Elden Ring is a game known for its vast open world, deep lore, and challenging combat, and one of the most crucial aspects of surviving in the Lands Between is mastering the art of defense. While offensive builds often get the spotlight, the importance of having a solid shield can’t be overstated. A good shield can mean the difference between life and death, particularly when facing some of the game’s more brutal bosses or aggressive mobs. But how do you find the best shields in Elden Ring? Let’s break down the options and the best ways to get your hands on them.
Understanding Shields in Elden Ring
In Elden Ring, shields come in many shapes and sizes, each offering unique attributes. There are two primary categories to focus on: small shields and greatshields. Small shields are fast, lightweight, and great for parrying, while greatshields offer substantial defense and protection, but come with heavier weight and slower mobility.
While each type has its advantages, it’s essential to consider your build and playstyle when choosing a shield. If you prefer quick, nimble combat, a small shield might be best. But for those who want to tank through damage and endure, a greatshield is the way to go.
Top Shields to Consider
1. The Golden Greatshield
This is one of the most powerful shields in Elden Ring, boasting high physical and elemental resistances. It’s a great option for players who need top-tier defense. However, obtaining it requires defeating Sir Gideon Ofnir at the Roundtable Hold. For those interested in acquiring this shield, it may take a bit of effort and exploration, but its defensive capabilities make it worth the grind.
2. The Dragon Slayer Greatshield
If you're a fan of the Dragon Slayer weapon in the game, this shield is a perfect complement. Known for its ability to withstand intense damage, the Dragon Slayer Greatshield also comes with a unique ability to resist fire damage—a valuable trait when facing enemies that wield fiery powers. It’s a bit on the heavy side, so be sure to check your endurance before equipping it.
3. The Beast Roar Greatshield
A truly unique option, the Beast Roar Greatshield not only offers high defense but also gives you an offensive boost with its special weapon art. This shield allows you to perform a powerful roar attack that can stagger enemies, giving you an edge in both defense and offense. If you're looking for a shield that offers more than just protection, this one is worth seeking out.
4. The Buckler
For those who prefer a lighter, quicker option, the Buckler shield is an excellent choice. It’s small, but it’s highly efficient for parrying, especially when you want to perform perfect counterattacks. It’s available early in the game and can help you learn the ins and outs of parrying—an essential skill for mastering Elden Ring’s combat mechanics.
5. The Kite Shield
A classic choice, the Kite Shield is versatile and provides a good balance between weight and defense. It’s a reliable shield that you can use throughout most of the game, offering decent protection without bogging you down too much. It's also a great early-game option if you’re looking to improve your defensive game.
Where to Find Shields
Shields in Elden Ring aren’t always found just lying around on the ground—they’re often guarded by tough enemies or hidden in secret locations. Exploring the world and defeating formidable bosses is one of the best ways to get high-quality shields. For example, the Golden Greatshield is dropped by Sir Gideon Ofnir, and the Dragon Slayer Greatshield can be acquired from a special boss fight in the later stages of the game.
If you're not in the mood for grinding, or if you're struggling to locate a particular shield, there are always alternative options. You can consider buying Elden Ring items from trusted third-party sellers, especially if you’re looking for specific shields that would take time to farm. Many of these sellers offer Elden Ring items instant delivery, so you won’t have to wait long to add that much-needed shield to your collection.
How to Equip Shields Effectively
When you have your shield, the next challenge is knowing how to equip it effectively. Remember, equipping a shield will impact your weight, and exceeding your equip load can drastically reduce your mobility. Balancing offense and defense is a critical element of combat in Elden Ring, so consider your build carefully when deciding which shield to equip.
For those using greatshields, remember that they often require a significant amount of strength to wield effectively. If you’re running a strength build, these shields can be invaluable. However, for dexterity or intelligence builds, a smaller, lighter shield may be more appropriate to avoid compromising your speed.
Finding the best shield in Elden Ring depends on your playstyle, but the options are plentiful. Whether you prefer the tanking power of greatshields or the nimbleness of small shields, there’s something for every type of player. If you're in a rush or just want to skip the grind, buying Elden Ring items could be a viable option, especially with instant delivery services that make acquiring the perfect shield easy.