Learn how to dual wield in Elden Ring so you can increase damage output.
If you’re like everyone else looking to increase damage output and tap into unique move sets in Elden Ring, dual-wielding weapons are your answer. The game isn’t straightforward on how to do this unless you’ve spent the time to go through the tutorial, which many don’t.
It’s worth noting that while you can still block while dual-wielding weapons, you’ll take on damage when you’re hit while blocking. Dual wielding usually offers less range in attacks being that it reduces your reach. Be sure to practice dual wielding as it can take more stamina and adds a new layer of difficulty to your gameplay.
How To Dual Wield In Elden Ring
To dual wield in Elden Ring, choose the same weapon for both hands in the equipment menu. Console players can use the left and right triggers, while PC players can use the 'E' key and left and right clicks with a mouse. While you’re able to equip different weapons in each hand, you’ll want to start with the same ones so you get the benefits of Power Stance.
Power Stance offers its own unique benefits and allows you to perform special attacks that combine the weapons' move sets. Power Stance is a more specialized form of githing that can offer advantages like unique combos and increased damage.
Photo from thatvideogameblog.com
PlayStation
- PS4 or PS5: Triangle + R1
- PS4 or PS5: Triangle + L1
Hold Triangle and Press L1 or L2 to place the weapon in your left hand, and press R1 or R2 to place the weapon in your right hand.
PC
- PC: E + right click
- PC: E + left click
Hold ‘E’ and left-click to two-weapon in your left hand, right click to equip the weapon in your right hand.
Xbox
- Xbox One | X: Y + RB
- Xbox One | X: Y + LB
On an Xbox controller, you’ll hold down the triangle and press L1 or L2 to place the weapon in your left hand, and press R1 or R2 to place the weapon in your right hand.
Pros of Dual Wielding in Elden Ring
- Increased DPS (Damage Per Second)
- Unique Movesets and Combos
- Faster Stamina Recovery
- Higher Status Build-up (Bleed, Frostbite, Poison)
- Increased Poise Damage (Stuns enemies more easily)
Cons of Dual Wielding in Elden Ring
- Reduced Defense (No shield)
- Shorter Range compared to some weapons
- Higher Stamina Consumption (Requires careful management)
- Weapon Choice Limitations (Not all weapons are ideal)
- Increased Difficulty to Master
Dual Wield Your Way To Victory
Dual Wielding in Elden Ring is a high-risk, high-reward scenario. When you equip dual weapons, you sacrifice some of your defense capabilities and trade them in for increased damage output, faster recovery, and the introduction of new move sets. Being able to master dual wielding and Power Stance is an achievement reserved for those who are able to carefully consider weapon choices, manage stamina, and enemy patterns.