Elden Ring's expansive world allows for a myriad of build options, each with unique strengths and synergies. With Patch 1.13, we've seen some shifts in the viability and power of various builds. Here, we rank all build types from best to worst, focusing exclusively on PvE performance.

Elden Ring Build Tier List (1.13) - Best Build Type Ranking in Shadow of the Erdtree

In Elden Ring, players can create a variety of character builds based on the combination of attributes, weapons, armor, and magic they choose to employ. These builds can significantly affect gameplay style, effectiveness in combat, and suitability for different challenges in the game. You can create powerful and impactful builds with each of these build types in Elden Ring, so a lower ranking doesn't imply a lack of viability. Builds lower on the list may not be as versatile or potent as those ranked higher, which often offer broader and more effective options. Now let's go over each build type, detailing why they rank where they do.

1. Faith/Arcane (FTH/ARC) Build

At the pinnacle of our tier list, the Faith/Arcane build shines brightest at higher levels. It leverages potent bleed weapons like the Scavenger's Curved Sword and Cross Naginata with Occult infusions for massive damage and status effect buildup. Coupled with the Dragon Communion Seal, this build unlocks high-damage incantations and spells, making it nearly unstoppable in late-game and NG+ scenarios.

2. Strength/Faith (STR/FTH) Build

The Strength/Faith combination hosts some of the game's most formidable weapons, such as the Blasphemous Blade and Maliketh's Black Blade. This build excels in both melee combat and spellcasting, supported by the Clawmark Seal for spells, making it versatile and powerful across various game stages.

3. Pure Intelligence (PURE INT) Build

Pure Intelligence builds are dominant from the start, thanks to access to powerful spells like Carian Slicer and Knight Comet, and high-scaling staves like the Meteorite Staff. This build's versatility with magic damage types makes it a consistent top-tier choice for any player.

4. Pure Faith (PURE FTH) Build

Focusing solely on Faith maximizes incantation effects, including powerful buffs and healing. Weapons like the Erdtree Bow and various Faith-scaling weapons provide versatility, allowing for effective combat engagements across different enemy types.

5. Strength/Arcane (STR/ARC) Build

While not synergizing well with spells, the Strength/Arcane build is formidable due to its access to high-damage, bleed-centric weapons like the Bloodhound's Fang. This build is less flexible but excels in straight combat efficiency.

6. Pure Strength (PURE STR) Build

Ideal for early to mid-game, Pure Strength thrives with two-handed weapons, enhancing damage output significantly. The build's physical damage negation and access to efficient weapon buffs like Golden Vow make it a sturdy choice for frontline combat.

7. Intelligence/Dexterity (INT/DEX) Build

This hybrid excels with weapons that benefit from both Intelligence and Dexterity, such as the Moonveil Katana. It combines fast casting speeds with potent spell damage, making it a dynamic and effective build for those who can manage its complexity.

8. Pure Arcane (PURE ARC) Build

Pure Arcane is a powerhouse at higher levels, especially when utilizing Occult infusions and the Dragon Communion Seal. Its early game might be challenging, but its late-game potential is enormous, particularly with status effects and high-damage spells.

9. Pure Dexterity (PURE DEX) Build

With access to fast, high-damage weapons like katanas and spears, Pure Dexterity is excellent for players who prefer agility and precision. It lacks some versatility in spellcasting but makes up for it with superior weapon skills and infusions.

10. Intelligence/Faith (INT/FTH) Build

This build shines with the Sword of Night and Flame and benefits from both sorceries and incantations. While it lacks dedicated weapon options, its ability to utilize powerful spells makes it a formidable choice at higher levels.

11. Dexterity/Arcane (DEX/ARC) Build

Favoring weapons with bleed effects, this build synergizes well with Arcane for substantial status buildups. It's less effective in spellcasting but offers great utility and damage with the right weapon choices.

12. Dexterity/Faith (DEX/FTH) Build

This build combines the quick strikes of Dexterity weapons with the spellcasting speed and power of Faith-based spells. While it lacks a specific seal for maximized synergy, it remains a solid choice for a balanced offensive and supportive role.

13. Quality (STR/DEX) Build

A balanced build that becomes more effective at very high levels (250+). It allows for flexibility in weapon choice but suffers from reduced base damage due to the scaling mechanics of the Quality infusion.

14. Intelligence/Strength (INT/STR) Build

This build is somewhat limited due to the lack of dedicated weapons and staves that effectively utilize both stats. It can be potent but requires careful selection of weapons and spells to maximize its potential.

15. Intelligence/Arcane (INT/ARC) Build

Ranked lowest, not for its lack of viability but due to its complex requirements and limited weapon/spell synergy. It's challenging to optimize but can be rewarding for players interested in a unique playstyle that leverages both intelligence and arcane spells.

While this tier list ranks the various builds from best to worst based on their general effectiveness in the latest patch, remember that Elden Ring's flexibility allows any build to thrive under the right circumstances. Experimentation and personal preference often lead to the most enjoyable gameplay experiences, so feel free to explore beyond what is considered top-tier.