Elden Ring Best 15 Dexterity Builds - Early and Late Game
May. 28, 2024Elden Ring Best 15 Dexterity Builds – Early and Late Game
The BESTDexbuilds in Elden Ring, featuring the top 15 Dexterity Builds that are my favoriteDexbuilds in the game. Just like our recent exploration ofFaith builds, we’ll break down these Dexterity builds by their suitability for early, mid, and late game, as well as New Game Plus.
Because many of these builds rely on specific weapons and spells that become available only as you progress through the game, we’ll outline how to adapt them to different stages of your journey. Whether you’re seeking swift strikes from the outset or looking to refine your playstyle as you advance, this guide will provide the insights you need to master the art of Dexterity-based combat in Elden Ring. You can find every item in ourElden Ring Mapand get ready for the Elden Ring DLCShadow of the Erdtree.
Before diving into the specifics of Dexterity builds, it’s important to note that they occupy a unique niche inElden Ring. When you two-hand weapons, you benefit from increasedStrengthscaling, which doesn’t apply to Dexterity builds. This means that, in many cases, a weapon with similar damage potential will perform better withStrengthwhen two-handed, making Dexterity builds less optimal in comparison.
While there are some exceptional weapons with greatDexterityscaling inElden Ring, they are relatively few compared toStrengthweapons. Additionally, theClawmark SealfavorsStrength Faithbuilds, contributing to their prevalence overDexterity Faithbuilds.
Dexteritybuilds do shine when tailored as Spellblade-type setups. These builds useKeenscaling weapons augmented by magic buffs, providing a powerful combination. However, they come with the drawback of requiring significant investment in bothDexterityandIntelligence, making them challenging to optimize early in the game.
The Noble Swordsman Build is Dexterity build and an essential “all-game” build that players can use throughout the entirety of the game. This build uses a single straight sword, it does not come equipped with any other weapon or shield, and it is phenomenal for stance-breaking and critical attacks.
The first build we’ll explore is theNoble Swordsmanbuild, a level 50 early game setup that focuses on using a straight sword with theSquare Offweapon skill. I recommend either theNoble’s Slender Swordor theLordsworn’s Straight Sworddue to their high critical ratings among straight swords. This allows you to deal more damage when you land a critical strike after breaking an enemy’s stance.
Both of these swords can be acquired early in theLimgravearea. The strategy for this build centers around theR2version ofSquare Off, which inflicts 40Stance Damageper hit. Many bosses inElden Ringhave around 80Stance Damage, meaning you can oftenGuard BreakorStance Breakthem with just two hits. This opens up the opportunity for critical strikes, allowing you to repeat this pattern and effectively trivialize many bosses.
This build is particularly recommended for theShadow of the ErdtreeDLC, as it appears there might be some attack power nerfing in that area.Stance Damage, however, should remain consistent, providing a reliable method for dealing significant damage. TheNoble Swordsmanbuild is straightforward, focusing on breaking enemy stances for critical strikes, which helps you avoid taking hits and deal rapid, substantial damage.
A pure DEX Build that uses theNagakibaandGreaseto have the best damage for any situation, coupled with extremely high mobility.
Next, let’s dive into theSupreme Samuraibuild, a level 50 Dexterity-focused setup. TheSamuraiclass’s versatility makes it a popular choice inElden Ring, and this build showcases why.
First, obtain theNagakibaearly inLimgraveand set it toKeen Scaling. Equip it with theUnsheatheweapon skill. This strategy is similar to theNoble Swordsmanbuild, using theR2variant ofUnsheathetoStance Breakbosses, typically in three hits. TheNagakibaalso has a nativeBleed build-up, allowing you to inflict significanthemorrhage damageon bosses.
WithKeen Infusion, you can enhance your weapon further by applyingBlood Greasefor increasedBleed build-up, or using fire or lightning buffs based on the boss you’re facing. This straightforward build can be assembled early in the game sinceNagakiba,Unsheathe, and variousGreasesare accessible from the start. TheSupreme Samuraibuild excels by leveraging quick stance breaks and bleed damage to overpower enemies efficiently.
A melee-mage Build that uses Scholar’s Armament and Glintstone Phalanx to deal Critical Damage to enemies.
The last level 50 Dexterity build I recommend is theMagusbuild, a hybrid focusing onDexterityandIntelligence. This build utilizes aRapierwith a high critical rating (130), allowing for significant damage on critical strikes. Pair this with theAsh of War: Glintblade Phalanxto quickly stagger enemies and follow up with critical hits.Glintblade Phalanxexcels instance damage, with each of the four swords dealing 10 stance damage, totaling 80 stance damage if all hit twice, making stance breaking bosses swift and efficient.
Additionally, the follow-up attack with theRapierdeals 16 stance damage, enabling you to stagger most bosses with just two uses of this skill. The build shines with theAssassin’s Cerulean Dagger, which refunds the FP cost of the weapon skill upon performing a critical strike after a stance break, allowing for continuous use and efficient FP management. With the weapon set toKeen Scaling, you can further enhance your damage with buffs likeScholar’s Armament.
This build not only delivers high damage and excellent stance breaking but also allows you to cast spells, making it versatile and powerful. The combination ofDexterityandIntelligenceensures you can handle various combat scenarios, providing a balanced and effective approach to tackling enemies inElden Ring.
As you progress deeper into the captivating world of Elden Ring, the mid-game introduces a new set of challenges that require refined strategy and skill. In this portion of the guide, we focus on the best Mid-Game Dexterity Builds to enhance your performance.
These builds are tailored to take advantage of the more advanced weapons and abilities available at this stage, allowing you to maximize your agility and combat effectiveness. With the right combination of gear and dexterity-focused enhancements, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle tougher enemies and navigate the complexities of Elden Ring’s mid-game content, ensuring your character continues to grow in power and versatility.
A melee focused build that uses Lighting to strike enemies at range, and to boost damage in melee.
First up for our level 100 builds is theThundering Sword Spear. This build centers on theGuardian Sword Speardue to its excellentDexterity scalingand incredibly high attack speed, making it one of the best Dexterity weapons inElden Ring. The key feature of this build is theAsh of War: Thunderbolt, which scales its damage withDexterity. Using a highDexterity-scaling weaponlike theGuardian Sword SpearmaximizesThunderbolt’seffectiveness, outperforming weapons with higher base damage but lowerDexterity scaling.
The strategy for this build involves usingThunderboltto eliminate enemies from a distance, often without needing to engage in close combat. For added melee damage, theJellyfish Shieldin the offhand can boost your attack power. As you progress and gain more stats, you can invest inFaithto use buffs likeFlame, Grant Me Strength, Electrify Armament, andGolden Vowto further enhance your damage output.
Overall, this build offers extremely high damage potential and a strong ranged option withThunderbolt. It allows you to handle enemies efficiently from a distance while also excelling in melee combat with the right buffs and equipment.
A Dexterity warrior that focuses on melee attacks and the liberal use of Storm Blade to annihilate foes at any distance.
Next up is theStormbladebuild, which is viable from the very beginning of the game. This build utilizes aGreatswordpaired with theStormbladeAsh of War. Recent buffs toStormbladenow allow both the blade and projectile to deal damage, making it extremely effective. Using the heaviest weapon possible enhances this effect, asStormblade’sattacks are faster than regularR1presses with the weapon, resulting in higher damage output. When standing point-blank, eachL2press delivers more damage than anR1orR2press, making it your go-to attack.
The beauty of theStormbladebuild lies in its versatility. It not only delivers powerful melee attacks but also provides a ranged option, making it highly adaptable in various combat scenarios. This dual functionality works exceptionally well, allowing you to handle enemies both up close and from a distance.
Additionally, it’s easy to assemble this build quickly asStormbladeand an early gameGreatswordare readily available. This makes theStormbladebuild an excellent choice for players seeking a powerful and flexible option throughout their entire playthrough.
A Dexterity Build that focuses on the use of the Bloodhound’s Fang and its weapon skill Bloodhound’s Finesse.
Next, we have theBloodhoundbuild, which is viable from very early in the game, even before reaching level 100. You can acquire theBloodhound’s FanginLimgraveearly on and use it effectively from that point forward. This build emphasizes two-handing theBloodhound’s Fang, which helps manage equip weight and enhances its performance. The key feature is the weapon skillBloodhound’s Finesse, allowing you to dash through and attack, then dash in and attack again. With proper timing, the iframes during these moves help avoid damage while maintaining high mobility.
TheBloodhound’s Fangalso boasts nativebleed buildup, enabling the application of thehemorrhagestatus effect on enemies, adding another layer of damage. You can further enhance this by usingblood greavesfor increasedbleed buildupor by adding fire or lightning buffs depending on the boss you are facing. This versatility makes theBloodhound’s Fangone of the best weapons in the game.
As you upgrade theBloodhound’s Fang, its effectiveness continues to grow, ensuring that this build remains powerful throughout the entire game. Its combination of mobility, damage, andbleed buildupmakes it an excellent choice for players seeking a reliable and deadly weapon from early to late game.
As you journey deeper into the expansive realm of Elden Ring, the challenges escalate, demanding a heightened mastery of your chosen playstyle. In this segment of the guide, we explore the top Late-Game Dexterity Builds, tailored to empower you in facing the most formidable adversaries and conquering the ultimate trials of your adventure.
Crafted to harness the full potential of dexterity-focused characters, these builds leverage the pinnacle of weaponry and abilities available in the late game. With swift strikes and unparalleled agility, you’ll effortlessly dispatch even the most imposing foes. Whether confronting mighty bosses or braving the darkest depths of Elden Ring’s world, these late-game dexterity builds will ensure your triumph against all odds.
A Quality (Strength/Dexterity) melee build that uses the Bolt of Gransax and a Greatshield to electrifying effect
Moving along to level 150 builds, first up is theLightning Dragoonbuild. This build revolves around theBolt of Gransax, a spear dealing physical and lightning damage. Its weapon skill,Ancient Lightning Spear, is particularly deadly due to its long range and the ability to charge it for extra damage, dealing 100% lightning damage. To maximize this weapon skill’s potential, you can equip items like theLightning Scorpion Charm,Shard of Alexander, andRitual Sword Talismanto significantly boost its damage.
The strategy for this build involves using a great shield to block and counter while flingingAncient Lightning Spearsat enemies from a distance. This approach allows you to stay relatively safe while dealing substantial damage. The reason this build is categorized at level 150 is due to the late acquisition of theBolt of Gransax, which is missable and found much later in the game. Hence, it requires careful attention to obtain and utilize effectively.
This build excels in combining strong defense with powerful, long-range attacks, making it a formidable choice for tackling late-game challenges. The ability to charge up theAncient Lightning Spearfor extra damage ensures that you can adapt to various combat situations, maintaining high effectiveness throughout.
A Dexterity-based tank build that can Block-Counter, Dual Wield, and Parry all in one setup.
Next up is theGolden Championbuild, another level 150 setup that utilizes theOrnamental Straight Sword. This weapon can be acquired early in the game by defeating theGrafted Scionboss, a challenging task for new characters, which is why this build is better suited for later in the game when you can return and defeat this boss more easily. TheOrnamental Straight Swordis unique as a paired weapon, not typically seen outside of claws or fists, allowing versatile combat options. You can switch between sword-and-shield block counters and dual-wielding, thanks to theGolden Temperingbuff. This buff enhances subsequentR2attacks with a flurry of blows, automatically dual-wielding the weapon even when one-handing it.
The strength of theGolden Championbuild lies in its ability to easily switch between defensive and offensive playstyles. You can block and counter with a shield or unleash rapid, powerful attacks with dual-wielding. Buffing your damage with items like theRotten Winged Sword InsigniaorMillicent’s Prosthesiscomplements the swiftR2flurry, enabling you to quickly build up and deal significant damage. This flexibility and high damage output make theGolden Championa formidable choice for late-game encounters.
Overall, theGolden Championbuild excels in both versatility and damage potential. TheOrnamental Straight Sword’sunique dual-wield capability, combined with the powerfulGolden Temperingbuff, allows you to adapt to various combat situations, maximizing your effectiveness in both offense and defense.
A Dexterity/Faith Build that uses dual Daggers to rapidly strike enemies and Bosses for high damage the further into combo chains you go.
Next up is theBlack Knife Assassinbuild, a dual daggers setup. This might be the only dual daggers build I’ve made so far, though another one will likely come with the daggers video. The primary weapons are twoErdsteel Daggers, complemented by theBlack Knifein the main hand for its skill:Blade of Deathability. TheErdsteel Daggersscale physical damage with bothDexterityandFaith, allowing you to enhance both stats and maintain pure physical damage. This synergy enables the use of buffs likeGolden VowandFlame, Grant Me Strengthto amplify your damage output.
The build excels in delivering rapidL1attacks, dealing significant damage to enemies.Quick SteporBloodhound Stepon your weapon enhances your agility, helping you dodge attacks effectively. TheBlack Knife’s Blade of Deathskill can be used strategically, especially to initiate boss fights, before switching back to your main daggers. This combination of speed, agility, and buff-enhanced physical damage makes theBlack Knife Assassinbuild highly effective and versatile.
In essence, theBlack Knife Assassinbuild leverages dual daggers’ speed andDexterityandFaithscaling to deliver high physical damage. Buffs likeGolden VowandFlame, Grant Me Strengthenhance your attack power, while skills likeQuick SteporBloodhound Stepprovide agility. TheBlack Knife’s Blade of Deathadds a strategic element for tougher fights, making this build both powerful and adaptable.
A Dexterity/Faith Build that uses the Cross-Naginata to to set Hemorrhage and Black Flame on enemies in melee range.
TheBlack Flame Bushidobuild is an evolution of theSupreme Samuraibuild, focusing onDexterityandFaith. Using theNagakibaas your primary weapon, you’ll incorporate skills likeDouble Slash,Sword Dance, orPhantom Slash. This build differentiates itself by investing heavily inFaithto maximize the damage output of Black Flame spells, includingBlack Flame BladeandBlood Flame.
This hybrid build balances powerful melee attacks with potentBlack Flameincantations, making it more versatile than the purelyDexterity-focusedSupreme Samurai. The ability to castBlack Flamespells and enhance your weapon with buffs provides a significant advantage in both damage output and flexibility.
In summary, theBlack Flame Bushidobuild merges the strengths ofDexterityandFaith, utilizing theNagakibafor melee combat andBlack Flamespells for ranged and buffed attacks. This combination offers a balanced and adaptable approach, capable of dealing substantial damage through both physical and magical means.
A Dexterity Build that uses poison to great effect using the Serpentbone Blade and the Uchigatana.
TheSerpent Samuraibuild revolves around theSerpent Bone Blade, a katana with deadly poison buildup instead of bleed. While the poison deals less damage overall, it acts swiftly, making it an intriguing choice. The unique chargedR2attack, hitting twice, synergizes well with items like theWinged Sword InsigniaorMillicent’s Prosthesis, enhancing its effectiveness.
To amplify the poison’s potency, accessories like theMushroom CrownorKindred of Rot’s Exultationcan be utilized. This build offers a unique playstyle, combining poison-based combat with traditional samurai techniques. Its distinctiveness sets it apart from other builds, providing an engaging and enjoyable experience for players seeking something different.
Embarking on your New Game Plus journey in Elden Ring marks a new chapter in your adventure, where familiar challenges take on new dimensions of difficulty. In this section of the guide, we unveil the top Dexterity Builds for your second journey, ensuring you’re equipped to face the heightened trials ahead.
These builds are honed to perfection, capitalizing on the refined skills and resources at your disposal in Journey 2. With swift reflexes and mastery over your chosen weaponry, you’ll swiftly overcome the increased challenges that await. Whether confronting formidable adversaries or exploring uncharted territories, these New Game Plus Dexterity Builds will elevate your prowess and ensure your continued success in Elden Ring’s unforgiving world.
A Dexterity Build that uses Hand of Malenia to devastating results via Waterfowl Dance.
TheWaterfowl Warriorbuild is designed for new game plus or Journey 2 playthroughs, centered around theHand of Malenia Katana. Obtained late in the game, this katana’s weapon skill,Waterfowl Dance, is the focus of the build. Despite its lack of bleed buildup, the skill triggers effects likeWinged Sword InsigniaandMillicent’s Prosthesis, boosting attack power when used rapidly. To maximize its effectiveness, players must prioritize poise and stamina management, ensuring uninterrupted use of the skill.
By leveraging items like theShard of Alexander, the build enhances the damage output ofWaterfowl Dance. Stamina conservation is crucial due to the skill’s high stamina consumption and lengthy windup. The build’s strategy revolves around unleashing devastating combos withWaterfowl Dancewhile maintaining stability and resource management during combat.
The key to this build is optimizing the rapid strikes ofWaterfowl Danceby focusing on items and stats that enhance attack power and stamina regeneration. Properly managing these resources will allow players to maximize the potential of theHand of Malenia Katana, making theWaterfowl Warriorbuild highly effective in new game plus scenarios.
A Dexterity Intelligence Build that uses the Nagakiba and Scholar’s Armament to phenomenal result.
Next up is TheSoul Samuraibuild, designed for New Game Plus. This build is aDexterityandIntelligencehybrid, utilizing theNagakibaand buffing it withScholar’s Armament. The need for highDexterityensures substantial physical damage, while significantIntelligenceis required to maximize the effectiveness ofScholar’s Armament. This combination allows for powerful melee attacks and the ability to cast sorceries effectively, making it versatile and potent in combat.
TheSoul Samuraibuild leverages theDexterityscaling of a keenNagakiba, enhanced further byScholar’s Armament. This setup enables rapid and high-damage strikes while also granting the flexibility to cast various spells. The high attribute requirements forDexterityandIntelligencemean this build shines in New Game Plus, where players have accumulated more attribute points.
In essence, theSoul Samuraibuild balances melee prowess with magical capability, requiring a substantial investment in bothDexterityandIntelligence. This makes it a powerful option for players looking to dominate in New Game Plus, offering both the physical damage of a skilled swordsman and the arcane power of a seasoned sorcerer.
A Dexterity Build that focuses on the use of dual spears and the Scarlet Rot and Poison status effects.
Up next is theScarlet Spearbuild, tailored for New Game Plus. This dual-wield spear build utilizes twoRotten Crystal Spearsto inflict theScarlet Rotstatus effect. These weapons are acquired very late in the game, making this build ideal for New Game Plus. The strategy revolves around rapidL1attacks to quickly build upScarlet Roton your target while simultaneously increasing your attack power.
Scarlet Rotdeals substantial damage over time, making it highly effective for tougher enemies in New Game Plus. To maximize this build, you can use items like theKindred of Rot’s Exultationand theMushroom Crownto boost your attack power onceScarlet Rotis inflicted. Additionally, theWinged Sword InsigniaorMillicent’s Prosthesiscan enhance your damage output during rapidL1attacks, while theSpear Talismanfurther boosts your physical damage.
TheScarlet Spearbuild excels in New Game Plus due to the high damage potential ofScarlet Rotand the synergy between rapid attacks and various damage-boosting items. This combination ensures that you can deal continuous and significant damage, making it a formidable choice for advanced gameplay stages.
A melee build that focuses on out healing damage taken while shredding enemies to death with the Butchering Knife.
Our final New Game Plus build is theVampiric Knight. While this build can be created much earlier in the game, its effectiveness shines in New Game Plus. Central to this build is theButchering Knife, which restores 1% of your max HP with each hit. Alternatively, you can useGreat StarsorPlacidus’ Greatsword, both of which also provide health restoration on hit.
The core strategy of theVampiric Knightbuild revolves around usingWild Strikesto hit enemies rapidly, thus regaining health quickly. High vigor is essential to maximize the HP you recover with each hit. To enhance survivability, you can equip items that provide health regeneration over time, such asTaker’s Cameoand various talismans that replenish health continuously.
This build is incredibly tanky and hard to kill, thanks to the constant health restoration from both direct hits and passive regeneration. The combination of rapid attacks and continuous healing makes theVampiric Knighta formidable force in New Game Plus, ensuring you remain resilient and difficult to defeat even in the toughest battles.
So that wraps up our guide on bestDexteritybuilds inElden Ring. I hope you guys got something useful out of this build. I know people love watching the showcases and you can see ourDaggers Rank guideout now.
Castielle
Senior Editor at Fextralife. I enjoy gaming, playing and watching sports, cooking yummy food, watching a good movie and hanging out with Fex.
