Achieving the "Elden Lord" Ending in Elden Ring
In this guide, we'll explore the steps to achieve the "Elden Lord" ending, detailing the challenges you'll face, the preparation needed, and the significance of this iconic conclusion.
Understanding the "Elden Lord" Ending
The "Elden Lord" ending is the default ending in Elden Ring, achieved by restoring the fractured Elden Ring and sitting upon the throne in the Erdtree. It represents the Tarnished restoring order to the Lands Between and becoming the ruler. This ending is influenced by your choices throughout the game, but unlike some of the alternate endings, it does not require completing specific NPC questlines or obtaining special items like the Frenzied Flame.
To achieve the "Elden Lord" ending, you must progress through the main story, defeat the game's key bosses, and choose to mend the Elden Ring at the game's climax. Here's how to prepare for this momentous journey.
Essential Preparation
Achieving the "Elden Lord" ending is no small feat. Along the way, you'll face some of the game's toughest foes, including demigods, dragons, and the Elden Beast. Preparation is critical, and this means making the most of your Elden Ring Runes and collecting vital Elden Ring Items.
Spending Runes Effectively
Your Elden Ring Runes are the currency of survival. Use them to strengthen your character by leveling up and upgrading equipment:
Vigor: Boost your HP to withstand heavy hits, especially in the later stages where bosses like Radagon of the Golden Order and the Elden Beast deal immense damage.
Endurance: Enhance your stamina to ensure you can roll, block, and attack without running out of energy.
Strength/Dexterity/Intelligence/Faith: Invest in these attributes based on your chosen build. For melee builds, Strength and Dexterity are essential, while spellcasters should focus on Intelligence or Faith.
Avoid hoarding runes unnecessarily—bank them into levels or consumable Golden Runes before heading into dangerous areas to prevent losing them upon death.
Key Elden Ring Items for the Journey
Certain items will make your path to becoming the Elden Lord much smoother. Here are some must-haves:
Golden Seeds and Sacred Tears: Upgrade your Flasks of Crimson and Cerulean Tears to maximize healing and FP restoration. These are critical for survival in challenging fights.
Spirit Ashes: Summon allies like Mimic Tear, Black Knife Tiche, or Dung Eater Puppet to help you in boss battles. Upgrading your summons at Roderika's workshop can significantly improve their effectiveness.
Rune Arcs and Great Runes: Activate Great Runes, such as Radahn's or Morgott's, for powerful buffs. Use Rune Arcs to make these effects active, granting you a major edge in combat.
Weapon Upgrade Materials: Farm Smithing Stones and Somber Smithing Stones to upgrade your weapons to their maximum potential. The strength of your weapons will often determine your success in tougher battles.
Talisman Choices: Equip talismans that complement your build, such as Radagon's Scarseal for melee-focused builds or the Radagon Icon for spellcasters to reduce casting time.
The Final Steps to Become Elden Lord
To achieve the "Elden Lord" ending, you must progress through the game's critical path, defeating major bosses and collecting Great Runes. Here's a breakdown of the key steps:
1. Defeating the Major Demigods
The path to becoming Elden Lord requires defeating the demigods and claiming their Great Runes. Key bosses include:
Godrick the Grafted: The first major hurdle in your journey.
Rennala, Queen of the Full Moon: Defeat her to unlock respec options.
Starscourge Radahn: A massive challenge, but his Great Rune is essential for progression.
Morgott, the Omen King: Blocking the path to the Erdtree, Morgott is a pivotal boss to overcome.
Each victory will yield Elden Ring Runes to strengthen your character further.
2. Entering Leyndell, Royal Capital
Leyndell is a sprawling city filled with formidable foes, including the Tree Sentinel and Godfrey, First Elden Lord. As you delve deeper into the capital, you'll inch closer to the throne.
3. Facing Radagon and the Elden Beast
The final stretch involves two back-to-back boss fights:
Radagon of the Golden Order: A powerful foe who tests your stamina and adaptability. His attacks deal heavy holy damage, so equip holy-resistant items.
The Elden Beast: The final boss is a massive, divine creature with AoE attacks and ranged abilities. Equip talismans like the Dragoncrest Greatshield Talisman to boost defense and bring plenty of healing items.
Choosing the "Elden Lord" Ending
After defeating the Elden Beast, you'll have the option to mend the Elden Ring. Simply interact with Fractured Marika to trigger the "Elden Lord" ending.
If you've followed specific alternate paths, such as siding with the Frenzied Flame or completing Ranni's questline, you may be locked into other endings unless you reverse those choices. For the pure "Elden Lord" conclusion, avoid activating any alternate conditions.
Rewards and Significance
Achieving the "Elden Lord" ending is a monumental accomplishment that reflects your perseverance and mastery of the game. As the new ruler of the Lands Between, you restore order and begin a new age. In addition to the narrative satisfaction, defeating the final bosses grants you a massive amount of Elden Ring Runes, along with items that unlock powerful endgame abilities.
The "Elden Lord" ending is not just about the destination—it's about the journey. Every rune spent, every item acquired, and every boss defeated contributes to your triumph.
Final Thoughts
Claiming the title of Elden Lord is a testament to your dedication as a Tarnished. By wisely managing your Elden Ring Runes, equipping the best Elden Ring Items, and persevering through the game's toughest challenges, you'll earn your place atop the throne in the Erdtree.
The Lands Between await your leadership—step forward, Tarnished, and embrace your destiny as the Elden Lord.