Unleash Your Creativity in Elden Ring: The Strangest but Fun Builds

Elden Ring enthusiasts can enjoy a lot of experimentation with these underpowered builds.

11 Fun Underpowered Builds in Elden Ring

If you’re a seasoned player who has already conquered Elden Ring multiple times, you’re probably looking for something new and exciting to spice up your playthroughs. Well, look no further! In this article, we’ll explore some of the strangest and most unconventional builds in Elden Ring. These builds may not be the strongest, but they definitely offer unique challenges and an absolute blast to play. So, let’s dive in and get ready to have some fun in The Lands Between!

11. Double Whips: Just Go A-Whackin’

Whips build up status effects like crazy, but accomplish little against bosses

When it comes to unconventional builds, the “Double Whips” build is a pretty standard one. Whips may not be the go-to weapon for most players, but in the open world, they are surprisingly viable. Not only do they excel at crowd control, but they also have high attack speed and range. Moreover, whips have the unique ability to build up status effects like no other weapon in the game. And when you equip two whips instead of one, those stats get even better.

However, here’s the catch: whips are pretty ineffective against enemies with high poise, which includes pretty much every single boss in the game. So, while this build may not be the strongest when it matters the most, it still offers an enjoyable and challenging experience. Good luck dealing with those “sword n’ board” Crucible Knights though!

10. The Shotgun: Bring A Gun To A Sword Fight

The Gigasthiccas Shotgun build is about as close as Elden Ring gets to Call of Duty

Now let’s get weird! The “Shotgun” build has been floating around the internet for a while, and it’s definitely one of the most unconventional and fun builds out there. The idea behind this build is equipping the Radagon Icon to a character with 40 Dexterity – maxing out their cast speed. This effectively turns the player into a full-auto shotgun, thanks to the Beastial Sling Incantation.

The major downside of this build is that it consumes a significant amount of FP (Focus Points) without dealing a ton of damage. To make this build truly shine, players will need to invest in Mind as well as Dexterity. The Shotgun build is particularly effective in staggering enemies, opening them up for critical hits. While the Incantation itself may not be enough in the late game, the poise damage it inflicts makes this build a force to be reckoned with.

9. Swiss Army Knife: “Knife” Being The Operative Word

Elden Ring Reduvia Dagger

If you’re a fan of versatility and challenge, the “Swiss Army Knife” build is perfect for you. Daggers in Elden Ring are quick, versatile, and come in various shapes, sizes, and elemental damage types. While they may not deal massive damage, they offer a lot of fun and flexibility. This build encourages players to equip two daggers in each hand, each dealing a different type of elemental damage. Additionally, players should have two backups that deal two other elemental damage types.

Managing each dagger and using them against the right enemies becomes a challenge in itself. While this build may not excel in any particular situation, players will always be prepared for any encounter. So, unleash your inner knife enthusiast and enjoy the thrill of this unique playstyle.

8. Fists/Unarmed: Tarnished Didn’t Hear No Bell

Unarmed builds are a staple of FromSoft games

Sometimes, keeping it simple and going back to the basics is the way to go. The “Fists/Unarmed” build is a FromSoftware classic, dating back to the days of the original Demon’s Souls. To achieve this build, players simply need to have no equipped weapon in either hand. While there are fist weapons available in the game, the true essence of this build lies in being bare-handed.

Unarmed builds focus on agility and precision. Players will need to rely on their ability to dodge perfectly and strategically chip away at the enemy’s health. This build offers a true test of skill and requires a deep understanding of enemy attack patterns. So, embrace your inner martial artist and show those foes what a truly unarmed warrior can do!

7. The Mechanic: If It Ain’t Broke, Set It On Fire

Elden Ring Players Cheese Malenia Using ‘Pizza Cutter’ Weapon

Some builds aren’t so much about specific playstyles, but rather about embracing the weirdest weapons available. The “Mechanic” build falls into this category. This build revolves around using the iconic “Pizza Cutter” weapon, Ghiza’s Wheel, paired with the One-Eyed Shield and the Hand Ballista.

While this build may not be the strongest, it offers a unique and satisfying experience. Players can start by shooting enemies with the Ballista, setting them on fire with the Shield, and then grinding them down with the Wheel. It’s all about being unpredictable and catching your foes off-guard. After all, the most dangerous enemy is the one that can’t predict your next move!

6. Flaming Boulder: Just Keep Rolin’ Rollin’ Rollin’

The Flaming Boulder build is all about killing the enemy before the fire kills you

Looking for some fiery action? The “Flaming Boulder” build is not only unconventional but brings a whole new meaning to the phrase “rolling into battle.” With this build, players can deal some damage by rolling into enemies, especially when equipped with a piece of the Briar armor set. The more Briar armor pieces players equip, the more damage their rolls will do.

But here’s the twist: players should set themselves on fire using the Fire’s Deadly Sin Incantation. While this may damage the player while active, it adds a unique challenge and makes this build both exciting and viable for how ridiculous it is. This build was even the meta for Elden Ring’s PvP scene at one point. So, get ready to roll, burn, and conquer The Lands Between!

5. Bruce Lee: Be Like Water, My Friend

Kicking is a perfectly valid way to play through Elden Ring

If you’re a fan of martial arts and swift movements, the “Bruce Lee” build is tailor-made for you. This build revolves around fighting exclusively with the Kick Skill. While the Kick Skill is the default for various weapons, including crossbows and whips, using it as your primary form of combat creates a unique and challenging experience.

Kicks may not deal massive damage, but they provide knockback against most enemies and inflict poise damage. This allows players to stagger their foes and open them up for critical hits. So, embrace the spirit of Bruce Lee, showcase your martial arts skills, and gracefully kick your way through The Lands Between!

4. The Shield Wall: The Rising Of The Shield “Hero”

Double shields doesn’t provide a ton of offense, but the defense is unmatched

Looking for the ultimate defense? The “Shield Wall” build has got you covered. By equipping a Greatshield in each hand, players can use them as a weapon. While shields won’t deal massive damage, they provide unmatched defense. This build is all about being patient, hiding behind your shields, and slowly whittling down the enemy’s health using Shield Bash.

The biggest challenge of this build is the slow movement speed due to its heavy focus on defense. Players will need to rely on their knowledge of enemy attack patterns and precise timing to block and counter effectively. So, embrace the defensive side of Elden Ring and become an impenetrable shield wall that no foe can break through!

3. The Brass Musician: Play It Again, Tarnished

The Envoy’s Longhorn is devastating against bosses, but much less so in the open world

If you’re a fan of music and brass instruments, the “Brass Musician” build is a unique and melodious choice. The centerpiece of this build is the Envoy’s Longhorn, a long brass instrument resembling a trumpet. While its attack shoots bubbles at the enemy, it may not be the most effective weapon against smaller opponents.

However, when facing larger enemies and bosses, the Envoy’s Longhorn can deal a ton of damage, especially for Faith builds. This build requires a sGameTopicificant investment in Faith and offers a balanced playstyle that combines musical beauty with deadly power. So, unleash your inner minstrel and bring harmony to the chaos of The Lands Between!

2. No Armor: Who Needs Defense Anyway?

If Let Me Solo Her can beat Melania naked, then it’s a build worth trying

Are you ready to push the limits of challenge and bravery? The “No Armor” build is the epitome of facing danger head-on without any protection. Inspired by the legendary Let Me Solo Her, this build dares players to undertake naked runs, a true test of skill and memory of enemy attack patterns.

With no armor equipped, players will take a sGameTopicificant amount of damage from even the weakest enemies. Survival solely depends on perfect dodges and unmatched reflexes. This build may not be for the faint of heart, but it offers an exhilarating and adrenaline-filled experience. So, strip down to your bare self and conquer Elden Ring in the most daring way imaginable!

1. Sonic: The Lands Between Are No Place For A Hedgehog

Why not just play as Sonic for a bit? Seriously, why not?

Last on our list is the “Sonic” build, a tribute to the iconic blue hedgehog himself. Youtuber Marco Yolo crafted a build that allows players to play through Elden Ring as Sonic. While a significant part of this build is in the character creator, where you can make your character blue like Sonic, there are still a few essential elements to make it feel complete.

The Lightning Ram Ash of War enables the player to charge forward while surrounded by lightning, mimicking Sonic’s speed and attitude. Additionally, equipping lightning Caestus in both hands complements the build and adds extra flair. While this build may not be sGameTopicificantly underpowered, its main purpose is to bring Sonic to life in The Lands Between and provide a fun and nostalgic experience.


Q&A: Your Burning Questions Answered!

Q: Are these builds viable for all playthroughs?

A: Yes, these builds can be used in any playthrough of Elden Ring. They offer a fresh and unique way to experience the game.

Q: Are these builds suitable for beginners?

A: Some of these builds might be challenging for beginners, as they require a deep understanding of game mechanics and enemy patterns. It’s recommended for beginners to start with more conventional builds and gradually explore these unconventional options.

Q: Can I mix and match elements from different builds?

A: Absolutely! These builds are meant to inspire creativity and experimentation. Feel free to mix and match elements to create your own personalized build and playstyle.

Q: Where can I find more information about Elden Ring?

A: Check out these helpful links for more information about Elden Ring: – Official Elden Ring WebsiteElden Ring on WikipediaElden Ring Subreddit


Now that you’ve been introduced to some of the strangest but fun builds in Elden Ring, it’s time to unleash your creativity and try something new. Whether you decide to be a whirling tornado of double whips or channel your inner Bruce Lee with devastating kicks, remember that the beauty of the game lies in experimentation and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

Embark on a thrilling adventure in The Lands Between, conquer challenging bosses, and share your wild and wonderful build stories with the gaming community. After all, gaming is all about having fun and trying something new. So, grab your controller, prepare your best battle stance, and embrace the unconventional in Elden Ring!

Don’t forget to share your unique builds and experiences on social media using the hashtag #EldenRingBuilds. Let’s see who can come up with the wildest and most exciting builds in The Lands Between!

(Updated February 22, 2024 by Evan Regan)