Best Build for Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree

Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree DLC Best Build: Best Stat Distribution, Gear, & More

Elden Ring poses a significant challenge on its own, but with its DLC Shadow of the Erdtree, the difficulty level gets cranked up even more. To help you navigate through the Shadow Realm, we’ve put together the ultimate best build that you can use during your journey.

Image Credit: FromSoftware and Bandai Namco via Twinfinite

Before delving into the details, it’s essential to note that you should complete a significant portion of the base game of Elden Ring before attempting to implement the build discussed below.

While the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC does introduce its scaling system and allows for mid-game level viability, the gap in progress becomes more apparent as you advance further. Additionally, if you haven’t reached certain areas in the game or progressed enough, you may not have access to some of the gear mentioned below.

Take the time to progress through the base story until you’ve passed Maliketh and reached at least Level 120. Following that, visit Rennala to respec your character using a Larval Tear.

What Is the Best Build Gimmick for Shadow of the Erdtree? Explained

Your build should revolve around a Bleed build, which shouldn’t be surprising to those familiar with the game. By focusing on a Bleed build, you can effectively tackle the beefy health pools of the DLC bosses in the Shadow Realm. Bleed and Blood Loss play a crucial role in melting the health bars of these formidable foes, making the battles more manageable if you apply constant pressure.

Many bosses in the expansion are vulnerable to Bleed buildup, making it a potent choice against the majority of foes you encounter.

Best Bleed Build Weapons

View of Moonveil Katana in Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree (Best Build Guide)
Image Credit: FromSoftware and Bandai Namco via Twinfinite

To complement your Bleed build, you’ll need a suitable Bleed weapon that aligns with your playstyle. Fortunately, Elden Ring offers a variety of weapons capable of inflicting Bleed status. Some weapons cater to Dexterity builds, while others suit Intelligence, Faith, and Strength builds.

Here are some of the best Bleed weapons along with their stat requirements:

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Best Shadow of the Erdtree Bleed Build Stat Distribution

View of Stat Distribution in Level Up Screen in Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree
Image Credit: FromSoftware and Bandai Namco via Twinfinite

When allocating your stats for the Bleed build, consider the various weapons available in the game that can inflict Bleed buildup. Emphasize stats like Dexterity or Strength, as these are crucial for wielding the best Bleed weapons and maximizing your damage output.

Here’s a recommended distribution of stats for your Bleed build:

  • Vigor: 30
  • Mind: 10
  • Endurance: 30
  • Strength: 20 – 50 (Dependent on weapon choice)
  • Dexterity: 20 – 50 (Dependent on weapon choice)
  • Intelligence: 10* (Can be increased for certain weapons)
  • Faith: 10* (Can be increased for certain weapons)
  • Arcane: 10* (Can be increased for certain weapons)

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Best Shadow of the Erdtree Bleed Build Armor and Talismans

View of Lord of Blood's Exultation Talisman in Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree (Best Build Guide)
Image Credit: FromSoftware and Bandai Namco via Twinfinite

For an optimal experience with your Bleed build in the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, it’s advisable to select armor and Talismans carefully.

Equip armor that provides solid protection against various damage types without impeding your movement speed. The Crucible Armor set and the Dung Eater Armor sets are versatile choices that work well with the listed weapons.

When it comes to Talismans, the Lord of Blood’s Exultation Talisman stands out as an essential pick for this build. Obtained by defeating Esgar, Priest of Blood in the Leyndell Catacombs beneath the Royal Capital, this Talisman boosts your attack power following Blood Loss, resulting in a consistent damage increase.

Make use of other useful Talismans like the Flame Drake Talisman or Radagon’s Soreseal to enhance your fighting capabilities in specific encounters.

These tips should set you on the path to mastering the best build for Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree. For more guidance and insights, be sure to explore our guides on early Scadutree Fragment locations and how to enable the Recent Items tab in your inventory.