Mastering Two-Handed Weaponry in Elden Ring: A Comprehensive Guide
This guide delves into the intricacies of two-handing weapons in Elden Ring, exploring its benefits, drawbacks, and optimal weapon choices. We'll cover the mechanics, strategic advantages, and potential downsides to help you decide if this combat style suits your play.
How to Two-Hand Weapons
To wield weapons two-handed, press and hold E (PC), Triangle (PlayStation), or Y (Xbox), then initiate an attack. This applies to both your left and right-hand weapons. Remember to check your control scheme if you've customized it. This method also works while mounted, but note that you must two-hand the weapon before mounting for it to be effective on horseback.
Why Two-Hand?
Two-handing offers significant advantages:
- Increased Damage: Your Strength stat receives a 50% boost, significantly enhancing damage output, especially with Strength-scaling weapons.
- Altered Movesets: Some weapons gain unique attack animations and damage types when wielded two-handed.
- Access to Weapon Skills: Using a shield prevents access to your right-hand weapon's Ash of War. Two-handing eliminates this limitation.
- Weapon Accessibility: Allows you to wield heavier weapons that would otherwise be inaccessible due to Strength requirements.
Drawbacks of Two-Handing
While powerful, two-handing has drawbacks:
- Altered Attack Patterns: The change in attack animations requires adjustment and strategic planning.
- Reduced Versatility: You lose the defensive capabilities of a shield.
- Strength Dependency: Optimal for Strength builds; less effective for Dexterity or other builds.
Best Weapons for Two-Handing
Generally, large, Strength-scaling weapons excel when wielded two-handed. Greatswords, Colossal Swords, Great Hammers, and Colossal Weapons are all excellent choices. Since the Shadow of the Erdtree update, the Two-Handed Sword Talisman provides a damage boost for two-handed swords. Consider weapons like the Greatsword, Zweihander, Fire Knight's Greatsword, or the Giant-Crusher.
Elden Ring is available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
Updated: 1/27/25
