r2i forum

In Elden Ring Runes, every rune matters. Whether you're leveling up, upgrading gear, or buying consumables, runes are the core currency of progression. As players explore the Lands Between, many start experimenting with Spirit Ashes—powerful NPC summons that can make tough fights more manageable. But a common question arises in the community: Do Spirit Ashes reduce your rune gain in Elden Ring?

Understanding Rune Gains in Elden Ring
To begin with, let’s establish how rune rewards work. In Elden Ring, you earn runes by defeating enemies, with the amount determined by the enemy type, your current buffs (like Gold-Pickled Fowl Foot), and gear such as the Gold Scarab talisman. These rewards are fixed based on enemy type and not influenced by how you defeat them—whether it’s through melee combat, ranged attacks, spells, or Spirit Ashes.

This means that using Spirit Ashes does not reduce the amount of runes you gain. The game does not penalize players for summoning allies or using NPCs to assist in combat. This design aligns with FromSoftware’s ethos of providing multiple viable ways to approach difficult encounters. Whether you prefer solo duels or team tactics, your rune rewards remain unchanged.

The Role of Spirit Ashes
Spirit Ashes function similarly to co-op summons but are AI-controlled and don’t affect rune distribution the way multiplayer might. In co-op, hosts may gain fewer runes depending on how a fight is completed, especially in PvP-related areas. However, this doesn’t apply to Spirit Ashes.

Some players might feel that using Spirit Ashes makes the game easier, and that perhaps the game balances this by reducing rune rewards. But there is no evidence, either in the game files or from testing by the community, to suggest this is the case. Players using Mimic Tear, Lhutel the Headless, or even lesser-known ashes like Noble Sorcerer will receive the same rune payouts as those who defeat enemies entirely solo.

How to Maximize Rune Gains
If you're looking to maximize your Elden Ring runes, consider the following tips:

Equip the Gold Scarab talisman, found in the Abandoned Cave.

Use Gold-Pickled Fowl Foot items before entering battles or farming zones.

Farm in high-level areas such as Moghwyn Palace for fast rune accumulation.

Defeat field bosses and clear out late-game dungeons that have higher base rune rewards.

And if you’re short on time or looking for a shortcut, some players choose to buy Elden Ring runes safe from reputable sellers. While this route isn’t for everyone, it’s essential to ensure any transaction is from a trusted site that prioritizes account safety and timely delivery.

In short, Spirit Ashes do not reduce rune gains in Elden Ring. They’re a valuable part of the game’s combat system and are encouraged for players who want to customize their playstyle or find assistance in tough battles. Whether you’re farming runes or just enjoying the journey, knowing how mechanics like these work can help you make informed decisions.

Always remember to explore, experiment, and most importantly—enjoy the world of Elden Ring. And if you ever need a rune boost, make sure to buy Elden Ring runes safe from reliable sources that value your gaming experience.