How These 22 Elden Ring Weapons Use Vertical Hitboxes to Advantage
In Elden Ring, understanding the mechanics behind weapon hitboxes can give you a significant edge in combat. Vertical hitboxes, in particular, are a unique feature that some weapons utilize to hit enemies above or below the user’s level, making them invaluable in certain scenarios. Whether you’re fighting large foes or engaging multiple enemies at different elevations, these weapons offer strategic advantages that are worth mastering.
Here, we’ll dive into 22 Elden Ring weapons that effectively use vertical hitboxes, explaining how this mechanic can enhance your gameplay and provide new ways to approach battles.
Why Vertical Hitboxes Matter
Vertical hitboxes extend the effective range of your attacks up and down, allowing you to strike enemies on ledges, flying creatures, or bosses with multi-level attacks. This becomes especially useful in narrow corridors, multi-tiered arenas, or when enemies jump or stagger above your horizontal plane.
22 Weapons That Excel with Vertical Hitboxes
GreatswordsGreatswords, like the Claymore or Zweihander, use vertical swings that can catch airborne or staggered enemies. Their wide arcs and vertical range make them versatile in both PvE and PvP.
Colossal WeaponsColossal weapons such as the Greatsword or Dragon Slayer deal massive damage with sweeping vertical hits, making them ideal for hitting multiple enemies on stairs or platforms.
HalberdsWeapons like the Lucerne utilize upward thrusts combined with wide vertical arcs to exploit vertical hitboxes efficiently.
Curved GreatswordsCurved greatswords, including the Moonveil, offer fast, fluid vertical attacks that cover high and low ground quickly.
TwinbladesWhile mostly horizontal, certain twinblade moves include vertical slashes that can surprise foes jumping over your head.
Spears and PikesWith their extended reach, weapons such as the Partisan can strike upward and downward, especially with charged thrusts.
KatanasKatanas like the Uchigatana have vertical slashes that catch airborne enemies or foes on different elevations.
GreathammersThese weapons produce devastating vertical downward smashes that excel at stagger and knockdown.
DaggersSome daggers have upward stabbing moves, useful for countering jumping attacks.
WhipsWhips use long vertical arcs that can hit enemies around corners or in elevated positions.
ReapersReapers’ sweeping vertical swings make them perfect for crowd control in areas with uneven terrain.
ScythesScythes combine horizontal and vertical hits, which are effective in multi-level combat zones.
Twin GreatswordsThese weapons’ dual vertical slashes allow for rapid, layered attacks from different angles.
AxesCertain axes include overhead chops that utilize vertical hitboxes to bypass shields or hit crouching enemies.
Claws and TalonsThese fast weapons often have vertical follow-up strikes that can chain into combos.
FlailsFlails’ swinging attacks naturally cover vertical space due to their momentum.
Greatbows and BowsWhile not melee, certain charged shots have an arc that mimics vertical hitboxes to hit enemies on different heights.
Catalysts and SealsSome sorceries and incantations use vertical hitboxes, especially AoE spells that radiate upward and downward.
Greatshield BashWhile primarily defensive, the shield bash has a vertical hitbox useful for interrupting enemies.
Throwing WeaponsCertain throwing knives and knives have arcs that can be adjusted for vertical targeting.
Sacred SealsSome weapon arts from sacred seals produce vertical slashes that complement melee attacks.
Unique Boss WeaponsWeapons like Dragon Slayer or Morgott’s Cursed Sword have unique vertical attack patterns inspired by their bosses.
Using Vertical Hitboxes Effectively
To get the most out of these weapons, position yourself strategically. Use the vertical reach to attack enemies hiding above ledges or to hit aerial foes before they land. Combining vertical hitboxes with stamina management and timing can let you dominate difficult bosses or crowd control in PvP.
If you find yourself struggling to upgrade or acquire these weapons, consider how to buy Elden Ring runes efficiently to level up your gear. Additionally, keeping a stash of essential Elden Ring Items will help you maintain your offensive and defensive capabilities in prolonged fights.
Mastering vertical hitboxes in Elden Ring opens up new avenues in combat strategy. The 22 weapons listed above show how vertical reach isn’t just a novelty but a powerful tool to control the battlefield and adapt to varied enemy placements. Experiment with these weapons, refine your timing, and use vertical hitboxes to your advantage to gain an edge in the challenging world of the Lands Between.