If you’re just starting your journey through Elden Ring, you’ll quickly realize how crucial runes are. They serve as both your currency and experience points, so having a way to boost your rune collection early on can make a huge difference. Whether you’re leveling up, upgrading gear, or trying to buy Elden Ring Runes from vendors in-game, rune management becomes essential. Fortunately, there are several early game Elden Ring items that can help maximize your rune gain. Here are some of the best options to look out for.
1. Gold-Pickled Fowl Foot
Arguably the most accessible rune-boosting item in the early game, the Gold-Pickled Fowl Foot increases rune acquisition by 30% for three minutes. You can find your first one near the Coastal Cave in West Limgrave. Later, crafting them becomes possible if you find the right cookbook and gather ingredients like four-toed fowl feet and gold fireflies. This item is excellent for farming after defeating groups of enemies or just before tackling a mini-boss.
2. Gold Scarab Talisman
While not available right at the beginning, the Gold Scarab is worth the effort even in the early-to-mid game. It increases rune acquisition by about 20% and stacks with the Gold-Pickled Fowl Foot. You’ll need to venture into the Abandoned Cave in Caelid and defeat the Cleanrot Knights to claim it. It’s a challenging fight for lower-level characters, but manageable with the right summons or builds. Having this talisman equipped during farming sessions can make a noticeable difference.
3. Lordsworn’s Greatsword Farming
Although technically not an item that boosts rune gain directly, farming specific enemies that drop valuable weapons is an effective early strategy. The soldiers at the Gatefront Ruins and nearby camps have a chance to drop the Lordsworn’s Greatsword. Selling extra copies of these weapons can be a profitable way to accumulate runes quickly. Combine this with Gold-Pickled Fowl Foot for even better results.
4. Glowing Skull Rune Pickups
As you explore Limgrave and other early areas, keep an eye out for glowing skulls scattered along roads and hills. Breaking them yields small amounts of runes, but they add up over time. This passive collection method is especially useful when you’re not actively fighting and just traversing the landscape. Picking up these Elden Ring items regularly helps keep your rune supply steady.
5. Enemy Rune Farming Hotspots
Some areas in early Limgrave are perfect for rune farming even without special items. For example, the ball-rolling trap outside the Third Church of Marika can grant several hundred runes per minute with little risk. If you boost your gains using the Gold Scarab or Gold-Pickled Fowl Foot, this becomes a reliable source of early income. Remember to rest at Sites of Grace to reset enemies and repeat the process.
Building a solid rune base early on helps make your journey through Elden Ring smoother. Whether you want to upgrade your flasks, invest in your favorite weapons, or even buy Elden Ring Runes from in-game merchants, maximizing your rune intake early is key. Keep an eye out for these useful Elden Ring items and use them strategically for the best results. And don’t forget — timing matters. Use your rune boosters right before boss fights or major farming sessions to make the most of them.
