U4GM - Elden Ring’s Best Items for Early Game Survival
Elden Ring, the critically acclaimed action RPG from FromSoftware, offers a vast and dangerous world for players to explore. The Lands Between are filled with formidable enemies, hidden secrets, and powerful tools to help Tarnished warriors survive. For new players, gathering the right Elden Ring items early on can make the difference between constant death and a smoother journey through the game’s brutal opening hours. In this guide, we’ll explore the best early-game items you should look out for, along with a curated Elden Ring Items List to boost your chances of survival.
1. Flask of Wondrous Physick
One of the most useful items early in the game, the Flask of Wondrous Physick is found near the Third Church of Marika. This customizable potion allows you to combine two Crystal Tears for various effects such as healing, stamina recovery, or temporary boosts to strength and defense. It’s a must-have on any Elden Ring items list.
2. Spirit Calling Bell and Lone Wolf Ashes
After unlocking Torrent, players should speak with Renna at the Church of Elleh at night to receive the Spirit Calling Bell and Lone Wolf Ashes. Summoning spirits can turn the tide in difficult fights, especially when facing early bosses like Margit the Fell Omen. These ashes are some of the best early-game Elden Ring items for solo players.
3. Uchigatana
For players looking for a fast, bleeding weapon, the Uchigatana is a fantastic early choice. Found in the Deathtouched Catacombs, it’s one of the most reliable katanas in the game, offering both speed and damage. It’s especially effective for dexterity builds and deserves a spot on any solid Elden Ring Items List.
4. Golden Vow Incantation
Located in the Corpse-Stench Shack in Mt. Gelmir, the Golden Vow incantation increases attack and defense stats for a short period. While it requires some Faith investment, it’s a great buff that can help in tough encounters even early in the game.
5. Lantern
Dark caves and tunnels are a common hazard in the Lands Between. Instead of equipping a torch, consider picking up the Lantern from a merchant near Liurnia of the Lakes or the Nomadic Merchant in the Weeping Peninsula. It provides hands-free illumination, allowing you to keep your shield or weapon ready at all times.
6. Stonesword Keys
These consumable keys are essential for unlocking imp-sealed doors and uncovering valuable gear or shortcuts. Always keep a few on hand. Many guides recommend them as one of the best keepsakes to start with, making them a key part of any starter Elden Ring items kit.
7. Map Fragments
While not technically gear, map fragments are essential for navigation. Picking up map fragments in each region reveals critical paths, landmarks, and hidden areas, helping you avoid wandering into high-level zones too early.
8. Radagon’s Scarseal
Found in Fort Faroth in Caelid, this talisman boosts your Strength by 5 points. The trade-off is increased damage taken, but for strength-based builds, it can provide a powerful edge early on. Weigh the risks carefully before equipping it.
The early hours of Elden Ring can be punishing, but with the right gear and preparation, your survival chances increase dramatically. Use this Elden Ring Items List as a foundation to explore the game more confidently, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different tools and strategies. Whether you're a newcomer or a veteran Souls player, these essential Elden Ring items will give you the upper hand in the game's brutal opening chapters.