Elden Ring’s PvP scene has continued to evolve since launch, with weapon balance shifts and player tactics shaping which arms truly stand out in competitive duels and invasions. Whether you’re battling in the coliseums or invading unsuspecting Tarnished in the wilds of the Lands Between, choosing the right weapon can mean the difference between victory and a swift respawn.
Here are five of the best weapons for PvP combat, each offering a unique blend of damage, pressure, and flexibility—essential traits in a game where reading your opponent is as important as raw power.
1. Rivers of Blood
Despite repeated nerfs, Rivers of Blood remains a staple in PvP circles. The weapon art, Corpse Piler, dishes out high bleed buildup at an alarming speed, punishing passive players and aggressive rush-down alike. It’s especially effective in confined areas where dodging is limited.
Pairing it with appropriate talismans and stats can melt opponents who fail to keep their distance. Just be prepared to face some scorn from the community—this katana has a reputation for being a bit too effective.
2. Greatsword (Colossal Sword)
For strength builds looking to dominate with raw might, the Greatsword is a top-tier pick. Its massive stagger potential and surprisingly fast rolling attacks make it deadly in the hands of players who can predict movement patterns. Charge-heavy attacks can catch roll-happy foes off guard, especially with proper spacing.
While it’s slower than most weapons, its presence alone can control the pace of a fight. To wield it effectively, players should invest plenty of Elden Ring Runes in Vigor and Endurance to maintain poise and stamina.
3. Moonveil
Moonveil blends Intelligence scaling with katana speed, making it a deadly choice for hybrid spellblades. The Transient Moonlight skill lets players pressure from mid-range, forcing dodges and baiting mistakes.
Its fast recovery frames and damage scaling mean it remains relevant even in higher-level duels. If you’re trying to buy Elden Ring Items that synergize with Moonveil, prioritize those that boost magic damage or shorten spell casting times to round out your hybrid arsenal.
4. Spear of the Tree Sentinel
One of the more underrated PvP weapons, this weapon’s long reach and mix of thrust and slash attacks give it versatility. What makes it shine in PvP, though, is its unique weapon skill—Holy Ground—which can pressure or heal in tight moments.
Its strength and faith scaling also opens up hybrid builds that support self-buffs and healing. When upgraded and used with the right talismans, it can hold its own against faster weapons, especially in team fights.
5. Godskin Peeler (Twinblade)
Fast, relentless, and stylish, the Godskin Peeler twinblade offers one of the best mix-ups in PvP. With dual-wield setups, you can pressure shields, punish rolls, and trap players with status effects like bleed or frost.
Twinblades excel at stamina management and are hard to punish if used correctly. Investing your Elden Ring Runes into Dexterity and Arcane builds can make this weapon even more lethal when paired with bleed-infused ashes of war.
PvP in Elden Ring isn’t just about raw damage—it’s about adaptability, understanding your enemy’s habits, and maximizing the tools you bring into battle. Whether you favor heavy hits or swift strikes, these weapons provide excellent foundations for any duelist or invader.
As always, take time to experiment. The Lands Between is full of powerful weapons, and with enough Elden Ring Runes and the right mindset, you can make nearly anything work. If you're planning to buy Elden Ring Items to test out multiple builds, make sure you choose those that complement your preferred playstyle.
In the end, your weapon is only as good as your ability to wield it—so get out there and sharpen your skills.