Farming runes in Elden Ring is a core activity for many players looking to level up their characters, purchase powerful gear, or simply prepare for the game’s brutal challenges. Whether you're new to the Lands Between or a seasoned Tarnished, optimizing your rune farming routine is essential. However, many players fall into common traps that waste time, reduce efficiency, or even cost hard-earned runes. Here are 10 mistakes to avoid while farming runes in Elden Ring, based on firsthand experience and deep knowledge of the game’s mechanics.
1. Ignoring Rune-Boosting EquipmentMany players overlook key items that can significantly boost rune acquisition. The Gold Scarab talisman, for example, can increase the number of runes earned from defeated enemies. Always equip this when rune farming, and consider using Gold-Pickled Fowl Foot consumables for an extra boost.
2. Farming in Inefficient LocationsNot all areas are created equal. Farming lower-level enemies in early zones might feel safe, but it’s inefficient in the long run. Popular farming spots like Moghwyn Palace offer much better rune yields. Learn which areas provide the best rune-per-minute return based on your level and build.
3. Overlooking Fast Travel OpportunitiesSome players waste time manually traversing large distances. Use the fast travel feature to quickly reset mobs in high-yield areas. Strategic use of Sites of Grace can cut your farming time in half.
4. Not Optimizing Builds for FarmingIt’s tempting to use your standard combat build, but a specialized farming build can be far more effective. AOE-heavy setups, for example, allow you to quickly clear multiple enemies. Experiment with spells, skills, and weapons that maximize your efficiency.
5. Getting Greedy and Losing RunesOne of the biggest mistakes is pushing too far with too many runes on the line. If you’ve accumulated a large number of runes, return to a Site of Grace to bank them before continuing. A single mistake can wipe out hours of progress.
6. Ignoring Multiplayer Mode RisksIf you're farming in multiplayer mode or with the invasion mechanic active, you risk being interrupted. It’s safer to farm while offline or using a password-protected session to avoid unnecessary distractions.
7. Not Using Summons StrategicallySummons can speed up combat, especially in rune-dense areas. Whether it’s Spirit Ashes or a co-op partner, extra help can improve kill speed and survivability. Don’t try to solo everything if it’s slowing you down.
8. Disregarding Time-Efficient Farming SessionsFarming without a time cap can lead to burnout and inefficiency. Set a timer or a goal (e.g., one level's worth of runes) to stay focused. This helps prevent wasted time and keeps your sessions productive.
9. Hoarding Runes Instead of Investing ThemIt’s tempting to accumulate a massive stockpile of runes, but unused runes offer no benefit. Use them to level up or buy equipment regularly. Smart investments now can help you farm even faster later.
10. Not Considering Alternative OptionsSometimes farming just isn’t efficient or enjoyable. In such cases, many players opt to buy Elden Ring runes from trusted marketplaces like U4GM. This can save time and allow you to focus on enjoying the game’s rich content rather than grinding endlessly.
Rune farming in Elden Ring is a vital part of progression, but it's easy to fall into bad habits or overlook optimal strategies. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can improve your efficiency, save time, and get more enjoyment out of the game. Whether you choose to grind strategically or decide to buy Elden Ring runes, the key is playing smart and making choices that enhance your journey through the Lands Between.