Mastering Two-Handed Weaponry in Elden Ring: A Comprehensive Guide
This guide delves into the art of two-handing weapons in Elden Ring, explaining the mechanics, benefits, drawbacks, and optimal weapon choices.
How to Two-Hand Weapons
To wield a weapon with two hands in Elden Ring, simply 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 settings if you've customized them. This technique also works while mounted, but you must two-hand the weapon before mounting for it to be effective on horseback.
The Advantages of Two-Handed Combat
Two-handing offers significant advantages:
- Increased Damage: Your Strength stat receives a 50% boost, significantly amplifying the damage output of Strength-scaling weapons.
- Altered Movesets: Two-handing can alter a weapon's moveset, sometimes even changing its damage type.
- Access to Heavier Weapons: The Strength boost allows you to wield weapons that would otherwise be inaccessible, optimizing your build.
- Efficient Ash of War Utilization: Two-handing your right-hand weapon grants direct access to its Ash of War, bypassing potential conflicts with shield skills.
Drawbacks of Two-Handed Combat
While powerful, two-handing has limitations:
- Modified Attack Patterns: Attacks may behave differently, requiring adjustment to your combat strategy and environmental awareness.
- Build Dependency: This technique is most effective with Strength-based builds, potentially hindering other build types.
Top Weapons for Two-Handed Combat
Generally, large Strength-scaling weapons are ideal for two-handing. With the Shadow of the Erdtree update, the Two-Handed Sword Talisman provides a significant damage boost for swords wielded in this manner. Excellent choices include:
- Greatswords (e.g., Greatsword, Zweihander, Fire Knight's Greatsword)
- Colossal Swords
- Great Hammers
- Colossal Weapons
Experiment to find the weapon that best suits your playstyle. The Giant-Crusher is a strong contender if you prefer non-sword options.
Elden Ring is available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
Updated: 1/27/25
