Create These 17 Builds That Use Shields as Weapons in Elden Ring
When most players think of shields in Elden Ring, they imagine defensive tools primarily used for blocking attacks or parrying enemies. However, shields can be much more than just a protective accessory. With the right builds, shields become formidable weapons capable of dealing impressive damage, staggering foes, and controlling the flow of battle. For those looking to experiment beyond the typical sword-and-shield playstyle, here are 17 unique builds that leverage shields as offensive tools while maintaining solid defense.
These builds blend tankiness with aggressive shield usage, giving players options for both PvE and PvP content. While some players might prefer to buy Elden Ring runes or hunt for cheap Elden Ring Items to quickly gear up, mastering shield weapon builds can be a rewarding challenge that adds depth to your combat approach.
1. The Shield Bash BruiserFocuses on strength and endurance to wield heavy shields that deliver powerful bash attacks. Ideal for staggering enemies and breaking guard.
2. The Guard Counter SpecialistUses shields with high stability combined with skills that capitalize on counterattacks after successful blocks or parries.
3. The Shield-Throwing HunterEquips shields that can be thrown as ranged weapons, adding surprising versatility and ranged pressure in fights.
4. The Balanced KnightA traditional knight build emphasizing both blocking and shield strikes, with solid stats in vigor, endurance, and strength.
5. The Faithful PaladinCombines shield weapon skills with incantations for buffs and healing, offering sustain while controlling enemies with shield moves.
6. The Quickstep DefenderUses lighter shields for faster attack combos, relying on dexterity and agility for quick, repetitive shield hits.
7. The Shield Slam BerserkerMaximizes poise and strength to deliver devastating shield slams that knock down foes, perfect for aggressive play.
8. The Parry and Punish MasterFocuses on perfecting timing for parries and immediately following up with shield weapon skills for high damage.
9. The Dual Shield FighterWields a shield in each hand, allowing rapid bash attacks and unique combos not possible with a single shield.
10. The Magic Shield WarriorEnhances shield attacks with sorcery buffs or enchanted shields that add elemental damage for extra punch.
11. The Stamina TankBuilds around high stamina to spam shield weapon arts, providing both defense and offense with little downtime.
12. The Critical Shield UserEmphasizes critical hit bonuses from shield weapon skills to capitalize on staggered enemies or backstabs.
13. The Heavy Shield JuggernautUses ultra-heavy greatshields not only for defense but also to crush enemies under powerful charged attacks.
14. The Bleed Shield BuildCombines shields with bleed-inflicting weapons or buffs, allowing bleed buildup alongside shield strikes.
15. The Elemental Shield BrawlerApplies fire, lightning, or other elemental buffs to shields to add damage over time effects.
16. The Endurance CrusherFocuses on wearing down enemies by blocking attacks and countering with shield bash combos that chip away at stamina.
17. The Support Shield BearerPairs shield weapon use with buffs and team support, allowing you to protect allies while dealing decent damage.
Each of these builds offers a different way to incorporate shields as offensive weapons rather than just defensive tools. Mastering them requires understanding timing, stamina management, and weapon skills unique to shield movesets.
If you want to optimize your gear for these builds but don’t want to grind endlessly, consider options to buy Elden Ring runes or find cheap Elden Ring Items to jumpstart your progress. With the right shield-focused setup, you’ll turn defense into an unexpected offense that keeps enemies on their toes.