The Nagakiba is a staple weapon for dexterity-based characters in Elden Ring, offering a solid balance of speed, range, and damage. While versatile in its own right, the Nagakiba truly shines when paired with the right Ashes of War and talismans. In this guide, we will explore the best Nagakiba build, focusing on optimizing its potential for both PvE and PvP combat.
The core of the Nagakiba build revolves around enhancing its inherent dexterity scaling. By investing heavily in Dexterity, players can maximize the weapon’s physical damage output. Additionally, the Bloodhound’s Step Ash of War complements the Nagakiba’s medium reach, providing exceptional mobility and enabling players to dodge enemy attacks with ease. This combination creates a formidable offensive and defensive playstyle.
To further augment the Nagakiba’s effectiveness, several talismans prove invaluable. The Lord of Blood’s Exultation enhances the weapon’s damage when enemies are nearby, while the Green Turtle Talisman improves stamina regeneration, allowing for extended periods of combat. The Ritual Sword Talisman, specifically, boosts the potency of weapon skills, making the Nagakiba’s Bloodhound’s Step even more devastating. With these elements in place, the Nagakiba build emerges as a formidable force, ready to conquer the challenges of Elden Ring.
The Nagakiba: A Detailed Overview
The Nagakiba is a katana-type weapon in Elden Ring, a highly sought-after weapon for its exceptional reach, swift attacks, and bleed-inducing capabilities. It is a formidable choice for both close-quarters combat and ranged engagements, making it a versatile weapon for various playstyles. This detailed overview will delve into the Nagakiba’s attributes, its acquisition method, and its optimal build for maximum effectiveness.
### Attributes and Scaling
The Nagakiba possesses a base physical damage of 138, with a versatile scaling that adapts to various builds. At +25, it scales with the following attributes:
| Attribute | Scaling |
|—|—|
| Strength | D |
| Dexterity | B |
| Intelligence | E |
| Faith | E |
| Arcane | E |
The Nagakiba’s high Dexterity scaling makes it ideal for Dexterity-based builds, particularly those focusing on quick, successive attacks. Its bleed buildup also synergizes well with builds that enhance bleed damage, such as those utilizing the Seppuku Ash of War or the Lord of Blood’s Exultation talisman.
Crafting the Ultimate Nagakiba: Weapon Enhancements and Ashen Arts
Weapon Enhancements
To maximize the Nagakiba’s potential, upgrading it with the right Smithing Stones is crucial. Each enhancement level increases the weapon’s base damage and scaling, making it more formidable with each upgrade. The optimal enhancement path is through the following levels:
| Enhancement Level | Required Smithing Stone | Base Damage Increase | Scaling Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| +3 | Smithing Stone [2] | +25 | +1 |
| +6 | Smithing Stone [3] | +50 | +2 |
| +9 | Smithing Stone [4] | +75 | +3 |
| +12 | Smithing Stone [5] | +100 | +4 |
| +15 | Smithing Stone [6] | +125 | +5 |
| +18 | Smithing Stone [7] | +150 | +6 |
| +21 | Smithing Stone [8] | +175 | +7 |
| +24 | Ancient Smithing Stone | +200 | +8 |
| +25 | Somber Ancient Smithing Stone | +225 | +9 |
Additionally, infusing the Nagakiba with an Ash of War can further enhance its capabilities. Various Ashes of War offer unique abilities, such as increased damage, elemental effects, or utility. Some of the most effective Ashes of War for the Nagakiba include:
- Lightning Slash: A powerful strike that deals lightning damage.
- Ice Spear: A ranged projectile that deals frostbite damage.
- Bloodhound’s Step: A dash with increased speed and invincibility frames.
Unleashing the Nagakiba’s True Potential: Talismans and Incantations
Talismans: Enhancing Your Nagakiba’s Prowess
Talismans are potent consumables that provide various temporary buffs, making them ideal for bolstering the Nagakiba’s capabilities. For optimal damage output, consider equipping the following:
- Golden Vow: A must-have talisman that boosts attack and defense for you and allies.
- Shard of Alexander: Another potent talisman that grants further attack power.
- Rotten Winged Sword Insignia: Increases attack power for successive attacks, perfect for wielding the Nagakiba’s rapid strikes.
Incantations: Bestowing Magical Enhancements
In addition to talismans, incantations offer a wider range of magical buffs that can empower the Nagakiba. These include:
- Bloodflame Blade: Imbues your weapon with a crimson flame, dealing bonus fire damage and inflicting blood loss.
- Lightning Weapon: Enchants your Nagakiba with lightning, increasing its attack power against enemies weak to electricity.
- Carian Filigreed Crest: Significantly boosts your dexterity, enhancing your Nagakiba’s damage output and evasion.
Optimal Incantation Combinations for Nagakiba Builds
To maximize the Nagakiba’s potential, consider these optimal incantation pairings:
| Incantation 1 | Incantation 2 |
|---|---|
| Bloodflame Blade | Golden Vow |
| Lightning Weapon | Shard of Alexander |
| Carian Filigreed Crest | Rotten Winged Sword Insignia |
These combinations provide a balance of damage boosts, defensive buffs, and dexterity enhancements, ultimately unleashing the full might of the Nagakiba.
Optimizing Nagakiba Build: Armor, Talismans, and Strategies
Armor
Consider the following armor pieces for an optimized Nagakiba build:
- White Mask: Boosts blood loss buildup.
- Bull-Goat’s Armor: Enhances poise and health.
- Malenia’s Greaves: Improves hyperarmor during light and heavy attacks.
- Leyndell Knight Gauntlets: Grants a small boost to dexterity and mind.
Talismans
Equip the following talismans to maximize the effectiveness of a Nagakiba build:
- Lord of Blood’s Exultation: Increases damage after inflicting blood loss.
- Rotten Winged Sword Insignia: Enhances blood loss buildup after consecutive hits.
- Sharpened Nagakiba: Augments the Nagakiba’s damage output, sacrificing its durability.
- Dragoncrest Greatshield Talisman: Fortified damage negation.
Strategies
Implement these strategies for optimal performance with a Nagakiba build:
- Capitalize on the Nagakiba’s reach and speed for quick and precise attacks.
- Utilize blood loss buildup to inflict substantial damage over time.
- Combine different attacks to create combos, such as R1 -> L1, for maximum efficiency.
Advanced Strategy: Bloodhound Step + Spectral Lance
This advanced strategy involves combining the Bloodhound Step Ash of War with the Spectral Lance Incantation. By charging Spectral Lance while Bloodhound Step is active, you can unleash a swift and deadly projectile infused with blood loss buildup. This combination provides an excellent way to close the distance, inflict heavy damage, and capitalize on the Nagakiba’s blood loss capabilities.
| Ash of War | Incantation |
|---|---|
| Bloodhound Step | Spectral Lance |
| Grants rapid movement and temporary invulnerability | Launches a piercing blood-infused lance |
Nagakiba vs. Other Katanas: Comparative Analysis and Advantages
The Nagakiba stands out among other katanas in Elden Ring, boasting unique advantages that set it apart in both PvE and PvP scenarios.
Reach and Versatility
The Nagakiba’s extended reach grants it an advantage in close-range combat, allowing players to strike from a slightly longer distance. Its versatility extends to its dual-wielding capability, enabling players to unleash devastating attacks while maintaining agility.
Bleed Buildup
The Nagakiba’s inherent bleed buildup makes it a formidable weapon against both regular enemies and bosses. Its blood loss effect can quickly stack up, causing significant damage over time. This makes it particularly effective against enemies with high health pools or those vulnerable to bleed.
Low Stamina Consumption
Compared to other katanas, the Nagakiba consumes less stamina with its attacks. This allows players to engage in extended combat without depleting their stamina reserves, giving them a tactical edge in prolonged battles.
Upgrade Potential
The Nagakiba can be upgraded with Somber Smithing Stones, granting it access to powerful Ashes of War and scaling improvements. Its upgrade path offers a wide range of options to customize its performance and tailor it to specific playstyles.
Moveset Comparison
The following table summarizes the key differences in movesets between the Nagakiba and other notable katanas in Elden Ring:
| Katana | Unique Moves |
|---|---|
| Nagakiba | – **Flowing Blade:** Quick, spinning attack with low stamina consumption – **Silent Thrust:** Silent, lunging attack ideal for stealth |
| Uchigatana | – **Unsheathe:** Fast, horizontal slash with high damage potential |
| Moonveil Katana | – **Transient Moonlight:** Long-range, projectile attack that deals magic damage |
| Hand of Malenia | – **Waterfowl Dance:** Devastating, multi-hit combo that deals massive damage with bleed buildup |
Bleeding Build: Maximizing Nagakiba’s Hemorrhage Potential
To enhance the Nagakiba’s innate hemorrhage-inflicting capabilities, consider the following modifications:
1. Weapon Upgrade: Blood Ashes of War
Choose the Blood Ash of War, which converts all physical damage to blood damage and significantly increases hemorrhage buildup.
2. Armament: Seppuku Ash of War
Equip the Seppuku Ash of War on the Nagakiba’s secondary slot to inflict massive hemorrhage at the cost of a portion of your health. This powerful Ash of War serves as a potent finisher.
3. Talisman: Rotten Winged Sword insignia
Activate this talisman to augment hemorrhage buildup by 10%, further enhancing the Nagakiba’s bleeding potential.
4. Scaling Attribute: Arcane
Invest heavily in the Arcane attribute to enhance the Nagakiba’s scaling and amplify its hemorrhage buildup. Arcane also increases the effectiveness of the Seppuku Ash of War.
5. Armor: White Mask
Don the White Mask headpiece to receive a 10% increase in attack power after inflicting hemorrhage. This bonus synergizes well with the Nagakiba and further boosts its damage output.
6. Incantation: Bloodflame Blade
Enhance your offensive capabilities by casting Bloodflame Blade. This incantation adds fire damage and grants a temporary damage buff, benefiting the Nagakiba’s hemorrhage potential. Benefits of Bloodflame Blade include:
| Effect | Duration |
|---|---|
| Fire Damage | 60 seconds |
| Damage Buff | 10 seconds |
| Additional Hemorrhage Buildup | 60 seconds |
By combining these modifications, you can maximize the Nagakiba’s hemorrhage potential and become a formidable force in battle.
Intelligence-focused Build: Enhancing Nagakiba with Sorceries
The Intelligence-focused Nagakiba build blends the elegant finesse of the Nagakiba with the arcane power of sorceries, creating a versatile and formidable combatant. This build capitalizes on Nagakiba’s scaling with Intelligence, maximizing its damage output. By combining the Nagakiba’s swift strikes with potent sorceries, you can dominate both close-quarters combat and ranged encounters.
Attributes
Focus on leveling Intelligence as your primary attribute to enhance the damage output of both the Nagakiba and sorceries. Allocate points into Dexterity to increase the Nagakiba’s dexterity scaling damage and Vigor to ensure survivability in battle.
Weapons
Nagakiba: The centerpiece of this build, Nagakiba is an excellent choice for its high Dexterity and Intelligence scaling, as well as its fast attack speed. The Weapon Art, Corpse Piler, delivers a flurry of strikes, ideal for overwhelming foes.
Sorceries
Choose sorceries that complement the Nagakiba’s playstyle. Consider the following options:
| Sorcery | Effect |
|---|---|
| Glintstone Pebble | A basic but effective long-range spell for ranged combat. |
| Carian Slicer | A short-range sorcery that can be used in conjunction with the Nagakiba’s strikes. |
| Rock Sling | A powerful sorcery that deals heavy damage to distant targets. |
| Azur Comet | A high-cost, long-range sorcery that inflicts devastating damage. |
Talismans
Equip talismans that enhance Intelligence, dexterity, or overall combat effectiveness:
- Graven Mass Talisman: Increases Intelligence.
- Godfrey Icon: Boosts damage from consecutive attacks.
- Green Turtle Talisman: Reduces stamina consumption.
Dexterity-based Build: The Art of Finesse and Evasion
The Nagakiba Katana offers a unique blend of speed, reach, and damage, making it an excellent choice for a dexterity-based build in Elden Ring. With its keen blade and versatile moveset, the Nagakiba excels at evading enemy attacks while delivering swift and precise strikes.
### 1. Weapon and Scaling
The Nagakiba is a Dexterity-scaling Katana that benefits greatly from high Dexterity investment. Upgrade it to +10 and choose the Keen Ash of War to maximize its Dexterity scaling, resulting in exceptional physical damage.
### 2. Armor and Attributes
For this build, focus on medium or light armor to maintain high mobility. Prioritize Dexterity as the main attribute, followed by Vigor for survivability and Endurance for stamina management.
### 3. Talismans
The Lord of Blood’s Exultation Talisman boosts attack power after dealing critical hits, enhancing the Nagakiba’s already strong critical strike capability. Other recommended Talismans include the Green Turtle Talisman for increased stamina recovery and the Ritual Sword Talisman for a damage boost when using weapon skills.
### 4. Ashes of War
The Nagakiba’s inherent Bloodborne Step Ash of War allows for quick dashes that can evade attacks and reposition the player. Alternatively, the Phantom Slash Ash of War grants a spectral blade that can deal additional damage to enemies.
### 5. Incantations and Spells
Consider enhancing your survivability with Incantations like Golden Vow and Flame, Grant Me Strength. If desired, add utility Spells like Unseen Form or Bloodflame Blade to further augment the Nagakiba’s capabilities.
### 6. Spirit Ashes
The Black Knife Tiche Spirit Ash is an excellent companion, providing support with its ranged attacks and ability to aggro enemies. Other viable Spirit Ashes include the Mimic Tear for a duplicate of your character or the Lhutel the Headless for its high damage output.
### 7. Gameplay Strategy
Employ the Bloodborne Step Ash of War to dodge enemy attacks, creating openings for critical strikes. Combine this with the Nagakiba’s reach and speed to maintain aggression while staying elusive.
### 8. Recommended Attributes and Equipment
Aim for a target Dexterity of 60-80. Consider investing in Vigor up to 40-50 for survivability and Endurance around 25-30 for stamina management. Choose medium armor such as the Banished Knight Set or light armor like the White Reed Set for mobility. For Talismans, equip the Lord of Blood’s Exultation, Green Turtle Talisman, Ritual Sword Talisman, and Godfrey Icon for increased attack damage. Utilize the Bloodborne Step or Phantom Slash Ash of War, along with Incantations like Golden Vow and Flame, Grant Me Strength for support.
| Attribute | Recommended Value |
|---|---|
| Dexterity | 60-80 |
| Vigor | 40-50 |
| Endurance | 25-30 |
Strength-oriented Build: Blending Power with Agility
Harness the power and poise of the Nagakiba with this Strength-oriented build, which blends raw might with graceful agility for an exhilarating combat experience.
1. Stats
Prioritize Strength and Dexterity, as they synergize well with the Nagakiba’s scaling. Aim for a balance of 50 Strength and 40 Dexterity to maximize damage output while maintaining agility.
2. Weapon
The Nagakiba itself is the star of this build. It excels at close to mid-range combat, offering a versatile blend of piercing and slashing attacks.
3. Talismans
Equip talismans that enhance Strength, such as Godfrey Icon (+10 Strength) and Shard of Alexander (+5 Attack Power at max HP).
4. Armor
For armor, consider lighter sets that prioritize mobility, such as the Raptor’s Black Feathers or Black Knife set.
5. Ash of War
Unlock and equip the Ash of War: Seppuku. This self-inflicting Ash of War boosts damage output significantly, at the cost of a slight health penalty.
6. Spells and Incantations
Consider incorporating buffs such as Flame, Grant Me Strength or Golden Vow to further enhance damage output.
7. Equipment
- Shield: A medium-sized shield provides a balance of protection and mobility.
- Great Rune: Godrick’s Great Rune grants a significant boost to damage after defeating enemies.
8. Strategy
Utilize the Nagakiba’s reach and mobility to control the distance. Close in for devastating strikes, then swiftly retreat to avoid retaliation.
9. Tactics
Execute the Seppuku Ash of War in critical situations to unleash a flurry of powerful attacks. Time it strategically to counter boss attacks or defeat formidable foes.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Strength | 50 |
| Dexterity | 40 |
| Vigor | 30 |
| Endurance | 25 |
10. Customization
Tailor the build to your playstyle by adjusting stat distribution, swapping out talismans or armor, and experimenting with different Ashes of War. The Nagakiba’s versatility allows for endless customization possibilities.
Nagakiba in PvP: Battle Strategies and Matchups
Optimal Stat Distribution
Maximize Dexterity for increased scaling damage and prioritize Vigor for survivability. Aim for a level of around 40 Dexterity and 50-60 Vigor.
Weapon Infusions
Choose Keen for enhanced Physical damage scaling, or Lightning if you frequently encounter Crystallians or other Lightning-vulnerable foes.
Talismans
Consider the following talismans: Green Turtle Talisman for reduced stamina consumption during attacks, Lord of Blood’s Exultation for increased attack power after successive attacks, and Millicent’s Prosthesis for faster consecutive attacks.
Ash of War Techniques
Consider the Piercing Fang Ash of War for its high damaging thrust attack, Bloodhound Step for increased mobility, or Seppuku for a temporary damage boost at the cost of HP.
Armor and Equipment
Optimize poise for resilience against enemy attacks and choose armor with high slashing damage resistance. Consider the Bloodhound Step or Raptor of the Mists Ashes of War for increased mobility.
Matchups and Strategies
General Strategy
Utilize the Nagakiba’s excellent reach and speed to keep opponents at bay and capitalize on opportunities. Aim for quick strikes and use the Piercing Fang Ash of War for potent thrust attacks.
Against Strength Builds
Keep distance and avoid melee confrontations. Use the Piercing Fang Ash of War to punish enemy attacks and rely on dodging to mitigate damage.
Against Dexterity Builds
Be cautious and anticipate enemy attacks. Match their speed with well-timed dodges and parry attempts. Utilize the Bloodhound Step or Raptor of the Mists Ashes of War to outmaneuver them.
Against Intelligence Builds
Engage at medium range and prioritize mobility. Use the Bloodhound Step or Raptor of the Mists Ashes of War to close the gap and execute quick strikes before they can unleash powerful spells.
Against Faith Builds
Block or dodge incoming incantations and seize opportunities to strike. The Nagakiba’s high physical damage can overwhelm enemies reliant on Holy damage.
Against Blood Builds
Backpedal and avoid close-range engagements. Utilize the Nagakiba’s reach to interrupt their attacks and take advantage of their reduced poise when they are inflicted with Bloodloss.
Against Madness Builds
Maintain a safe distance and watch for Madness-inducing spells. Use the Piercing Fang Ash of War to punish their wide-sweeping attacks and prioritize dodging to avoid being afflicted.
Best Nagakiba Build
The Nagakiba is a versatile katana-type weapon in Elden Ring. It offers a good balance of damage, speed, and reach. This makes it a great choice for both PvP and PvE encounters. However, to get the most out of this weapon, you need to have the right build. In this guide, we will discuss the best Nagakiba build in Elden Ring.
The best Nagakiba build focuses on Dexterity and Arcane. Dexterity increases the weapon’s physical damage, while Arcane increases its bleed damage. Bleed is a status effect that causes enemies to take damage over time. It is very effective against bosses and other tough enemies. As you level up, you should put most of your points into Dexterity and Arcane. You can also invest some points into Vigor (health) and Endurance (stamina) to improve your survivability.
For armor, you can choose a light or medium set that provides good protection without sacrificing too much mobility. Some good options include the Ronin’s Set, the Blaidd’s Set, or the Cleanrot Set. For a talisman, you should use the Lord of Blood’s Exultation. This talisman increases your attack power by 20% when an enemy is inflicted with blood loss.
For ashes of war, you can choose between several different options. The Bloodhound’s Step is a great choice for mobility and dodging attacks. The Seppuku is a good choice for increasing your damage output, but it also consumes some of your health. The Golden Vow is a good choice for buffing your attack power and defense.
People Also Ask
What is the best affinity for Nagakiba?
The best affinity for Nagakiba is Keen. This affinity increases the weapon’s Dexterity scaling, which increases its physical damage.
What is the best ash of war for Nagakiba?
The best ash of war for Nagakiba is the Bloodhound’s Step. This ash of war allows you to quickly dodge attacks and close the distance on your enemies.
Is Nagakiba good for PvP?
Yes, Nagakiba is good for PvP. It has a good balance of damage, speed, and reach. It is also very effective against enemies that are vulnerable to bleed damage.
