players are convinced they've discovered the expansion's most potent weapon and it's not even one of FromSoftware's iconic gigantic swords. While the amount of damage The Tarnished can dish out on a single hit depends on a variety of factors, having the right tools for the job can topple the most imposing challenges. With a careful build even the most feeble of weapons can turn into a slaying machine, even if it's designed to cater more toward defensive play styles.
Over on Reddit, user DamnHare shared their observation that the Thrusting Shields are the best weapons currently available in , demonstrating the lethality of the Carian Thrusting Shield by swiftly defeating Rellana, Twin Moon Knight, Putrescent Knight, and even the Scadutree Avatar. They go on to say that the versatility of the weapon is down to the sheer number of affinity types that can be assigned to them and their high attack and defense stats. Users were quick to agree with many speculating that some kind of nerf will likely strike down Thrusting Shields soon.
The Sword of Night & Flame is one of the best weapons from Elden Ring's base game, but Shadow of the Erdtree introduces something even better.
When it comes to the Thrusting Shield, be it the Carian or the Dueling variant, the best aspect of the weapon type is the ability to deal damage while also blocking incoming attacks. Players will no doubt recommend a «turtle» approach that focuses on constantly maintaining a defensive stance, only breaking out of it at moments when it's clear that a follow-up attack will land unhindered. Of course, there are other approaches one can take when speccing into Thrusting Shields as some Talismans can make them even more deadly.
Players will want to ensure that they pair their Thrusting Shield, which should optimally be used two-handed, with the Greatshield Talismanto reduce the amount of stamina that's lost when blocking an attack. Additionally, the Shard of Alexander can be used to boost the attack
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