Boss fights in Elden Ring can be punishing, but the right preparation can turn an overwhelming encounter into a manageable one. Whether you're on your first playthrough or gearing up for New Game+, using your Elden Ring Runes wisely and fine-tuning your setup before facing a major foe can make all the difference. Here are 27 tips to help you prepare smarter and fight better.

1. Level with Purpose
Don’t just dump Runes into random stats. Tailor your level-ups to your build—Dex for speed, Strength for power, Mind for spell usage, and so on.

2. Keep Backup Runes Handy
Golden Runes and Hero’s Runes are great for emergency upgrades. Don’t pop them right away; save them for when you really need a stat boost or gear upgrade before a boss.

3. Memorize Boss Patterns
If you’ve failed a few times, take a moment to study the boss’s moveset rather than rushing in again. Knowledge saves Runes.

4. Upgrade Weapons First
Before spending Runes on leveling up your character, make sure your weapon is appropriately upgraded for the stage of the game you're in.

5. Don’t Forget Your Spirit Ashes
Summons like Mimic Tear or Lhutel the Headless can make fights dramatically easier. Strengthen them at Roderika in Roundtable Hold.

6. Use Buffs Strategically
Talismans, incantations, and items that temporarily boost your damage or defense can be the edge you need. Consider stacking buffs before the fog gate.

7. Manage Rune Loss Carefully
If you're about to attempt a tough boss, don’t carry a massive number of Runes with you. Spend or store them first.

8. Get the Flask of Wondrous Physick
Mix a custom effect that suits your build—healing, stamina recovery, or increased damage—to drink right before entering a boss arena.

9. Respec When Needed
If you’ve collected Larval Tears, don’t hesitate to respec at Rennala to optimize your stats for a specific boss challenge.

10. Prepare for Status Effects
Some bosses rely on Frostbite, Bleed, or Madness. Equip gear and talismans that counter those effects before you even enter the fight.

11. Scout the Arena
Use your first attempt to take in the size and layout of the battlefield. Some fights give you terrain advantages—use them.

12. Stack Rune Gain Talismans
For bosses you’re confident in defeating, equip items that boost Rune acquisition for a better payoff.

13. Experiment with Ashes of War
A simple change in Ash can drastically alter how effective your weapon is in a boss fight. Find one that complements your playstyle.

14. Don’t Underestimate Shields
Even if you’re a dodge-heavy build, sometimes a shield can buy you a second to heal or recover stamina.

15. Practice Your Rolling
I-frames can make or break a fight. Practice timing your rolls to evade, not just to get away.

16. Stock Up on Boluses
Anti-poison, anti-rot, and other boluses can save you mid-fight if a boss inflicts status effects.

17. Craft or Buy Buffing Pots
Magic and Fire Pots can be surprisingly effective against certain enemies. Test what works.

18. Know Your Rune Routes
Before committing to a boss attempt, farm some safe nearby areas if you're short on Runes or upgrade materials.

19. Don’t Be Afraid to Leave and Return Later
Some bosses are better tackled after a few more levels or upgrades. Come back stronger.

20. Use Summon Signs
Bringing in help—NPC or player—can distract the boss and give you breathing room.

21. Keep Your Gear Flexible
Be ready to switch talismans, weapons, or armor if a fight is going poorly.

22. Watch How Others Beat It
Sometimes seeing how another player approaches the fight can open your eyes to new strategies.

23. Use Rune Arcs Wisely
Activating your Great Rune with a Rune Arc gives you significant boosts. Don’t forget to use them.

24. Optimize Stamina Management
Don’t spam attacks. Focus on pacing to ensure you always have enough stamina to dodge or block.

25. Find and Upgrade Your Flask
Golden Seeds and Sacred Tears are essential. Don’t go into major fights with underpowered healing.

26. Scout the Best Loot
Some fights are easier with the right gear. The best place to buy Elden Ring items can help players quickly test builds and setups.

27. Save Time with Reliable Rune Sources
For those tired of Rune farming, many turn to the best site to buy Elden Ring Runes to fast-track character development and prep.

Bosses in Elden Ring are brutal but beatable. Preparation isn’t just about grinding—it’s about understanding your tools, your stats, and your environment. Use your Runes wisely, and you’ll be slicing through demigods in no time.