As a fan of the Soulsborne franchise, the upcoming release of Elden Ring is highly anticipated. One of the key elements of the gameplay is the customization of the player character’s build, especially when it comes to PvP. In this article, we’ll be focusing on the “Death’s Poker” build, which has become popular in the community due to its effectiveness in dominating opponents.
Before we dive into the specifics of the build, it’s important to understand what makes Elden Ring’s PvP unique. Unlike other games, where players can simply rely on spamming attacks, Elden Ring emphasizes strategy and mind games. Players need to be mindful of their stamina and positioning, as well as predicting their opponent’s next move. With that said, let’s get into the build.
The Death’s Poker build is a hybrid of a mage and a melee fighter. It centers around the use of Forbidden Magic, specifically the spell “Defiler’s Wrath”. This spell deals immense damage to opponents within a certain radius, and can be used to zone them out or finish them off. Additionally, the build also utilizes the “Curse” spell, which deals damage over time and can quickly chip away at an opponent’s health.
In terms of melee combat, the build relies on the use of the rapier weapon class. Rapiers are known for their quick and precise attacks, which are perfect for punishing opponents who make mistakes. Additionally, the build uses the “Unstoppable” skill, which allows the player to break an opponent’s guard and deal critical damage.
Now that we’ve covered the basics of the build, let’s go over some tips for using it effectively in PvP.
1. Use Defiler’s Wrath as a zoning tool. The spell has a long cast time, which can make it difficult to use in close combat. Instead, use it to create distance between you and your opponent, forcing them to either take the damage or retreat.
2. Save Curse for when your opponent is in a vulnerable position. Since the spell deals damage over time, it’s not always effective to use it mid-combo. Instead, wait for your opponent to make a mistake, such as whiffing an attack, before using Curse to punish them.
3. Avoid relying too heavily on Unstoppable. While it’s a powerful tool, it’s also risky to use. If your opponent predicts it, they can dodge or counter it easily. Instead, use it sparingly in unexpected situations, such as after a successful parry or when your opponent is low on stamina.
4. Experiment with different weapon infusions. Rapiers can be infused with various elements, each of which has its own strengths and weaknesses. For example, a fire-infused rapier deals extra damage to opponents wearing heavy armor, while a lightning-infused rapier deals extra damage to opponents who invest heavily in intelligence.
5. Be mindful of your stamina. Elden Ring’s combat system is punishing for those who mash the attack button. Instead, focus on conserving your stamina and making calculated strikes. Additionally, use your stamina bar as a tool for mind games, such as feinting attacks to bait your opponent into making a mistake.
In conclusion, the Death’s Poker build is a powerful tool for dominating opponents in Elden Ring’s PvP. By utilizing Forbidden Magic and rapier melee combat, players can effectively zone out their opponents and punish their mistakes. With these tips in mind, anyone can become a formidable force in the game’s competitive scene.
FAQs:
1. Can this build be used in PvE as well?
Yes, the build can be effective in both PvE and PvP. However, it’s important to note that some enemies may be resistant to Forbidden Magic, so the player will need to vary their approach accordingly.
2. What are some good secondary weapons to use with this build?
Daggers can be effective for backstabbing and riposting, while larger weapons like greatswords can be used to deal heavy damage in close combat.
3. How important is armor selection for this build?
While armor choice is important for every build, the Death’s Poker build doesn’t rely heavily on defense. Instead, it’s more important to focus on avoiding damage altogether by dodging and parrying.
4. How does this build compare to other popular PvP builds?
Every build has its strengths and weaknesses, and the Death’s Poker build is no exception. However, it has become popular due to its versatility and effectiveness against a variety of opponents.
5. Can this build be customized further to suit individual playstyles?
Absolutely! This build can be tweaked to fit the player’s preferences, such as by incorporating different spells or infusing their rapier with a different element. The key is to experiment and find what works best for the individual.