Reaching max level in Elden Ring is no small feat. It requires dedication, smart farming, and a deep understanding of how to make the most of the game’s mechanics. Whether you’re aiming to experience the full power of every build or simply want to leave no stone unturned, getting to level 713—the true cap—demands a strategic approach. In this guide, we’ll explore how to efficiently farm Elden Ring Runes and manage your progression without wasting time or resources.
Understanding the Level Cap and Runes
Before diving into farming techniques, it’s important to understand what you’re working toward. The maximum level in Elden Ring is 713, which requires leveling every attribute to 99. This takes an immense number of Elden Ring Runes, especially as the cost per level increases exponentially past level 150.
Runes serve as both your experience points and currency, making them the most valuable resource in the game. Managing how you earn and spend them is essential for efficient progression.
Best Early Game Rune Farming Spots
If you’re still early in the game, there’s one spot in particular that stands out: the War-Dead Catacombs in Caelid. After Radahn is defeated, this area becomes accessible and features endless duels between ghostly soldiers. You can simply let the AI enemies fight each other while you reap the Runes. Equip a Gold Scarab to increase Rune gain and consider using Rune-boosting Talismans to maximize your haul.
Alternatively, the Third Church of Marika portal takes you to Greyoll’s Dragonbarrow early, where you can farm higher-level enemies for a better return. Just be cautious—these enemies hit much harder than anything in Limgrave.
Mid to Late Game Rune Farming
Once you’ve progressed further into the game, Mohgwyn Palace becomes the best-known farming location. The area is filled with Albinaurics that drop a substantial amount of Runes and are weak to AoE damage. Use spells like Sacred Relic Sword’s Wave of Gold or Beast Claw to wipe out groups quickly. With the Gold Scarab equipped and Rune-boosting gear, you can net over 40,000 Runes per minute with the right setup.
Also worth noting is the sleeping dragon near Fort Faroth in Caelid. While it only gives a one-time Rune reward, it’s an easy 70,000+ Runes early on. Use a bleed weapon and hit repeatedly while the dragon sleeps. Just be aware: once it’s gone, it’s gone.
Using Items to Boost Efficiency
Several Elden Ring Items can drastically improve your farming rate. The Gold Scarab, found in the Abandoned Cave, is almost mandatory for serious Rune farming. Combine it with consumables like Gold-Pickled Fowl Foot to further increase Rune gain for a limited time.
Additionally, proper use of Ashes of War and upgraded weapons can make farming faster and safer. Efficiently killing groups of enemies means less time spent per Rune, and more time leveling up.
Respect Your Build, Respect Your Time
When going for max level, it’s easy to fall into the trap of grinding mindlessly. But smart play will always outpace raw hours. Make sure your build is optimized for clearing enemies quickly in your farming route. If you find yourself struggling, consider re-speccing your stats using Larval Tears to shift into a more efficient farming setup.
Also, don’t forget to regularly upgrade your gear. Investing in the right Elden Ring Items—like +10 Spirit Ashes or maxed-out weapons—can significantly boost your damage and survivability, making Rune farming much less of a chore.
Reaching max level in Elden Ring is a marathon, not a sprint. With smart planning, the right farming locations, and a good grasp of the game’s mechanics, you can make the journey much more manageable. Farming Elden Ring Runes efficiently isn’t just about grinding—it’s about strategy, preparation, and making the most of the vast world FromSoftware has built.
Whether you’re in it for PvP dominance or just the satisfaction of hitting 713, remember: every level brings you closer to mastering the Lands Between.