If you’re new to Elden Ring, you might be wondering how to efficiently farm runes to level up and strengthen your character. Runes are essential for purchasing items, upgrading equipment, and increasing your stats. In this guide, I’ll share 10 beginner-friendly methods to help you gather runes quickly and effectively. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to optimize your farming strategy, these tips will set you on the path to success in the Lands Between.
1. Killing Enemies in Limgrave
Limgrave is the starting area of Elden Ring and is filled with low-level enemies that are perfect for beginners to farm. From soldiers to beasts, these foes drop small amounts of runes, but they add up over time. Plus, it’s a great way to practice your combat skills. Start by exploring the area around the Church of Elleh and work your way towards the Gatefront Ruins. Rest at Sites of Grace to respawn enemies and keep farming.
Tip: Focus on groups of enemies to maximize efficiency. Use a mix of melee and ranged attacks to take them down safely.
2. Farming the Soldiers at Gatefront Ruins
The Gatefront Ruins, just north of the starting area, are home to a group of soldiers that are easy to defeat. These enemies respawn each time you rest at the nearby Site of Grace, making them ideal for repeated farming. They drop a decent number of Elden Ring runes for early-game players and are perfect for practicing dodging and parrying.
Tip: Lure enemies one by one to avoid being overwhelmed. Use the terrain to block enemy attacks by fighting near obstacles.
3. Using the Gold Scarab Talisman
The Gold Scarab Talisman boosts rune acquisition by 20%, making it a game-changer for farming. It’s found in the Abandoned Cave in Caelid after defeating the Cleanrot Knights duo. While this might sound daunting for beginners, it’s worth grabbing once you’ve leveled up a bit. The extra runes will make every farming session more rewarding.
Tip: Equip the talisman before starting any farming run to maximize your gains.
4. Killing the Pumpkin Head in Limgrave
The Pumpkin Head is a mini-boss in the cellar of the Waypoint Ruins in Limgrave. It’s manageable for beginners with some practice and drops a solid amount of runes when defeated. This fight also helps you get comfortable with boss mechanics early on.
Tip: Use hit-and-run tactics to dodge its headbutt and jump attacks. Strike during its recovery animations for safe damage.
5. Farming the Beasts in the Woods
The woods around Limgrave are crawling with beasts like wolves and boars that drop runes when killed. These enemies are easy to take down and plentiful, offering a safe and steady way to build your rune stash while exploring.
Tip: Use a bow or spells to pick them off from a distance, especially if they’re in groups, to minimize risk.
6. Using the Golden Fowl Foot
The Golden Fowl Foot is a consumable that boosts rune acquisition by 30% for a short time. You can craft it with the Missionary’s Cookbook [2] or find it in the world. Pop one before a farming session or a big enemy takedown to get the most out of your efforts.
Tip: Save these for when you’re about to tackle a large group or collect a big rune haul.
7. Killing the Trolls Near Stormhill Shack
The trolls near Stormhill Shack are big but slow, making them a viable target for beginners with the right approach. They drop a hefty amount of runes, and with some strategy, you can take them down safely. Try ranged attacks or hit their legs and dodge their swings.
Tip: Be patient—wait for openings after their attacks to strike, then back off. Don’t overcommit!
8. Farming the Knights at Stormveil Castle
Once you’re a bit stronger, the knights in Stormveil Castle offer a higher rune payout. They’re tougher than Limgrave’s soldiers but manageable with caution. Learn their patrol routes and take them out one at a time for steady gains.
Tip: Use backstabs or parries for big damage. Spirit ashes can distract them if you’re struggling.
9. Using the Environment
The Lands Between are packed with environmental tricks you can exploit. Lure enemies to cliffs and knock them off for an instant kill, or use traps and explosive barrels to wipe out groups. It’s a smart way to farm runes without much fighting.
Tip: Scout your surroundings for hazards you can turn against enemies—just don’t fall off yourself!
10. Co-op Play
Team up with other players in co-op mode to earn runes while learning the ropes. Helping others defeat bosses or clear areas rewards you with runes, and you won’t lose yours if you die in their world. It’s a low-risk, high-reward option for beginners.
Tip: Look for Summoning Pool signs near boss arenas or farming spots. Equip rune-boosting gear before jumping in.
Farming runes in Elden Ring doesn’t have to feel like a chore, even for beginners. With these 10 methods, you’ll steadily gather the runes you need to level up, gear up, and take on tougher challenges. Take it slow, practice your skills, and don’t rush into fights you’re not ready for—losing runes stings! Before long, you’ll be farming like a pro.
