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U4GM - 10 Mistakes to Avoid in Elden Ring
Elden Ring, with its vast open world, intricate mechanics, and unforgiving combat, is a game that rewards patience and punishes carelessness. As a seasoned Tarnished who has spent hundreds of hours exploring the Lands Between, I’ve made my fair share of mistakes—some of them repeatedly. To help others avoid the same frustrations, here are 10 common mistakes that new and returning players should steer clear of.
1. Ignoring Vigor Early On
In my first playthrough, I poured nearly all my points into Strength and Dexterity, thinking offense was the best defense. I quickly learned otherwise. Low Vigor makes you extremely vulnerable to even basic enemies. Aim for at least 40 Vigor if you’re planning on taking on late-game bosses. Don’t let your glass cannon build shatter under pressure.
2. Hoarding Upgrade Materials
It’s tempting to save those Smithing Stones “for something better,” but in Elden Ring, a well-upgraded early weapon can carry you far. I once stuck with an unupgraded weapon for five hours, only to get crushed in every boss fight. Use your upgrade materials wisely and consistently. If you're short on them, consider farming or checking platforms like U4GM for tips on obtaining cheap Elden Ring Items to stay battle-ready.
3. Rushing into High-Level Areas
The freedom of Elden Ring’s open world can be a double-edged sword. I remember stumbling into Caelid far too early and wondering why everything one-shot me. Follow the natural progression through Limgrave and Liurnia before venturing into more brutal territories. You’ll enjoy the challenge more if you’re prepared.
4. Underestimating Weapon Scaling
Weapon scaling isn't just a fancy stat. I learned this the hard way when I kept using a weapon that didn’t match my character’s primary stats. Matching your weapon to your build (Strength, Dexterity, Intelligence, etc.) maximizes damage and efficiency. Invest in weapons that scale well with your stats or respec once you’ve found your ideal playstyle.
5. Ignoring Spirit Ashes
I was skeptical about using Spirit Ashes, thinking they were a crutch. But once I started summoning them for tough encounters, they became invaluable. They don’t just deal damage—they distract enemies and give you time to heal or reposition. Upgrade them early and often. Some Spirit Ashes are as essential as your main weapon.
6. Refusing to Experiment
Sticking with a single weapon or playstyle might seem safe, but Elden Ring rewards variety. I used to rely only on katanas, ignoring colossal swords, sorceries, and incantations. After branching out, I discovered that mixing things up—especially with gear and abilities from cheap elden ring runes sources—opened up more strategies and made the game even more fun.
7. Not Using Buffs and Consumables
Buff items like Flame, Grant Me Strength or boiled crab can give you the edge you need. I used to think buffs were only for hardcore players, but even a simple defense boost helped me survive otherwise lethal hits. Stock up regularly. Vendors, dungeons, and online markets like U4GM are great places to acquire or learn about these cheap Elden Ring Items.
8. Forgetting to Level Up at Sites of Grace
More than once, I died carrying tens of thousands of runes simply because I forgot to level up at a Site of Grace. Don’t get greedy. If you have enough runes for a level-up, take the time to spend them. Also, consider investing in cheap elden ring runes if you’re stuck and need a boost without grinding endlessly.
9. Skipping NPC Quests
NPCs like Ranni, Blaidd, and Fia offer some of the most rewarding and lore-rich quests in the game. Early in my journey, I ignored them entirely. Big mistake. These quests unlock powerful items, alternate endings, and unique encounters. Read dialogue carefully and follow questlines to truly experience the depth of Elden Ring.
10. Playing Solo When Struggling
While solo play can be rewarding, there's no shame in summoning help. Some bosses are designed to be tackled with allies. I stubbornly fought Malenia alone for hours until I finally used a summon and experienced the fight in a new way. Whether through NPC summons or multiplayer, collaboration is part of the game’s design.
Elden Ring is a game built on learning from failure. Mistakes are part of the journey, but avoiding the most common ones can help make your adventure smoother and more satisfying. With smart preparation, the right mindset, and trusted resources like U4GM for cheap Elden Ring Items and cheap elden ring runes, you’ll be better equipped to conquer everything the Lands Between throws at you.