Elden Ring players who prioritize damage over defense should dual-wield. Like previous FromSoftware games, Elden Ring lets you change to a two-hand weapon stance in order to deal heavy damage.
Power Stance is a combat mechanic in Elden Ring that enables players to wield two weapons simultaneously in a unique and often more powerful manner. This feature was first introduced in Dark Souls II and has now become a staple in FromSoftware’s Soulsborne games, including Elden Ring.
When switching to two-hand in Elden Ring, you deal double damage but can’t defend yourself with a shield in chaotic situations. However, confident players shouldn’t hesitate to take a risk, as it’s a widely used method to crush enemies.
In previous FromSoftware, you could activate Power Stance by holding down a specific button combination. In Dark Souls II, for example, this is done by holding down the Triangle on PlayStation and Y on Xbox. But you need to use an extra key for the Elden Ring.
Make sure you have a weapon that can be wielded with two hands. Large weapons like greatswords, axes, or hammers are typically two-handed
Now, hold Triangle and press R1 or L1 to two-hand your right or left weapon if you’re on PlayStation. Hold Y and RB or LB to switch to Power Stance for Xbox
This will change your stance and grip on the weapon, allowing you to wield it with both hands
You’ll now be able to deal more damage to enemies, but with a lack of a shield, it can be tricky to defend yourself. You will need some practice to learn to dodge incoming attacks with a two-hand stance in the Elden Ring.
However, the risk is worth it as two hands also allow you access to new, more powerful move sets.
Fariha Bhatti
About Fariha Bhatti
Fariha Bhatti is a long-time gaming writer who loves competitive FPS games and slots with particularly fun themes. She got her start playing classic games developed by SNK, from legendary fighting game series The King of Fighters to challenging platform franchise Metal Slug. She now spends most of her time playing Valorant and Counter-Strike 2 while working her way through new slot releases to find her next favorite. Fariha has been published at PCGamesN, TalkEsport and ONE Esports.
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