𝐄𝐋𝐃𝐄𝐍 𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐆 - How to Create an Authentic Knight Build | A Blocking & Guard Counter Showcase

This is a showcase of a Realistic/Authentic Knight Build that prioritizes the combat mechanics, of Blocking & Guard Counters.
Although difficult at times, this has got to be one of the most enjoyable playstyles I have ever done in my 2 years of playing Elden Ring.
It's affective, it's challenging, but mainly it truely has that authentic Knight feel from the earlier Darks Souls titles. And Heavy Equip Rolls aren't that bad! They just take a while to get used to.
I cannot recommend this playstyle enough, it will give you a completely fresh experience while waiting for the DLC.
Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction to Guard Counters
01:34 - The Authentic Knight Build
04:14 - An Optimal Approach
04:39 - Final Reflection
05:22 - Godrick the Grafted
10:26 - Renalla Queen of the Full Moon
16:16 - Starscourge Radahn
23:33 - Morgott, The Omen King
28:10 - Mohg, Lord of Blood
31:13 - Malenia, Blade of Miquella
35:41 - Fire Giant
43:18 - Maliketh, the Black Blade
45:54 - Godfrey, First Elden Lord
49:08 - Radagon of the Golden Order
51:47 - Elden Beast
-----------‐-----------------------------
All videos are in NG+1 (Journey 2) unless specified elsewhere.
I use backup saves so I can take on almost every boss instantly. These are technically not full runs! This is done for game play and time optimization.
Footage has been captured from the Elden Ring PS4 version on the PS5 for better performance.
Some visual and audio alterations have been made in this video using editing software.
The voice used in this Video was created, by Me!!! This is my voice! It's not AI voice cloaning and no AI tools were used for this narration.
++++++++++++++++++++
Special Thank You to all our members!
/ @crappycar
/ @zan-yz4ld
/ @daddywhogames
/ @lordtrinen2249
/ @suchar7175
/ @victorprati7908
/ @matt1yu
/ @loganloux
/ @an_dulachan
#eldenring #knight #swordandshield

[@theamazingdagger5584]

Fat rolling waterfowl was simply breathtaking

[@_xvagabond_.7]

once waterfowl happens i just put my controller down and sit in silence..

[@raijinoflimgrave8708]

​@vinlandxberserk7x then learn the dodge. It's not really that hard. As soon as she starts it, start sprinting away, then it's a series of rolls and a strafe/roll under her between the 2nd and final flurries, and you're golden. The odds of her never doing the attack the whole fight is zero. So if you put your controller down and give up all sad about yourself you're gonna lose every time

[@jenton70]

The whole fight was fantastic.

[@_xvagabond_.7]

@@raijinoflimgrave8708 it was a jokeeee

[@GalahadTheSeeker]

@@raijinoflimgrave8708Good luck sprinting away if she starts the move while you’re close to her.

[@sethleoric2598]

> "We put a lot of cool ways to play in this game, we have magic, guns, bombs and so much more!" > sword > shield > plate armor Yeah it's gamer time.

[@roe__jogan]

I love how much Elden Ring allows the player to focus an entire PvE build around whatever works for them. Incredible game design.

[@SaxSlaveGael]

100% agree!

[@eliaselias4647]

I wanted to create a melee only char at some point and not use any magic cause tbh ffff the golden order, the sorcerers, the giants, the blood god etc. They are all corrupted. Only steel is trusty. But thing is i would miss flame cleanse me. Cause the items for bollusses etc are finite ffs.

[@MrDaimeon]

​@@eliaselias4647what about the dragons?

[@Birbucifer]

@@MrDaimeon The dragons are the only pure thing in the lands between. Flame made flesh.

[@francisstranieri2067]

Thats true, except for a Perfumer build, that can't be done yet.

[@vaporsouls6752]

As an amateur player guard counter made boss combat flow much better for me

[@SilentSputnik]

Correct, the combat is pretty much wait wait wait wait attack otherwise..

[@OzzyBlazeGaming]

@@SilentSputnik I used to think this also, but it's not true, thankfully.

[@SilentSputnik]

@@OzzyBlazeGaming Elden Ring Reforged fixes it.

[@ioverslept.]

​@@SilentSputnikif youre waiting that just clearly shows you could be attacking if you knew how to use your openings

[@SilentSputnik]

@@ioverslept. The problem with the game is that there are not many safe opportunities. ERR and Sekiro have better combat.

[@Christopher-eq1rn]

funny thing is that medium roll would actually be a bit more realistic, there is this misconception that plate mail was incredibly bulky and hard to move in, but the funny thing is that it was actually lighter and more maneuverable than modern plate carriers due to the weight being distributed evenly across the body. Another fun fact was that it was very rare for a knight to not be wearing padded armor underneath it for blunt impacts and protect against any arrows that punch through, and it was exactly as sweltering as it sounds. Heatstroke got more knights than swords ever did. if you want an example of how it is to move in, there are a few videos on youtube of men doing gymnast routines and working out in plate, really entertaining to watch if nothing else

[@SaxSlaveGael]

Yeah I was kinda wrong there. Heavy rolls feel solid though 🤣

[@valorin5762]

Well... When it comes to realism, dodge rolls in general are very unrealistic no matter the armour. You just don't do that during combat. :D

[@SaxSlaveGael]

@@valorin5762 Lol FR

[@valorin5762]

@@SaxSlaveGael I actually did my complete first playthrough in heavy armour and sword & board. I dislike those oversized weapons and overly epic armour sets. Sword & board all the way through, no magic, just steel.

[@alziliya2512]

Finishing Radahn with a critical hit was perfect. A warrior's death indeed

[@SaxSlaveGael]

That fight was such a slog but felt very intense and real if that makes sense! Love playing like this!

[@laserduck6149]

Bless the knight builds, one of the most fun ways I've ever played this game

[@SaxSlaveGael]

Yup me too! Makes you feel like that Yhorm the giant meme 😅

[@PiethagorasTearem]

From looking at the fights, this might just be the most fun way to play for an old souls vet

[@ianwilliams2632]

100%, I love the no jump attacks, no anime ash of war stuff. Brought back memories of Undead Parish hard.

[@PiethagorasTearem]

@@ianwilliams2632 no actually I do like the jump attacks. Thats actually realistic. Knights never did that but its def possible in armor

[@victorprati7908]

That Morgott fight was the most organic shi- I've ever seen it's like the core of melee souls combat condensed. You attack, guard, fat roll, trade, chug, fall, rise, run out of estus, survive an insane combo before breaking the boss' posture and win. 42:39 I like to imagine fire giant is salty and mocking the player with that roll spamming 😂

[@SaxSlaveGael]

Man every time FG rolls I am like, yeah this is how it must feel being a boss lol. That Morgott fight took 2 hours... I suck at him. That was seriously hard to pull off!

[@meganobgutzkraka2398]

i play faith builds, my first being a pure faith build, i decided to do some coop runs for a few rune arcs and brought some extra healing spells and buffs with me. one of my summons was a build very similar to this, using a greatshield.... i absolutely loved that session, healing him from the really big hits, keeping us buffed up and occasionally taking off agro with a ranged spell or mace bonk when he needed to heal but was too far away from me. if we had a rouge/dex build i would've experienced the classic trifecta of class balance and that would've been truly magical

[@CrappyCar]

A guard counter run was fun and frustrating at the same time, and a highlight of my Elden Ring experience. It takes some real strategy, unlike some other overpowered builds. The back-flip guard animation is one of my favorite character animations. As a benefit, it trivializes some of the more annoying enemies like rats, imps, dogs, and birds. I like to co-op against RadaBeast with a guard-counter build. Crucible Tree Armor Set, a Greatshield set to Holy affinity, Haligdrake Talisman, Lord's Divine Fortification, and help some fellow Tarnished. Thanks for the great video Sax!

[@Chonus]

Try Thop's barrier on elden stars from the elden beast, it's very effective.

[@user-vp6po3el5c]

This has to be the most BEAUTIFUL ARMOR IVE SEEN!

[@ljp905]

So it would seem... 👀

[@FlyingFox86]

It's also probably the single most realistic looking plate armor in the game. I very much prefer the realistic(ish) weapons and armor.

[@user-vp6po3el5c]

@@FlyingFox86 omg me too

[@user-vh7ks8px3s]

It’s the signature armour of john dark soul

[@Holynoelle]

Imo, compared to the other knight sets from the franchise, ER knight set is the ugliest. DS1 knight set is perfect

[@sirith9157]

Why it took this long for KZbin to show me this channel is beyond me. But God damn it. I can't get enough of this playstyle. I personally prefer banished knight armor because it gives better vibe of "traveling warrior". But despite everything it's a very well thought out build. And your technique? You're destroying bosses like they're nothing. Malenia was really quiet after that fight ._. Side note: I really appreciate the fact you're showing fights where not everything aligned perfectly and you've got hit. It's way more realistic than showing frame perfect fights which 99% players won't be able reproduce no matter what. A true testament of skill ⚔️🛡️

[@SaxSlaveGael]

Man, honestly. This comment absolutely made my day! I am glad YT recommend the video man and you enjoyed it so much. I also 100% agree with you, I've done many no hits, but it's so unrealistic and from my time doing no hit showcases, it's not authentic at all. Again, thank you so much!

[@connorgarrett1714]

Guard counters were my main playstyle for my first play through. I should try bringing it back in my run throughs

[@jenton70]

Same here, and still my favorite game memories.

[@dorianshepard2841]

Majula OST during equipment breakdown 🙌

[@sigmaoperator1688]

Guard countering is probably the most underated mechanic in this game. I know you are going for stance breaks and throwing in normal hits. But if you could only damage from guard counters and criticals, i'd pick a thrusting weapon, spear talisman, curved sword talisman, dragonscrest greatshield talisman and carrian filigreed crest talisman if you have low fp. Then put barricade shield on your shield and then put cragblade on your thrust weapon along with heavy infusion. Wear a big old set of armour with high poise and defence so you can hyperarmour through attacks and get your guard counters off. Then you are pretty much the god of guard counters. At least in theory, i came up with this on the toilet lmao.

[@SaxSlaveGael]

Lmao! The best builds are theorized on the shidder!

[@FlyingFox86]

Does the spear talisman proc when doing guard counters? I thought that was only during an enemy attack animation. I'm currently doing a spear and shield, but opted not to use the talisman because I don't have slots left.

[@SaxSlaveGael]

@@FlyingFox86 Yes, there are a few times I did this against Malenia where I attacked her mid attack. However, I only lander them due to the sword ducking animation.

[@sigmaoperator1688]

@@SaxSlaveGael Fr. I cant help myself, I just constantly come up with batshit insane builds instead of thinking about actually important stuff. Elden Ring is the best.

[@erxanerxan9769]

i never even would have thought people didnt like it. But i dont know the "meta" since i dont go to forums about this game. But when i played with the shield Guard Counters seemed bonkers , at least to me

[@lincolnprestes7617]

it is mechanic they put exactly for this. I dont know why some people say it is for beginners. As always, awesome video

[@theblueace1]

After finishing most of the DLC, I just found this video. I’d like to go to peoples world and help them fight their bosses and I’m a go help him with this build, especially with the 2 headed turtle, it should help me keep up with the bosses.

[@theblueace1]

I always enjoyed the armor set. I was just trying to see if there was more to it and this video has given me confidence to do so.

[@switch4964]

I ADORE guard countering. It feels amazing. Focusing on stance breaks through it (as well as jump attacks mixed with charged attacks) really breathed new life into the game for me. Its my favorite playstyle/build. It also makes managing stamina more fun. Knowing when to jump, attack and and dodge while making sure to leave enough stamina left over to block and counter makes fights feel so much more engaging.

[@AmritZoad]

Bro you really changed my opinion on Elden Ring after this video. I have played all souls game and I disliked ER but now I think that I should have gone in with an open mind. Good timing right before the DLC.

[@cornthdl]

Love this. I was just planning the other day to create a classic knight sword and board build for the DLC! Very timely, cheers mate!

[@k.w.2275]

I was just searching youtube for this exact guide!!!! Sax is the GOAT

[@cephalonpobs5275]

the talisman that heals you when you crit an enemy would be sick for this build

[@me_mistmoore]

Awesome. I am going to give this a go! It sounds like such a fresh way to play.

[@HevsCharacterCreations]

Yesss! More love for the sword and board 😍 Awesome video Sax 💖

[@yharnamiyhill787]

That is really cool! I'm going to buy Elden Ring and try this build. I love the classic sword and board. There is something charming and enigmatic about a full suited knight that looks unimposing yet can destroy Gods with shear technique of his mastery.

[@Chente_Bui]

Killin it w/ this and the quickstep builds

[@secularspectator]

This is super and just what I wanted from an Elden Ring video ❤

[@VR-qc3up]

I love you,man! This play style is simple and efficient!!

[@zsDUGGZ]

The most satisfying guard counter animation imo is the curved sword one. It's really fast and provides the poise damage that curve swords don't have easy access to. It's so cool how fluid the animation is when it counters from a shield block.

[@Eizengoldt]

Makese sense considering the lore says it was a technique pioneered by a curved sword user

[@treborsaredlab6574]

YES YES 1000xs YES! This is what I’ve been looking for. Thank you good sir for making this video

[@timhertens8502]

Historical armor wasn’t that heavy and bulky so a normal roll or even a cartwheel would be completely fine

[@JacobBite]

To add to this, plate armour like in the video was so effective that a shield wasn't even necessary though for the sake of the video and build I get it

[@user-tc2ng4zm4c]

This was genuinely incredible.

[@ZestyBlue]

Glad to see im not the only one who does this, thanks for the extra tips!

[@AlastorAltruistGaming]

Man, you made this WAY harder on yourself, tbh. I could never! And especially since fat-rolling is a death sentence. The medium roll isn’t great in Elden Ring either, but at least it tries (if only it were more like DS3’s medium-roll speed with additional frames). Fat-rolling in Elden Ring, and Medium-rolling in DS1, are a nightmare. And yet, YOU made each encounter look easy despite almost dying a few times. That’s an anxiety-booster if there ever was one.

[@phantasmalphoenix2990]

Great video as always, always thought the guard counters were such a cool addition! Also 27:42 is definitely the coolest boss combo attack in the game! I love how Morgott switches between all his Holy Summoned weapons besides the spear during it!

[@YEY0806]

I never seen him do that before, love getting to learn more

[@benjaminanimate]

him running into radahns arrows with a shield is so cool

[@kennethoneal7026]

When you said you were leaving in the times that were difficult to hithlight certain parts thats some dedication. Subbed

[@Lucardini]

Everytime you amaze me with just how good you are at this game

[@ComfortsSpecter]

Beautiful Humanistic Vibe The Arcade Realism Especially Though You explicitly didn’t need to limit the Horse use Great examples, Good Work

[@hex0sphere]

This is so cool! I'm defo going to try this for my next playthrough, I really like the guard counter mechanic but I was too dense in my first playthrough to recognise the versatility of it with the talismans. Also big fan of you using your real voice over the AI voice just makes for a more natural watch, awesome vid as always!

[@SaxSlaveGael]

Thanks so much! I feel this was one of my better narrations. All learning for me 🤣

[@AmritZoad]

Awesome series!

[@CapoFisk]

My first playthrough was a great shield and two handed sword build with the tree sentinel armor, once I got it that is, and guard counters felt like SO much fun to play around. This video rocks.

[@arctother5176]

I don’t know how I got recommended this, but I love it and this is how I’m going into the DLC (but with claymore, knights GS, lordsworn SS, or Watchdog GS instead of broadsword!

[@StewartTheGreatest]

Ohhh this is awesome! I might try this but with a couple different tweaks, like stand off instead of determination & resolve

[@fgmcruz]

I guess it is the most satisfactory Malenia defeat I've ever saw in these two and a half years of the game. Congratz!

[@SaxSlaveGael]

Very kind! Thank you!

[@david_difference]

Cool video! Keep it up bro ❤

[@7_copies_of_robots59]

I created a build similar to this one but it’s almost broken. If anyone wants to recreate it you will need the following: >Almost the same stats as in the video, with the exception of 16 dex so you can wield the weapon, the Great Epee. It’s a thrusting sword but it has A scaling in strength with the heavy affinity. >The fingerprint stone shield, the guard boost on it is insane, you can hold it up and almost never get stance broken. >Here is where the build is busted, because the Great Epee is a heavy thrusting sword you can make light attacks while blocking! >For talismans, I used ertrees favor+2 for all the buffs it provides, dragoncrest great shield for the rare instances I actually took damage, rotten winged sword insignia for damage, and the green turtle talisman for stamina because it’s the only resource I needed to manage. >For armor, anything with a minimum of 51 poise works, I used the fingerprint set to fit the theme. And that’s how you beat the game without ever feeling like your in danger. I wonder if Sax will make a vid on this weapon and shield combo because I haven’t seen any big elden ring KZbinrs discuss it.

[@SaxSlaveGael]

Did something a little similar with the Serpent Hunter: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fHatpadua5yip6M

[@Bl1tzkn1ght]

I used this build to roleplay as a knight who wants to do nothing but use "the old fashioned way" to conquer the Lands Between and the Lands of Shadow. Had lots of fun, would recommend it.

[@JellyJman]

I like this video, I made a build using shield and lordsworn’s straight sword. I made sure to use guard counters when possible but to be honest a lot of the time I just used square off, it’s just TOO good. I also put parry on my shield because parrying bosses like Melina was so funny.

[@marcus6918]

very very cool video, thank you !

[@kevinb4006]

Great video! The heavy rolling and play style makes each fight feel like a real life or death struggle

[@SaxSlaveGael]

Yup! I think thats why I loved this playstyle so much! You feel like a knight that has everything to lose and are fighting for whatever it is you believe in!

[@natestiles1540]

When he collapsed in exhaustion after Fire Giant… I felt that. Personally I would be using Vow of the Indomitable on some of these bosses, but you still managed!

[@SaxSlaveGael]

Haha I appreciate you noticing. That fight was genuinely exhusting! VotI is so underrated, thing is awesome!

[@Glostahdude]

Great job bro! I’ve always wanted to go sword and board! Never had the gall to try. Always seem like it be too slow, but man you slayed em all!

[@SaxSlaveGael]

It's definitely a slow process for some, EG fire giant. But in general, it makes for some really engaging and enjoyable battles.

[@xsxoxo]

Great video! Shields are awesome imo. Vow of Indomitable, Holy Ground, Carian Retaliation and Barricade Shield are some of the most useful defensive Ashes of Wars. I don't understand why there are so many people still acts like it's a crime to use one. The Good Old Reddit Weird Flex Moment... "I just press dodge button just don't get hit ehe ehe" 😂

[@seatbeltpillows8844]

this is so cool, its like your forcing the bosses to follow your pace.

[@cumibakar10]

I wish there were more beautiful knightly armor sets like this. Most armor sets in Elden Ring have that disturbing H R Giger look.

[@SaxSlaveGael]

I used to dislike thos armor, but now that I've played with it. Its very clean indeed! I think ER dropped the ball on fashion in general personally.

[@blissseeker4719]

the most honourable build i will ever see in elden ring

[@viethoangtruong54]

For anyone having access to the DLC, the guard counter build has been greatly upgraded with several weapons that make the playstyle more unique than ever before: - Streng/faith build: Black steel greathammer is one of the best is built soley on the foundation of guard counter. It hits hard, it has natural high poise damage against enemy, plus it unique guard counter will apply constant pressure on all kinds of enemies, even bosses. Using lion claw or prayerful strike on this thing will make you become the boss itself, trust me on this - Quality build: Milady light greatsword has long range of a greatsword but the quick, fluid attack movesets of long sword. It can be infused and buffed with everything you want. It guard counter consist of two quick attacks that will take a large chunk of enemies health and causes considerable poise damage in a very short window. - Intelligent/dex build: The Carian sorcery sword is a light thrusting sword that now allow mages to be able to cast spell in the heat of the battle without having to switch to staff and be exposed to enemies. You can easily use Carian heavy phalanx, Carian greatsword, Gavel of Haima on the fly along with guard counter to easily break poise of enemies. If that is not enough, impaling thurst will surely finish the job. I have managed to run the build of the video until Rykard but have to give up due to the need to evade the boss's skulls shower, go to the DLC and this build is simply unusable without additional modifications or upgrades in playstyle.

[@StrunDoNhor]

Did a setup nearly identical to this one on a recent playthrough, except I used a greatshield and a heavy-infused Lance (with RKR). For talismans, run Erdtree's Favor/Crimson Amber, Dragoncrest, Green Turtle, and Curved Sword. Optionally, you can swap the Green Turtle put for Ritual Shield (that 30% damage negation can seriously come in clutch, in those rare instances you _do_ get hit). You don't need the Greatshield Talisman, since greatshields have so much guard potential as is -- *ESPECIALLY* with Barricade Shield. It definitely took a while to get up to speed, and struggled against bosses somewhat, but against anything else, it is an absolute tank. To complete the "look" of the build, run the Confessor armor and Greathelm, with whatever arm & leg armor you want.

[@xxJacket]

I’m doing this tonight, Thank you

[@HK-07]

I use a build that’s like this, but higher level and with a bunch of other stuff stapled on. It’s essentially meant to level the playing field between magic and physical fighters without adding magic, it made NG+5 easier than I thought it would be: RL 250 Vagabond "Arsenal Knight" Vigor: 60 Mind: 35 Endurance: 49 Strength: 80 Dexterity: 80 Intelligence: 9 Faith: 9 Arcane: 7 Helmet: Greathelm Armor: Gelmir Knight Gauntlets: Gelmir Knight Leggings: Gelmir Knight R Weapon 1: Longsword (Square Off) R Weapon 2: Pike (Impaling Thrust) R Weapon 3: Greataxe (Lion's Claw) L Weapon 1: Banished Knight Shield (No Skill) L Weapon 2: Pulley Crossbow (Kick) L Weapon 3: Black Bow (Barrage) Talisman 1: Green Turtle Talisman Talisman 2: Greatshield Talisman 3: Dragoncrest Greatshield Talisman 4: Crimson Seed Flasks: 14 Red, 0 Blue Physick: Both Crimson Crystal Tears

[@SaxSlaveGael]

That's fantastic! No faith, spell buff ls, just pure raw damage!

[@pol1756]

I just came back to Elden Ring for the DLC and I intend to use a build just like this, but instead of a sword, I use the Lance and Impaling Thrust! Thanks for your guide!

[@RedCrusader-ph2vk]

That dual with Melenia was capital B, Beautiful!

[@queenmarsia]

i love class fantasy builds great work!!!!!!!

[@benzost920]

I'll never get bored of the sword and board.

[@f.cartyday4679]

That guard counter/backflip finish on Godfrey was immaculate

[@SaxSlaveGael]

Perfect timing 🤣

[@YannMetalhead]

Good video!

[@SourSourSour]

I used basic armour and shield to fight Rellana and had an amazing time of it, I was using a new save file that I sped throught the game with so I completely forgot about the talismans that you were using. Definitely wanna do a second run of DLC w/ just the authentic knight build

[@syconiic704]

I 100% plan to use this build for just a fun and casual run through the game, only things I’m changing are: The drip The sword Green Turtle Talsiman Adding Electrify Armament, Golden Vow, and maybe Flame, Grant me Stength as a buff rotation with physick

[@evilpac2327]

Man, I'm in the middle of a dex faith run, and now you make me want to do this one. That's not fair lol

[@SaxSlaveGael]

There's ways NG+ 🤣

[@pajeetsingh]

My 7th playthrough was based on guard counter. It is very accessible, casual yet tricky and just as fun as other builds.

[@Keandros]

I've been wanting to do a simple sword and board run for awhile now. I recently got a Noble's Slender Sword to drop on my current bleed build run. I think i'll ask a friend to pick up the sword to drop for a new character of mine. I like you build, but ill be going dex instead with Keen affinity. Awesome content. Definitely subscribing.

[@TPTradez]

this is sick

[@MR.GLDN33]

I’ve been having a hard time trying to decide what build i want to create and honestly I might just start a new character and enjoy this game as a simple knight!

[@spacejockey9223]

I used to run Cragblade + a decent hammer as a variation for this kind of build.

[@sidewaysfcs0718]

You could fit in the more realistic hammers/maces into this, they do insane poise damage and fit in really well with a medieval knight theme. Also, spears on horseback are a must have for RP.

[@saddenedskeleton7290]

I need to try this

[@josephbulkin9222]

Luv muh knight build. Great video.

[@rigorm136]

You and I both know that your tarnished’s left arm and shoulder have been splintered into a million pieces

[@adamiadamiadami]

They canonically have superhuman strength and vigor though. So not really. The mario jumps and the excessive rolling still don't make sense, even with the canonical stats, however. Which makes this showcase more interesting, since he avoided using those.

[@rigorm136]

@@adamiadamiadami 🤓

[@s0ulsr3aper15]

I love this build because this is how i played ds1 back in 2014

[@viktorthevictor6240]

My sword and shield build involves combining guard counters with the Impaling Thrust skill, which should do the same amount of stance dmg. I use a Greatshield and a pure str build, heavy infused lordsworn's for extra crit dmg, and I also put 3 bonus levels into intelligence from Vagabond base to be able to use the scholars armament buff spell (though I recommend using electrify armament instead, I just want it to look like the Master Sword from Zelda). If you upgrade the staff/seal, that 12 int/15 fth will get you up to over 100 in extra dmg, both spells lasting 90 seconds. A pure physical infusion is imo wasted if you don't use buffs, especially varying ones to exploit weaknesses. Taking turns doing block counters and impaling thrust is excellent for stance-breaking, and the AOW is a great opener and tool when you don't seem to get a chance to guard counter. Talismans are Greatshield talisman, Shard of Alexander, Dagger talisman, and either curved sword or Crimson Dagger talisman, depending on the boss.

[@SaxSlaveGael]

Mixing ImpT with this sounds fantastic!

[@Communistgunmc]

This is my favorite playstyle I do it slightly differently since i use the mace with cragblade

[@me-re8xm]

God, what a video. Sekiro was the first of Fromsoft’s games I beat, and I found the parry was an entirely different beast here in elden ring. Only realized after my first playthrough that an aggressive guard counter style was the closest I could probably get to how I actually wanted to to play. Have any excitement for the thrusting shields in the dlc? I seem to be the only person I know who cares about it, ha

[@SaxSlaveGael]

Thanks man! And yeah, nothing can beat Sekiro parrying, that game is a master piece. Haha, honestly I haven't given them a second thought. I've played with just a shield before, so an attack shield does seem interesting though!

[@Brorrowind]

Guard counters are a godtier mechanic that a lot of people overlook. Especially in the DLC, shields are very viable.

[@phantom9062]

I love the walk back towards the camera he does after every fight like: “Yeah bitch I did that, I am the main character” 🤣 W video bro.

[@SaxSlaveGael]

Bloody muscle memory at this point 💀

[@phantom9062]

@@SaxSlaveGael It’s awesome bro. 😂

[@Behemoth9030]

So this is how I learn Radahn can meteor more than once… damn…

[@bug_under]

Incredible, i'm looking forward to trying this

[@zyhnz]

the bass is overwhelming

[@BISHOP-w3i]

I’ve never seen anyone use block against a boss before- I thought it didn’t exist

[@jaeg.3806]

Interestingly, I'm noticing that your fat rolling was really good for spacing. The short roll distance allowed you to keep pressing the attack while the bosses recovered. A medium or light roll would have meant more distance, and more distance would have meant more time walking toward the enemy to strike as opposed to rolling into the attacks point-blank and immediately countering as was showcased here. The majority of the dodging, however, was covered by walking into and out of range at the right times. An impressive display!

[@SaxSlaveGael]

@@jaeg.3806 Fat Rolling is no way near as terrible as it's made out to be. It's a bit more difficult due to the recovery times. But generally it works okay in most situations.

[@silverbolt6699]

PLEASE, give us a Deflect Hardtear update! I'd love to know what additional boss attacks we cant block now!

[@SaxSlaveGael]

Absolutely on the list! Already have a new knight concept ready. Will just take time 😁

[@silverbolt6699]

@@SaxSlaveGael you the man. Got a sub 👍

[@user-it1kn1pm6d]

Im currently sword and board knight with claymore with impaling thrust and twinbird kite shield. Absolutely devastating and versatile build

[@rakhoo5236]

This playstyle feels very oldschool (In a good way) for some reason, really fun to try

[@SaxSlaveGael]

Yeah it does! The heavy rolls are what does it for me.

[@lelxrv]

knight boi will always be my favorite

[@Oronchi]

My current play through is using a similar build, Long Sword, Long Bow, Mid Shield, along with Square Off ashes of war. It may not be the highest damage build in game but it is very very reliable.

[@gabausaurus8315]

The Dark Souls Bonfire OST (at the start) is easily the best DS/ER OST ever

[@CrescentCrusader99]

The most fun I’ve ever had in EldenSouls was playing as a lowly knight in DS1, with my Hollow Shield and Longsword. It’s the canonical way to play the game. But after “gittin gud” I became a shieldless ninja dodging everything at lightning speed, blitzing through everything like I’m unstoppable. I miss the old days.

[@ChivalrousJarKnight]

Fantastic video, Sax! 🥰 You may have convinced me to try out Barricade on my Jar-Shield. 😋

[@SaxSlaveGael]

Ayoh!!! I recognize that pot head 🤣🤣🤣.

[@ChivalrousJarKnight]

@SaxSlaveGael uh oh.. you've found me out. 🤣 Actually, I thought to ask. I use Redmane's AoW on the Lordsworn’s Greatsword in my main hand already. Do you think it is more efficient for me to go 2h when I want to use Redmane's, or should I set up a second Jar-Shield that I can swap in when I know I'll be focusing on blocking more often? Alternatively, I could actively equip two shields to enable fluid transition mid-combat. Despite feeling a little silly, I'm open to making it work. Lol But yes, I am torn about it if you have any suggestions. 😅

[@SaxSlaveGael]

@@ChivalrousJarKnight From my understanding 100% could be wrong as I am dumb lol. But two handing shouldn't affect AoW damage. If it does, it's marginal so I wouldn't stress about it too much! Just do what feels most comfortable in each combat situation 👍

[@ChivalrousJarKnight]

@@SaxSlaveGael, I didn't mean for the damage output. I'm saying so I can run Barricade AND Redmane's at the same time. 😋

[@SaxSlaveGael]

@@ChivalrousJarKnight sorry gotch! Can either rotate between having a shield and none or do ya 2 handed. Whatever feels more comfortable is my take

[@ianwilliams2632]

I've waited for this all my life. Well, since Feb. 2022. Thank you! Love me some knightly battles. Now can you just tell us how to get the clunky armour sounds from DS1 back?

[@SaxSlaveGael]

I know right! Miss the armours sounds from the DS series!