Elden Ring Best 15 Faith Builds - Early and Late Game
May. 28, 2024Elden Ring Best 15 Faith Builds – Early and Late Game
The BESTFaithbuilds in Elden Ring, featuring 15 Faith Builds that are my favoriteFaithbuilds in the game. Many viewers of my earlierElden Ringvideos mentioned how much they enjoyed seeing gameplay from differentbuilds. So, in this guide, I’ll not only cover the progression ofFaithbuilds throughout the game but also highlight the bestFaithbuilds for your journey. I’ll showcase some of the builds I’ve personally used and recommend. You can find every item in ourElden Ring Mapand get ready for the Elden Ring DLCShadow of the Erdtree.
Venturing into the captivating world ofElden Ringrequires more than just courage; it demands strategy. In this portion of the guide, we showcase the best Early Game Faith Builds at Level 50.
There are only a few low-level faith builds that I find particularly strong, in my opinion. Many of the best spells for faith are discovered in the mid or later stages of the game. However, there are still some early-game options that pack a punch. These builds will help you lay a solid foundation that can carry you well into the mid-game. With the right combination of skills and equipment, you’ll be prepared to face the challenges that lie ahead.
A tanky melee focused build that can heal itself and allies, as well as deal decent damage withBlock Countersand Holy Weapon buffs.
The first one we’ll explore is theTemplar. This is essentially your go-to paladin build. At level 50, you can wield this build very effectively. You’ll likely opt for amedium shieldat this stage to allocate points intoFaith. Otherwise, you’ll need to invest inStrengthto wield a great shield. Equip aSacred Sealand set the infusion on yourstraight swordto eitherflame artorsacredto maximize thatFaithscaling. Your stats will primarily focus onvigor,endurance,Faith, and a bit of strength to wield a decentmedium shield. You’ll emphasize buffing and early-game spells while utilizing block counters and stance breaking. This build excels particularly well in the early stages of the game.
TheSword Sageis a combination ofIntelligenceandFaith, using theSword of Night and FlameandDeath Sorceries.
Now, let’s take a look at theSword Sagebuild at level 50. This build revolves around wielding theSword of Night and Flame. With the right setup, you can start using this sword quite early in the game. However, it’s worth noting that this weapon demands a significant investment in bothintelligenceandfaith. Consequently, your health and endurance may be relatively low when using this weapon at level 50. Nonetheless, even after adjustments and nerfs, theSword of Night and Flameremains a potent weapon. If you’re keen on wielding it early on, theSword Sagebuild is the way to go, boasting impressive strength and versatility.
AFaith-DexBuild that focuses on the use ofBlack Flameto boost damage and give multiple options to every scenario.
Now, let’s discuss my final level 50faithbuild recommendation, which is theBlackflame Apostlebuild. This build focuses on enhancing your weapon with eitherBloodflame BladeorBlack Flame Blade, allowing you to castBlack Flameincantationsor other faith-based spells likeCatch Flame. Here’s how it works: you’ll wield a weapon with inherent bleed buildup that can still be buffed, such as theUchigatana,Nagakiba,Nightrider Flail, orBloodhound’s Fang. In your left hand, equip theGodslayer’s Seal. You’ll then buff your weapon to increase bleeding or apply theBlack Flameeffect, and cast spells usingBlack Flame. This setup offers a dynamic and enjoyable playstyle.
Venturing deeper into the mesmerizing world of Elden Ring, you’ll find that the mid-game presents its own set of challenges and opportunities. Here, strategy becomes even more crucial, and selecting the rightFaithBuilds can make a significant difference in your journey.
In this portion of the guide, we focus on the best Mid-Game Faith Builds. While the most powerful faith spells are typically unlocked later in the game, mid-game offers a variety of potent options that can greatly enhance your gameplay. With these builds, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle tougher foes and navigate the complexities of Elden Ring’s evolving landscape.
AnIntelligence/FaithBuild thas uses theSword of Night and Flameto full effect, while also using both Sorceries and Incantations to dispatch enemies.
First up is theDeathbladebuild, an evolution of theSword Sagearchetype. While you’ll still wield theSword of Night and Flame, this build doesn’t emphasizeintelligenceandfaithas heavily as theSword Sage. Instead, you’ll also use either theGelmir Glintstone Staffor thePrince of Death’s Staffto cast death magic spells likeRancorandAncient Death Rancor.
I like to start by castingAncient Death Rancoror a few charges of it, then follow up with attacks from theSword of Night and Flame, usingNight Cometwhile the enemy is distracted by the barrage of skulls. This build offers a balanced mix of melee combat with theSword of Night and Flameand potent death magic spells. It’s incredibly enjoyable to play and remains one of my favorite builds in the game.
ADexterity/FaithBuild that usesBlack FlameandBleedingto destroy enemies.
The next level 100faith-based build I want to discuss is theHellfire Herald. This build centers around dual-wieldinggreatswords, specifically two iron greatswords infused with either theSacredInfusion orFlame, Give Me Strength.
You have the flexibility to switch between these infusions based on the enemy’s vulnerabilities throughout the game, adding versatility to the build. Essentially, you’ll buff yourself using spells likeGolden VowandFlame,Give Me Strength. Additionally, you can applyDeterminationorRoyal Knight’s Resolveto your weapons and execute devastating jump attacks, utilizing talismans like the Raptor’s Black Feathers to boost their effectiveness.
This setup allows you to deal significant damage with jump attacks while still retaining the ability to cast spells due to the faith-based nature of the build. You can use offensive spells likeLightning Spearand healing spells likeGolden Vowfor sustain. Overall, it’s a highly effective and versatile build that excels in both melee combat and spellcasting.
AStrength/Faithhybrid build that usesBestial Incantationsand theBlasphemous Bladeto destroy enemies at range or in melee combat.
Next up is theBlasphemous Beastmanbuild, an incredibly enjoyable setup revolving around the use of Beast Incantations alongside theBlasphemous Blade. This build is essentially a Strength-Faith hybrid, aiming to maximize the effectiveness of theClawmark Seal. Both theClawmark SealandCinquedea, the dagger, synergize to amplifyBeastIncantations. Equip the dagger in your left hand and theBlasphemous Bladein your right hand. Utilize the weapon art of theBlasphemous Bladeas needed, then switch to theClawmark Sealto cast your Beast spells such asStone of Gurranq,Beast Claw, orBestial Sling.
You can still enhance your combat capabilities by buffing yourself with spells likeGolden VoworFlame, Give Me Strength. This build offers a remarkable combination of high damage output, ranged options, and a formidable melee presence with theBlasphemous Blade. It’s an incredibly fun and effective Strength-Faith build that provides versatility and potency in various combat scenarios.
AnArcane/FaithBuild that focuses on casting incantations from range, only meleeing when absolutely necessary.
And lastly, among the level 100 faith builds, we have theFrenzied Acolyte build, anarcane faithsetup that centers on the use offrenzyormadnessspells. With the game emphasizing fire damage through these spells, they become utterly devastating. It’s undeniably one of the most enjoyable and unique builds to play. Spells likeFlame of FrenzyandFrenzied Burstare your main arsenal, each excelling in their own right—one at melting bosses and the other at sniping targets from afar.
The mechanics of this build are intriguing; casting is done with theDragon Communion seal, with a focus on arcane and faith attributes. In your left hand, you’ll have the option of equipping either theFrenzied Seal, theGravel Stone Seal, or theGodslayer’s Seal, or perhaps all three, rotating between them as needed. When casting aFrenziedspell, you’ll equip theFrenzied Flame Sealin your left hand for maximum damage. Alternatively, for spells likeBlack FlameorLightning Spear, you can switch to theGodslayer’s Sealor theGravel Stone Seal, respectively. This pure caster build maximizes spell damage output by utilizing talismans that buff them in your left hand while effectively casting with theDragon Communion Sealand the corresponding stat spread.
As you reach the late stages of the enthralling world of Elden Ring, the challenges you face become more formidable and the need for a well-honed strategy is paramount. In the late game, your choice of Faith Builds can significantly impact your success and survival.
This portion of the guide focuses on the best Late-Game Faith Builds. By this point, you’ll have access to the most powerful faith spells and a wider array of equipment, allowing for highly optimized builds. These late-game strategies will help you overcome the toughest adversaries and conquer the final hurdles of Elden Ring’s vast and intricate world.
A melee/caster hybrid that focuses onFaithandBlock Countersto obliterate enemies with holy or fire damage.
Moving on to the level 150 Faith builds, let’s start with theCrusader. This build represents an evolution from theTemplararchetype. Instead of relying heavily onBlock Counters, you’ll find yourself wielding agreatswordwith both hands more frequently, though you still have the option to use theBrass Shieldwhen necessary. Moreover, theBarricade Shieldcan be equipped for situations where block counters are indispensable.
At the core of this build is the wielding of a powerful greatsword like theGargoyle’s Greatswordor theIron Greatsword, infused with either theSacred InfusionorFlame Art. By prioritizing your faith stat and utilizing theErdtree Seal, you’ll unleash devastating incantations likeElden Stars, dealing significant damage while maintaining the ability to buff yourself with spells such asGolden VowandBlessing of the Erdtree.
One standout feature of this build is the utilization ofSword Dancewith thegreatsword—a remarkably potent skill capable of often dispatching most enemies with just a single FP usage, underscoring the immense damage potential inherent in this setup. Additionally, the flexibility to switch betweenLightning ArmamentandSacred Armamentadds to the versatility of this build, making it a formidable and adaptable choice that scales admirably into the late game.
A melee build that uses Jump Attacks and theBlasphemous Bladeto demolish enemies point blank and at range.
Next up is theBlasphemous Heraldbuild, a fusion of theBlasphemous BeastmanandHellfire Heraldbuilds. This build combines elements of both, utilizing theBlasphemous Bladein a dual greatsword configuration akin to theHellfire Herald, while incorporating aspects unique to theBlasphemous Beastman. Unlike theHellfire Herald, however, theBlasphemous Heraldintegrates the use of theBlasphemous Blade.
The strategy behind this build revolves around wielding theBlasphemous Bladein your right hand, complemented by either theGargoyle’s Blackbladeor theGargoyle’s Greatswordinfused withfireorsacredin your left hand. This setup enables you to execute jump attacks while effectively utilizing theBlasphemous BladeandTaker’s Vowweapon skill when needed. Additionally, you retain the ability to cast incantations using theClawmark Seal, given the emphasis on strength and faith in this build. With a diverse array of options at your disposal, theBlasphemous Heraldoffers a potent blend of the strengths found in both its parent builds.
ADexterity/FaithBuild that uses theCross-Naginatato to setHemorrhageandBlack Flameon enemies in melee range.
Now for theBlackflame Bushidobuild, a natural progression from theBlackflame Apostlesetup. The concept here revolves around utilizing either theCross-NaginataorNagakiba, both benefiting greatly fromKeenScaling, and allocating attribute points betweenDexterityandFaith. By buffing the weapon with enhancements likeBlack Flame BladeorBloodflameas needed, and casting spells such asBlack FlameusingGolden VowandScouring Black Flamewith theGodslayer’s Sealfor augmented effects, this build strikes a balance between melee prowess and spellcasting finesse.
The decision to play this build at level 150 stems from the challenge of efficiently distributing attribute points at lower levels. Attempting to split points betweenDexterityandFaithat lower levels would necessitate neglecting vital attributes likeVigor,Mind, andEndurance. Therefore, the build thrives when allowed the flexibility of higher-level play. The gameplay primarily revolves around buffing and casting spells, complemented by devastating techniques likePhantom Slashon theCross-NaginataorSword DanceandDouble Slashwith theNagakiba, all contributing to a formidable and versatile combat style.
Entering New Game Plus in the captivating world of Elden Ring offers a fresh set of challenges and opportunities. Here, the enemies are tougher, and the stakes are higher, making a well-crafted strategy more critical than ever. Your choice of Faith Builds in New Game Plus can be the key to mastering this advanced stage.
In this portion of the guide, we explore the best Faith Builds for New Game Plus. By now, you have access to the full arsenal of spells and equipment, enabling the creation of exceptionally powerful builds. These strategies will help you navigate the heightened difficulty and tackle the most daunting foes as you continue your journey in Elden Ring.
ADexterity/Faith/StrengthBuild that focuses on using the Sacred Relic Sword and Wave of Gold.
The first build in this category is theSword Saintbuild, centered around the formidableSacred Relic Swordand its devastating weapon skill,Wave of Gold. This skill unleashes a powerful AoE wave that deals damage over an extended period, albeit at a high FP cost and not meant for continuous use.
To balance this, the build incorporates theSword of Milosin the offhand, which grants five FP upon enemy kills. This setup allows for dynamic combat, enabling both dual greatsword jump attacks—an effective tactic for various encounters—and the strategic deployment ofWave of Goldwhen necessary. Additionally, with points allocated to faith, the build can utilize buffs likeGolden VoworFlame, Grant Me Strength, further enhancing its versatility and lethality on the battlefield.
AStrength/FaithBuild that focuses on the use of theMagma Wyrm’s Scaleswordand its weapon skillMagma Guillotine.
Next is theDrake Knightbuild, a robust combination ofStrengthandFaiththat revolves around wielding the formidableMagma Wyrm’s Scalewordalongside theClawmark Seal. This setup enables efficient casting of incantations such asGolden VoworFlame, Grant Me Strength, capitalizing on the build’sStrength/Faithorientation.
TheMagma Wyrm’s Scaleword‘s unique blend of physical and fire damage meshes seamlessly with this build, optimizing the devastating potential ofMagma Guillotine. This weapon skill is renowned for its sheer lethality, capable of single or double-shotting bosses with chilling efficiency. Whether embarking on a New Game Plus journey or tackling earlier game challenges, this build stands as a formidable force on the battlefield, capable of decimating foes with ease.
AFaithBuild that focuses on the use ofDragon Cult Incantationsthat dealLightningDamage.
After that is theRed Lightningbuild, a dynamic setup centered around harnessing the power ofLightning Spells, including the formidableRed LightningSpells. With this build, you’ll be unleashing spells such asGolden Vow,Lightning Strike,Lightning Spear,Lansseax’s Glaive,Frozen Lightning Spear, andAncient Dragon’s Lightning Spear. The core strategy involves casting spells using theErdtree Sealwhile holding theGravelstone Sealin your left hand to augment the damage output of these spells.
By focusing on maximizingFaith, the build excels in spellcasting, allowing you to dispatch foes withlightning-infused fury. Whether it’s sniping enemies from afar withLightning StrikeorLightning Spear, or unleashing area-of-effect devastation withLansseax’s Glaive, the build offers a versatile array of spells tailored to various combat scenarios. It’s a thrilling experience for those who relish the role of a lightning-wielding caster on the battlefield.
AStrength/FaithBuild that utilizesMaliketh’s Black Bladeand theBlack BladeIncantation to optimal effects.
And then theBlack Bladebuild, a personal favorite among my creations and easily one of my top five builds. What sets this build apart is its unparalleled style, revolving around the iconicMaliketh’s Black Bladeand its accompanying armor set. To complement this aesthetic, we incorporate theClawmark Seal, enabling spellcasting prowess. Embracing the essence of aStrength/Faithbuild, the strategy unfolds in boss encounters.
You initiate the fight by casting theBlack Bladeincantation from a distance, inflicting initial damage and stripping the boss of 10% of its maximum health. Transitioning seamlessly into close combat, you unleashDestined Deathfrom the sword, further reducing the boss’s health by an additional 20%. Notably, this health loss remains permanent even after the buffs and debuffs wear off, offering a substantial advantage. From there, you engage in standard melee combat, intermittently utilizing theBlack Bladeincantation from range as needed to maintain pressure on the adversary.
AFaithspellcaster Build that only uses Fire Magic to burn enemies to a crisp.
Lastly, we discuss thePyromancerbuild, arguably one of the most exhilarating playstyles in the game. Renowned for its sheer power and enjoyment, this build revolves around harnessing the might ofFire Giant incantations. However, due to the late acquisition of these spells, thePyromancerbuild is tailored forJourney 2gameplay, requiring a significant investment across one playthrough to amass all necessary components.
The core setup entails wielding theErdtree Sealin one hand and theGiant’s Sealin the other, capitalizing on a substantialfaithattribute. While staples likeGolden VowandFlame, Give Me Strengthenhance your arsenal, it’s the devastating fire spells likeBurn, O Flame,Flame of the Fell God,Flame, Fall Upon Them, andGiantsflame Take Theethat steal the spotlight, unleashing catastrophic damage upon foes. As you progress through your new game plus journey, acquiring a secondGiant Sealfurther amplifies your fiery onslaught, culminating in a relentless barrage of flames that incinerate everything in your path. Truly, few experiences rival the sheer exhilaration of wielding such immense power.
That concludes my guide on thetop 15 faith builds for Elden Ring.While I’ve showcased my personal builds, keep in mind that your own versions may differ slightly based on talismans and stat allocations. However, the core concepts should remain consistent. If you enjoyed this guide and want to see more showcases of different build types we’ve created, please let me know in the comments. I’ve received a lot of positive feedback on recent Elden Ring videos, with many of you expressing enjoyment in exploring various builds. If you think I missed any particularly powerful builds, or have suggestions for future guides, feel free to share your thoughts below.
Castielle
Senior Editor at Fextralife. I enjoy gaming, playing and watching sports, cooking yummy food, watching a good movie and hanging out with Fex.
