Since the launch of Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree, many players have regarded it as one of the most challenging DLCs in gaming history. The expansion introduces some of the toughest bosses and intricate combat mechanics that test the skills of Elden Ring Runes even the most experienced Tarnished. However, by mastering combat strategies and selecting the right equipment, you can significantly increase your chances of survival.
One of the most effective ways to endure the harsh encounters in Shadow of the Erdtree is to boost your maximum health. The more health you have, the better your ability to withstand powerful enemy attacks and devastating spells. Unlike temporary healing effects, increasing your max HP provides a persistent advantage, reducing the risk of being one-shot by formidable foes. Fortunately, the DLC offers various items—talismans, Great Runes, and armor—that can help you achieve this goal. Below, we’ll explore some of the best choices available and how they can be incorporated into your build for maximum survivability.
Crimson Amber Medallion +3
One of the simplest and most effective ways to increase your maximum health is equipping the Crimson Amber Medallion +3. This talisman boosts max HP by a significant 10%, making it a staple for players who prioritize durability.
How to Obtain It
The Crimson Amber Medallion +3 is exclusive to the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC. You can acquire it by defeating the Death Knight in the Fog Rift Catacombs. Once vanquished, the talisman will be part of its loot drop.
Why It’s Worth Using
Unlike Great Runes, this talisman does not require activation with a Rune Arc, making it a consistent source of increased health.
A 10% health boost can make a huge difference in prolonged battles, allowing you to survive otherwise fatal hits.
It can be stacked with other HP-boosting effects to further enhance your resilience.
If you haven’t accessed the DLC yet, you can use the Crimson Amber Medallion +2 found in Ashen Capital Leyndell, which provides an 8% boost—still a solid choice for survivability.
Morgott’s Great Rune
For those who want a substantial increase in maximum health, Morgott’s Great Rune stands as the top contender. When activated, it grants a massive 25% boost to max HP, making it the most powerful HP-increasing item in Elden Ring.
How to Obtain It
To acquire Morgott’s Great Rune, you must defeat Morgott, the Omen King in Leyndell, Royal Capital. Once obtained, it must be restored at the Divine Tower of East Altus before use.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
The highest percentage-based HP increase in the game.
Extremely effective in long fights, providing more room for error and sustain.
Works well in synergy with other health-boosting equipment and spells.
❌ Cons:
Requires a Rune Arc to activate, meaning the effect is temporary and must be reapplied after death.
If used without other HP-boosting gear, the increase may not be as effective as stacking multiple sources of smaller boosts.
Erdtree’s Favor +2
This talisman may not provide the highest raw HP increase, but it is incredibly valuable due to its additional benefits. The Erdtree’s Favor +2 increases max HP by 4%, stamina by 10%, and equip load by 8%.
How to Obtain It
This talisman is found in Leyndell, Ashen Capital, within a large courtyard guarded by three Lesser Ulcerated Tree Spirits. If you’re not interested in fighting them, you can simply run in, grab the talisman, and escape.
Why It’s Worth Using
Provides a well-rounded set of bonuses, making it ideal for hybrid builds that need more stamina and equip load.
Works excellently when paired with Radahn’s Great Rune, which further enhances both HP and stamina.
Weighs only 1.5, making it a lightweight and efficient choice for any build.
Radahn’s Great Rune
Radahn’s Great Rune is another top-tier option for increasing survivability, offering a 15% boost to max HP and stamina.
How to Obtain It
You can obtain Radahn’s Great Rune by defeating Starscourge Radahn in Caelid. Like other Great Runes, it must be restored at a Divine Tower before use.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
The combination of HP and stamina increases makes it a superior choice for aggressive melee builds.
Stamina boost allows for more dodging and attacking in extended fights.
❌ Cons:
Like Morgott’s Great Rune, it requires a Rune Arc for activation.
Some players may prefer higher health boosts over the balanced increase this rune provides.
Fire Knight Helm
Armor pieces that increase max HP are rare in Elden Ring, but the Fire Knight Helm is a standout choice in the DLC. It provides a 2% increase in max HP, 5% more stamina, and 4% more equip load.
How to Obtain It
The Fire Knight Helm is dropped by Fire Knights in Shadow Keep. Since the drop is not guaranteed, you may need to farm them multiple times to acquire it.
Why It’s Worth Using
Unlike talismans, this is a passive bonus that does not take up a talisman slot.
Also grants solid fire and physical resistance, making it valuable in fights against fire-based enemies.
Can be combined with the Fire Knight Armor Set for additional benefits.
Final Thoughts: The Best Combinations for Maximum Survivability
Choosing the best health-boosting items depends on your playstyle and build. However, if your primary goal is to maximize survivability, consider the following combinations:
Best All-Rounder Setup:
Morgott’s Great Rune (+25% HP)
Crimson Amber Medallion +3 (+10% HP)
Erdtree’s Favor +2 (+4% HP, +10% stamina, +8% equip load)
Fire Knight Helm (+2% HP, +5% stamina, +4% equip load)
Best Setup Without Great Runes:
Crimson Amber Medallion +3 (+10% HP)
Erdtree’s Favor +2 (+4% HP, +10% stamina, +8% equip load)
Fire Knight Helm (+2% HP, +5% stamina, +4% equip load)
With these selections, you’ll significantly improve your chances of survival in Shadow of the best place to buy elden ring items Erdtree, making even the toughest encounters more manageable. Happy hunting, Tarnished!
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