Mastering Two-Handed Weaponry in Elden Ring: A Comprehensive Guide
This guide explores the intricacies of two-handing weapons in Elden Ring, detailing how to execute the technique, its strategic advantages, potential drawbacks, and optimal weapon choices.
How to Two-Hand Weapons
To wield a weapon with both hands in Elden Ring, press and hold E (PC), Triangle (PlayStation), or Y (Xbox), then initiate an attack with your preferred weapon (left or right hand). Note that this may vary depending on your customized control scheme. This method also functions while mounted, allowing for seamless weapon switching between melee and magic, but remember that you must two-hand the weapon before mounting for it to be effective on horseback.
Why Two-Hand Your Weapon?
Two-handing offers significant combat advantages:
- Increased Damage: Your Strength stat receives a 50% boost, significantly amplifying the damage output of Strength-scaling weapons.
- Altered Movesets: Some weapons exhibit altered attack animations and damage types when two-handed.
- Weapon Accessibility: It allows wielding heavier weapons that might otherwise be inaccessible, optimizing Strength allocation.
- Ash of War Access: Using a sword and shield defaults your weapon skill to the shield. Two-handing your right-hand weapon unlocks its Ash of War, expanding your tactical options.
Drawbacks of Two-Handed Combat
While beneficial for Strength builds, two-handing isn't universally advantageous:
- Modified Attacks: The altered attack patterns may require adjustment and strategic adaptation to your surroundings. Sometimes, sacrificing damage for situational effectiveness is necessary.
- Build Compatibility: It's less ideal for Dexterity-focused or other non-Strength builds. Experimentation is key to determining optimal playstyles.
Top Weapons for Two-Handing
Generally, large Strength-scaling weapons excel when wielded with two hands. Consider these weapon types:
- Greatswords
- Colossal Swords
- Great Hammers
- Colossal Weapons
Specifically, the Greatsword, Zweihander, Fire Knight's Greatsword, and Giant-Crusher are strong contenders. Remember to consider the Two-Handed Sword Talisman (available in Shadow of the Erdtree) for enhanced damage with swords.
Elden Ring is available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
Updated: 1/27/25
