Mastering The Art Of Two-Handing In Elden Ring

Are you ready to unlock the true potential of your weapon in Elden Ring? Learning how to two-hand in Elden Ring is a game-changing strategy that can significantly boost your combat effectiveness and help you tackle even the most challenging enemies. By wielding your weapon with both hands, you increase your damage output, gain improved control, and unleash devastating attacks. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned Tarnished, mastering this technique is a must for anyone looking to dominate in the Lands Between.

In Elden Ring, combat revolves around skillful decision-making and tactical gameplay. Two-handing your weapon can provide a significant edge in various combat situations, especially when facing heavily armored foes or needing to maximize your damage per second. This guide is specifically designed to walk you through the mechanics of how to two-hand in Elden Ring, ensuring you utilize this powerful technique to its full potential. We'll cover every detail, from the controls to the strategic advantages, so you can step into the battlefield prepared.

Our comprehensive guide includes step-by-step instructions, tips for different weapon types, and answers to some of the most common questions players have about two-handing. By the end of this article, you'll know exactly how to implement this mechanic effectively and dominate your foes. So, get ready to wield your weapon like a pro and embrace the thrilling combat opportunities that two-handing offers in Elden Ring!

Table of Contents

• What Is Two-Handing in Elden Ring?
• Why Should You Two-Hand Your Weapon?
• How to Two Hand in Elden Ring?
• What Are the Controls for Two-Handing?
• Does Two-Handing Increase Damage?
• Which Weapons Are Best for Two Handing?
• Can You Two Hand Shields?
• How to Switch Back to One Hand?
• Strategies for Effective Two-Handing
• How to Two Hand in Elden Ring for Specific Builds?
• Common Mistakes to Avoid While Two Handing
• Can You Parry While Two Handing?
• What Are the Limitations of Two Handing?
• How to Practice Two Handing Effectively?
• Frequently Asked Questions About Two Handing

What Is Two-Handing in Elden Ring?

Two-handing in Elden Ring is a combat mechanic that allows players to wield their weapon with both hands instead of one. This technique is particularly useful for increasing your weapon's damage output and altering how certain attacks are executed. It's a versatile option that can give you a distinct advantage in combat, especially when facing tough enemies or bosses.

Why Should You Two-Hand Your Weapon?

There are several reasons to consider two-handing your weapon in Elden Ring:

• **Increased Damage:** Wielding a weapon with both hands amplifies its attack power, making it easier to deal high damage.
• **Improved Stamina Management:** Two-handing reduces the stamina cost of certain attacks, allowing you to strike more frequently.
• **Better Control:** Some weapons have unique move sets when two-handed, offering better reach and attack options.

How to Two Hand in Elden Ring?

To two-hand a weapon in Elden Ring, follow these simple steps:

1. Ensure your weapon is equipped in either your right or left hand.
2. On PlayStation: Hold the Triangle button and press R1 (for right-hand weapon) or L1 (for left-hand weapon).
3. On Xbox: Hold the Y button and press RB (for right-hand weapon) or LB (for left-hand weapon).
4. On PC (Keyboard and Mouse): Hold the E key and click the left or right mouse button, depending on the hand your weapon is in.

What Are the Controls for Two-Handing?

The controls for two-handing vary depending on your platform. Here's a quick reference:

• **PlayStation:** Hold Triangle + Press R1 or L1.
• **Xbox:** Hold Y + Press RB or LB.
• **PC:** Hold E + Click the corresponding mouse button.

Does Two-Handing Increase Damage?

Yes, two-handing a weapon in Elden Ring increases its damage output. The game applies a multiplier to your weapon's strength scaling when you two-hand it, allowing you to deal more damage with each strike. This mechanic is especially beneficial for weapons that scale heavily with strength.

Which Weapons Are Best for Two Handing?

Some weapons are more suited for two-handing due to their size, strength scaling, or unique move sets. Here are a few examples:

• **Greatswords:** Ideal for high-damage output and wide swings.
• **Colossal Weapons:** Perfect for breaking enemy guards and dealing massive damage.
• **Axes and Hammers:** Great for staggering enemies and exploiting weaknesses.

Can You Two Hand Shields?

Yes, you can two-hand shields in Elden Ring, although it's not a common tactic. Two-handing a shield increases its stability and allows you to execute heavy shield bash attacks, which can be useful in specific situations.

How to Switch Back to One Hand?

Switching back to one-handed mode is as simple as repeating the input for two-handing. For example, if you’re on PlayStation, hold Triangle and press R1 or L1 again to revert to one-handed mode.

Strategies for Effective Two-Handing

To maximize the benefits of two-handing, consider the following strategies:

• **Time Your Attacks:** Two-handed attacks often have longer wind-ups. Use them strategically to avoid leaving yourself open.
• **Combine with Buffs:** Apply weapon buffs like Grease or Incantations to further enhance your damage.
• **Target Weak Points:** Focus your attacks on enemy weak points to maximize damage.

How to Two Hand in Elden Ring for Specific Builds?

Two-handing can complement specific builds, such as strength-focused or hybrid builds. For instance:

• **Strength Builds:** Gain amplified damage with high-strength scaling weapons.
• **Hybrid Builds:** Use two-handing alongside spells or ranged attacks for versatility.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Two Handing

When two-handing, avoid these common pitfalls:

• **Ignoring Defense:** Without a shield, you’re more vulnerable to attacks. Use dodging or positioning to compensate.
• **Overcommitting to Attacks:** Two-handed strikes can leave you exposed. Be mindful of enemy counters.

Can You Parry While Two Handing?

No, you cannot parry while two-handing a weapon. Parrying requires a shield or specific parry-enabled weapons equipped in your off-hand.

What Are the Limitations of Two Handing?

While two-handing is powerful, it comes with limitations:

• **Reduced Defense:** Without a shield, you rely solely on dodging or blocking with your weapon.
• **Slower Attacks:** Two-handed attacks often have longer wind-ups compared to one-handed attacks.

How to Practice Two Handing Effectively?

To master two-handing, practice in controlled environments, such as:

• **Against Weaker Enemies:** Build confidence by practicing on less challenging foes.
• **In Safe Zones:** Test move sets and timings in areas without enemies.

Frequently Asked Questions About Two Handing

Here are some common questions players have about two-handing in Elden Ring:

• **Does two-handing affect weapon durability?** No, it does not impact durability.
• **Can I use magic while two-handing?** Yes, but you’ll need to switch back to a catalyst or staff to cast spells.

Mastering how to two hand in Elden Ring is a crucial skill for any player looking to excel in combat. By leveraging the techniques and strategies outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to conquering the challenging foes that await in the Lands Between. So grab your weapon, embrace the power of two-handing, and dominate the battlefield!