U4GM - 21 Advanced Elden Ring Tips for Experienced Players
If you’ve spent countless hours roaming the Lands Between, felled dozens of demigods, and already mastered your favorite build types, you might think there’s not much left to learn. But Elden Ring is a deep and unforgiving world, and even seasoned Tarnished can uncover smarter ways to optimize their journey. These 21 advanced tips aim to refine your gameplay, enhance your rune economy, and help you make better use of your Elden Ring Items—whether you're chasing perfection in New Game+ or just want to try a new approach.
1. Perfect Your I-Frame TimingDodge-rolling is a core mechanic, but many players still rely on panic rolls. Spend time learning the exact moment of invincibility frames (i-frames), especially against late-game bosses with mix-up attacks.
2. Use Quick Swap Item Pouches EfficientlyExperienced players should streamline access to critical Elden Ring Items like Flask of Wondrous Physick, Summoning Bells, or status cure items through the pouch menu. It saves precious seconds mid-combat.
3. Don't Max Out Vigor Too EarlyIt’s tempting to dump runes into Vigor for survivability, but overcommitting early can weaken your offensive capabilities. Balance is key, especially in aggressive late-game zones.
4. Diversify Your Damage TypesCertain enemies and bosses have severe resistances. Carry weapons or spells with different damage types—like Frost, Holy, or Pierce—to exploit weaknesses.
5. Optimize Rune Spending with BackupsBefore leveling up or purchasing high-value Elden Ring Items, back up your save file (if playing offline). It's a good habit to test builds without losing hard-earned Elden Ring Runes.
6. Learn Enemy Stagger WindowsBosses like Malenia and Mohg have very tight openings. Memorizing the rhythm of attacks and knowing when to counter or stagger can turn a tough fight into a controlled duel.
7. Upgrade Off-Meta WeaponsEveryone knows Rivers of Blood and Moonveil. But upgrading off-meta options like the Ripple Blade or Bastard’s Stars can surprise even veterans with their effectiveness.
8. Mix Ashes of War for Hybrid UtilityInfuse weapons with ashes that complement your build—for instance, combining Blood Blade with a Keen infusion for Dex/Arcane hybrids.
9. Run Skill Checks for SummonsEven at high levels, you may lack the exact stats to summon some of the strongest Spirit Ashes. Plan your attribute spread to meet their minimum requirements early.
10. Stack Buffs Before Boss FogUse time-limited buffs—like Golden Vow or Flame, Grant Me Strength—before entering a boss arena. Just make sure not to aggro the boss while doing it.
11. Respect the Rune EconomyDon’t waste Elden Ring Runes on vendors selling gear you won’t use. Sites like U4GM provide community insight on which Elden Ring Items are worth investing in and which are just filler.
12. Fight on Horseback StrategicallyTorrent isn’t always the answer. Dismounting to fight humanoid bosses or tight-space enemies gives better control, while mounted combat excels in large, open arenas.
13. Abuse Guard Counter on GreatshieldsIf you're running a tank build, use Guard Counters after blocking a hit. With proper timing, it can break poise faster than many offensive combos.
14. Farm Rune Spots Repeatedly in NG+Some Elden Ring Runes locations scale well into New Game+. Don't skip over early-game spots like Mohgwyn Palace farming even in later cycles—they remain efficient.
15. Don’t Sleep on TalismansRevisit old zones and check NPC questlines for overlooked talismans like Radagon Icon or Dragoncrest Greatshield. Stacking talisman buffs can significantly boost survivability or damage.
16. Rotate Status EffectsUsing both Poison and Bleed or Frost and Rot on different weapons can bypass resistances and increase your odds of triggering effects.
17. Exploit Terrain in PvEMany AI enemies have trouble navigating cliffs, ruins, or tight stairs. Use the environment to your advantage—bait attacks, create spacing, or funnel mobs.
18. Rethink Your Flask DistributionReassess your Flask allocation regularly. If you’re casting more than meleeing, favor Cerulean over Crimson flasks—and tweak based on each boss encounter.
19. Practice Jump Attacks with HeaviesJump attacks are great for poise damage, especially with colossal weapons. In PvE and PvP, they can stun or interrupt enemies if well-timed.
20. Don’t Underestimate SleepSleep-inflicting weapons and arrows are underrated tools. Some enemies—even mini-bosses—are vulnerable, giving you a free critical hit window.
21. Experiment with Crafting RecipesMany players ignore the crafting system, but items like Dappled Cured Meat or Sleepbone Arrows can change the outcome of tricky fights. Keep your inventory stocked and flexible.
These tips aren’t meant to reinvent the game for veterans, but rather to help you squeeze more efficiency, power, and creativity out of each run. Whether you're min-maxing for a challenge run, farming Elden Ring Runes, or just trying new builds, the game's depth still holds surprises. Stay sharp, stay curious—and never stop experimenting with the tools the Lands Between gives you.