest (southeast of the Gravesite Plain Site of Grace). There you will find a hostile NPC named Logur the Beast Claw. After defeating him, you can loot this weapon.

2. Black Steel Greathammer

This is a type of heavy weapon that scales primarily with Strength, Dexterity, and Faith, and is a good weapon for Faith builds. The statistics are as follows:

Attack:

  • Phy 140
  • Mag 0
  • Fire 0
  • Light 0
  • Holy 42
  • Crit 100

Guard:

  • Phy 72.0
  • Mag 38.0
  • Fire 38.0
  • Light 38.0
  • Holy 45.0
  • Boost 47

To obtain it, head down the hill from Gravesite Plains to the Church of Consolation. There, you will find one of the Black Knights, who will drop this weapon after being defeated.

3. Backhand Blade

And now, a quick and light weapon which scales primarily with Strength and Dexterity and is a great choice for Agile builds. Its statistics are as follows:

Attack:

  • Phy 105
  • Mag 0
  • Fire 0
  • Light 0
  • Holy 0
  • Crit 100

Guard:

  • Phy 40.0
  • Mag 30.0
  • Fire 30.0
  • Light 30.0
  • Holy 30.0
  • Boost 15

Obtaining this blade is much easier than the two previously mentioned weapons. From the Church of Consolation, head north along the base of the mountain to the Inquisitor enemies area of Gravesite Plain. There you will find a small chapel/pavilion. Just behind the coffin will be the Backhand Blade.

4. Greatsword of Solitude

Again, a type of heavy weapon, ideal for hardcore melee combat enthusiasts. It scales primarily with Strength and is a good weapon for Strength builds. The Greatsword of Solitude can be upgraded by Somber Smithing Stones. The statistics are as follows:

Attack:

  • Phy 120
  • Mag 0
  • Fire 0
  • Light 0
  • Holy 0
  • Crit 100

Guard:

  • Phy 89.0
  • Mag 40.0
  • Fire 40.0
  • Light 40.0
  • Holy 40.0
  • Boost 54

To obtain it, head directly west from the chapel until you find a location called the Western Nameless Mausoleum. There, you’ll face an optional boss named Blackgaol Knight. After defeating him, you’ll acquire the Greatsword of Solitude as well as a good armor set – the Set of Solitude.

5. The Great Katana

A great weapon, not just for beginners – many players stick with it for a long time! It scales primarily with Dexterity, Arcane, and Strength and is a good weapon for Dexterity builds. Interestingly, the Great Katana is somewhat heavier than other weapons of its type, but it has greater range and excellent damage – 145. It can be upgraded using Smithing Stones.

Attack:

  • Phy 145
  • Mag 0
  • Fire 0
  • Light 0
  • Holy 0
  • Crit 100

Guard:

  • Phy 60.0
  • Mag 30.0
  • Fire 30.0
  • Light 30.0
  • Holy 30.0
  • Boost 35

To obtain it, you need to head north through the Three Path Cross site of Grace, find a location called Abandoned Ailing Village, and go a bit west. The Great Katana can be found on the lake, next to the sleeping Ghostflame Dragon.

Sources:

  • https://eldenring.wiki.fextralife.com/Great+Katana
  • https://www.ign.com/wikis/elden-ring/Greatsword_of_Solitude
  • https://eldenring.wiki.fextralife.com