To save you time for tons of trying, we’ll take you to check out the Shadow of the Erdtree best build with optimal setup, Dragon-Hunter’s Great Katana is the major weapon used in this Elden Ring Great Katana build.

Elden Ring Great Katana Build After 1.12 | Best Build in Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree DLC

New weapons are shining in the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, this Elden Ring Dual Great Katana build after Patch 1.12 is overpowered to take down enemies and bosses in the game. The combination of strength/dexterity-based weapons and talismans results in high damage. Take advantage of the enhanced jumping attacks to deal significant damage and control the battlefield. The level is not the biggest concern in this build, there are lots of other ways to level up your character. Don't forget to find and use Blessings, which can be found throughout the map and provide a significant boost to the character's power.

1. Great Katana Build Stats

To equip the weapons and max out the power of this build, some investment in attribute points is essential. Prioritize strength as this build focuses on strength-based damage, then dexterity is the second priority because it is necessary for using Dragon-Hunter’s Great Katana and Great Katana effectively. In addition, vigor is an important stat for increasing health, to survive against significant damage from enemies and bosses. Put some points to endurance to equip other desired gear. Keep an eye on stamina and health, using the character's stats and talismans to stay in the fight.

- Vigor 53

- Mind 11

- Endurance 35

- Strength 61

- Dexterity 61

- Intelligence 9

- Faith 8

- Arcane 8

2. Great Katana Build Weapons

- Right hand: Dragon-Hunter’s Great Katana +10. Dragon-Hunter’s Great Katana is a brand new Great Katana added in the Shadow of the Erdtree and can be found early in the game, requiring 15 strength and 20 dexterity. This is a dragon-hunting weapon, and using it allows you to defeat the dragon more easily. It has bleed buildup, but it's not as frequent as other weapons due to its slower attack speed. The Ash of War - Dragonwound Slash deals damage to multiple enemies at once. 

- Left hand: Great Katana +25. Another strength-dexterity based weapon, it also has bleed buildup, but with a slower attack speed. Using two Great Katanas at the same time allows for powerful jumping attacks and stance changes.

You can upgrade your Great Katanas to increase their damage output and stats. This can be done by using resources and smithing stones.

3. Great Katana Build Armor

The chest armor focuses on increasing jumping attack power, which is very useful for this build. 

- Radahn’s Redmane Helm

- Banished Knight Greaves

- Bull-Goat Gauntlets

- Raptor’s Black Feathers

4. Great Katana Build Talismans

- Prosthesis-Wearer Heirloom: raises dexterity by 5, allowing for more effective use of the Great Katana. 

- Starscourge Heirloom: raises strength by 5, further amplifying the damage output.

- Erdtree’s Favor: raises your maximum HP, stamina, and equip load, providing a well-rounded boost to the character’s overall stats. 

- Claw Talisman: increases jump attack damage by 15%.