Elden Ring has captivated players with its vast open world, intricate lore, and diverse character customization options. Among the various builds players can explore, the Samurai build stands out for its unique blend of agility, precision, and powerful ranged attacks. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of creating an effective Samurai build, including weapon choices, stats allocation, playstyle tactics, and recommended equipment.
Understanding the Samurai Class
The Samurai class in Elden Ring is inspired by traditional Eastern warriors, combining swordplay with archery. Starting with a balanced set of stats, the Samurai can effectively engage enemies at both close and long range. This versatility makes the Samurai one of the most enjoyable and dynamic classes to play.
Starting Stats
When you begin your journey as a Samurai, you will have the following base stats:
- Vigor: 15
- Mind: 12
- Endurance: 13
- Strength: 12
- Dexterity: 15
- Intelligence: 9
- Faith: 9
- Arcane: 9
This starting point allows you to focus on Dexterity and Vigor, making the Samurai both agile and resilient.
Stat Allocation
To optimize your Samurai build, it’s essential to allocate your stats effectively as you level up. Here’s a recommended progression path:
- Prioritize Dexterity: Aim for at least 40-50 Dexterity. This stat will enhance your damage output with katanas and bows, allowing you to deal significant damage with swift, precise strikes.
- Boost Vigor: Increasing Vigor to around 30 will ensure that you can withstand hits from tougher enemies, enhancing your survivability.
- Focus on Endurance: Allocate points to Endurance to improve your stamina and equip load. Having a higher stamina pool allows for more dodges and attacks, while a better equip load helps in wearing heavier armor without sacrificing mobility.
- Consider Strength: If you wish to use heavier weapons, you can allocate some points to Strength, but this should be secondary to Dexterity.
- Mind and Other Stats: Keep Mind, Intelligence, Faith, and Arcane low unless you decide to incorporate spells or incantations into your build.
Weapon Choices
The Samurai build thrives on specific weapons that complement its agile playstyle. Here are some of the best options:
Katanas
Katanas are the hallmark of the Samurai class, known for their speed and bleed damage. Here are a few notable katanas to consider:
- Uchigatana: This iconic katana has high base damage and benefits from Dexterity scaling. It also inflicts bleed damage, making it lethal against enemies with high health.
- Nagakiba: Offering a longer reach than the Uchigatana, the Nagakiba is perfect for swift, long-range attacks. It’s excellent for players who want to maintain distance while dealing damage.
- Moonveil: If you decide to invest in Intelligence, the Moonveil is a powerful option. It scales with both Dexterity and Intelligence, providing a unique ranged attack with its special skill.
Bows
Ranged attacks are crucial for a Samurai build, and bows allow you to engage enemies from a distance. Consider these options:
- Longbow: A reliable choice with good range and damage. It allows for quick shots and can be used effectively while maintaining distance.
- Greatbow: If you’re looking for higher damage, the Greatbow is a great option, especially for taking down larger foes or bosses from afar.
Armor Choices
While the Samurai class benefits from mobility, selecting the right armor is essential for balancing protection and agility. Here are some recommended armor sets:
- Samurai Set: This armor set provides a good balance of weight and protection, making it ideal for the Samurai playstyle.
- Blaidd’s Set: Known for its aesthetic appeal and decent physical protection, this set is another excellent option, especially for players who want a more robust defense.
Talismans
Talismans can significantly enhance your build and provide various bonuses. Here are some talismans to consider for your Samurai:
- Green Turtle Talisman: Increases stamina recovery, allowing you to dodge and attack more frequently.
- Ritual Shield Talisman: Boosts your guard while blocking, perfect for when you need to defend against tougher enemies.
- Dragoncrest Greatshield Talisman: Reduces physical damage taken, giving you an extra layer of defense.
Playstyle Tactics
The playstyle of a Samurai in Elden Ring emphasizes agility, precision, and adaptability. Here are some tactics to help you excel in combat:
Melee Combat
- Utilize Quick Attacks: Focus on quick, successive strikes to build up bleed damage. Katanas excel in fast-paced combat, allowing you to deal substantial damage before dodging away.
- Mix Up Your Attacks: Use light attacks for quick hits and heavy attacks to break enemy poise. This combination can keep opponents off balance.
- Dodge and Counter: Mastering dodging is crucial for maintaining your health. After dodging an enemy attack, follow up with a quick strike to maximize damage.
Ranged Combat
- Engage from a Distance: Use your bow to pick off enemies before they can reach you. Aim for weak points to deal critical damage.
- Utilize Terrain: Use the environment to your advantage when shooting arrows. Higher ground can provide a vantage point while keeping you safe from melee attacks.
Summoning Allies
In challenging encounters, consider summoning allies or using Spirit Ashes to assist you. This can provide distractions for enemies, allowing you to focus on dealing damage without being overwhelmed.
Conclusion
Creating a successful Samurai build in Elden Ring requires careful consideration of stat allocation, weapon choices, and playstyle. By focusing on Dexterity and Vigor, choosing the right katanas and bows, and utilizing effective tactics in combat, you can unleash the full potential of this agile warrior class. Whether you prefer to engage enemies up close or pick them off from a distance, the Samurai build offers a dynamic and rewarding gameplay experience. Embrace the way of the Samurai, and dive into the challenges that Elden Ring has to offer!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best starting class for a Samurai build in Elden Ring?
The best starting class for a Samurai build is the Samurai class itself, as it provides a strong balance of Dexterity and Endurance, along with access to a katana and a bow.
Which weapons are recommended for a Samurai build in Elden Ring?
Recommended weapons include katanas like the Uchiha and Nagakiba, as well as the Longbow for ranged attacks, allowing for versatility in combat.
What attributes should I prioritize for a Samurai build?
Prioritize Dexterity for weapon scaling, Vigor for health, and Endurance for stamina management. Consider investing some points in Mind for increased FP to use Ashes of War.
Are there specific Ashes of War that work well with a Samurai build?
Yes, Ashes of War like Bloodhound's Step for mobility and Unsheathe for powerful attacks are excellent choices for a Samurai build.
What talismans should I use for a Samurai build in Elden Ring?
Recommended talismans include the Rotted Winged Sword Insignia for damage increase, and the Green Turtle Talisman for improved stamina recovery.
How should I approach combat with a Samurai build?
Focus on agility and mobility, utilizing quick attacks from your katana and ranged options from your bow. Use the environment to dodge and position yourself for critical hits.
