Elden Ring, the critically acclaimed action RPG from FromSoftware, offers players a vast array of build options to explore. Among these, the Intelligence build stands out as a versatile and powerful choice, especially when focusing on weapons that scale with Intelligence. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the intricacies of an Intelligence-based build, highlighting the best weapons, strategies, and tips to Elden Ring Runes dominate both PvE and PvP encounters.

Why Choose an Intelligence Build?
Intelligence builds in Elden Ring are often associated with spellcasting, but they can also be incredibly effective when centered around weapons that scale with Intelligence. This hybrid approach allows players to deal significant melee damage while still having access to powerful spells for ranged combat or utility. The key to success with this build lies in selecting the right weapons, optimizing your stats, and mastering the playstyle.

Core Weapons for an Intelligence Build
When it comes to Intelligence-scaling weapons, there are several standout options that can carry you through the game. Here are some of the best choices:

Wing of Astel: This curved sword is a favorite among Intelligence builds due to its unique weapon art, Nebula. Nebula creates a cloud of stars that explodes after a short delay, dealing massive damage to enemies caught in the blast. Additionally, the Wing of Astel has a built-in ranged attack that doesn’t consume FP, making it an excellent tool for punishing enemies from a distance.

Moonveil Katana: Despite being a meme in the community, the Moonveil Katana is undeniably powerful. Its weapon art, Transient Moonlight, fires a wave of magic that has incredible range, stun potential, and damage output. This makes it an excellent choice for both PvE and PvP, especially when you need to punish healing or create space between you and your opponent.

Royal Greatsword: This colossal weapon scales with both Strength and Intelligence, making it a great choice for players who want to mix melee power with magic. Its weapon art, Wolf’s Assault, delivers a devastating combo that can obliterate enemies. While it requires a significant investment in Strength, the payoff is well worth it for the sheer damage output.

Dark Moon Greatsword: A classic weapon for Intelligence builds, the Dark Moon Greatsword excels in both melee and ranged combat. Its weapon art, Moonlight Greatsword, imbues the blade with frost, allowing you to unleash powerful magic projectiles with each heavy attack. This weapon is perfect for players who want a balance of melee and ranged options.

Magic-Infused Weapons: One of the strengths of an Intelligence build is the ability to infuse standard weapons with magic, allowing them to scale with Intelligence. Weapons like the Claymore, Longsword, or Rapier can become formidable tools when infused with magic. This flexibility allows you to tailor your weapon choice to your preferred playstyle.

Optimal Stats for an Intelligence Build
To maximize the effectiveness of your Intelligence build, you’ll need to carefully allocate your stats. Here’s a breakdown of the key stats to focus on:

Intelligence (50+): This is your primary damage stat, and you’ll want to aim for at least 50 Intelligence to maximize the damage output of your magic-scaling weapons and spells. Going beyond 50 can yield additional damage, but the returns diminish after 80.

Strength and Dexterity: The amount of Strength and Dexterity you need will depend on the weapons you choose. For example, the Royal Greatsword requires 26 Strength, while the Moonveil Katana needs 18 Dexterity. Focus on meeting the minimum requirements for your chosen weapons, and then invest the rest in Intelligence.

Mind (20-30): Mind determines your FP pool, which is essential for using weapon arts and spells. Aim for around 20-30 Mind to ensure you have enough FP for extended battles.

Vigor (40+): Vigor is crucial for survivability, especially in PvP. Aim for at least 40 Vigor to ensure you can withstand enemy attacks.

Endurance (20-30): Endurance increases your stamina and equip load, allowing you to wear heavier armor and perform more attacks before needing to recover. Aim for 20-30 Endurance, depending on your armor and playstyle.

Talismans and Armor
Choosing the right talismans and armor can significantly enhance your Intelligence build. Here are some recommendations:

Talismans:

Radagon Icon: Reduces casting time for spells, making your weapon arts and spells more responsive.

Graven-Mass Talisman: Increases the potency of sorceries, boosting the damage of your magic-infused weapons and spells.

Carian Filigreed Crest: Reduces the FP cost of weapon arts, allowing you to use them more frequently.

Erdtree’s Favor: Increases your HP, stamina, and equip load, providing a well-rounded boost to your survivability.

Armor:

Carian Knight Set: This armor set provides a good balance of defense and magic resistance, making it a solid choice for Intelligence builds.

Raya Lucarian Set: Another excellent option for Intelligence builds, this set offers strong magic resistance and a stylish appearance.

Custom Armor Combinations: Feel free to mix and match armor pieces to achieve the desired balance of defense, weight, and fashion. Just ensure you stay within your equip load limit to avoid heavy rolling.

Spells and Ashes of War
While this build focuses on weapons, having a few spells and Ashes of War in your arsenal can provide additional utility and damage options:

Spells:

Terra Magica: This spell creates a zone that boosts the damage of all magic attacks, including your weapon arts. It’s especially useful in boss fights or when you need to maximize your damage output.

Carian Slicer: A fast, close-range spell that deals high damage. It’s perfect for finishing off enemies or dealing quick bursts of damage.

Adula’s Moonblade: A powerful frost spell that deals both magic and frost damage. It’s excellent for crowd control and dealing with groups of enemies.

Ashes of War:

Waves of Darkness: This Ash of War creates a shockwave that knocks back enemies and deals significant damage. It’s an excellent “get off me” tool for when you’re surrounded.

Gravitas: Pulls enemies towards you, setting them up for follow-up attacks. It’s particularly useful in PvP to disrupt your opponent’s positioning.

Loretta’s Slash: A versatile Ash of War that delivers a powerful slash followed by a magic projectile. It’s great for both melee and ranged combat.

PvP Strategies
In PvP, an Intelligence build can be incredibly effective if played correctly. Here are some tips to dominate your opponents:

Mix Up Your Attacks: Don’t rely solely on your weapon art. Mix in regular attacks, jump attacks, and charged R2s to keep your opponent guessing.

Punish Healing: Use the long-range capabilities of weapons like the Moonveil Katana or Dark Moon Greatsword to punish opponents who try to heal.

Use Terrain to Your Advantage: Position yourself in areas where your weapon arts can hit multiple enemies or where you can use the environment to block incoming attacks.

Bait and Punish: Use your ranged attacks to bait opponents into making mistakes, then punish them with your melee attacks or weapon arts.

Conclusion
An Intelligence build focused on magic-scaling weapons offers a unique and powerful playstyle in Elden Ring. By carefully selecting your weapons, optimizing your stats, and elden ring items buy online mastering your tactics, you can dominate both PvE and PvP encounters. Whether you’re wielding the Wing of Astel, the Moonveil Katana, or a magic-infused Claymore, this build provides a versatile and rewarding experience. So, grab your staff, sharpen your blade, and prepare to unleash the full power of your Intelligence build in the Lands Between. Good luck, Tarnished!