How to Two-Hand Weapons in Elden Ring

Mastering Elden Ring's Two-Handed Weapon Combat: A Comprehensive Guide

This guide delves into the mechanics and strategies of two-handing weapons in Elden Ring, exploring its advantages, disadvantages, and optimal weapon choices.

How to Two-Hand Weapons

To wield a weapon with two hands, press and hold E on PC, Triangle on PlayStation, or Y on Xbox, then initiate an attack. This applies to both your left and right-hand weapons. Note that altered control schemes may require adjustments. This method also functions while mounted, but remember that weapons requiring two-handed use due to Strength requirements must be wielded this way before mounting.

Why Two-Hand Your Weapons?

Two-handing offers significant benefits:

• Increased Damage: Your Strength stat receives a 50% boost, significantly amplifying damage output, especially for Strength-scaling weapons.
• Altered Movesets: Some weapons gain unique attack animations and damage types when wielded with two hands.
• Access to Unwieldy Weapons: This technique allows access to heavier weapons that might otherwise be inaccessible, optimizing Strength stat allocation.
• Ash of War Accessibility: Using a shield prevents access to the right-hand weapon's Ash of War. Two-handing bypasses this limitation.

Drawbacks of Two-Handed Combat

While advantageous, two-handing isn't without its drawbacks:

• Altered Attack Patterns: Attacks change significantly; adaptation and environmental awareness are crucial.
• Strength Build Dependency: This technique is most effective for Strength builds, potentially less beneficial for Dexterity or other builds.

Top Weapons for Two-Handed Combat

Generally, large, Strength-scaling weapons excel in two-handed combat. Since the Shadow of the Erdtree update, the Two-Handed Sword Talisman provides a damage boost when using swords in this manner. Greatswords, Colossal Swords, Great Hammers, and Colossal Weapons are all excellent choices. Consider weapons like the Greatsword, Zweihander, Fire Knight's Greatsword, and Giant-Crusher.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of two-handed combat significantly enhances your Elden Ring experience. Experimentation is key to finding the perfect weapon and combat style to suit your play preferences.

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

Updated: 1/27/25