Atualização 2024-10-17

U4GM - 7 Reasons Why Runes Matter More Than Loot in Elden Ring

As someone who has spent over 300 hours exploring the Lands Between, I’ve come to a surprising realization: while loot like powerful weapons and armor feels exciting in the moment, it’s actually runes that shape your long-term success in Elden Ring. Loot can give you a temporary edge, but without runes, you won’t grow — and in a world as punishing as this one, that growth is everything.

Here are seven reasons why Elden Ring runes matter more than loot, based on hard-earned experience and a deep understanding of the game’s progression system.

1. Runes Fuel Your Character’s Growth

Runes are the core in-game currency of Elden Ring, used to level up your attributes such as Vigor, Strength, Intelligence, and more. No matter how rare your loot is, it means little if you can’t wield it due to low stats. I remember finding the legendary Moonveil katana early in my first playthrough — but I couldn’t use it effectively until I had enough Intelligence. Runes made that possible.

2. Runes Let You Experiment With Builds

Loot is static — it’s a fixed item with predefined stats. But runes are dynamic. With enough runes, you can respec your character using a Larval Tear and completely change your playstyle. I once shifted from a melee-focused tank to a sorcerer mid-game just to explore different combat mechanics. The freedom runes gave me was game-changing.

3. Runes Help You Upgrade Gear

Loot alone isn’t powerful until it’s upgraded. Weapons need Smithing Stones, and the process requires runes at every level. Many players overlook this — they hoard fancy weapons but can’t afford to enhance them. I always keep a rune reserve specifically for upgrades to stay ahead of the difficulty curve.

4. Runes Allow You to Summon Help

Whether you’re summoning Spirit Ashes or real players, it costs resources — and runes help you acquire the items necessary for these interactions. In my toughest boss fights, like Malenia or Radahn, the ability to summon support often made the difference between victory and countless deaths.

5. Runes Can Be Farmed and Strategized

Loot drops are random and rare, but rune farming is a skill. There are specific areas in Elden Ring where you can consistently earn thousands of runes in minutes. I’ve spent hours refining my farming routes, and they’ve given me the edge I needed without relying on unpredictable loot drops.

For those short on time, many players choose to buy Elden Ring in-game currency to accelerate their progression. It’s a controversial topic, but for casual players who want to enjoy the story and world without the grind, it's a practical option.

6. Runes Reflect Your Time and Effort

Loot can be found, gifted, or even stumbled upon. But runes are a direct result of your time and skill. Every rune earned is a reflection of enemies defeated and progress made. When I hit level 150 in my main save, it wasn’t the loot I was proud of — it was the journey, and the runes that marked each step.

7. Runes Provide True Progression

Loot can be traded or lost, but your level — powered by runes — stays with you. Even in New Game Plus, your rune investment carries over, giving you a strong foundation. I’ve restarted multiple times, but it’s always my rune-powered build that gives me the confidence to keep pushing forward.

Loot might give you short bursts of excitement, but Elden Ring runes are the quiet, powerful force that sustains your journey. From upgrading your stats and gear to unlocking new playstyles, they form the backbone of every Tarnished’s adventure. So next time you’re tempted to chase the next shiny sword, remember: runes are the real treasure.

And if you’re looking to save time, services that allow you to buy Elden Ring in-game currency can help you enjoy the game at your pace — just be sure to choose a reliable, trusted source.What You Missed:6 Best Healing Items in Elden Ring for Multiplayer Sessions