Elden Ring's endgame is a challenging, epic experience. Here's a comprehensive guide for preparing for it. It can make a significant difference in how smoothly you navigate the final bosses and areas.
Character Level and Stats
•Level Up: Aim for a level around 100 to 150. This range balances being strong enough for endgame content while maintaining the game's challenge.
Stat Distribution:
•Vigor: Prioritize Vigor to increase your health. A higher health bar can significantly help in surviving the tougher late-game bosses and enemies.
•Main Stats: Depending on your build (Strength, Dexterity, Intelligence, Faith, or Arcane), ensure these are sufficiently high to use your preferred weapons or spells effectively.
Weapon and Armor
•Weapon Upgrades: Upgrade your main weapon to at least +20/+25 using Smithing Stones. If you're using special weapons like those from remembrance, they might have unique upgrade paths.
•Armor: Choose armor that fits your playstyle. Heavy armor for tank builds, light for dodge-focused builds. However, don't neglect magic or physical damage negation stats.
Ashes of War and Talismans
•Ashes of War: Tailor these to your needs. For instance, if you're a melee build, consider Ashes that grant special attacks or buffs like Bloodhound's Step for evasion.
•Talismans: Equip talismans that complement your build:
oCrimson Amber Medallion for more HP.
oErdtree's Favor for overall boosts.
oTalismans that increase damage output or reduce damage taken from specific types should match your encountered threats.
Spirit Ashes
•Upgrade: Use Grave Glovewort and Ghost Glovewort to upgrade your Spirit Ashes. Strong spirits like Mimic Tear or Banished Knight Oleg are invaluable for boss fights.
•Strategy: Choose spirits that fit your combat style or fill a gap in your build. For instance, if you're ranged, summon a tanky spirit to draw aggro.
Consumables and Flask
•Flask of Wondrous Physick: Collect different Crystal Tears to customize its effects for different scenarios. This can provide temporary boosts that can be crucial in tough fights.
•Flask Upgrades: Ensure your Flask of Crimson Tears is fully upgraded for maximum healing potential.
Miscellaneous Preparation 
•Runes: Keep a stockpile of runes for emergency leveling or to purchase necessary items.
•Exploration: Explore thoroughly to gather all possible upgrades, spells, or talismans that might give you an edge.
•Boss Knowledge: If possible, watch or read up on boss patterns. Knowing what to expect can dramatically improve your chances.
•Community Insights: Engage with the community for build ideas or strategies that are currently effective, especially with insights from posts on platforms like X, where players share tips on surviving endgame content.
DLC-Specific Preparations
•Shadow of the Erdtree Requirements: Ensure you've met the prerequisites to access the new content, like defeating key bosses like Starscourge Radahn and Mohg, Lord of Blood.
•Build Flexibility: The DLC might introduce new weapons, spells, or mechanics. Having a versatile build or the ability to respec (via Larval Tears) can be beneficial.
Conclusion
Elden Ring's endgame requires more than just leveling up; it takes planning, gearing, and resource management as well. You need to optimize your weapons, armor, flasks, Spirit Ashes, and build to take on the game's toughest challenges. Developing patience and adaptability will be your greatest allies in conquering Elden Ring's final hurdles. Exploring, completing NPC quests, and equipping Great Runes will give you an edge.
