U4GM - Top 19 Elden Ring Builds That Work in Both PvE and PvP
Elden Ring offers one of the most flexible build systems FromSoftware has ever created, allowing players to shape their character around countless combinations of weapons, spells, and stat allocations. Whether you're fighting off invaders or facing down monstrous bosses, the best builds are those that hold up in both PvE and PvP. Below are 19 of the most effective hybrid builds that can confidently carry you through both.
1. Moonveil Intelligence BuildMoonveil’s weapon art, Transient Moonlight, devastates in PvP and shreds bosses from a distance. Pair it with Glintstone Pebble or Carrion Slicer for quick casting options.
2. Rivers of Blood Dex/Arcane BuildStill a menace in the right hands, this bleed build works wonders against mobs and human players alike. Quick attacks and high bleed buildup make it a top-tier pick.
3. Blasphemous Blade Strength/Faith BuildGreat for sustain-heavy PvE fights and dealing massive fire damage in PvP. Its weapon skill heals on kill and deals AoE fire damage, making it a favorite among Faith users.
4. Frostbite Greatsword Build (Death’s Poker or Helphen’s Steeple)Frost builds deal consistent pressure in both game modes. The buildup plus burst potential from weapon arts makes them incredibly effective.
5. Greatshield + Spear Tank BuildA classic poke-and-block setup, great for turtling in PvP and outlasting tough enemies in PvE. Combine it with high Endurance and Strength.
6. Black Flame Apostle Faith BuildUsing Godslayer's Seal and Black Flame incantations, this setup melts health bars over time with percentage-based damage. Effective across the board.
7. Madness Build Using Vyke’s War SpearCauses chaos in PvP by inflicting Madness and punishing aggression. In PvE, it’s a great crowd controller with unique style.
8. Strength/Intelligence Build (Ruins Greatsword + Carian Spells)For those who like to alternate between crushing foes and casting spells, this hybrid offers both destructive melee and magical options.
9. Lightning Dexterity BuildUsing weapons like Bolt of Gransax and Dragon Cult incantations, this build allows for quick, hard-hitting strikes and potent lightning spells.
10. Faith/Arcane Dragon Communion BuildCast Dragon spells with style. It’s flashy, thematic, and shockingly effective with the right Talismans and Arcane investment.
11. Dual Curve Sword Bleed BuildIdeal for pressure-based combat. Fast strikes, dual-wielded weapons, and bleed procs make it excellent for both PvE swarms and PvP duels.
12. Heavy Greatsword Colossal BuildHigh Strength, poise, and damage. Great for players who want to trade hits and break through enemy defenses.
13. Quality Build with Straight SwordsBalanced Strength and Dexterity for versatile weapon access. With Ashes of War customization, it adapts to most situations.
14. Gravity Magic Build (Starscourge and Spells)Ranged damage, crowd control, and flashy animations. Use this if you love manipulating the battlefield.
15. Poison Dexterity Build (Venomous Fang + Serpentbone Blade)A sleeper pick that’s surprisingly effective. Inflict poison fast, then punish as enemies panic-roll or flee.
16. Glintstone Sorcerer Glass Cannon BuildMax out Intelligence and cast from range. It’s risky, but highly rewarding with spells like Comet Azur and Loretta’s Mastery.
17. Beast Claw Incantation BuildCentered around Bestial Sling and Beast Claw. Good in tight spaces and excellent at interrupting foes with fast casts.
18. Flame of the Redmanes BuildAsh of War that staggers even large enemies. Works wonders in PvE, and with timing, it’s very viable in PvP.
19. Sleep Status Build (St. Trina’s Sword + Sleep Pots)Underrated and unconventional, but it can disable PvP opponents and give you breathing room in PvE fights.
Many of these builds benefit from having access to the right weapons, spells, and consumables early on. If you're looking to experiment without grinding endlessly, some players opt to buy cheap Elden Ring runes or buy cheap Elden Ring Items to get started. U4GM is often mentioned among the community as a resource for that, especially for those who prefer to focus on actual gameplay rather than farming.
Whether you're clearing dungeons or defending yourself from invaders, these 19 builds give you the versatility to thrive in both PvE and PvP. Try a few, tweak them to your liking, and see what fits your style best.