Master Elden Ring's Dual Wielding Techniques

Mastering Two-Handed Weaponry in Elden Ring: A Comprehensive Guide

This guide delves into the mechanics and strategic advantages of two-handing weapons in Elden Ring, helping you maximize damage output and overcome challenges.

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How to Two-Hand Weapons in Elden Ring | Why Two-Hand in Elden Ring | Drawbacks of Two-Handing | Optimal Weapons for Two-Handing

How to Two-Hand Weapons in Elden Ring

To wield weapons with both hands in Elden Ring, press and hold E on PC, Triangle on PlayStation, or Y on Xbox, then initiate an attack. The attack will originate from either your left or right hand, depending on which weapon you've selected. Remember to check your control scheme if these defaults have been altered.

This method also functions while mounted, allowing seamless weapon switching between melee and magic, or between different melee weapons. However, note that weapons requiring two hands due to Strength requirements must be two-handed before mounting your steed. Simply switching while mounted won't suffice.

Related: Navigating the Roundtable Hold in Elden Ring

Why Two-Hand Weapons in Elden Ring?

The benefits of two-handing are substantial. Primarily, it significantly increases damage. Your Strength stat receives a 50% boost, amplifying the effectiveness of Strength-scaling weapons.

Furthermore, two-handing often modifies attack animations and damage types. The Strength bonus also enables wielding weapons otherwise inaccessible, allowing for more flexible stat allocation.

Finally, it optimizes Ash of War usage. With a sword and shield, your weapon skill defaults to the shield. Two-handing your weapon directly accesses its Ash of War, providing greater combat versatility.

Drawbacks of Two-Handed Combat

While highly effective for Strength builds, two-handing has limitations. Attack patterns change, demanding adaptation and strategic planning. Sometimes, sacrificing raw damage for situationally advantageous attacks proves beneficial.

The technique’s inherent focus on Strength might not suit Dexterity or other build types. Experimentation is key to finding the optimal approach for your chosen playstyle.

Best Weapons for Two-Handed Use

Generally, large Strength-scaling weapons excel when two-handed. Since the Shadow of the Erdtree update, the Two-Handed Sword Talisman provides a damage boost for two-handed swords.

Greatswords, Colossal Swords, Great Hammers, and Colossal Weapons are excellent choices. Consider the Greatsword, Zweihander, Fire Knight's Greatsword, and Giant-Crusher as strong contenders. Ultimately, select weapons that best complement your build and preferences.

Elden Ring is available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.

Update: This article was updated on 1/27/25 by Liam Nolan to provide more insight into two-handed weapon combat in Elden Ring.