Elden Ring players are actively testing the new gear introduced with the recent Tarnished Edition DLC, focusing on unique weapons and aesthetic armor pieces. This $5 expansion, released by FromSoftware, adds new starting classes, armor sets, and horse armor, with players quickly locating and experimenting with its contents.
The most popular addition appears to be Leontiel's Greatsword, a weapon reminiscent of a character from Dark Souls 2. This greatsword features a distinctive 'Matador' move that mimics a bullfighter's taunt, involving a feint and a backstab. Players have shared videos showcasing this move against bosses, notably one player using it on the bull-like boss Gaius in the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, emphasizing its stylish execution over pure efficiency. Another player demonstrated the sword's effectiveness against the Full-Grown Fallingstar Beast in Mt. Gelmir, achieving a near-instant stagger and significant damage.
Beyond weaponry, the Idus Knight starting class chestpiece has gained attention for its aesthetic appeal, fitting into the community's tradition of 'fashion souls' where appearance is prioritized alongside defense. Players have utilized this chestpiece for various cosmetic builds, including a cosplay of Casca from Berserk, while others noted its apparent buff to character stats.
For players focused on optimization, the new heavy armor class has been identified as a sturdy option, particularly beneficial in the mid-to-late game. This class boasts boosted Vigor and Strength stats, which are crucial for melee-focused characters facing the game's more challenging bosses.
The Tarnished Edition, while not a drastically game-altering expansion, has provided enough new content to re-engage players and offer fresh experimentation opportunities. Its modest price point and novel additions have made it a notable addition for the Elden Ring community, serving as a welcome diversion ahead of upcoming game releases.