Elden Ring Player Unveils Game-Changing Shield Feature After 1400 Hours

An Elden Ring player recently uncovered a significant game mechanic after spending an astounding 1400 hours in the game. This revelation is particularly timely, as many players are returning to Elden Ring to prepare for the forthcoming Shadow of the Erdtree DLC. The new discovery pertains to the guard boost attribute of shields, a feature that many players, including seasoned veterans, have overlooked. This newfound knowledge is prompting a reevaluation of how players prioritize their Smithing Stones and shield upgrades.

The guard boost, also known as stability, is an essential shield attribute that determines how much stamina is used when blocking attacks. A higher guard boost allows players to block more attacks without depleting their stamina reserves. This mechanic can significantly impact a player's strategy, especially those who rely heavily on defensive tactics. Interestingly, the guard boost improves with shield upgrades, a detail many players have missed. This means that investing in shield upgrades could lead to fewer points needed in stamina, freeing up those points for other attributes.

Reddit user PompousGoblin shared their surprising discovery on the Elden Ring subreddit. After 1400 hours of gameplay, they decided to upgrade their shield using surplus Smithing Stones, only to find that their shield's guard boost improved. This revelation has been eye-opening for many in the Elden Ring community, as it suggests that upgrading shields can be more beneficial than previously thought. Up until this point, many players believed that shield upgrades were not a priority since they did not appear to affect guard boost significantly.

The Elden Ring community has had mixed reactions to this discovery. While some players are excited about the potential advantages of upgrading shields for better guard boost, others remain skeptical. They argue that the benefits might only be substantial for specific shields, such as the widely-used Brass Shield. The overall value of this mechanic may vary depending on a player's build and playstyle. Nonetheless, this discovery has sparked a lively discussion and has encouraged players to experiment with different strategies and upgrades.

As the release date for the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC approaches, this newfound knowledge about shield upgrades could prove invaluable. Players are now more likely to consider upgrading their shields as part of their preparation for the new challenges ahead. This discovery serves as a reminder that even after countless hours in a game, there is always something new to learn and explore. The Elden Ring community continues to thrive, with players constantly uncovering new strategies and mechanics to enhance their gameplay experience.

In conclusion, the revelation of the guard boost improvement through shield upgrades has added a new layer of depth to Elden Ring's gameplay. This discovery, coming after 1400 hours of gameplay, highlights the complexity and intricacy of the game. As players gear up for the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, this newfound knowledge will likely influence their strategies and preparations. Whether or not upgrading shields becomes a widespread practice, this discovery has undoubtedly enriched the Elden Ring community's understanding of the game.