Elden Ring’s PvP landscape is a battleground of unpredictability, where weapon choice can mean the difference between a crushing defeat and a glorious victory. While every Tarnished has their preferred loadout, some weapons have earned a reputation for being consistently effective in online duels and invasions. Whether you're a seasoned invader or just stepping into the world of PvP, this list of nine standout weapons offers a strong foundation for mastering the art of combat.
Here’s a breakdown of the weapons that dominate PvP matchups — not necessarily because they’re the flashiest, but because they deliver where it counts: speed, damage, versatility, and mind games.
1. Rivers of Blood (Katana)
Still one of the most iconic PvP weapons, Rivers of Blood shines thanks to its devastating Ash of War, Corpse Piler. Its bleed buildup can shred through most opponents, even those stacked with vigor. While it's no longer as dominant post-nerf, its speed and range make it a staple choice for bleed builds.
2. Moonveil (Katana)
Moonveil’s strength lies in its weapon skill, Transient Moonlight. This katana can apply constant pressure with its fast, ranged magical slashes that are tough to dodge. It’s especially lethal in duels where spacing and reaction time determine the flow of battle.
3. Greatsword (Colossal Sword)
For those who can manage its slow wind-up, the Greatsword offers incredible hyperarmor and burst potential. PvP duels often favor those who can bait and punish, and this sword delivers crushing blows that punish overextensions. Ideal for strength builds focused on intimidation and spacing control.
4. Bloodhound’s Fang (Curved Greatsword)
This weapon’s deceptive mobility and curved sword moveset make it one of the most dangerous tools in a skilled player’s hands. Its Bloodhound’s Finesse ability allows quick repositioning while applying high bleed damage — a deadly combo for reactive PvP play.
5. Godskin Peeler (Twinblade)
The twinblade class in general is PvP gold, but the Godskin Peeler stands out for its strong damage output and dual-wield synergy. Combined with bleed or frost, it becomes a DPS monster that thrives in roll-catching situations.
6. Nagakiba (Katana)
The Nagakiba offers all the benefits of a katana, but with an extended reach that often catches PvP opponents off guard. Infuse it with bleed or cold, and you’ve got a weapon that can poke, roll-catch, and pressure with ease.
7. Halberd (Standard or Custom Infusion)
Halberds remain versatile in PvP because of their strong running attacks and spacing tools. Many players underestimate how well a properly timed poke can control the flow of a fight, especially in narrow areas or during invasions. When paired with buffs or status effects, the halberd can be surprisingly lethal.
8. Serpent-Hunter (Great Spear)
Originally intended for the Rykard fight, the Serpent-Hunter became a PvP sleeper hit thanks to its range and poise-breaking potential. It scales without stat requirements and can be effective even at low levels, making it a solid pick for rune-efficient builds. Great for players who want to stretch the effectiveness of their Elden Ring Runes.
9. Hand of Malenia (Katana)
A high-risk, high-reward weapon, the Hand of Malenia’s Waterfowl Dance can decimate unprepared players. Though easy to punish if whiffed, it remains one of the flashiest and most dangerous PvP skills in the game. Best used as a surprise finisher when opponents least expect it.
Closing Thoughts
PvP in Elden Ring isn’t just about numbers; it’s about mind games, adaptability, and exploiting your weapon’s strengths. Whether you’re investing hard-earned Elden Ring Runes into leveling or looking to optimize your inventory, picking the right weapon is crucial.
Many players choose to buy Elden Ring Items to round out their builds quickly, especially when gearing up for PvP. While grinding is part of the journey, sometimes it’s about getting into the action faster and learning through experience.
No matter which path you take, these weapons offer reliable performance and the potential to turn you into a feared name in the Lands Between.
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