Mastering Two-Handed Weapons in Elden Ring

Wielding a weapon with both hands in *Elden Ring* can significantly enhance your combat prowess, enabling you to decimate foes with greater efficiency. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the mechanics of two-handing, its advantages, potential drawbacks, and the best weapons to maximize this technique.

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How to Two-Hand Weapons in Elden RingWhy You Should Two-Hand in Elden RingThe Downsides of Using a Weapon in Two-HandsBest Weapons to Two-Hand in Elden Ring How to Two-Hand Weapons in Elden Ring

To two-hand weapons in Elden Ring, you'll need to hold E on PC, the triangle button on PlayStation, or Y on Xbox, followed by pressing the attack button corresponding to your left or right-hand weapon. This action allows you to wield the chosen weapon with both hands. Be mindful of your control settings; if you've customized them, ensure the default two-handing commands haven't been altered.

These controls are versatile enough to facilitate weapon switching even while mounted, a handy feature for players who juggle multiple weapons or alternate between melee and magic attacks. Remember, if your weapon demands two-handing due to Strength requirements, you must initiate this before mounting your steed. Once on horseback, you won't be two-handing unless you've done so beforehand.

Related: How to Get Out of Roundtable Hold in Elden Ring

Why You Should Two-Hand in Elden Ring

Screenshot by The Escapist. The benefits of two-handing weapons in Elden Ring are manifold. A primary advantage is the increased damage output; two-handing boosts your Strength by 50 percent, amplifying the power of Strength-scaling weapons.

Additionally, two-handing often modifies a weapon's move set, potentially altering its damage type. This Strength enhancement also enables you to wield heavier weapons more effectively, allowing you to manage your Strength stat more efficiently while still using formidable arms like greatswords.

Moreover, two-handing enhances the utility of your weapon's Ashes of War. When equipped with a sword and shield, your right-hand weapon's skill might default to the shield's ability (e.g., parry). To access the sword's unique Ash of War, two-hand it, thereby unlocking additional combat strategies.

The Downsides of Using a Weapon in Two-Hands

Screenshot by The Escapist. While two-handing is advantageous for Strength builds in Elden Ring, it's not without its drawbacks. The change in attack dynamics can be disorienting, necessitating adaptation and strategic planning according to your combat environment. Sometimes, opting for a less potent attack that suits the situation better can be more effective.

If your build focuses on Dexterity or another attribute, you may find two-handing less beneficial. Experimentation is key to determining if this technique aligns with your playstyle.

Best Weapons to Two-Hand in Elden Ring

Screenshot by The Escapist. For optimal two-handing in Elden Ring, prioritize large weapons with high Strength scaling. With the Shadow of the Erdtree update, consider equipping the Two-Handed Sword Talisman to further enhance your damage output when wielding swords in this manner.

Among the top choices for two-handing are Greatswords and Colossal Swords, as well as Great Hammers and other Colossal Weapons. Any weapon that scales well with Strength is a solid candidate. Personal recommendations include the Greatsword, Zweihander, and Fire Knight’s Greatsword. If swords aren't your preference, the Giant-Crusher is another excellent option.

And that's a thorough guide on how to effectively two-hand weapons in Elden Ring.

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

Update: This article was updated on 1/27/25 by Liam Nolan to provide more insight into how to two-hand weapons in Elden Ring.