Here are 8 key reasons why prioritizing runes over builds is the smartest move, especially for both newcomers and veterans returning for the Elden Ring DLC.
1. Builds Are Rune-Hungry From the Start
Every build begins with investment — in leveling up, buying equipment, upgrading gear, and acquiring spells. Without enough runes, even the most powerful build ideas remain just that: ideas. When I first started a sorcerer playthrough, I quickly ran out of runes trying to meet the intelligence requirements for even basic spells.
2. Runes Offer Flexibility Early On
Focusing on rune acquisition gives you the flexibility to experiment with different playstyles. Before committing to a specific build, I used runes to test out different weapons and magic types. This helped me find a build that felt natural and fun, rather than following a meta blindly.
3. You Can Buy Time-Saving Gear and Consumables
With more Elden Ring runes, you can afford items from merchants that significantly enhance early and mid-game survivability — from crafting materials to powerful talismans. I remember buying a lantern and poison cures early on, which made exploring Caelid far more bearable.
4. Leveling Smoothly Prevents Burnout
If you rush into a build without stockpiling runes, you’re likely to hit walls — bosses that one-shot you or zones where you just can’t survive. Investing time in rune farming first made my progression feel smoother and reduced the number of rage-quits dramatically.
5. Rune Farming Builds Long-Term Strength
Runes let you level up your vigor, endurance, and mind stats — often overlooked in early builds. By focusing on rune farming first, I laid a solid foundation of survivability and stamina that paid dividends later in the game.
6. You Can Prepare for DLC Challenges
With Elden Ring DLC Runes For Sale now available, players have more options to quickly gear up for the upcoming expansions. Having a healthy rune reserve means you can jump into the DLC with competitive stats and gear — without backtracking for hours to grind.
7. Farming Runes Builds Game Knowledge
One benefit I didn’t expect: rune farming helped me learn the game’s maps, enemy patterns, and optimal routes. This not only made me more confident but also gave me a tactical advantage in boss fights and PvP encounters later on.
8. Economic Power Means More Freedom
Ultimately, runes are the lifeblood of Elden Ring. Whether you’re respeccing your character with Rennala, upgrading a beloved weapon, or preparing for NG+, the more runes you have, the more options are open to you.
After three full playthroughs and hundreds of hours in Elden Ring, my advice is simple: focus on runes first, and the perfect build will follow naturally. Whether you’re grinding them manually or using trusted resources like Elden Ring DLC Runes For Sale, prioritizing runes early can turn a frustrating experience into a deeply rewarding adventure. Don’t rush into a build just because it looks cool — build the foundation with runes, and then unleash your true potential.
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