How to Do Multiplayer in Elden Ring: A Guide to Summoning Chaos and Cooperation

Elden Ring, the critically acclaimed action RPG from FromSoftware, has captivated players with its vast open world, challenging combat, and deep lore. One of the most intriguing aspects of the game is its multiplayer system, which allows players to summon allies or invade others’ worlds. However, the multiplayer mechanics in Elden Ring can be as cryptic as the game’s narrative, leaving many players wondering how to fully engage with this feature. In this guide, we’ll explore the various ways to do multiplayer in Elden Ring, from summoning friends to invading strangers, and everything in between.

Understanding the Basics of Multiplayer

Before diving into the specifics, it’s essential to understand the foundational elements of Elden Ring’s multiplayer system. The game employs a unique blend of cooperative and competitive multiplayer, allowing players to either help each other or engage in PvP (Player vs. Player) combat. The primary tools for multiplayer interaction are the Summoning Signs and the Invasion Items.

Summoning Signs

Summoning Signs are the primary method for cooperative play. These signs appear on the ground and can be activated to summon another player into your world. There are two main types of Summoning Signs:

1. Golden Summon Signs: These are placed by players who wish to assist others. Activating a Golden Summon Sign will summon a friendly player to help you in your journey.
2. Red Summon Signs: These are placed by players who want to engage in PvP combat. Activating a Red Summon Sign will summon an adversary into your world.

Invasion Items

Invasion Items are used to forcibly enter another player’s world, typically with the intent of engaging in PvP combat. The most common Invasion Item is the Festering Bloody Finger, which allows you to invade another player’s world as an adversary.

How to Summon Allies

Summoning allies in Elden Ring is a straightforward process, but it requires a few key items and conditions to be met.

Step 1: Acquire the Furlcalling Finger Remedy

The Furlcalling Finger Remedy is an essential item for summoning allies. It can be crafted using Erdleaf Flowers, which are found throughout the game world. Once you have the Furlcalling Finger Remedy, you can use it to reveal Summoning Signs in your vicinity.

Step 2: Activate the Summoning Sign

After using the Furlcalling Finger Remedy, Summoning Signs will appear on the ground. Approach a Golden Summon Sign and interact with it to summon the corresponding player into your world. Keep in mind that you can only summon players who are within your level range, so it’s essential to coordinate with friends if you plan to play together.

Step 3: Engage in Cooperative Play

Once your ally has been summoned, you can explore the world, defeat bosses, and complete objectives together. Cooperative play is an excellent way to tackle challenging areas or bosses that you might struggle with on your own.

How to Invade Other Players’ Worlds

Invading other players’ worlds is a more aggressive form of multiplayer interaction, but it can be equally rewarding. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Acquire the Festering Bloody Finger

The Festering Bloody Finger is the primary item used for invasions. It can be obtained early in the game by defeating the Bloody Finger Hunter Yura or purchased from the Twin Maiden Husks at the Roundtable Hold.

Step 2: Use the Festering Bloody Finger

Once you have the Festering Bloody Finger, you can use it to invade another player’s world. The game will search for a suitable host, and if successful, you’ll be transported to their world as an adversary.

Step 3: Engage in PvP Combat

Upon entering the host’s world, your objective is to defeat them. Be prepared for a challenging fight, as the host may have allies or be well-prepared for invaders. Successfully defeating the host will reward you with Runes and other valuable items.

Advanced Multiplayer Strategies

While the basics of multiplayer in Elden Ring are relatively simple, there are several advanced strategies and tips that can enhance your experience.

Password Matching

If you want to play with specific friends, you can use the Password Matching system. By setting a unique password in the multiplayer menu, you and your friends can ensure that only each other’s Summoning Signs appear. This is particularly useful for coordinated playthroughs or tackling specific challenges together.

The Taunter’s Tongue

The Taunter’s Tongue is an item that increases the likelihood of being invaded. If you’re looking for more PvP action, using the Taunter’s Tongue can make your world a hotspot for invaders. However, be prepared for constant battles, as this item significantly increases the frequency of invasions.

The White Cipher Ring

The White Cipher Ring is a valuable tool for players who want to assist others in PvP situations. When activated, the White Cipher Ring will automatically summon you to another player’s world if they are invaded. This is an excellent way to engage in cooperative PvP and help other players fend off invaders.

The Blue Cipher Ring

Conversely, the Blue Cipher Ring is designed for players who want to protect others from invaders. When activated, the Blue Cipher Ring will summon you to another player’s world if they are invaded, allowing you to assist them in defeating the invader.

Multiplayer Etiquette and Tips

Engaging in multiplayer in Elden Ring can be a thrilling experience, but it’s essential to follow some basic etiquette to ensure a positive experience for everyone involved.

Respect Your Opponents

Whether you’re invading or being invaded, it’s crucial to respect your opponents. Avoid using cheap tactics or exploiting glitches, as this can ruin the experience for others. Instead, focus on honing your skills and engaging in fair combat.

Communicate with Your Allies

If you’re playing cooperatively, communication is key. Use gestures or voice chat to coordinate your actions and strategies. Working together effectively can make even the most challenging encounters manageable.

Be Prepared for Anything

Multiplayer in Elden Ring is unpredictable. You never know when you might be invaded or summoned to another player’s world. Always be prepared for combat, and keep your equipment and items in good order.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I play with friends who are at a different level than me?

A: Yes, but there are level restrictions. You can only summon or be summoned by players who are within a certain level range. Using Password Matching can bypass these restrictions, allowing you to play with friends regardless of level.

Q: What happens if I die during an invasion?

A: If you die during an invasion, you’ll be returned to your world, and you’ll lose any Runes you were carrying. However, you can retrieve your Runes by returning to the location where you died.

Q: Can I summon more than one ally at a time?

A: Yes, you can summon up to two allies at a time using Golden Summon Signs. However, summoning multiple allies may increase the likelihood of being invaded.

Q: How do I stop being invaded?

A: If you want to avoid invasions, you can play in offline mode or use the White Cipher Ring to summon help when invaded. Additionally, avoiding the use of the Taunter’s Tongue will reduce the frequency of invasions.

Q: Can I invade specific players?

A: No, invasions are random, and you cannot choose specific players to invade. However, using Password Matching can allow you to invade friends if they are using the same password.

Conclusion

Multiplayer in Elden Ring offers a rich and dynamic experience, blending cooperative and competitive elements in a way that enhances the game’s already deep and engaging world. Whether you’re summoning allies to tackle a challenging boss or invading another player’s world for some PvP action, the multiplayer system in Elden Ring provides endless opportunities for adventure and excitement. By understanding the mechanics, utilizing advanced strategies, and following proper etiquette, you can make the most of your multiplayer experience in Elden Ring. So, grab your Furlcalling Finger Remedy, prepare your Festering Bloody Finger, and dive into the chaotic and cooperative world of Elden Ring multiplayer!