In a fascinating revelation, an Elden Ring player has unearthed a significant but widely overlooked game mechanic that enhances the utility of shields, underscoring the depth and complexity of FromSoftware's acclaimed title. This discovery comes at a pivotal moment as players prepare for the highly anticipated Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, set to release in just a month.
The discovery, shared by Reddit user PompousGoblin, occurred after an impressive 1400 hours of gameplay. The player highlighted that upgrading shields was previously not a priority due to the belief that it did not influence the crucial guard boost attribute. Guard boost, also known as stability, is a vital metric that determines the stamina expenditure per block, allowing players to sustain more blocks without depleting their stamina reserves. However, PompousGoblin's surplus of Smithing Stones led to an experimental shield upgrade, revealing that it indeed boosts guard attributes, contrary to prior assumptions.
Community Reaction and Implications
The Elden Ring community reacted with surprise and intrigue to this revelation. Many players admitted they were unaware of the guard boost mechanic or its connection to shield upgrades. This newfound knowledge has sparked discussions about optimal resource allocation and build strategies, with some players reconsidering their approach to upgrading equipment.
Despite the excitement, there remains a debate within the community about the practicality of focusing on shield upgrades for guard boost. Some players argue that it is only beneficial for specific shields, such as the popular Brass Shield. Nonetheless, the decision ultimately hinges on individual playstyles and overall build strategies.
Elden Ring: A Continual Journey of Discovery
Elden Ring, a fantasy action-RPG, represents a collaboration between Hidetaka Miyazaki, the visionary behind the Dark Souls series, and George R.R. Martin, author of A Song of Ice and Fire. Since its release on February 25, 2022, the game has captivated players with its expansive world, intricate lore, and challenging gameplay. Available on multiple platforms including PS5, Xbox One, PS4, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and PC, Elden Ring continues to engage a global audience.
As players gear up for the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, which promises to add new layers of content and challenges, this recent discovery serves as a reminder of the game's depth and the continuous learning curve it offers. Whether fine-tuning existing builds or starting anew, players are reminded that Elden Ring's world is vast, with hidden mechanics and strategies awaiting discovery at every turn.
