The discussion regarding the optimal choice between the Vacuum Slice and Storm Blade weapon skills in Elden Ring’s New Game (NG) cycle is a recurring topic within the game’s community, particularly on platforms like Reddit. These skills, both Ashes of War, offer distinct advantages and disadvantages depending on a player’s build, playstyle, and the enemies encountered. For instance, Vacuum Slice provides ranged projectile damage, whereas Storm Blade delivers a quick, potent burst of damage at close to mid-range.
The significance of this choice stems from the limited resources and challenges presented in a fresh playthrough. Efficient resource management, optimized damage output, and adaptability to diverse enemy types are paramount for a smooth NG experience. Historically, players have debated the merits of each skill, weighing their damage potential against their FP (Focus Points) cost, range, and overall utility in various combat scenarios. Builds focused on Dexterity or Strength might find one skill more naturally suited, while Faith or Intelligence-based builds may favor alternative strategies entirely.
Therefore, an examination of the strengths and weaknesses of each skill, considering factors such as FP consumption, damage scaling, stagger potential, range, and the availability of upgrade materials during the early to mid-game, becomes crucial. A comparison of these aspects provides players with the necessary information to make an informed decision tailored to their specific character build and preferred combat approach. This involves understanding the skill’s effectiveness against different enemy types, its synergy with other equipment, and its overall impact on the player’s survivability and damage output throughout the game’s initial stages.
1. Damage Type
The damage type inflicted by Vacuum Slice and Storm Blade significantly impacts their effectiveness in Elden Ring’s New Game (NG) cycle, a recurring discussion on Reddit. This attribute determines how the skill interacts with enemy defenses and resistances, influencing the overall damage output.
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Physical Damage Vulnerabilities
Many early-game enemies possess lower physical resistance, making Vacuum Slice and Storm Blade viable options. However, certain armored foes exhibit high physical defense, reducing the damage inflicted by these skills. The choice between the two skills becomes more critical when facing enemies with varied physical resistances, necessitating strategic considerations.
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Split Damage Considerations
While both skills primarily deal physical damage, nuanced differences exist. Some iterations of Storm Blade can be infused with elemental affinities, modifying the damage type to include fire, lightning, or other elements. This split damage can be advantageous against enemies weak to specific elements but less effective against those with high elemental resistance. Vacuum Slice maintains consistent physical damage, potentially offering reliable performance against a broader range of foes.
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Armor and Absorption
Enemy armor directly reduces physical damage inflicted. Higher armor values necessitate strategies to bypass or mitigate this reduction. The Vacuum Slice projectile may encounter partial deflection based on enemy armor, while Storm Blade’s direct, close-range attack can potentially bypass some armor effects. Understanding these mechanics is crucial for optimizing damage output against heavily armored enemies in early NG.
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Critical Hit Potential and Stance Breaking
Neither Vacuum Slice nor Storm Blade inherently deals critical damage without prior staggering of the enemy. Building up to a Stagger is key. The stagger potential of each skill affects the chance to perform a critical hit. Enemies with high poise require significant stagger build-up. Deciding between the two ashes of war will largely depend on what other options the player uses as well as the playstyle they prefer to use.
The interplay between damage type, enemy resistances, and defensive stats determines the comparative effectiveness of Vacuum Slice and Storm Blade. Reddit discussions often highlight the importance of assessing enemy vulnerabilities and resistances to optimize skill selection during a New Game run. Adaptability and strategic weapon choices become essential for overcoming diverse enemy encounters.
2. FP Efficiency
FP Efficiency, the ratio of Focus Point consumption to damage output, is a crucial consideration when choosing between Vacuum Slice and Storm Blade for an Elden Ring New Game (NG) playthrough. Discussions on Reddit often highlight FP management as a limiting factor, especially in the early game when FP reserves are scarce and opportunities for replenishment are limited. Skill choice can therefore significantly impact survivability and sustained damage output.
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Base FP Cost and Skill Frequency
Each skill possesses a distinct base FP cost per use. Vacuum Slice typically has a slightly lower FP cost, allowing for more frequent use before requiring FP replenishment. Conversely, Storm Blade may inflict greater immediate damage but demands a higher FP investment per activation. The relative frequency with which a player intends to use either skill directly correlates with the importance of FP efficiency. A player favoring rapid, repeated attacks may find Vacuum Slice more sustainable, while those prioritizing burst damage may accept Storm Blade’s higher cost.
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FP Regeneration and Flask Management
FP regeneration, achieved through items or Talismans, mitigates the impact of high FP costs. However, during the early NG, access to such resources is often restricted. Efficient flask management becomes paramount. Allocating flasks between HP (Health Points) and FP restoration requires careful consideration. Choosing a skill with lower FP consumption alleviates pressure on flask allocation, potentially providing greater survivability through increased HP flask availability. Reddit discussions frequently address optimal flask distribution strategies in conjunction with skill choice.
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Damage Scaling and FP Investment Returns
The return on FP investment is determined by how effectively a skill’s damage scales with character stats and weapon upgrades. A skill with poor damage scaling may necessitate excessive FP expenditure to achieve adequate damage output, rendering it less efficient in the long run. Ideally, the chosen skill should provide a substantial damage increase relative to its FP cost, optimizing overall resource utilization. Players often consult Reddit for damage scaling data and comparisons to determine which skill provides the best return on FP investment at various character levels.
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Combat Duration and Encounter Types
The relative importance of FP efficiency varies depending on the anticipated combat duration and encounter types. Prolonged boss fights or areas with numerous enemies necessitate greater FP conservation. Skills with high FP costs can quickly deplete resources, leaving players vulnerable. In contrast, short, burst-damage encounters may favor skills that prioritize immediate impact over sustained output. Players on Reddit often share experiences and recommendations regarding skill suitability for specific boss encounters and challenging areas, emphasizing the need for strategic skill selection based on the expected combat scenarios.
The interplay between base FP cost, regeneration capabilities, damage scaling, and encounter types dictates the overall FP efficiency of Vacuum Slice and Storm Blade. Ultimately, the optimal choice depends on the player’s individual playstyle, resource management skills, and the specific challenges encountered during the New Game playthrough. Reddit serves as a valuable resource for gathering insights and comparing experiences to inform this crucial decision.
3. Range Utility
Range utility, the capacity of a weapon skill to engage enemies at varying distances, forms a critical component of the “elden ring vacuum slice or storm blade for ng reddit” discussion. The effectiveness of each skill is directly tied to its usable range, impacting player safety, tactical options, and overall damage output across diverse combat scenarios in a New Game (NG) cycle. For instance, the Vacuum Slice ash of war provides projectile-based attacks, enabling engagement from a safe distance, a significant advantage when facing enemies with aggressive melee patterns or hazardous environmental conditions. Conversely, the Storm Blade ash of war requires close-to-mid-range proximity, demanding calculated aggression and precise timing to avoid taking damage. This difference in range dictates distinct playstyles and strategic approaches.
Reddit forums often host extensive debates regarding the practical applications of each skill’s range. Vacuum Slice finds utility in kiting enemies, dealing damage while maintaining a safe distance, particularly beneficial against slower, heavily armored opponents. Storm Blade, on the other hand, excels in quickly closing gaps and delivering burst damage to disrupt enemy attacks or exploit openings. The choice between these two skills hinges on the player’s preferred combat style and their ability to adapt to varied enemy behaviors and arena layouts. Successful utilization of range utility depends on factors such as enemy aggression, attack patterns, and the availability of cover or open space within the environment. The strategic deployment of each skill, factoring in its effective range, becomes crucial for maximizing its potential.
Ultimately, understanding the range utility of Vacuum Slice and Storm Blade is paramount for making an informed decision during an Elden Ring NG playthrough. The limited resources and heightened challenge necessitate careful consideration of each skill’s strengths and weaknesses, specifically regarding its ability to engage enemies at different ranges. The discussions on Reddit highlight the need to tailor weapon skill choices to individual playstyles, preferred combat tactics, and the specific challenges presented by the game’s various enemy encounters. Mastering range control and adapting to different combat scenarios based on each skill’s limitations are key to achieving success in Elden Ring’s initial playthrough.
4. Stagger Potential
Stagger potential represents a critical factor in the “elden ring vacuum slice or storm blade for ng reddit” discourse. This attribute, referring to a weapon skill’s capacity to interrupt enemy actions and induce a state of vulnerability, directly influences combat effectiveness, particularly during an initial playthrough of Elden Ring. The ability to consistently stagger enemies provides opportunities for critical hits, reduces incoming damage, and allows for control of the combat arena. The degree to which Vacuum Slice or Storm Blade contributes to stagger build-up directly impacts their overall utility.
Analysis of “elden ring vacuum slice or storm blade for ng reddit” reveals that the stagger potential of each skill varies depending on enemy poise, weapon scaling, and attack power. High-poise enemies exhibit resistance to stagger, necessitating multiple hits or the use of skills specifically designed to break their stance. While Vacuum Slice offers ranged stagger potential, its lower individual hit impact may require more consistent application. Conversely, Storm Blade’s close-range, concentrated damage can deliver a significant stagger build-up, particularly against enemies with lower poise. The choice between the two is often dictated by the enemy type encountered and the player’s preferred engagement distance. For example, a player confronting a slow-moving but heavily armored enemy might prioritize Storm Blade for its burst stagger potential, while a player facing a group of agile enemies may find Vacuum Slice’s ranged stagger more effective for controlling the battlefield.
In conclusion, the stagger potential of Vacuum Slice and Storm Blade is a significant determinant in their comparative effectiveness within an Elden Ring NG cycle. Reddit discussions frequently emphasize the importance of understanding enemy poise values and tailoring weapon skill choices accordingly. While both skills offer utility in breaking enemy stance, their distinct range profiles and damage characteristics necessitate careful consideration based on individual playstyle and the specific combat challenges encountered. Mastering the application of stagger tactics, utilizing either Vacuum Slice or Storm Blade, significantly enhances player survivability and damage output, contributing to a more successful NG experience.
5. Weapon Scaling
Weapon scaling is a central mechanic in Elden Ring influencing the efficacy of weapon skills such as Vacuum Slice and Storm Blade, a subject frequently discussed on platforms like Reddit within the context of a New Game (NG) playthrough. This system dictates how a weapon’s damage output increases in relation to specific character attributes, such as Strength, Dexterity, Intelligence, Faith, or Arcane. The degree to which a weapon skill benefits from these attributes directly impacts its viability, particularly in the resource-constrained environment of NG. For instance, if Vacuum Slice scales primarily with Dexterity, a character build focused on Strength will yield suboptimal results, leading to diminished damage output and reduced overall effectiveness. Conversely, Storm Blade might exhibit better scaling with Strength, rendering it a more potent choice for a Strength-oriented build. The practical significance of understanding weapon scaling lies in the ability to optimize damage output based on character attributes, maximizing the potential of chosen weapon skills.
The impact of weapon scaling extends beyond raw damage numbers. It affects the cost-effectiveness of using weapon skills in terms of FP consumption and the overall efficiency of combat. A skill with favorable scaling will deliver a greater damage return for the FP invested, conserving valuable resources and improving sustained damage output over prolonged encounters. Furthermore, weapon scaling influences the viability of different weapon types and their associated skills throughout the NG cycle. Early-game weapons with high scaling potential can remain competitive even as players progress, while weapons with poor scaling may become obsolete, necessitating a change in equipment and potentially playstyle. The Reddit community actively analyzes weapon scaling data to identify optimal weapon and skill combinations for various character builds, providing valuable insights for players seeking to maximize their damage potential.
In summary, weapon scaling is an indispensable consideration when evaluating the utility of Vacuum Slice and Storm Blade during an Elden Ring NG playthrough. A thorough understanding of how these skills interact with character attributes allows for informed decision-making regarding character builds, weapon selection, and skill usage. This knowledge translates to optimized damage output, efficient resource management, and increased overall effectiveness in the challenging early stages of the game. Neglecting weapon scaling can lead to suboptimal performance, wasted resources, and a more difficult NG experience. Discussions on Reddit provide a valuable resource for players seeking to navigate the complexities of weapon scaling and its impact on the viability of different weapon skills.
6. Enemy Matchups
The concept of “Enemy Matchups” forms a critical component in evaluating the relative effectiveness of Vacuum Slice and Storm Blade within an Elden Ring New Game (NG) context, frequently debated on Reddit. The utility of each skill is directly dependent on the specific enemy type encountered. Certain enemy characteristics, such as mobility, armor, elemental resistances, and attack patterns, dictate whether Vacuum Slice or Storm Blade offers a more advantageous approach. For instance, Vacuum Slice’s ranged projectile is generally effective against slow-moving, heavily armored enemies that present limited opportunities for melee engagement. Storm Blade, conversely, excels against highly mobile or aggressive enemies that require swift bursts of damage at close range. The damage type vulnerabilities of individual enemies further influence this decision; if an enemy exhibits a weakness to physical damage, both skills are viable options, while elemental resistances may favor one over the other. Real-world examples include the early-game Tree Sentinel, against whom Vacuum Slice offers a safer, more consistent damage source due to its ranged nature, and the agile Godrick Soldiers, against whom Storm Blade’s rapid execution can interrupt their attacks. Thus, a thorough understanding of enemy characteristics and vulnerabilities is paramount when selecting between these skills.
The practical significance of considering enemy matchups extends beyond simple damage output. It impacts survivability, resource management, and overall progression speed. Choosing the appropriate skill for a given encounter minimizes the risk of taking damage, conserves valuable FP (Focus Points), and accelerates enemy defeat. For instance, attempting to use Storm Blade against a ranged enemy with high mobility could result in repeated unsuccessful approaches and wasted FP, whereas Vacuum Slice allows for consistent damage application from a safe distance. Furthermore, the stagger potential of each skill against specific enemies contributes to combat control and vulnerability exploitation. While Storm Blade may deliver a more potent stagger effect against enemies with low poise, Vacuum Slice’s ability to interrupt attacks at range can prevent aggressive enemy actions. Skill selection should also account for the potential to exploit environmental vulnerabilities. Some areas offer opportunities to knock enemies off ledges or into environmental hazards, and the range or force of Vacuum Slice or Storm Blade may facilitate such maneuvers.
In conclusion, “Enemy Matchups” are inextricably linked to the “elden ring vacuum slice or storm blade for ng reddit” discussion. Successful Elden Ring NG progression necessitates careful consideration of enemy characteristics and vulnerabilities, tailoring skill choices to maximize damage output, minimize risk, and optimize resource management. The strategic deployment of either Vacuum Slice or Storm Blade, predicated on a thorough understanding of enemy behavior, is essential for overcoming the diverse challenges presented throughout the game. Discussions within the Reddit community consistently reinforce the importance of adapting one’s approach to specific enemy encounters, highlighting the limitations of relying solely on a single weapon skill. A flexible approach, informed by knowledge of enemy matchups, ultimately proves more effective than rigid adherence to a single strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the optimal selection between Vacuum Slice and Storm Blade for a New Game playthrough in Elden Ring, reflecting the discussions and viewpoints prevalent within the Reddit community.
Question 1: Which skill offers superior overall damage output in early NG?
The answer is situational. Storm Blade typically delivers higher burst damage at close range, whereas Vacuum Slice provides consistent, lower damage output at a greater distance. The superior choice depends on the specific enemy encounter and player build.
Question 2: Is FP efficiency a significant factor when choosing between the two skills?
Yes, FP efficiency is crucial, particularly during the early game when FP resources are limited. Vacuum Slice generally consumes less FP per use, allowing for more frequent application compared to the more FP-intensive Storm Blade.
Question 3: How does weapon scaling affect the performance of Vacuum Slice and Storm Blade?
Weapon scaling directly influences the damage output of each skill. It is essential to select a weapon that complements the player’s primary stat investment (Strength, Dexterity, etc.) to maximize the effectiveness of either skill.
Question 4: Are there specific enemy types against which one skill is significantly more effective?
Absolutely. Vacuum Slice is advantageous against slow-moving, heavily armored enemies due to its ranged nature. Storm Blade excels against agile, aggressive enemies that require rapid burst damage at close range.
Question 5: Does the stagger potential of Vacuum Slice and Storm Blade differ substantially?
While both skills contribute to stagger build-up, Storm Blade generally delivers a more potent stagger effect due to its concentrated damage output. Vacuum Slice, however, can interrupt enemy actions from a safer distance.
Question 6: Is one skill definitively “better” for a general NG playthrough?
No. The optimal choice is subjective and depends on individual playstyle, character build, and the specific challenges encountered. Both Vacuum Slice and Storm Blade offer unique advantages and disadvantages, necessitating a nuanced evaluation based on personal preferences and circumstances.
The choice between Vacuum Slice and Storm Blade is not binary. Experimentation and adaptation are encouraged to determine which skill best suits a player’s individual needs and preferences during an Elden Ring NG playthrough.
Tips for Elden Ring NG
This section offers actionable tips for effectively utilizing Vacuum Slice and Storm Blade in an Elden Ring New Game cycle, informed by community analysis on Reddit. Consider these points to optimize skill selection and gameplay.
Tip 1: Assess Enemy Resistances Before Commitment. Analyze enemy weaknesses and resistances prior to consistently employing either Vacuum Slice or Storm Blade. Certain enemy types exhibit high physical resistance, mitigating the effectiveness of both skills. Conversely, exploiting elemental vulnerabilities with alternative weapon skills or infusions may yield greater damage output.
Tip 2: Prioritize Early FP Management. Focus Point conservation is critical during the early game due to limited resources. Vacuum Slice offers a more sustainable option due to its lower FP cost per cast. Evaluate the necessity of each attack and avoid unnecessary skill usage to prevent FP depletion during extended encounters.
Tip 3: Tailor Skill Choice to Weapon Scaling. Select a weapon that complements the player’s primary stat investment and enhances the scaling of either Vacuum Slice or Storm Blade. A mismatch between weapon scaling and character attributes will result in diminished damage output and suboptimal performance.
Tip 4: Experiment with Skill Combinations. Explore the potential synergy between Vacuum Slice or Storm Blade and other weapon skills or spells. Combining ranged and melee options provides greater versatility and adaptability across diverse combat scenarios. For instance, using Vacuum Slice to create distance followed by a Storm Blade for a finishing blow.
Tip 5: Observe Enemy Attack Patterns. Study enemy attack patterns to identify openings for skill usage. Storm Blade requires precise timing and positioning due to its close-range nature. Vacuum Slice allows for safer engagement at a distance, but its lower damage output necessitates consistent application.
Tip 6: Optimize Flask Allocation. Carefully manage flask allocation between HP and FP restoration. Adjust the ratio based on the player’s reliance on weapon skills and the frequency of taking damage. A greater emphasis on FP flasks may be warranted when consistently using Vacuum Slice or Storm Blade.
The judicious application of these tips, informed by the collective wisdom of the Elden Ring Reddit community, will enhance the effectiveness of Vacuum Slice and Storm Blade during an initial playthrough. Adapt these guidelines to individual playstyles and specific challenges to optimize gameplay.
This concludes the practical advice section, transitioning to the final conclusion of the article.
Elden Ring NG
The preceding analysis underscores the nuanced considerations involved in selecting between Vacuum Slice and Storm Blade for an Elden Ring New Game experience, as frequently discussed within the Reddit community. Key factors such as enemy resistances, FP efficiency, weapon scaling, stagger potential, and individual playstyle preferences all contribute to the optimal choice. A definitive “best” option remains elusive, contingent on adapting to specific combat encounters and personal inclinations. Careful evaluation of these elements is paramount for maximizing player effectiveness during the challenging initial playthrough.
Ultimately, mastering Elden Ring necessitates informed decision-making and adaptability. Players are encouraged to experiment with both Vacuum Slice and Storm Blade, tailoring their approach based on the circumstances encountered within the game. Continued exploration and refinement of combat strategies will undoubtedly lead to enhanced player proficiency and a more rewarding gaming experience. The persistent discourse on platforms like Reddit serves as a testament to the ongoing quest for optimized strategies and deeper understanding of Elden Ring’s complex mechanics.
