In the mystical realm of Elden Ring, where every weapon can be a game-changer, none exude finesse and precision quite like the legendary katanas. As avid adventurers in the Lands Between, we understand the critical role a well-crafted katana plays in the Tarnished's journey. In this comprehensive guide, we unveil the top 8 katanas that can elevate your gameplay to unprecedented heights.
The Elegance of Katanas in Elden Ring
Why Katanas?
Katanas, known for their deadly beauty, offer unparalleled versatility in combat. Their long, sleek design allows for precise strikes, and many come with inherent blood loss effects, making them ideal for players who relish engaging their foes up close and personal. Whether you prefer single katana, dual-wielding, or a spell-blade approach, katanas cater to various playstyles.
Benefits of Katanas
- Multiple Capabilities: Katanas boast thrust attacks, slashing maneuvers, and the ability to inflict the Hemorrhage Status Effect, dealing significant damage.
- Powerful Modifications: Enhance your katana's prowess with Ash of War items, such as Storm Stomp, to modify and maximize damage output.
- Multiple Styles of Play: Choose between single katana, dual wield, or spell-blade styles, each offering a unique combat experience.
Unveiling the Top 8 Katanas in Elden Ring
1. Uchigatana: The Early-Game Powerhouse
Special Skill: Unsheathe
Starting as a Samurai grants you the Uchigatana, an early-game marvel with inherent blood loss buildup. Upgrade it with Smithing Stones or add an Ash of War affinity for a lethal edge. Dual-wield it with katanas like Serpentbone or Meteoric Ore for optimal results.
Location: Deathtouched Catacombs
Accessible to Samurai starters, others must navigate Deathtouched Catacombs to claim this katana. Find it near a hanging dead body without the need for combat.
2. Nagakiba: The Ferocious Spear-like Katana
Special Skill: Unsheathe
Nagakiba's formidable, spear-like design and natural blood loss buildup make it a prime choice for dual-wielding. Complete Bloody Finger Hunter Yura's questline in Limgrave to acquire this beast of a katana.
3. Hand of Malenia: The Demigod's Legacy
Special Skill: Waterfowl Dance
Forged into Malenia's prosthetic arm, the Hand of Malenia boasts the highest physical damage among katanas. Its Waterfowl Dance skill, though slow on bleed buildup, makes it a potent weapon acquired in New Game Plus by defeating the Demi-God Malenia.
4. Moonveil Katana: The Intellect User's Dream
Special Skill: Transient Moonlight
Crafted from Glintstone, Moonveil katana is perfect for intellect users, with a special skill, Transient Moonlight, causing bleed buildup. Defeat the Magma Wyrm in Gael Tunnel to claim this powerful katana early in the game.
5. Rivers of Blood: The Cursed Powerhouse
Special Skill: Corpse Piler
Arguably one of the best katanas, Rivers of Blood scales with Arcane and offers Corpse Piler, a devastating skill causing rapid blood loss. Defeat Bloody Finger Okina in Mountaintops of the Giants to wield this cursed weapon.
6. Serpentbone Blade: The Poisonous Slasher
Special Skill: Double Slash
Modeled after serpent bone, this katana delivers a Double Slash attack with an inherent poison effect. Acquire it by completing the Assassination quest in Volcano Manor.
7. Meteoric Ore Blade: The Falling Star's Fury
Special Skill: Gravitas
Forged from meteoric ore, this katana deals the highest overall damage in Elden Ring. Thrust it into the ground to create a gravity well with the Gravitas skill. Find it in Caelid Waypoint Ruins.
8. Dragonscale Blade: Frostbite and Lightning Unleashed
Special Skill: Ice Lightning
Crafted from a Gravel Stone scale, the Dragonscale Blade inflicts both Frostbite and Lightning. Defeat the Boss in the Lake of Rot to wield this versatile katana.
Conclusion: Choosing Your Path to Mastery
In the vast expanse of Elden Ring, the right katana can be your key to triumph. Whether you favor the early-game dominance of Uchigatana or the cursed power of Rivers of Blood, each katana holds unique strengths. Experiment, master your playstyle, and let the Lands Between bear witness to your legendary journey. May your katana guide you to victory in the ever-unfolding saga of Elden Ring!