Mastering the Art of Two-Handing in Elden Ring: A Comprehensive Guide

Elden Ring, the latest action-packed role-playing game from FromSoftware, has taken the gaming world by storm. With its rich lore, intricate gameplay mechanics, and stunning visuals, it’s no wonder that players are eager to dive in and explore the world of the Lands Between. One of the most debated topics among players is the art of two-handing, a technique that allows players to wield their weapons with both hands, dealing massive damage to enemies. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of two-handing in Elden Ring, exploring its benefits, drawbacks, and strategies for mastering this powerful technique.

What Is Two-Handing In Elden Ring?

Two-handing is a gameplay mechanic in Elden Ring that allows players to wield their weapons with both hands, increasing their damage output and changing the way they interact with the game world. When two-handing, players sacrifice their ability to use a shield, instead focusing on dealing massive damage to enemies. This technique is particularly useful for players who prefer a more aggressive playstyle, as it allows them to take down enemies quickly and efficiently.

Benefits Of Two-Handing

There are several benefits to two-handing in Elden Ring, including:

  • Increased Damage Output: Two-handing allows players to deal massive damage to enemies, making it easier to take down tough foes.
  • Improved Mobility: Without the need to worry about a shield, players can move more freely and quickly around the battlefield.
  • Enhanced Combat Experience: Two-handing adds a new layer of complexity to combat, requiring players to time their attacks carefully and use their environment to their advantage.

Drawbacks Of Two-Handing

While two-handing can be a powerful technique, there are also some drawbacks to consider:

  • Reduced Defense: Without a shield, players are more vulnerable to enemy attacks, making it essential to time their attacks carefully and use their environment to block incoming attacks.
  • Increased Stamina Consumption: Two-handing requires more stamina than one-handing, making it essential to manage stamina carefully to avoid exhaustion.
  • Reduced Versatility: Two-handing limits players to a single weapon, reducing their versatility in combat.

How To Two-Hand In Elden Ring

Two-handing is a relatively simple technique to master, but it does require some practice to get the hang of it. Here’s a step-by-step guide to two-handing in Elden Ring:

Equipping Your Weapon

To two-hand, players must first equip a weapon that can be two-handed. Most weapons in Elden Ring can be two-handed, but some exceptions apply. Players can check their weapon’s description to see if it can be two-handed.

Switching To Two-Handed Mode

Once a two-handable weapon is equipped, players can switch to two-handed mode by pressing the “Two-Hand” button (usually the “Y” button on Xbox or “Triangle” button on PlayStation). This will cause the player’s character to grip the weapon with both hands, increasing their damage output and changing their combat stance.

Mastering Two-Handed Combat

Mastering two-handed combat requires practice and patience. Here are some tips to help players improve their two-handed combat skills:

  • Practice Your Timing: Two-handed combat requires precise timing to avoid taking damage. Practice your attacks and dodges to improve your timing.
  • Use Your Environment: The environment can be a powerful ally in two-handed combat. Use obstacles and terrain to block incoming attacks and create opportunities for counterattacks.
  • Manage Your Stamina: Two-handed combat consumes more stamina than one-handed combat. Manage your stamina carefully to avoid exhaustion.

Strategies For Two-Handing In Elden Ring

Here are some strategies for two-handing in Elden Ring:

Aggressive Playstyle

Two-handing is particularly well-suited to an aggressive playstyle. Players who prefer to take the initiative and deal massive damage to enemies will find two-handing to be a powerful technique.

Defensive Playstyle

While two-handing is often associated with an aggressive playstyle, it can also be used defensively. Players can use two-handing to create distance and control the pace of combat, making it easier to defend against enemy attacks.

Combining Two-Handing With Other Techniques

Two-handing can be combined with other techniques, such as dodging and parrying, to create a powerful and versatile combat style. Players can use two-handing to deal massive damage, then switch to a shield to defend against counterattacks.

Conclusion

Two-handing is a powerful technique in Elden Ring that can add a new layer of complexity and excitement to combat. While it requires practice and patience to master, the benefits of two-handing make it a worthwhile investment for players who prefer a more aggressive playstyle. By understanding the benefits and drawbacks of two-handing and mastering the techniques outlined in this guide, players can take their combat skills to the next level and become a formidable force in the Lands Between.

Two-Handing Benefits Two-Handing Drawbacks
Increased Damage Output Reduced Defense
Improved Mobility Increased Stamina Consumption
Enhanced Combat Experience Reduced Versatility

By following the strategies and techniques outlined in this guide, players can unlock the full potential of two-handing in Elden Ring and become a master of the Lands Between.

What Is Two-handing In Elden Ring And How Does It Work?

Two-handing in Elden Ring refers to the act of wielding a single large or heavy weapon with both hands, rather than using a shield or a secondary weapon in the off-hand. This technique allows players to deal massive damage and take advantage of the increased scaling of their primary weapon. When two-handing, the player’s character will hold the weapon with both hands, and their movements and attacks will be adjusted accordingly.

The benefits of two-handing include increased damage output, improved scaling with the player’s strength stat, and access to unique animations and attacks. However, two-handing also has its drawbacks, such as reduced mobility and increased stamina consumption. Players must carefully consider their playstyle and build when deciding whether to use two-handing or not.

What Are The Benefits Of Two-handing In Elden Ring?

The benefits of two-handing in Elden Ring are numerous and significant. One of the most notable advantages is the increased damage output, which can be especially useful against tough enemies and bosses. Additionally, two-handing allows players to take advantage of the increased scaling of their primary weapon, which can lead to even more damage output. Two-handing also provides access to unique animations and attacks, which can be both visually stunning and highly effective in combat.

Another benefit of two-handing is the ability to stagger and knockback enemies more easily, which can be a game-changer in certain situations. Furthermore, two-handing can also provide a sense of intimidation and presence on the battlefield, making it a popular choice among players who enjoy playing aggressively. Overall, the benefits of two-handing make it a viable and attractive option for many players.

What Are The Drawbacks Of Two-handing In Elden Ring?

While two-handing can be a powerful and effective technique in Elden Ring, it also has its drawbacks. One of the most significant disadvantages is the reduced mobility, which can make it more difficult to dodge and avoid enemy attacks. Additionally, two-handing consumes more stamina than using a shield or secondary weapon, which can lead to stamina management issues if not managed properly.

Another drawback of two-handing is the increased vulnerability to counterattacks, as players are more committed to their attacks and have less ability to defend themselves. Furthermore, two-handing can also limit the player’s ability to use certain skills and abilities, such as blocking and parrying, which can be a significant disadvantage in certain situations. Overall, the drawbacks of two-handing require players to carefully consider their playstyle and build.

How Do I Two-hand A Weapon In Elden Ring?

To two-hand a weapon in Elden Ring, players must first ensure that they are using a compatible weapon. Most large and heavy weapons, such as greatswords and greataxes, can be two-handed. To two-hand a weapon, players must press the “Two-Hand” button, which is usually the “L2” button on PlayStation or the “LT” button on Xbox.

Once the player has two-handed their weapon, they can use the standard attack buttons to perform various attacks and combos. Players can also use the “Ashes of War” abilities, which are special skills that can be used with two-handed weapons. To switch back to one-handed mode, players can simply press the “Two-Hand” button again.

What Are The Best Two-handed Weapons In Elden Ring?

The best two-handed weapons in Elden Ring are often a matter of personal preference and playstyle. However, some of the most popular and effective two-handed weapons include the “Greatsword”, the “Greataxe”, and the “Halberd”. These weapons offer high damage output, good scaling with the player’s strength stat, and access to unique animations and attacks.

Other notable two-handed weapons include the “Claymore”, the “Flamberge”, and the “Glaive”. These weapons offer a mix of damage output, range, and mobility, making them suitable for a variety of playstyles. Ultimately, the best two-handed weapon for a player will depend on their individual needs and preferences.

How Do I Build A Two-handed Character In Elden Ring?

Building a two-handed character in Elden Ring requires careful consideration of the player’s stats, equipment, and playstyle. To build a two-handed character, players should focus on increasing their strength stat, as this will improve the damage output of their two-handed weapon. Players should also consider investing in stamina and endurance, as two-handing can be physically demanding.

In terms of equipment, players should choose a two-handed weapon that suits their playstyle and build. They should also consider using armor and accessories that provide stamina and endurance boosts, as well as damage reduction and absorption. Additionally, players can use “Ashes of War” abilities and other skills to enhance their two-handed playstyle.

What Are Some Tips For Mastering The Art Of Two-handing In Elden Ring?

Mastering the art of two-handing in Elden Ring requires practice, patience, and dedication. One of the most important tips is to start with a strong foundation, including a good understanding of the game’s mechanics and a well-rounded build. Players should also focus on developing their timing and spacing, as two-handing requires careful management of distance and positioning.

Another tip is to experiment with different two-handed weapons and playstyles, as this will help players find what works best for them. Additionally, players should pay attention to their stamina and endurance, as two-handing can be physically demanding. Finally, players should be prepared to adapt and adjust their playstyle as needed, as two-handing is a dynamic and challenging technique.

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