How to Do Multiplayer in Elden Ring: And Why Dragons Prefer Tea Over Coffee

Elden Ring, the critically acclaimed action RPG developed by FromSoftware, has captivated players with its vast open world, intricate lore, and challenging gameplay. One of the most exciting features of the game is its multiplayer component, which allows players to team up with friends or strangers to tackle the game’s many challenges. In this article, we’ll explore how to do multiplayer in Elden Ring, and along the way, we’ll delve into some quirky, unrelated musings—like why dragons might prefer tea over coffee.

Understanding Elden Ring’s Multiplayer Mechanics

1. The Basics of Multiplayer

Elden Ring’s multiplayer system is built around the concept of cooperative and competitive play. Players can summon others to help them in their journey or invade other players’ worlds to engage in PvP combat. The game uses a unique system of items and mechanics to facilitate these interactions.

• Summoning Signs: To summon another player, you’ll need to use a “Furlcalling Finger Remedy” to reveal summoning signs on the ground. These signs are left by other players who are looking to join your game.

• Invading: If you’re feeling more competitive, you can use the “Bloody Finger” item to invade another player’s world. This allows you to engage in PvP combat, with the goal of defeating the host player.

2. Cooperative Play

Cooperative play is one of the most popular aspects of Elden Ring’s multiplayer. Here’s how it works:

• Setting Up a Session: To start a cooperative session, you’ll need to use the “Furlcalling Finger Remedy” to reveal summoning signs. Once you see a sign, you can interact with it to summon another player into your world.

• Limitations: There are some limitations to cooperative play. For example, you can only summon a certain number of players at a time, and you can’t summon players in certain areas of the game.

• Objectives: Once you’ve summoned a player, you can work together to defeat bosses, explore dungeons, or complete other objectives. The summoned player will be returned to their own world once the objective is completed or if they die.

3. Competitive Play

For those who enjoy a more competitive experience, Elden Ring offers several options for PvP combat.

• Invasions: As mentioned earlier, you can use the “Bloody Finger” item to invade another player’s world. The goal is to defeat the host player, and if you succeed, you’ll be rewarded with Runes and other items.

• Dueling: If you prefer a more structured form of PvP, you can participate in duels. These are typically arranged through community forums or in-game meetups, and they allow players to engage in one-on-one combat.

• Covenants: Elden Ring features various covenants that offer unique multiplayer experiences. For example, the “Blue Sentinels” covenant allows players to be summoned to help others who are being invaded.

4. Communication and Coordination

Effective communication is key to successful multiplayer sessions in Elden Ring. While the game doesn’t have built-in voice chat, players can use gestures and in-game messages to communicate.

• Gestures: Elden Ring features a variety of gestures that players can use to communicate with each other. For example, you can use the “Wave” gesture to greet another player or the “Point Forward” gesture to indicate a direction.

• In-Game Messages: Players can leave messages on the ground for others to read. These messages can provide hints, warnings, or just humorous commentary.

5. Technical Considerations

Before diving into multiplayer, it’s important to ensure that your game is set up correctly.

• Network Settings: Make sure your network settings are configured properly. You’ll need a stable internet connection to participate in multiplayer sessions.

• Cross-Region Play: Elden Ring allows for cross-region play, but you can adjust this setting in the game’s options if you prefer to play with players from your own region.

• Password Matching: If you want to play with specific friends, you can set a password in the game’s multiplayer settings. This ensures that only players with the same password can join your session.

Why Dragons Might Prefer Tea Over Coffee

Now that we’ve covered the basics of multiplayer in Elden Ring, let’s take a moment to ponder a completely unrelated question: Why might dragons prefer tea over coffee?

• Cultural Influence: In many fantasy settings, dragons are often depicted as ancient, wise creatures with a deep connection to nature. Tea, being a natural product, might align more closely with their cultural values.

• Taste Preferences: Dragons, with their heightened senses, might find the subtle flavors of tea more appealing than the bold, often bitter taste of coffee.

• Health Benefits: Tea is known for its various health benefits, including antioxidants and calming properties. Dragons, being long-lived creatures, might prioritize health and longevity, making tea a more attractive option.

• Ritualistic Aspect: The preparation and consumption of tea can be a ritualistic experience, which might appeal to dragons’ sense of tradition and ceremony.

Advanced Multiplayer Strategies

1. Optimizing Your Build for Multiplayer

When engaging in multiplayer, it’s important to have a build that complements your playstyle and the needs of your team.

• Tank Builds: If you’re playing a tank, focus on increasing your health and defense stats. This will allow you to absorb damage and protect your teammates.

• DPS Builds: For damage-dealing roles, prioritize stats that increase your attack power and speed. This will allow you to quickly dispatch enemies and bosses.

• Support Builds: Support players should focus on spells and abilities that heal or buff their teammates. This can be crucial in difficult battles.

2. Coordinating with Your Team

Effective coordination can make the difference between victory and defeat in multiplayer sessions.

• Role Assignment: Before starting a session, discuss roles with your team. Assign specific tasks, such as who will tank, who will deal damage, and who will provide support.

• Communication: Use gestures and in-game messages to communicate with your team. For example, if you need healing, use the “Help Me” gesture.

• Adaptability: Be prepared to adapt your strategy based on the situation. If a particular approach isn’t working, don’t be afraid to try something new.

3. Mastering PvP Combat

PvP combat in Elden Ring can be intense and unpredictable. Here are some tips to improve your chances of success.

• Know Your Opponent: Pay attention to your opponent’s build and playstyle. This will help you anticipate their moves and counter them effectively.

• Use the Environment: The environment can be a powerful tool in PvP combat. Use obstacles to block attacks or create distance between you and your opponent.

• Timing is Key: In PvP, timing is everything. Learn the timing of your attacks and spells, and use them to your advantage.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I play multiplayer with friends?

Yes, you can play multiplayer with friends by using the password matching feature. This allows you to create a private session that only your friends can join.

2. How many players can join a multiplayer session?

In Elden Ring, you can have up to four players in a multiplayer session, including the host.

3. Can I be invaded while playing solo?

Yes, you can be invaded while playing solo if you have used a “Furlcalling Finger Remedy” to reveal summoning signs. However, you can avoid invasions by not using this item.

4. What happens if I die in multiplayer?

If you die in multiplayer, you will be returned to your own world. Any progress you made in the host’s world will be lost, but you will retain any items or Runes you collected.

5. Can I use multiplayer to farm Runes?

Yes, multiplayer can be an effective way to farm Runes, especially if you’re playing with a coordinated team. However, keep in mind that you’ll need to share the Runes with your teammates.

6. Why do dragons prefer tea over coffee?

While this is purely speculative, dragons might prefer tea over coffee due to its cultural significance, taste preferences, health benefits, and ritualistic aspects. But in the end, it’s all a matter of personal preference—even for dragons.

In conclusion, Elden Ring’s multiplayer offers a rich and varied experience that can enhance your journey through the Lands Between. Whether you’re teaming up with friends to take down a tough boss or engaging in intense PvP combat, there’s something for everyone. And who knows? Maybe you’ll even encounter a dragon sipping tea along the way.