One hand for pain, one hand for even more pain.
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- How to Dual-Wield in Elden Ring
- Elden Ring Power Stance Explained
While Elden Ring far surpasses the rest of FromSoftware’s catalog of Soulsborne titles in some areas, it certainly leans on its fair share of tried and true game mechanics. After the experimental combat of Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, fans were curious what route Elden Ring would take with its fighting styles. Luckily, a lot of Dark Souls staples returned in full force.
One aspect of Elden Ring that gives players a lot of options when it comes to how they approach their character builds is the fact that dual-wielding is once again an option. While it may seem relatively straightforward, rarely anything truly is in FromSoft games, so below is a quick guide on understanding dual-wielding and power stances.
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How to Dual-Wield in Elden Ring
To dual-wield, all the player needs to do is equip two weapons, one in each hand. Pressing RB and RT will perform light and heavy attacks with the right-handed weapon and hitting LB and LT will do the same on the left side. Dual-wielding can do a lot to increase a player’s damage output as it allows them to attack much quicker by alternating weapon swings. The big drawback, however, is that it limits the player from blocking in any way or using a shield for parrying. It’s a major tradeoff, but if your build can make things work strictly through dodging attacks or tanking damage, then dual-wielding can be a truly successful build type that can get you through the end of the game.
Elden Ring Power Stance Explained
The power stance is also a staple of Souls combat that was introduced in Dark Souls 2. Essentially, it combines the attacks of the right and left hand by binding them both to one button press, allowing the player to hit for nearly double the damage. It works a lot like dual-wielding, but is much quicker and can be even more deadly. To use the power stance, you’ll need to equip one weapon in each hand, both of the same weapon type (your inventory automatically sorts things into weapon types.) With two of the same weapon types equipped, hit LB to enter the power stance and swing both weapons at the same time. Now, you can attack with RB and RT (light and heavy attack) with just your right-hand weapon or with LB to use both for maximum damage. The drawbacks are the same for dual-wielding: no shields or parrying, but the left trigger can still be used to perform Arts of War for the weapon equipped in the right hand.
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As a seasoned enthusiast and expert in the realm of FromSoftware's games, particularly the Soulsborne series and the recently released Elden Ring, I can confidently delve into the intricacies of dual-wielding and power stances, providing a comprehensive understanding for players seeking to master these mechanics.
Dual-Wielding in Elden Ring:
Execution: To engage in dual-wielding in Elden Ring, players simply need to equip two weapons, one in each hand. Light and heavy attacks for the right-handed weapon are triggered by pressing RB and RT, respectively, while LB and LT control the left-handed weapon. This dynamic combat approach allows for increased damage output, enabling players to execute rapid attacks by alternating weapon swings.
Tradeoff: However, this strategy comes with a significant tradeoff — the inability to block or use a shield for parrying. The choice to dual-wield necessitates a playstyle centered around dodging attacks or tanking damage. Successful utilization of dual-wielding depends on the player's ability to navigate combat without traditional defensive measures.
Elden Ring Power Stance:
Introduction: The power stance, a feature introduced in Dark Souls 2 and retained in Elden Ring, elevates the concept of dual-wielding by combining attacks from both hands into a single, devastating maneuver.
Activation: To activate the power stance, players must equip two weapons of the same type in each hand. By pressing LB, the power stance is engaged, enabling simultaneous swings with both weapons. This results in nearly double the damage output compared to regular attacks.
Versatility: Similar to dual-wielding, the power stance imposes the same limitations on defensive capabilities — no shields or parrying. However, the left trigger can still be employed to execute Arts of War specific to the right-hand weapon.
Speed and Lethality: The distinguishing factor lies in the increased speed of the power stance, making it a swifter and deadlier alternative to traditional dual-wielding. This makes it an attractive option for players seeking a more aggressive and offensive combat style.
In conclusion, mastering dual-wielding and power stances in Elden Ring demands a strategic balance between offensive prowess and defensive vulnerabilities. These mechanics contribute to the diverse range of character builds available to players, adding layers of depth to the already challenging and immersive gameplay experience. As you embark on your Elden Ring journey, consider these combat strategies to carve your path through the perilous lands of the Lands Between.
