The phrase represents a common search query for optimal armaments catering to Strength-based character builds within the Elden Ring video game. This query directs individuals to the online platform Reddit, where users discuss, evaluate, and recommend weapons known for high damage output and scaling primarily with the Strength attribute. The query itself consists of several nouns, adjectives, and a proper noun functioning as a unified search term.
The significance of finding effective Strength weapons lies in their capacity to deliver substantial physical damage, enabling players to overcome challenging encounters and progress through the game more efficiently. The Reddit community provides a valuable resource for players to leverage the collective experiences and insights of others, mitigating the need for extensive independent experimentation. Historically, online forums and communities have served as central hubs for sharing gameplay strategies and equipment recommendations across various games, and this instance is a modern example.
Therefore, this analysis will examine the types of Strength weapons frequently highlighted within Reddit discussions, consider the factors that contribute to their popularity, and identify some commonly recommended options, bearing in mind the dynamic nature of player preferences and game updates.
1. Damage Output
Damage output constitutes a primary criterion in evaluating Strength weapons within the Elden Ring context, particularly within discussions found on Reddit. The search query implies an interest in identifying armaments that inflict substantial harm per hit or per unit of time. High damage weapons enable players to defeat enemies more quickly, conserve resources such as healing flasks, and overcome challenging bosses. This is a core incentive driving the aforementioned search query.
The connection is causal. The weapons frequently recommended in the “elden ring best strength weapons reddit” discussions are those that demonstrably exhibit high damage output, either through base attack power, scaling with the Strength stat, or a combination of both. For example, weapons such as the Greatsword, the Ruins Greatsword, or the Grafted Blade Greatsword are often mentioned due to their significant physical attack values and their potential for further damage amplification through Strength scaling. These weapons exemplify the direct link between damage output and their prevalence in player recommendations.
In conclusion, damage output serves as a pivotal factor influencing weapon selection. Player-generated content on platforms like Reddit directly reflect community consensus on the most effective options for Strength-focused builds. While other factors like weapon skills and status effects play a role, achieving high damage output remains a central objective for many players, explaining why the search term is prevalent in discussions related to the optimal use of Strength weapons within Elden Ring.
2. Scaling Attributes
Scaling attributes represent a core mechanic directly influencing weapon effectiveness within Elden Ring, and are therefore a significant component in discussions surrounding optimal Strength weapons on platforms like Reddit. The term relates to how a weapon’s damage increases proportionally with specific character statistics. For Strength-focused builds, weapons with high Strength scaling are typically favored, contributing to the prevalence of “elden ring best strength weapons reddit” searches.
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Scaling Grades and Their Impact
Elden Ring utilizes a letter-grade system (S, A, B, C, D, E) to denote the scaling proficiency of a weapon with a particular attribute. “S” represents the best scaling, indicating the greatest damage increase per point invested in the corresponding stat, while “E” indicates minimal scaling. A weapon with ‘A’ scaling in Strength will provide a substantially greater damage boost as the Strength stat is raised compared to a weapon with ‘D’ scaling, all other factors being equal. This disparity directly influences the perceived value of a weapon among Strength-focused players, driving recommendations on “elden ring best strength weapons reddit”.
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Strength Scaling Optimization
Players seeking the “elden ring best strength weapons reddit” results typically aim to maximize damage output. This often involves selecting weapons with ‘A’ or ‘S’ Strength scaling and investing heavily in the Strength attribute. Optimizing Strength scaling ensures that the chosen weapon’s damage potential is fully realized, enabling players to overcome difficult encounters more efficiently. For instance, a player with 80 Strength wielding a weapon with ‘S’ scaling will inflict significantly more damage than a player with the same Strength using a weapon with ‘C’ scaling.
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Weapon Scaling Trade-offs
Weapons rarely scale exclusively with a single attribute. Many Strength weapons also exhibit scaling with other attributes like Dexterity or Faith. However, the distribution of scaling grades across different attributes can influence weapon selection. A weapon with high Strength scaling but low Dexterity scaling may be preferred by players focusing solely on Strength, even if it means sacrificing some potential damage output that could be gained by investing in Dexterity. The “elden ring best strength weapons reddit” discussions often involve comparing weapons with similar overall damage potential but differing scaling profiles.
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Infusions and Scaling Adjustments
Elden Ring permits the application of Ashes of War to weapons, altering their scaling attributes. Certain infusions, such as “Heavy,” prioritize Strength scaling, often at the expense of other attributes. This can transform a weapon with moderate Strength scaling into a powerhouse for Strength-focused builds, enhancing its appeal and increasing the likelihood of it being recommended within “elden ring best strength weapons reddit” threads. Conversely, infusions targeting other attributes can diminish Strength scaling, making the weapon less desirable for Strength-based players.
In essence, the scaling attribute of a weapon dictates its suitability for a specific character build. The search for “elden ring best strength weapons reddit” fundamentally stems from a desire to identify weapons that synergize effectively with a Strength-focused playstyle. The letter grade assigned to Strength scaling, the distribution of scaling across multiple attributes, and the ability to modify scaling through infusions are all crucial considerations for players seeking to optimize their Strength-based builds, making it a recurring topic within online discussions.
3. Weapon Skills
Weapon Skills, also known as Ashes of War, represent a critical component in determining the efficacy and popularity of Strength weapons within Elden Ring, thereby influencing discussions and recommendations found through searches like “elden ring best strength weapons reddit.” These skills are unique weapon-specific or customizable abilities that add tactical depth and versatility to combat.
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Unique Weapon Skill Impact
Certain Strength weapons possess innate, non-changeable weapon skills that significantly enhance their value. For example, the Grafted Blade Greatsword features the “Oath of Vengeance” skill, temporarily boosting attack power and poise. This unique skill contributes to its popularity and frequent mention in “elden ring best strength weapons reddit” discussions. The presence of a powerful, unique skill can compensate for other potential drawbacks, such as weight or slower attack speed, making the weapon a viable and desirable option.
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Ash of War Customization and Strength Scaling
Many Strength weapons can be customized with Ashes of War, allowing players to imbue them with new skills and alter their scaling attributes. Certain Ashes of War, like “Lion’s Claw,” provide powerful, Strength-scaling attacks that can be applied to a variety of weapons. The ability to customize a Strength weapon with a powerful skill that further enhances its damage output or utility directly influences its ranking and discussion within the “elden ring best strength weapons reddit” community. The flexibility to adapt a weapon to a specific playstyle through skill customization significantly broadens its appeal.
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Skill Synergy and Build Optimization
The effectiveness of a Weapon Skill is not solely determined by its raw damage output but also by its synergy with the player’s overall build and combat strategy. A Strength weapon with a skill that provides hyper armor (resistance to interruption during attacks) can be invaluable for trading blows with powerful enemies. The interplay between the weapon’s inherent stats, its scaling attributes, and the utility of its Weapon Skill determines its overall effectiveness. Discussions within “elden ring best strength weapons reddit” often focus on identifying weapon and skill combinations that maximize damage potential, survivability, or tactical advantages.
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FP Cost and Skill Frequency
The cost of using a Weapon Skill, measured in Focus Points (FP), also factors into its overall value. Skills with high FP costs may be less desirable, even if powerful, as they limit the frequency of use. A Strength weapon with a moderately powerful skill that has a low FP cost may be preferable for sustained combat. Reddit discussions surrounding “elden ring best strength weapons reddit” will often consider the FP efficiency of a particular weapon’s skill, balancing its power with its usability over extended encounters.
In conclusion, Weapon Skills play a crucial role in shaping the perception and viability of Strength weapons within Elden Ring. Unique skills, customization options, synergy with character builds, and FP costs all contribute to a weapon’s overall effectiveness and its likelihood of being recommended within the “elden ring best strength weapons reddit” community. The strategic application of Weapon Skills transforms a weapon from a simple damage-dealing tool into a versatile instrument of combat, significantly impacting player experiences and preferences.
4. Weight Factor
The weight factor is a significant determinant influencing the selection and perceived effectiveness of Strength weapons in Elden Ring. Its impact resonates within online discussions, shaping the recommendations found when searching “elden ring best strength weapons reddit.” The encumbrance system necessitates careful consideration of equipment load, directly affecting character mobility and combat capabilities.
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Equip Load Thresholds and Mobility
Elden Ring features distinct equip load categories: Light, Medium, Heavy, and Overloaded. Light equip load grants superior mobility, enabling quicker rolls and faster recovery. Medium equip load offers a balance between mobility and protection. Heavy equip load reduces mobility, resulting in slower rolls and reduced invulnerability frames. Overloaded equip load severely restricts movement, preventing rolling altogether. The weight of a Strength weapon contributes to the overall equip load, influencing the player’s mobility and therefore, their combat effectiveness. Lighter Strength weapons may be favored over heavier alternatives if they allow the player to maintain a more agile state.
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Strength Stat Investment and Equip Load Capacity
The Strength stat not only enhances damage output with Strength-scaling weapons but also increases the maximum equip load capacity. This provides a direct trade-off: investing in Strength allows players to wield heavier weapons without sacrificing mobility. The decision to invest heavily in Strength to accommodate heavier weapons is a common topic within “elden ring best strength weapons reddit” discussions. Players evaluate whether the increased damage potential of a heavier weapon outweighs the stat investment required to maintain a manageable equip load.
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Weight Reduction Strategies and Talismans
Players employ various strategies to mitigate the impact of heavy weapons on their equip load. Talismans, such as the Erdtree’s Favor and the Arsenal Charm, increase maximum equip load, allowing players to equip heavier armor and weapons without becoming encumbered. These weight-reducing talismans are frequently recommended in “elden ring best strength weapons reddit” threads as a means of optimizing Strength-based builds. The utilization of these talismans represents a compromise: sacrificing other potentially beneficial talisman slots to accommodate heavier equipment.
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Weapon Weight vs. Stat Requirements
The “elden ring best strength weapons reddit” discussions often involve comparisons between weapons with similar damage potential but differing weight and stat requirements. A weapon with lower weight but higher Dexterity requirements may be preferred over a heavier weapon with lower Dexterity requirements if the player’s build prioritizes Strength and minimizes Dexterity investment. The overall efficiency of a weapon, considering its weight, stat requirements, and damage output, ultimately determines its ranking and recommendation within the community.
In summary, the weight factor is intrinsically linked to the viability of Strength weapons in Elden Ring. Equip load thresholds, Strength stat investment, weight reduction strategies, and the balance between weight and stat requirements all contribute to the decision-making process. The recommendations found when searching “elden ring best strength weapons reddit” reflect a complex interplay of these factors, highlighting the importance of considering weight alongside damage, scaling, and weapon skills when selecting optimal armaments for a Strength-focused build.
5. Status Effects
Status effects are an integral aspect of combat in Elden Ring, exerting a notable influence on weapon selection and consequently, the discussions that populate platforms like Reddit under the search term “elden ring best strength weapons reddit”. These effects introduce layers of tactical consideration, supplementing raw damage output with debuffs and conditions that can significantly alter the course of an engagement.
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Bleed Buildup and Hemorrhage
Bleed is a status effect that, upon sufficient buildup, triggers a hemorrhage, inflicting a burst of significant damage to the target. Certain Strength weapons naturally inflict bleed buildup, or can be infused to do so. The Great Stars hammer, for example, inherently causes bleed buildup. Weapons capable of reliably inflicting hemorrhage are highly valued, particularly in “elden ring best strength weapons reddit” discussions, as they can provide a substantial damage advantage against enemies with high health pools. The strategic application of bleed can circumvent conventional damage resistance.
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Frostbite and its Debilitating Effects
Frostbite, another notable status effect, accumulates over time and, when triggered, deals damage and reduces the target’s damage absorption and stamina recovery speed. Strength weapons, when imbued with frost, can inflict this debilitating condition. The Icerind Hatchet, while technically a Strength/Dexterity weapon, exemplifies the utility of frost buildup, contributing to its favorable reputation. The slowing effect of frostbite provides tactical advantages, allowing for easier dodging or follow-up attacks, thus enhancing the overall effectiveness of Strength-based builds, which are then frequently recommended on the platform.
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Poison and Rot for Gradual Damage
Poison and Rot are status effects that inflict damage over time. While not always prioritized in Strength builds due to the focus on immediate impact, certain Strength weapons can effectively utilize these effects, particularly against enemies vulnerable to their gradual damage. The ability to apply these status effects can offer strategic advantages in protracted engagements. The strategic use of these weapons are discussed, though less frequently, when “elden ring best strength weapons reddit” is searched.
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Stance Break and Critical Hits
While not a direct status effect in the same vein as bleed or frostbite, the ability to break an enemy’s stance and inflict a critical hit is heavily influenced by weapon type and attack patterns. Strength weapons, particularly colossal weapons and great hammers, excel at staggering enemies. This ability to consistently break stance allows for critical attacks, which can inflict substantial damage. This capability is a highly valued attribute and frequently discussed within “elden ring best strength weapons reddit” threads, as it offers a reliable means of dealing high damage to even heavily armored foes.
The strategic application of status effects supplements the raw damage output of Strength weapons, enhancing their overall effectiveness in various combat scenarios. The “elden ring best strength weapons reddit” discussions often reflect the value players place on weapons capable of inflicting these conditions, particularly bleed and frostbite, as they can provide a significant tactical advantage against challenging enemies and bosses, creating a more diverse and engaging combat experience. The integration of these effects into Strength-based builds represents a shift from simple damage dealing to a more nuanced and strategic approach to combat, expanding the tactical possibilities within the game.
6. Weapon Speed
Weapon speed, defined as the rate at which a weapon executes its attack animations, constitutes a critical factor influencing its overall effectiveness in Elden Ring. The search term “elden ring best strength weapons reddit” often reflects considerations of weapon speed, as it directly impacts damage output per unit of time, enemy stagger potential, and player vulnerability during attacks. A slower weapon, while potentially delivering higher single-hit damage, exposes the player to a longer recovery period, increasing the risk of enemy counterattacks. Conversely, faster weapons allow for more frequent attacks and quicker dodges, but may inflict less damage per hit. The balance between damage and attack speed is a key element in the selection process for Strength-based builds.
The community-driven discussions within “elden ring best strength weapons reddit” typically acknowledge the trade-offs inherent in weapon speed. For example, Colossal Weapons, known for their extremely high damage and stagger potential, suffer from slow attack animations, necessitating careful timing and strategic positioning. In contrast, Greatswords offer a more balanced approach, providing a reasonable attack speed alongside respectable damage output. The preference for a particular weapon speed often depends on individual playstyle, enemy type, and the overall build strategy. Some players prioritize maximizing single-hit damage, while others favor a more rapid and aggressive attack pattern. The effectiveness of a particular weapon speed is also influenced by factors such as poise and the ability to trade blows with enemies. Weapons with faster attack speeds may be more effective against highly mobile enemies, while slower weapons may excel against heavily armored opponents who are susceptible to stagger.
Ultimately, the “best” weapon speed for a Strength build in Elden Ring is subjective and contingent upon the player’s preferences and combat style. While damage and scaling remain primary considerations, weapon speed provides a crucial dimension, shaping the risk-reward dynamic of each attack. The ongoing discourse within “elden ring best strength weapons reddit” underscores the importance of evaluating weapon speed in conjunction with other factors to determine the optimal armament for a given player. This comprehensive assessment contributes to a more nuanced understanding of weapon viability, allowing players to make informed decisions that align with their individual strengths and weaknesses.
7. Community Tier-Lists
Community tier-lists represent aggregated player opinions on weapon effectiveness within Elden Ring, forming a significant, albeit subjective, component of the information landscape accessed through the search query “elden ring best strength weapons reddit”. These lists, typically found on Reddit and related online platforms, categorize weapons into tiers based on perceived power, ease of use, and overall utility in various game scenarios. The prevalence of this search term stems, in part, from a desire to shortcut independent experimentation, relying instead on the collective experience of the player base.
The influence of community tier-lists is considerable. Weapons consistently ranked highly on these lists, such as the Greatsword or specific Colossal Weapons with particular Ashes of War, often become de facto recommendations. This influence stems from a combination of factors: widespread adoption of successful strategies, confirmation bias reinforcing existing perceptions, and a natural inclination to trust collective judgment. However, it is important to acknowledge inherent limitations. Tier lists often reflect the meta at a specific point in time, are subject to personal bias, and may not account for individual playstyles or specific encounter contexts. For example, a weapon considered “S-tier” in a general PvE context might be less effective in PvP, or against specific boss encounters with unique vulnerabilities. Therefore, while community tier-lists offer a valuable starting point, reliance on them without critical evaluation can be misleading.
In conclusion, community tier-lists provide a readily accessible and influential resource for players seeking optimal Strength weapons in Elden Ring, as reflected in the frequency of the “elden ring best strength weapons reddit” query. However, a balanced perspective is crucial. While these lists offer a convenient aggregation of player experiences, their inherent subjectivity and potential for obsolescence necessitate critical evaluation. Effective utilization of these resources involves understanding their limitations and integrating them with personal experimentation and an awareness of individual playstyle preferences to optimize weapon selection for Strength-based builds.
Frequently Asked Questions about Strength Weapons in Elden Ring (as Discussed on Reddit)
This section addresses common queries regarding Strength-based weapons in Elden Ring, drawing upon prevalent discussions within the Reddit community. The aim is to provide clear, concise, and informative answers based on prevailing player experiences and analyses.
Question 1: What constitutes a “Strength weapon” in Elden Ring?
A Strength weapon is typically defined by its high Strength stat requirement and its scaling predominantly, or exclusively, with the Strength attribute. These weapons often exhibit high physical damage output and excel in staggering enemies.
Question 2: Are Colossal Weapons always the “best” Strength weapons?
Colossal Weapons offer substantial damage and stagger potential but are characterized by slow attack speed and high weight. Their effectiveness depends on individual playstyle and tolerance for reduced mobility. They are not universally superior and require strategic utilization.
Question 3: How does scaling affect the performance of Strength weapons?
Scaling directly impacts a weapon’s damage output based on the character’s Strength stat. Weapons with ‘A’ or ‘S’ scaling in Strength gain significantly more damage per point invested compared to weapons with lower scaling grades.
Question 4: Can Ashes of War improve the effectiveness of Strength weapons?
Ashes of War provide customization options, allowing weapons to be infused with new skills and altered scaling attributes. Certain Ashes of War enhance Strength scaling or provide powerful Strength-based attacks, thereby augmenting a weapon’s overall performance.
Question 5: Does weapon weight significantly impact Strength-based builds?
Weapon weight contributes to the character’s equip load, influencing mobility. Maintaining a manageable equip load is crucial for effective dodging and combat maneuverability. Talismans and Strength stat investment can mitigate the negative effects of heavy weapons.
Question 6: How reliable are community tier-lists for determining the best Strength weapons?
Community tier-lists offer a convenient aggregation of player opinions but are inherently subjective and may not account for individual playstyles or specific encounter contexts. They should be viewed as a starting point for exploration, not as definitive guides.
In conclusion, selecting the optimal Strength weapon in Elden Ring requires careful consideration of various factors, including scaling, weapon skills, weight, and individual playstyle. While community resources provide valuable insights, personal experimentation remains essential.
This concludes the FAQ section. The next section will summarize the key findings discussed herein.
Elden Ring Strength Weapon Optimization
This section consolidates actionable strategies derived from community discussions surrounding effective Strength weapon usage in Elden Ring. These strategies, curated from platforms where the term “elden ring best strength weapons reddit” is frequently used, aim to refine weapon selection and combat techniques.
Tip 1: Prioritize Scaling: Select weapons exhibiting ‘A’ or ‘S’ Strength scaling for maximized damage output per point invested in the Strength stat. The Greatsword, when infused with the “Heavy” affinity, exemplifies this principle.
Tip 2: Weapon Skill Synergies: Evaluate the utility of Weapon Skills in conjunction with the overall build. Skills that enhance damage, provide hyper armor, or inflict status effects can significantly amplify weapon effectiveness.
Tip 3: Manage Equip Load: Balance weapon weight with mobility requirements. Invest in Strength to increase equip load capacity or utilize talismans like Erdtree’s Favor to mitigate the impact of heavy armaments. The goal is to maintain medium roll agility.
Tip 4: Inflict Status Effects: Integrate weapons capable of inflicting bleed or frostbite for additional damage and tactical advantages. The Great Stars hammer, with its inherent bleed buildup, serves as a relevant example.
Tip 5: Exploit Stance Break: Employ Strength weapons to consistently break enemy stance, enabling critical hits. Colossal weapons and great hammers are particularly effective at achieving this outcome.
Tip 6: Adapt to Enemy Type: Tailor weapon selection to the specific enemy encountered. Faster weapons are advantageous against agile opponents, while slower weapons excel against heavily armored foes.
Tip 7: Experiment with Ashes of War: Customize weapons with Ashes of War to refine scaling attributes and augment weapon skills. The “Lion’s Claw” Ash of War provides a potent Strength-scaling attack.
Implementing these strategies, informed by community consensus and practical gameplay experience, enhances the effectiveness of Strength-based builds and optimizes weapon utilization within Elden Ring.
These tips provide a foundation for maximizing the potential of Strength weapons in Elden Ring. The subsequent conclusion will encapsulate the key considerations discussed throughout this analysis.
Conclusion
This exploration of the search term “elden ring best strength weapons reddit” highlights the complex interplay of factors influencing weapon selection for Strength-focused builds. Scaling attributes, weapon skills, weight management, status effects, weapon speed, and community tier-lists all contribute to the decision-making process. Community discussions, while valuable, offer subjective perspectives that must be integrated with individual gameplay preferences and a critical understanding of game mechanics.
Ultimately, optimization of Strength weapons requires a holistic approach. Players are encouraged to conduct independent experimentation, tailoring weapon selection to specific encounters and preferred combat styles. As game updates and community strategies evolve, continuous adaptation remains essential for maximizing the effectiveness of Strength-based builds in Elden Ring.
