- Discover 12 unique and uncommon builds for a fresh Elden Ring experience.
- Updated with the latest additions from Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree DLC.
- Each build offers a unique playstyle, enhancing both PvE and PvP gameplay.
Elden Ring’s Ongoing Popularity
FromSoftware’s acclaimed Soulslike adventure, Elden Ring, launched in early 2022 to widespread excitement. Months later, the community remains vibrant, continually exploring new builds to diversify gameplay. Unlike typical AAA titles where experimentation wanes, Hidetaka Miyazaki’s creation boasts an extensive array of armor, talismans, weapons, and stats, offering a fresh build each time.

Choosing the Right Build
Selecting the right build is crucial in Elden Ring, a game known for its punishing difficulty. Beginners may find straightforward magic or warrior builds beneficial. However, for seasoned players seeking to rejuvenate their gameplay in subsequent playthroughs, there are many unique and uncommon options to explore.
Updated July 10, 2024, by Hamza Haq: The release of Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree has dramatically altered the meta. Alongside new options for existing weapons, eight entirely new weapon types have been introduced, each with distinct movesets and playstyles. These additions have paved the way for a variety of new builds, offering players novel and exciting ways to approach the game.
12 – Mushroom King Build
Poison Mastery
The Mushroom King build centers on using the Poison status effect to vanquish foes. Equip the Mushroom Crown and Kindred of Rot’s Exultation Talisman to stack buffs and inflict significant damage when Poison is applied. Enhance weapon damage by infusing them with Poison affinity, which increases Dexterity. Additional buffs can be obtained by using Seppuku in the off-hand to trigger Blood Loss before battles, further boosted by the Lord of Blood’s Exultation Talisman.

11 – Dryleaf Monk Build
Hand-to-Hand Combat Specialist
The Dryleaf Monk excels in close-quarters combat using the Dryleaf Arts weapon. Increase attack effectiveness with the Rotten Winged Sword Insignia, Millicent’s Prosthesis, and the Godfrey Icon. The fourth talisman slot is flexible, but the Two-Headed Turtle Talisman is a reliable choice. Adjust Ash of War to match enemy weaknesses, alternating between Heavy, Cold, Blood, and Poison infusions. Dexterity and Strength are vital for this build.

10 – Ninja Turtle Build
Shell and Mask Warrior
Transform into a Ninja Turtle with the Great Turtle Shell and Albinauric Mask. This visually playful build pairs well with weapons like a katana, pole, spear, or flail. FromSoftware’s attention to visual details ensures a fun and immersive experience, making this build both effective and entertaining.

9 – Bubble Mage Build
Versatile Ranged Attacker
The Bubble Mage build, also known as Bubble Boy’s build, allows players to wield the Envoy’s Greathorn, which shoots bubbles. Equip the Envoy Crown to boost damage. While primarily a ranged attacker, this build offers versatility for close combat. The bubbles’ vibrant animation contrasts beautifully with the environment, enhancing the visual experience.

8 – The Wall Build
Unstoppable Defender
The Wall build is perfect for players who enjoy a defensive playstyle. Equip two Fingerprint Stone Shields and embrace the “defend and poke” strategy from Elden Ring’s PvP. Become an immovable force, withstanding waves of damage while strategically counterattacking. Enhance stamina recovery with the Green Turtle Talisman to mitigate sluggish movement.

7 – Holy Turret Build
Flexible Combatant
The Holy Turret build provides flexibility in both PvE and PvP. Utilize Triple Rings of Light for ranged damage and Holy Ground Ash of War for defensive buffs and healing. Equip the Radiant Gold Mask and Golden Order Seal for enhanced damage. This build adapts to various combat scenarios, allowing players to customize elements to their liking.

6 – Shield Thruster Build
Indestructible Offense
Thrusting Shields introduced in the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC revolutionize gameplay by combining offense and defense. Hold the Thrusting Shield with both hands, blocking while attacking to maintain a near-invincible stance. Equip the Spear Talisman for increased damage during attacks, and use the Two-Headed Turtle Talisman and Greatshield Talisman to boost stamina regeneration and reduce stamina loss from blocking. Focus on Intelligence, Vigor, and Endurance for optimal performance.

5 – All Fire Build
Aggressive Pyromancer
The All Fire build is designed for aggressive players. Utilize preemptive moves and fire-based attacks like Burn, O Flame!, Flame, Grant me Strength, and Giantsflame Take Thee to create chaos. This build is not recommended for beginners due to its complexity and reduced visibility during combat. Avoid using it against bosses with high fire resistance.

4 – Howling Starfist Build
Close-Quarters Brawler
Inspired by Kratos’ Spartan Rage, the Howling Starfist build focuses on close-quarters combat. The Star Fist weapon, enhanced with the Bloodflame Blade incantation, delivers massive damage. Add the Ash of War: Beast’s Roar for ranged attacks. Dual-wield Star Fist for additional passive boosts and unleash devastating combos on enemies.

3 – Vampiric Knight Build
Lifesteal Survivor
The Vampiric Knight build emphasizes healing and survivability. Use the Butchering Knife to regain 1% of max HP per hit and the Ash of War: Prelate’s Charge for rapid attacks. Equip the Icon Shield for protection and passive HP regeneration. Enhance healing further with the Blessed Dew Talisman. Customize armor and other components to fit personal preferences.

2 – The Elementalist Build
Master Mage
The Elementalist build allows players to cast nearly every spell without heavy investment in Faith. High intelligence is required to use a wide range of spells, suitable for both ranged and close combat. Equip the Prince of Death’s Staff to boost Ancient Death Rancor. This build offers versatility and the opportunity to troll enemies in PvE and PvP.

1 – Mad King Build
Madness and Blood Loss Specialist
The Mad King build focuses on Madness and Blood Loss, requiring high Arcane, Dexterity, and Mind stats. Use incantations like Unendurable Frenzy, The Flame of Frenzy, and Howl of Shabriri to inflict massive damage. Keep clarifying boluses to manage Madness buildup. Incorporate blood incantations and weapons like Swarm of Flies and Rivers of Blood to maximize the effectiveness of the high Arcane stat.

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Elden Ring: Checkout the 12 Most Uncommon Builds
Source: The Most Uncommon Builds In Elden Ring (gamerant.com)