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Elden Ring: a calmer first ten hours

The Lands Between can overwhelm. A route that builds confidence before Stormveil.

8 min read · editorial desk · 12 September 2026

  1. I

    Talk to the right people first

    After the tutorial, rest at the first Site of Grace and keep resting until Melina offers you the horse. Torrent changes everything: mounted travel, double jumps and escape. Then head to the Church of Elleh to buy a torch and a crafting kit.

  2. II

    Explore Limgrave before the castle

    Stormveil Castle is the first big test, and most players arrive under-levelled. Clear the small caves and catacombs in Limgrave and the Weeping Peninsula first. They give runes, spirit summons and upgrade materials, and the Weeping Peninsula to the south is full of optional dungeons to level up in.

  3. III

    Get the spirit summon bell

    Once you have Torrent, return to the Church of Elleh at night and talk to Renna for the Spirit Calling Bell. Spirit Ashes like the Lone Wolves split boss attention and make early fights far more manageable.

  4. IV

    Upgrade one weapon, not five

    Smithing stones are scarce early. Pick one weapon that suits your class and pour every stone into it. A +3 weapon makes Margit, the first great wall, a fair fight.

  5. V

    Walk away when you are stuck

    The open world is the difficulty slider. If a boss beats you five times, mark it and go somewhere else. You will come back stronger, and the fight will feel different.