1. Character Creation & Chapel of Anticipation
When creating your character, we highly recommend choosing the Golden Seed as your Keepsake. This allows you to upgrade your Flask of Crimson Tears (healing potion) immediately once you reach the open world.
After the opening cinematic, you awaken inside the Chapel of Anticipation. There are no enemies here yet. Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the camera and basic movement.
2. Boss: Grafted Scion
As you enter the courtyard, a grotesque multi-armed creature drops from the sky. This is a scripted encounter designed to kill you. You do not have any healing flasks yet, making this fight incredibly difficult.
Don't worry if you die in two hits. Dying here triggers a cutscene that advances the game. It is the intended path for 99% of players.
🏆 What if you defeat him?
If you are an experienced player and manage to kill the Grafted Scion, you will receive the Ornamental Straight Sword and the Golden Beast Crest Shield. Even if you win, the ground will collapse immediately after, leading to the same cutscene as if you had died.
3. The Cave of Knowledge (Tutorial)
You awaken in a dark cave. Near the edge of a cliff, you will see a ghost sitting in a chair.
⬇️ Take the Plunge
The ghost tells you to "take the plunge". Drop down into the pit below him. This leads to the Cave of Knowledge, the actual tutorial area of Elden Ring. Do not skip this if it is your first time playing.
Progress through the cave, reading the prompt messages on the ground. You will learn vital mechanics:
- How to lock on to enemies (R3).
- How to use Stealth in tall grass.
- How to perform Guard Counters (Heavy attack immediately after blocking).
- How to break enemy stance using Heavy/Jumping attacks.
Mini-Boss: Soldier of Godrick
At the end of the tutorial path, you will face the Soldier of Godrick. Use the Guard Counter mechanic you just learned to dispatch him easily.
🎭 Secret Emote: "Strength!"
Before leaving the cave area entirely, progress up the ledge past the boss room. You will find a corpse hanging over the edge. Loot it to receive the "Strength!" Gesture. Now you can drop down safely to the start.
4. Stranded Graveyard
Whether you dropped into the tutorial cave or skipped it, you will end up at the heavy doors leading to the Stranded Graveyard.
💬 Community Strategies & Discussion
Did you find a hidden chest? Struggling with a boss? Share your tips and questions with other mercenaries below!