Elden Ring offers players a vast array of "side" things to consider. Among these things, Passive Effects stand out as a particularly intriguing aspect of the game. By equipping specific gear or fulfilling certain conditions, you can activate powerful passive effects that will enhance your character's abilities and help you conquer the challenges that await you.
Equipment Stats are a reflection of the gear you carry, and one of the most critical aspects to pay attention to is whether your equipment features any Passive Effects. These effects can provide a wide range of benefits, such as increased damage output, improved defense, or faster stamina regeneration. To activate some of these effects, you may need to equip a particular Weapon or Shield. Others may require you to land successful hits on your enemies before they trigger.
Mastering Passive Effects can make a solid difference in your gameplay experience in Elden Ring. By understanding how to activate and utilize these effects, you'll gain a significant advantage in combat and overcome obstacles that would otherwise be insurmountable. Here are our top picks, in no particular order.
Briar Set
Briar Set is an armor set that shares the same effect as the iconic Armor of Thorns from Dark Souls and Dark Souls 3. The effect is simple yet satisfying: dealing two points of damage per piece of the Set worn when dodging into an enemy. But the Briar Set takes it a step further if you combine it with the Quickstep and Bloodhound's Step, making it a versatile choice for any player looking to add some extra spice to their dodges.
At first glance, the damage may seem insignificant, but it really isn't. The Briar Set can be a lifesaver in certain situations. For example, it can help you finish off enemies with one bar of health left or stop resurrecting skeletons dead in their tracks with just one roll. Plus, let's be real, there's something incredibly satisfying about watching your character roll into an enemy and deal damage just by wearing a specific set of armor.
How to Get Briar Set?
If you're seeking to obtain the Briar Set in Elden Ring, you'll need to defeat the tricky Elemer of the Briar in The Shaded Castle. If he or any other tough Boss presents a demanding challenge for you, you can always strengthen your character with Elden Ring runes. Once you've accomplished that, you can head over to Roundtable Hold and visit Enia, which offers a vast selection of equipment. Among her wares, you'll find the Briar Set.
Black Knife Armor
In Elden Ring, combat isn't always the best solution to every problem. Sometimes, stealth and guile can be just as effective, especially when dealing with tougher enemies. It all depends on your playstyle.
To achieve your desired playstyle, you'll need to equip yourself with the right Elden Ring items. Luckily, Elden Ring has a vast array of items and upgrades available for purchase, which can help bolster your character's strength and enhance your play style.
That's where the Black Knife Armor comes in. This special armor set has a unique property - when equipped, it silences your movements, making it much easier to move around undetected. However, it's important to note that only the armor piece itself offers this effect.
If you're looking to achieve the ultimate in sneaky gameplay, consider pairing the Black Knife Armor with other stealth-enhancing items like Crepus's Vial or Assassin's Approach.
How to Get Black Knife Armor?
To obtain the Black Knife Armor, you must first acquire the Haligtree Secret Medallion which grants you access to the Consecrated Snowfield. Once you arrive there, you'll need to navigate through the town of Ordina, Liturgical Town. Eventually, you'll reach a staircase that leads to the Waygate for the Haligtree. However, instead of ascending the steps, search beneath the staircase to uncover the hidden Black Knife Armor.
Radagon's Soreseal
While some of the most powerful items in Elden Ring may require a daunting grind, Radagon's Soreseal is an exception. Despite its incredible power, it is surprisingly easy to acquire compared to its downgraded version.
This Talisman is a game-changer, boosting four key stats- Strength, Dexterity, Vigor, and Endurance - by a staggering +5. Almost every build in the game can benefit from these stats. Even better, it compensates for its downside: a 15% increase in incoming damage. So, while it may make you feel like an unstoppable force in the battles, you'll also need to be mindful of taking too many hits.
How to Get Radagon's Soreseal?
Radagon's Soreseal can be found in Fort Farroth, located in the northern half of Caelid, Greyoll's Dragonbarrow. From the beginning of the game, head to the Third Church of Marika and look for a portal in the bushes to reach the Bestial Sanctum.
Once there, head directly south across the bridge. Light the nearby grace and follow the path southeast to reach Fort Farroth. Sprint past the bats, climb the ladder to the rooftop, drop down a hole to a hidden room, and just run past some rats to find the Talisman in a chest.
Raptor's Set
Raptor's Set is an updated version of the Bandit set that has become a fan-favorite due to its unique qualities. Unlike other armor sets, the Raptor's Set doesn't have its legs or gauntlets, making it a "hybrid" set that can be combined with other pieces for added customization.
Raptor's Set's most notable feature is the Raptor's Black Feathers chest piece, which can boost the damage of jump attacks by a whopping 10%. This effect is particularly effective when wielding Colossal Weapons in both hands, as jump attacks already deal significant damage. But that's not all. When combined with the Claw Talisman, the Raptor's Black Feathers can yield a combined 25 percent damage boost, allowing you to obliterate enemies in both PvE and PvP.
How to Get Raptor's Set?
If you're looking to get your hands on this powerful chest piece, you'll need to explore the depths of the western Altus Plateau and locate a hidden chest behind one of the many illusory walls in the Sage's Cave. It's a challenging feat, but the reward is more than worth it. If you encounter any trouble finding it, here is a complete guide on how to find Raptor's Set.
Great Turtle Shell
Great Turtle Shell is a versatile medium shield that offers a good balance between defense and weight. Its weight is not too heavy, allowing players to easily maneuver and dodge attacks, while its defense is solid enough to offer protection against most enemies in the game.
With this medium shield, you can transform into one of the many turtles that roam the lands. And the best part? No turtles have to come to harm to obtain it!
Great Turtle Shield is more than just a cosmetic accessory. It also has a very important bonus (passive) effect: stamina regeneration. When equipped, the shield provides a significant boost to your stamina regeneration rate, akin to consuming Pickled Turtle Neck.
Even when placed on your back while two-handing a weapon, the stamina regeneration effect remains active. This makes the Great Turtle Shield a functional addition to any Ninja Turtle-inspired character build, making you both fun and formidable in battle.
How to Get Great Turtle Shell?
The Great Turtle Shell Shield can be found near the Castle Morne Rampart Site of Grace in the Weeping Peninsula. The process of acquiring this special shield is as thrilling as its name suggests. First, locate a spirit spring near the site of grace, and use it in tandem with Torrent to launch yourself into the sky.
As you soar, adjust your trajectory to land on top of the ramparts tower. Amidst the breathtaking view, you will find the Great Turtle Shell Shield waiting for you.
Coil Shield
For players who prefer a more agile and evasive playstyle, Coil Shield is a great option, especially for those who have chosen the Bandit class. As a Small Shield, it is lightweight and won't hinder mobility. However, it is important to note that the Coil Shield doesn't offer much in terms of damage reduction, especially when facing tougher opponents or bosses.
Nevertheless, Coil Shield's Active Skill, Viper Bite, more than makes up for this drawback. When activated, the shield unleashes a deadly Viper that bites and poisons enemies, slowly draining their health over time.
In addition, this shield also provides a passive effect of boosting immunity by 40. Overall, the Coil Shield is a fun and unique addition to any arsenal. It is definitely one of the most underrated shields in Elden Ring.
How to Get Coil Shield?
If you're looking to obtain this shield, head over to the Volcano Cave, which is located northeast of the Ninth Mt. Gelmir Campsite Site of Grace. Once you're in the cave, navigate through the large open room and take the right tunnel that leads you to the end.
Drop down onto the small cliff below and go into the tunnel behind you. You'll eventually reach a room where the Coil Shield is located on a body. However, be warned that there will be an ambush of enemies in the area, so it's recommended that you clear the room first.
