Elden Ring Runes: 11 Early Game Methods for Smooth Leveling
Leveling up efficiently in Elden Ring can make the difference between a frustrating slog and a smooth, enjoyable journey through the Lands Between. While the game offers plenty of ways to earn runes, knowing the most effective early game methods can set you up for success before you even reach mid-game challenges. Here are 11 tried-and-true strategies to gather runes early on, helping you power up your character and face tougher enemies with confidence.
1. Defeat the Tree Sentinel
One of the first major threats in Limgrave, the Tree Sentinel patrols near the starting area and can be tough for new players. However, if you manage to defeat him, he drops a hefty amount of runes. It’s risky but rewarding, and the effort often pays off for early rune farming.
2. Clear the Gatefront Ruins
Near the Gatefront Site of Grace, a group of soldiers patrols the area. Clearing out these enemies is relatively easy and yields a decent amount of runes. The close proximity to the grace makes it easy to rest and farm repeatedly.
3. Farm Soldiers at the Church of Elleh
This area is an early safe spot with several weak soldiers roaming nearby. Taking them down repeatedly is a reliable method for earning cheap Elden Ring runes in the initial stages.
4. Explore the Mistwood
This forest area hosts several lower-level enemies including wolves and trolls. Their rune drops are moderate, but their respawn rates make Mistwood an excellent early farming location.
5. Take on the Mad Pumpkin Head
Found in the Weeping Peninsula, this boss is relatively easy to defeat early on and drops a sizable chunk of runes. After the initial fight, you can farm him by resetting the area, making him a great target for fast rune gains.
6. Loot Caves and Mines
Early game caves like the Gatefront Cave or Murkwater Cave contain enemies that drop runes consistently. Navigating these caves also often rewards you with useful Elden Ring items for sale at merchants nearby, which you can acquire to boost your character’s abilities.
7. Use Spirit Ash Summons to Speed Up Farming
Once you have access to Spirit Ashes, summoning them during fights can help clear groups of enemies faster. This makes farming runes less time-consuming, letting you level up quickly without grinding too hard.
8. Complete NPC Quests
Some NPC questlines early in the game offer rune rewards or valuable items that can be sold or used for upgrades. Keeping an eye out for these quests not only enhances the story but also accelerates your leveling.
9. Sell Unwanted Loot
As you explore, you’ll accumulate a lot of gear and crafting materials. Selling excess items to merchants can provide a steady stream of runes without the need to grind enemies constantly.
10. Participate in PvP Duels
If you’re comfortable with PvP, dueling other players in the early game zones can be an adrenaline-fueled way to earn runes. Victory grants significant rewards and improves your combat skills simultaneously.
11. Farm Runestone Deposits
Mining runestone deposits found in caves and ruins grants smithing stones used for weapon upgrades, indirectly boosting your leveling by enhancing your equipment. Investing time in upgrading gear can be just as crucial as leveling stats.
These methods ensure you get a solid rune income during the early game, making progression smoother and less frustrating. If you’re looking to supplement your earnings, keep an eye out for cheap Elden Ring runes or browse through Elden Ring items for sale by other players to give your build an extra edge. Remember, smart farming and efficient use of resources are key to mastering Elden Ring’s expansive world.