Use These 18 Runes Tips to Prepare for Elden Ring Endgame Zones
Elden Ring’s endgame zones are no joke. Whether you're heading into Crumbling Farum Azula, facing the horrors of the Haligtree, or preparing for the final gauntlet in Leyndell, you'll need every rune you can get—and you’ll need to use them wisely. Runes are more than just currency; they’re the foundation of your power in the Lands Between. Here are 18 essential tips for making the most of your runes and getting ready for the toughest parts of the game.
1. Don’t Hoard, Invest
Runes are meant to be spent. As you approach the endgame, make sure you’re keeping your gear and stats up to par. Every level makes a difference, especially in Vigor and Endurance.
2. Level Smart, Not Just High
Instead of chasing a high level, focus on efficient stat allocation. Dumping too many points into one area can lead to diminishing returns. Balance is key as enemies become faster and more aggressive.
3. Upgrade Your Flask Early
Golden Seeds and Sacred Tears help maximize your survivability. Even with a perfect build, you won’t survive long without enough healing in endgame zones. These upgrades are worth the rune cost to track down.
4. Farm Before You Explore
Areas like the Mohgwyn Palace or the early parts of Mountaintops of the Giants offer solid rune farming opportunities. Clear these areas thoroughly before diving into more punishing locations.
5. Make Use of Consumable Runes
Don't forget to pop those Hero’s and Lord’s Runes. They don’t help you sitting in your inventory. Use them for that final level-up before a boss or to reinforce your Spirit Ashes.
6. Respect When Needed
If your build feels off, Rennala in Raya Lucaria lets you respec. A properly tuned build is much more rune-efficient than trying to brute-force content with misplaced stats.
7. Use Runes to Power Up Your Arsenal
Whether you need Smithing Stones or upgrade materials for your Spirit Ashes, runes make it happen. Check NPC vendors or explore the best site to buy Elden Ring Runes if you're looking to quickly gear up.
8. Stock Up on Consumables
Late-game bosses require more than brute force. Buy plenty of Throwing Pots, Greases, and Boluses to counter specific threats. These items can save your life more than once.
9. Summons Need Runes Too
Don’t ignore your Spirit Ashes. Upgrading them at Roderika’s station is a massive rune sink but well worth the investment. A strong summon can carry you through multiple boss fights.
10. Test Builds Before Committing
Use rune-rich areas to test different weapon styles or spell builds. It’s better to experiment early than to regret choices deep into the endgame.
11. Avoid Losing Your Rune Stack
High-level zones have high-stakes enemies. Don’t walk around with 200,000 runes without a plan. Spend them before exploring or secure them at a nearby Site of Grace first.
12. Farm Smarter, Not Harder
Look for rune farming hotspots like Albinaurics in Mohgwyn Palace or Vulgar Militia in Altus Plateau. The efficiency of your farming matters more than the size of the rune drops.
13. Talismans Can Boost Rune Gain
Talismans like the Gold Scarab increase rune yield from enemies. Slot one in while farming, then swap to a combat-focused build before bosses.
14. Learn Boss Patterns—It Saves Runes
Fewer deaths means fewer trips to recover lost runes. Spend some time watching enemy behavior, even if it means a few runs without attacking. It pays off.
15. Don’t Forget Side Dungeons
Catacombs, caves, and gaols often contain valuable loot and rune-rich mini-bosses. They’re worth exploring before heading into the more punishing endgame zones.
16. Rune Investment Goes Beyond Stats
Runes help you grab the Elden Ring Items for sale that round out your build. Whether it's a needed talisman, a unique weapon, or upgrade materials, these items are as critical as levels.
17. Plan Your Purchases
Vendors like the Twin Maiden Husks can absorb a lot of your rune total if you’re not careful. Know what you need before you go shopping, and prioritize must-haves like Stonesword Keys or upgrade mats.
18. Don’t Burn Out Farming
Yes, runes are important—but endless farming can dull the experience. Rotate between farming, exploring, and boss attempts to keep the game fresh and exciting as you prepare for the final act.
The endgame in Elden Ring is all about preparation and adaptability. These rune-focused strategies can make a huge difference when facing off against some of the game’s most brutal enemies. With the right investments and smart rune use, you’ll step into those final zones more than ready—you’ll be built for them.