Welcome to our comprehensive “Elden Ring: Challenge Run Guide,” your ultimate resource for mastering the most thrilling and grueling gameplay experiences in this epic action RPG. Are you ready to push your skills to the limit and conquer Elden Ring like never before? In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know to embark on a successful challenge run. Discover how to meticulously plan your challenge run, select the perfect restrictions to elevate your gameplay, and develop strategic approaches for every encounter. We’ll also delve into effective boss-handling tactics and reveal the glorious achievements and rewards that await the most dedicated Tarnished. Get ready to transform your Elden Ring journey and prove your mettle in the brutal lands of the Lands Between!

Elden Ring: Challenge Run Guide#

Planning Your Challenge Run#

So, you’ve decided to embark on a challenge run in Elden Ring. Whether you’re a seasoned Soulborne veteran or a newcomer looking to spice things up, planning your run carefully can make it an exciting endeavor rather than an impossible task. Here are some key elements to help you get started.

Deciding on Your Challenge#

The first step is to decide what kind of challenge you want to undertake. There are several popular types you can consider:

• Soul Level 1 (SL1) Run: You stay at level 1 throughout the entire game. It’s brutal but very rewarding.
• No-Hit/No Damage Run: Requires you to complete the game without getting hit or taking any damage. Precision and patience are your best friends here.
• Magic-Only Run: Limit yourself to only using magic, be it sorceries, incantations, or pyromancies.
• Melee-Only Run: No magic or ranged weapons allowed. Just you and your blade against the world.
• Consumables-Only Run: You can only use items like Firebombs and other throwable tools as your means of dealing damage.

Choose the challenge that excites you the most. Remember, it’s more about enjoying the run than merely torturing yourself.

Research and Preparation#

Before diving in, do a bit of homework. Look up specific areas, enemy weaknesses, and boss strategies tailored to your challenge type. Videos and forums are great resources.

• Gear Up: Equip yourself with the best gear suited to your challenge. If you’re doing a Magic-Only run, focus on obtaining powerful staffs and maximizing your FP.
• Skill Points: For a Melee-Only run, prioritize upgrading Vigor, Endurance, and your weapon’s primary stat.
• Stock Up: Hoard consumables if you’re doing a Consumables-Only run. Items like Throwing Knives, Firebombs, or Kukris will be your main source of damage.

Route Planning#

One of the most overlooked aspects of a successful challenge run is having a well-thought-out route. Knowing which paths to take and which optional bosses to postpone or skip altogether can save you a ton of time and heartbreak.

• Critical Path: Identify the main bosses and mandatory areas to progress the story. This way, you’re not wasting precious resources on optional bosses.
• Safe Zones: Map out safe zones where you can rest and recharge. Reaching these spots makes your life much easier.
• Shortcut Unlocking: Some shortcuts save a lot of time and trouble. Unlocking these can dramatically decrease the level of difficulty.

Practice Makes Perfect#

Challenge runs are as much about skill as they are about strategy. Spend time practicing areas and bosses. Learn enemy patterns and memorize key moves that can provide openings. Use your first couple of attempts as reconnaissance missions where you focus on learning and less on surviving.

• Ez Game Guides: Watch walkthrough videos of successful runs to pick up tips and strategies.
• Combat Drills: Isolate tough sections and practice them repeatedly to build muscle memory and reflexes.

Community Support#

Engage with the Elden Ring community to share strategies, ask questions, and seek moral support. Reddit, Discord, and Twitch streams are filled with experienced players who can offer invaluable advice.

• Reddit: Subreddits like r/EldenRing can provide answers to specific questions and moral support.
• Discord: Join Elden Ring community servers where you can discuss tactics in real-time.
• Streams: Watching challengers on Twitch can inspire and teach you advanced techniques.

Mindset and Motivation#

Lastly, remember to keep the right mindset. Challenge runs are tough and designed to test your limits. Celebrate your small victories along the way. It’s not about completing it in one go, but enjoying the journey and the thrill of overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds.

So gear up, plan your route, and dive headfirst into your Elden Ring challenge run! Who knows, you might even create a few epic moments worth sharing.

Good luck, and may the Elden Ring protect your grace!

Choosing Challenge Run Restrictions#

So, you’ve beaten Elden Ring and want to dive back in for some extra thrill? Challenge runs are where the real fun begins! Choosing the right restrictions can turn your playthrough into a memorable journey. Here are some ideas and tips to get you started.

No Healing Items#

One classic restriction is ditching your trusty flasks. No more chugging Crimson Tears mid-battle—every hit you take will stick. This makes each fight way more intense. To prep, focus on dodging skills and maybe build up your vigor stat before embarking on this quest.

Tip: Equip talismans that regenerate health or increase your max HP.

No Leveling Up#

Want to stay the same old weakling you were at the start? A no leveling run means you can’t pump any runes into boosting your stats. Every boss feels far more daunting when you know your health, stamina, and attack power can’t be upgraded.

Pro Tip: Optimize your armor and weapons to get the most out of your base stats.

Magic Only#

If you’re a fan of fancy spells and mystical arts, why not go all-in on magic? Restrict yourself to using only spells, sorceries, and incantations. This means no swords, bows, or melee weapons. Picking the right spells and managing FP (Focus Points) becomes crucial.

Idea: Explore multiple spell schools to diversify your attack options, from ranged attacks to area-of-effect spells.

Melee Only#

Turn down the magic and focus purely on melee combat. No spells, no ranged weapons—just good old-fashioned swordplay. Mastering your weapon’s reach, timing, and the art of dodging becomes your bread and butter.

Hint: Try different types of melee weapons like greatswords, katanas, and dual blades to keep the gameplay refreshing.

No Armor#

Feeling invincible in your full suit of armor? Strip it all off and go into battle wearing nothing but your undergarments. This challenge heavily tests your ability to time dodges and understand enemy patterns since you’ll be much more vulnerable.

Tip: Try light armor and footwork-focused builds to enhance your agility.

Boss Rush#

Skip all side content and go straight for the main bosses. This can speed up the game but also means you’re constantly tackling the hardest enemies. No farming means fewer resources and upgrades, making every encounter perilous.

Strategy: Memorize boss patterns and optimize your build specifically for boss fights.

Randomizer Runs#

For the truly brave, a randomizer mod can completely shake up your Elden Ring experience. Items, enemies, and even bosses appear in unexpected places. Every corner you turn could hold an unpredictable challenge.

Note: Randomizer mods can be tricky to install, so read up on guides specific to your gaming platform.

Conclusion#

Elden Ring’s vast world and flexible mechanics make it perfect for challenge runs. Experimenting with different restrictions can make each playthrough feel fresh and exciting. Whether you’re using just magic or fighting bosses in your skivvies, the key is to enjoy the challenge and savor the victories. So grab your controller, pick a restriction, and get ready for an adventure like never before!

Elden Ring: Challenge Run Guide#

Challenge Run Strategies#

If you’re seeking a fresh twist on Elden Ring, challenge runs might be your next obsession. These runs push your skills by altering gameplay, making the experience both difficult and thrilling. Here are some popular challenge run strategies and tips to get started.

1. No Leveling Run#

Concept: Complete the game without leveling up your character at all. You’ll rely entirely on your starting stats.

Tips:

• Choose Wisely: Pick a class with high starting stats in areas you prefer. The Hero class, for example, starts with strong melee stats.
• Gear Up: Focus on finding powerful weapons and spells early on. The Miséricorde, a high crit dagger, can be a lifesaver.
• Avoid Confrontation: In the early game, stealth and running past enemies become crucial since even minor foes can be deadly.

2. No Death Run#

Concept: Play the entire game without dying once. This one’s for the true masochists out there.

Tips:

• Preparation is Key: Learn enemy placements and attack patterns. Practice bosses until you can defeat them almost flawlessly.
• Save Resources: Keep an ample supply of health items and upgrade materials. A strong weapon can be the difference between life and death.
• Use Safe Paths: Avoid unnecessary risks. Know the safer routes and stick to them, even if they are a bit longer.

3. SL1 (Soul Level 1) Run#

Concept: Complete the game without leveling beyond Soul Level 1.

Tips:

• Start as a Wretch: The Wretch class begins at SL1, making it the ideal (and only) starting class for this run.
• Weapon Upgrades: Prioritize upgrading your weapons. Reinforcing a weapon can significantly deflate the difficulty spike.
• Enhance Stats through Gear: Use talismans and buffs to compensate for your weak starting stats. The Radagon’s Soreseal can be invaluable despite its increase in damage taken.

4. Magic-Only Run#

Concept: Beat the game using only magic spells and incantations. No melee attacks allowed.

Tips:

• Pick a Spellcaster Class: Astrologer or Prophet are excellent choices.
• Mind Your FP: Invest in Mind stats to increase your Focus Points. You’ll need lots of FP to cast spells frequently.
• Spell Variety: Carry diverse spells for various situations. Offensive, defensive, and crowd-control spells can all be essential.

5. Bow-Only Run#

Concept: Play through the game using only bows and arrows.

Tips:

• Stockpile Arrows: Always have plenty of arrows. Craft them if needed, and don’t be shy about stocking up.
• Choose the Right Bow: The Longbow or Composite Bow are great choices early on. Eventually, aim to obtain the Black Bow for its versatility.
• Manage Range: Stay at a distance to maximize damage and keep yourself safe. Mastering dodge-rolls is critical for when enemies close in.

Extra Tips for Any Challenge Run#

• Patience is Key: Challenge runs are meant to be hard. Patience and persistence will get you through even the toughest sections.
• Join the Community: Online forums and social media are filled with players attempting similar runs. Sharing strategies and tips can be incredibly helpful.
• Enjoy the Ride: Remember, the goal is to have fun and push your limits. Don’t be afraid to take breaks if it feels overwhelming.

Whether it’s a no-death adventure or a magically inclined quest, challenge runs transform Elden Ring into an entirely new beast. Pick one, stick with it, and soon you’ll feel like a gaming legend!

Embrace the challenge and see if you’ve got what it takes to conquer the Lands Between under these demanding conditions. Good luck, Tarnished!

Handling Bosses in Challenge Run#

Taking on bosses during a challenge run in Elden Ring can test your patience and skill to their limits. Challenge runs often come with specific restrictions like using only certain weapons, no upgrading, or even playing without armor. This guide will help you handle bosses under such constraints and still come out victorious.

Preparation is Key#

Before you face any boss, make sure you’re well-prepared. Here’s a checklist to get you ready:

• Know Your Enemy: Spend some time learning the boss’s attack patterns. Watch videos if you have to. The more you know, the easier it’ll be to dodge and counter.
• Stock Up: Ensure you have plenty of healing items and any other useful consumables like damage buffing items.
• Gear: If you’re allowed gear, even simple things like rings and talismans can make a big difference.

Dodging and Parrying#

Avoiding damage is crucial. Here’s how you can master defense:

• Timing Your Dodges: Dodging too early or too late can get you killed. Practice rolling at the right moment to avoid attacks.
• Parrying: For those confident in their skills, parrying can be a game-changer. It requires precise timing but can leave bosses open for counterattacks.

Knowing When to Attack#

Challenge runs limit your offensive power. Here’s how to make the most out of your attacks:

• Patience Over Aggression: Avoid going in for attacks carelessly. Wait for a clear opening after the boss’s big moves.
• One or Two Hits: In most cases, only go for one or two hits before dodging away. Greediness for more hits usually ends badly.
• Beware of Phases: Many bosses have multiple phases. Be ready for changes in their attack patterns after you’ve dealt a certain amount of damage.

Utilizing the Environment#

Sometimes the environment can be your best ally:

• Obstacles: Use pillars and other structures to block line-of-sight attacks or take a breather.
• Elevated Areas: Use stairs and ledges to gain a height advantage for certain attacks.

Summoning Help#

Even for challenge runs, some rules might allow for summoning:

• Spirit Ashes: These summons can help distract the boss, giving you windows to attack. Choose ones that align with your challenge run rules.
• Co-op Partners: If your run permits multiplayer, a well-coordinated partner can make boss fights more manageable.

Mental Fortitude#

Challenge runs are as much a mental test as they are a skill test:

• Stay Calm: Panic leads to mistakes. Keep a clear head, and focus on what you’ve learned about the boss.
• Learn from Failure: Each death is a lesson. Take note of what went wrong and adjust your strategy accordingly.
• Small Goals: Instead of focusing solely on beating the boss, set smaller goals like surviving until a certain attack or reaching a specific health threshold.

Final Tips#

Here are a few additional pointers to help you succeed:

• Practice Outside the Fight: If certain mechanics are troubling you, practice similar moves on regular enemies or in safer settings.
• Adjust Your Build: Sometimes a small change to your character’s stats or equipment can make a big difference.
• Consistent Strategy: Stick to a strategy that works and refine it with each attempt. Random changes mid-fight can lead to unnecessary mistakes.

Handling bosses in challenge runs is all about patience, strategy, and a bit of luck. Follow these tips, and you’ll have a better chance of overcoming these daunting challenges in Elden Ring. Happy hunting!

Challenge Run Achievements and Rewards#

So, you’ve bested Elden Ring’s intimidating bosses like a champ? Great! Feeling the itch to up the ante? Enter challenge runs! Challenge runs push your skills to the limit and, let’s be honest, they’re pretty cool. Here’s what you need to know about challenge run achievements and the rewards you’ll earn in the Lands Between.

What Are Challenge Runs?#

Challenge runs are essentially self-imposed restrictions to make the game harder. They’re not for the faint-hearted, but they’re super satisfying. Here are some popular ones:

• No Hit Runs: Beat the game without taking a single hit.
• Level 1 Runs: Complete the game without leveling up.
• No Weapon Upgrade Runs: Stick with your starter weapon throughout.
• Speedruns: Beat the game in record time.

Each of these runs requires mastery of the game’s mechanics, absolute focus, and a bit of luck. Whether you’re dodging attacks with perfect timing or planning out the quickest route, every second counts.

Achievements and Bragging Rights#

While the game doesn’t officially track challenge runs, achieving one can land you immense bragging rights. Tons of players share their feats on social media and forums. Some even stream their progress on platforms like Twitch and YouTube. Here are a few community-recognized milestones:

• No Hit, No Damage Runs: The ultimate flex. Completing this could make you a legend in the community.
• Level 1 Runs: Prove that you don’t need high stats to best those bosses.
• Sub X-Hour Speedruns: Typically, anything under 2 hours is considered impressive, but the record chasers go for even faster times.

Rewards#

Digital Fame#

Though the game doesn’t reward you with new items or in-game accolades, the community’s recognition is often enough. Many veteran players and streamers who complete these feats gain followers and, sometimes, support from around the world.

Personal Satisfaction#

More than just community accolades, completing a challenge run offers immense personal satisfaction. It’s a testament to your patience, strategy, and skills. Plus, you’ll definitely get better at the game, learning every enemy’s move set and every item’s location.

Tips for Starting Your Own Challenge Run#

• Start Simple: Begin with less demanding restrictions to get a feel for it. Maybe a run without any magic or a no-death attempt.
• Know Your Enemy: Study boss patterns and attack timings. Memorization is key.
• Plan Your Route: Especially important for speedruns. Know where to go and when. Cutting out unnecessary detours can save tons of time.
• Stay Patient: Challenge runs can be super frustrating. If you lose progress, take a break and come back fresh.
• Community Resources: Check forums, guide videos, and community boards for tips and support.

Final Thoughts#

Challenge runs in Elden Ring aren’t just about making the game tougher—they’re about proving to yourself and others that you can conquer the insurmountable. Whether it’s through a nail-biting, no-hit journey or a pulse-pounding speedrun, these feats are the pinnacle of gamer glory. So, lace up your (digital) boots, grab your (starter) sword, and prepare for a journey like no other.