Elden Ring is a vast, challenging world that demands strategic preparation, especially when it comes to tank builds. These builds focus on maximizing your defenses to absorb hits and control the battlefield. With numerous Elden Ring items scattered throughout the game, selecting the right defensive gear can make all the difference between life and death. Whether you’re a new player or a veteran, this guide will walk you through six of the best defensive items in Elden Ring, ensuring you can stay safe and survive in even the most intense battles.
1. Greatshield of Glory – Unyielding Defense
The Greatshield of Glory is one of the most reliable Elden Ring items for tank builds. Known for its massive stability and high damage reduction, this greatshield offers unparalleled protection. Its heavy weight means it can slow down your movement, but the immense defense it provides against both physical and magical attacks more than compensates for this. If you want to create a fortress-like defense, this shield is essential. It’s also a safe Elden Ring item to use when facing enemies with heavy, sustained damage.
2. Bull-Goat Set – Unmatched Poise and Resistance
If you’re looking for a complete set of armor that maximizes your tanking potential, the Bull-Goat Set is an obvious choice. This armor set provides outstanding poise, meaning you’ll be less likely to stagger when struck by powerful enemies. The Bull-Goat Set is perfect for tank builds that prioritize absorbing damage while maintaining their ground. Although it significantly reduces your mobility due to its heavy weight, the massive boost to physical damage resistance makes it a must-have for any serious tank.
3. Moongrum’s Rune – A Hidden Defensive Gem
While many defensive items in Elden Ring are focused on physical defense, Moongrum’s Rune provides a significant boost to your defense against magic-based attacks. This rune is a safe Elden Ring item for those who want to safeguard themselves against the growing number of sorcerers and magical enemies. Moongrum’s Rune can be a game-changer for tank builds when facing foes that rely on spells to deal damage, ensuring you can stand your ground even when magic is in play.
4. Carian Retaliation – A Defensive Offensive Tool
The Carian Retaliation spell is another important Elden Ring item for tank builds. While primarily a magic-based counterattack, it serves as an excellent defensive tool for those who prefer a more reactive playstyle. If you’re on the receiving end of an enemy’s attack, casting Carian Retaliation can deal significant damage while simultaneously offering you a defensive advantage. It’s a great way to turn the tide of battle, making your tank build both durable and dangerous.
5. Dragon Slayer Armor – Protection Against Elemental Attacks
For players who want to focus on protection against elemental damage, the Dragon Slayer Armor provides excellent defensive stats. This armor set offers resistance to fire, lightning, and other elemental attacks, making it ideal when facing enemies that rely on elemental magic or breath attacks. Wearing this set can be a lifesaver in many boss fights, especially when confronting powerful dragon-like foes or enemies with elemental abilities. As with the Bull-Goat Set, expect reduced mobility, but the defensive benefits are well worth it.
6. Radagon’s Scarseal – A Powerful Defensive Buff
Radagon’s Scarseal is a unique Elden Ring item that boosts your defense and resistances, making it particularly useful for tank builds. While it increases the power of certain stats, it comes with a trade-off, as it raises the damage you take from some attacks. Despite the potential downside, Radagon’s Scarseal can be a safe Elden Ring item to use in specific encounters where you need that extra bit of defense to survive tough fights. It’s a great addition to your gear, as long as you know how to balance its effects.
In Elden Ring, the right defensive items can make a massive difference in your ability to survive, especially when you’re building a tank character. Items like the Greatshield of Glory, Bull-Goat Set, and Radagon’s Scarseal are just a few of the tools available to make your tank build more resilient against the many dangers of the game. By carefully selecting and mastering these items, you can create a nearly impenetrable defense, allowing you to tackle even the toughest of foes with confidence.
When exploring Elden Ring’s massive world, always consider the specific threats you may face, whether they involve physical attacks, magic, or elemental damage. With these defensive items in your arsenal, you’ll be well-equipped to take on anything the Lands Between throws at you.