Elden Ring, the highly anticipated action RPG from From Software, has captivated players worldwide with its vast open world, challenging combat, and intricate lore. Among the many weapons that players can wield, the Bear Claws stand out as a fierce and formidable choice. But what makes these claws so special, and how can you make the most of them in your journey through the Lands Between? In this guide, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about the Bear Claws in Elden Ring.
What Are Bear Claws in Elden Ring?
Bear Claws in Elden Ring are a type of claw weapon that players can equip for close-quarters combat. They resemble large, sharp claws, like those of a bear, hence the name. These weapons are designed for fast, aggressive playstyles, allowing players to rip through enemies with rapid, slashing attacks. The Bear Claws embody the wild, feral nature of the game’s brutal combat system, making them a favorite for players who enjoy getting up close and personal with their foes.
How to Obtain the Bear Claws
Getting your hands on the Bear Claws in Elden Ring can be a bit of a challenge, but it’s well worth the effort. The Bear Claws are usually found in a specific area of the game, often guarded by powerful enemies or hidden in hard-to-reach locations. To obtain them, you’ll need to explore the Mistwood area, a dense forest known for its eerie atmosphere and dangerous wildlife. Keep an eye out for a bear-like enemy, as defeating this foe can reward you with the coveted Bear Claws.
The Strengths of Bear Claws
One of the main reasons players love the Bear Claws is because of their high damage output and fast attack speed. When you equip these claws, you can unleash a flurry of attacks that overwhelm your enemies before they have a chance to retaliate. The Bear Claws also offer excellent versatility in combat, allowing you to switch between quick jabs and more powerful slashes depending on the situation.
Weaknesses of Bear Claws
Despite their strengths, the Bear Claws do come with some drawbacks. The most notable weakness is their limited range, which means you’ll need to get very close to your enemies to deal damage. This makes the Bear Claws less effective against foes who are good at keeping their distance or who use ranged attacks. Additionally, the claws require a certain level of skill to use effectively in combat, as mistiming your attacks can leave you vulnerable.
Upgrading the Bear Claws
Like all weapons in Elden Ring, the Bear Claws can be upgraded to improve their stats and effectiveness. To maximize their potential, you’ll want to follow the Heavy or Quality upgrade paths, depending on your character’s build. The Heavy path enhances strength scaling, making the claws even deadlier for strength-focused builds. On the other hand, the Quality path balances both strength and dexterity scaling, providing a more versatile option. To upgrade the Bear Claws, you’ll need Smithing Stones and Somber Smithing Stones, which can be found throughout the world or purchased from certain NPCs.
Ideal Build for Using Bear Claws
To get the most out of the Bear Claws, you’ll need to build your character with the right stats and equipment. Focus on leveling up Strength and Dexterity, as these stats will directly influence the damage output of the claws. For armor, consider light or medium sets that don’t hinder your agility, allowing you to dodge and weave through enemy attacks effectively. Accessories like the Claw Talisman, which boosts claw damage, are also essential for maximizing your power. Additionally, pairing the Bear Claws with a strong off-hand weapon, like a dagger or a shield, can provide extra versatility in combat.
Combat Strategies with Bear Claws
When wielding the Bear Claws, your primary goal is to stay close to your enemy and apply constant pressure. Use quick, successive attacks to chip away at their health, and mix in heavy attacks when you see an opening. The Bear Claws are especially effective in exploiting an enemy’s stagger state, so be sure to capitalize on any opportunities to stun or stagger your opponents. Keep moving, dodge often, and never let your enemy out of your sight—these are the keys to mastering the Bear Claws in battle.
Bear Claws in PvP
In player vs. player (PvP) combat, the Bear Claws can be a double-edged sword. On the one hand, their fast attack speed and high damage make them lethal in the right hands. On the other hand, their short range and the need to stay close to your opponent can be a disadvantage against more experienced players who know how to keep their distance. To succeed in PvP with Bear Claws, focus on outmaneuvering your opponent and using your claws’ speed to overwhelm them before they can react. Dodging and countering are your best friends in PvP scenarios.
Comparing Bear Claws to Other Claw Weapons
The Bear Claws are not the only claw weapons in Elden Ring, but they are among the most powerful. Compared to other claw weapons, such as the Hookclaws or Raptor Talons, the Bear Claws offer a higher damage output but at the cost of slightly slower attack speed. They also have a more significant stagger potential, making them ideal for players who want to break through enemy defenses quickly. However, if you prefer a faster, more agile playstyle, you might find the Hookclaws or Raptor Talons better suited to your needs.
Bear Claws vs. Other Melee Weapons
When compared to other melee weapons like swords, axes, or spears, the Bear Claws offer a unique blend of speed and power. Swords and axes generally provide more range and versatility, while spears excel at keeping enemies at bay. However, the Bear Claws outshine these weapons in close-quarters combat, where their rapid attacks and high damage can quickly turn the tide of battle. If you prefer a more aggressive, in-your-face approach to combat, the Bear Claws are the weapon of choice.
How to Customize Bear Claws with Ashes of War
The Ashes of War system in Elden Ring allows players to customize their weapons with special abilities and enhancements. For the Bear Claws, some of the best Ashes of War include Bloodhound’s Step and Wild Strikes. Bloodhound’s Step enhances your mobility, allowing you to dodge and reposition quickly, which is crucial for a close-range weapon like the Bear Claws. Wild Strikes, on the other hand, boosts your attack speed and allows you to chain together powerful combos, making your Bear Claws even deadlier.
Exploring the Lore Behind Bear Claws
The lore behind the Bear Claws ties into the broader mythology of Elden Ring. These weapons are often associated with the wild, untamed aspects of the Lands Between, drawing on the primal strength of beasts and warriors who live by the sword (or claw). The Bear Claws are said to be the favored weapon of a long-lost tribe, whose warriors were known for their ferocity in battle. This connection to the game’s lore adds an extra layer of depth to the weapon, making it more than just a tool for combat—it’s a symbol of the savage power that lies within the world of Elden Ring.
Community Feedback on Bear Claws
Among the Elden Ring community, the Bear Claws have garnered a reputation as a weapon that rewards skill and aggression. Many players praise the claws for their high damage and satisfying combat mechanics, while others note that they require a steep learning curve to use effectively. Overall, the Bear Claws are seen as a weapon for those who enjoy taking risks and getting up close to their enemies, making them a popular choice for players who like a challenge.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Bear Claws are a powerful and unique weapon in Elden Ring, perfect for players who prefer a fast, aggressive playstyle. While they come with some limitations, such as their short range and need for close combat skills, their strengths far outweigh these drawbacks when used correctly. Whether you’re fighting through the game’s challenging PvE content or taking on other players in PvP, the Bear Claws offer a thrilling and rewarding experience for those who master them.
FAQs
How do you get Bear Claws in Elden Ring? You can obtain the Bear Claws by exploring the Mistwood area and defeating a bear-like enemy that guards them.
Are Bear Claws viable for PvP? Yes, Bear Claws can be very effective in PvP, especially when used with fast, aggressive tactics to overwhelm opponents.
What’s the best build for using Bear Claws? A build focusing on Strength and Dexterity, with light or medium armor, and accessories like the Claw Talisman, is ideal for maximizing the effectiveness of Bear Claws.
Can you dual-wield Bear Claws in Elden Ring? Yes, you can dual-wield Bear Claws for increased damage output and faster attack speed.
What’s the best Ash of War for Bear Claws? Some of the best Ashes of War for Bear Claws include Bloodhound’s Step for enhanced mobility and Wild Strikes for faster, more powerful attacks.
