Elden Ring: Where to Buy Smithing Stones for End Game Upgrades
Elden Ring has captivated players with its vast open world, intricate lore, and challenging gameplay. One of the key elements that contribute to your progression in this rich universe is the ability to upgrade your weapons using Smithing Stones. As you embark on your journey, you’ll find yourself in need of these vital resources, especially when you reach the end game. This guide will provide you with insights on where to buy Smithing Stones, ensuring that you can enhance your weapons without the hassle of farming endlessly.
Understanding Smithing Stones
Before diving into where to acquire these stones, let’s clarify what they are and their importance in the game. There are two main types of Smithing Stones in Elden Ring: regular Smithing Stones and Somber Smithing Stones. Regular Smithing Stones are primarily used for upgrading standard weapons, while Somber Smithing Stones are reserved for unique weapons. Both types are essential for maximizing the damage output of your arsenal as you approach late-game content.
Purchasing Smithing Stones
Throughout your adventure, you can obtain Smithing Stones in various ways, including defeating enemies and exploring the world. However, buying them is often the most efficient method, especially when you’re aiming for upgrades right before the climax of your journey. Here are the key locations where you can purchase these stones:
1. Smithing Table Merchants
One of the first places to begin your search is at the blacksmiths in Elden Ring. There are several merchants located near smithing tables scattered across the open world. Keep an eye out for these crucial vendors as they typically carry a selection of Smithing Stones. For example, at the Stormhill Shack Site of Grace, you can find a merchant who sells Smithing Stones 1 and 2. This is a great starting point for new players who have just begun their upgrade journey.
2. Bell Bearings
In Elden Ring, players can also acquire Bell Bearings, which enable them to purchase Smithing Stones from certain NPCs. As you progress through the game, you will be able to find these Bell Bearings hidden in various locations:
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Smithing-Stone Miner’s Bell Bearings: These can be found in specific late-game areas, allowing you to buy higher-tier Smithing Stones. Once you acquire these Bell Bearings, head to the merchant found at the Roundtable Hold. This merchant offers access to Smithing Stones 1 through 10, depending on the Bell Bearing you provide.
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Somberstone Miner’s Bell Bearings: For players focusing on unique weapons, acquiring Somberstone Miner’s Bell Bearings is essential. These can also be found in late-game locations and purchased from the same merchant at the Roundtable Hold.
3. Key Locations to Farm for Bell Bearings
To unlock the ability to buy higher-tier stones, it’s beneficial to know where to locate the Bell Bearings in the end game. Notable areas include:
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The Consecrated Snowfield: This zone holds valuable treasures and enemies that drop Bell Bearings.
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The Crumbling Farum Azula: Explore thoroughly, as this area contains several key items and opportunities to uncover hidden Bell Bearings.
Strategies for Efficient Upgrading
As you near the end game, you might find yourself overwhelmed with the variety of weapons and the sheer number of upgrades available. Here are a few strategies for efficient upgrading:
1. Focus on a Build
Decide on a weapon type and build early on to avoid wasting resources on weapons you may not use later. This will allow you to concentrate your Smithing Stones on maximizing your primary weapon.
2. Stockpiling Runes
Smithing Stones are not the only resource you’ll need. Ensure that you’ve acquired enough runes, as purchasing Smithing Stones can quickly deplete your inventory. Engage in farming runes through exploring, defeating high-value enemies, or completing quests.
3. Utilize Smithing Stones Early
Even if you’re just starting out, purchasing lower-tier Smithing Stones can prepare your weapons for encounters and trials. Ensure you have them handy before major boss fights to give yourself an edge.
Conclusion
Elden Ring’s expansive world offers countless opportunities to enhance your gameplay experience, with the upgrade system being foundational to your success. By knowing where to buy Smithing Stones and understanding their significance, you can effectively gear up for the most challenging segments of the game. As you explore, remember to keep an eye out for merchants and Bell Bearings, and you will find yourself ready to face whatever threats the Lands Between throw your way. Happy gaming!