Elden Ring: 10 Runes Strategies That Will Save You Time and Effort
Earning runes efficiently in Elden Ring can drastically improve your experience, especially if you’re aiming to try multiple builds or take on tougher content early. Farming isn’t everyone’s favorite activity, but with the right strategies, you can make gathering runes less of a grind and more of a smooth progression tool. Whether you’re early in the game or exploring endgame zones, these ten strategies can help you save both time and effort when collecting runes.
1. Focus on High-Yield Early Game Areas
Limgrave and the surrounding areas can be surprisingly rewarding if you know where to look. Stormgate and the area around Agheel Lake have enemies that are easy to farm repeatedly, offering solid returns without much risk.
2. Utilize the Gold-Pickled Fowl Foot
This consumable boosts rune acquisition for a limited time. Always pop one before heading into farming runs or boss fights. The buff stacks with other rune-boosting gear, making it even more efficient.
3. Farm the Albinaurics in Mohgwyn Palace
Once you reach Mohgwyn Palace, the red-robed Albinaurics are a goldmine. They drop thousands of runes and are easy to take down, especially with area-of-effect spells or weapons. This spot is ideal for players looking to power-level quickly.
4. Equip the Gold Scarab Talisman
You’ll need to go through the Abandoned Cave to get this item, but it permanently increases rune gain when equipped. Combine it with the Gold-Pickled Fowl Foot for maximum effectiveness.
5. Repeat Boss Fights Using Remembrances
Some bosses drop Remembrances that can be traded for high-value items or consumed for a large chunk of runes. If you’re not interested in the boss weapons, consuming them is a fast way to build your rune count.
6. Clear Legacy Dungeons for Consistent Rewards
Areas like Stormveil Castle and Raya Lucaria Academy are not just for progression—they’re also excellent sources of consistent rune drops from the high density of enemies. Clear methodically and respawn enemies to continue farming.
7. Join a PvP Covenant or Play Co-op
Helping others defeat bosses in co-op can reward you with runes, and you don't risk losing them on death. This method is a relaxed way to earn while practicing mechanics and exploring builds.
8. Invest in AoE Builds for Farming
Area-of-effect damage is key when clearing groups of enemies quickly. Spells like Comet Azur or weapons with wide arcs allow you to farm enemies faster, multiplying your rune intake.
9. Run Nighttime Enemy Zones
Some enemies only appear at night and drop more runes. For example, Night’s Cavalry mini-bosses reward a significant number of runes and useful items that can be sold or used.
10. Buy Smart, Upgrade Strategically
Rather than wasting runes on items you won’t use, plan your builds and only invest in upgrades that matter. If you want to speed things up without farming, many players opt to buy Elden Ring runes PS4 or buy Elden Ring items Xbox to streamline their progression.
Mastering these rune strategies means less time grinding and more time enjoying what Elden Ring does best—exploration, combat, and rich lore. Use these tips to enhance your journey through the Lands Between while keeping rune farming efficient and frustration-free.