U4GM - How to Master Horseback Combat in Elden Ring: 7 Essential Tips
Horseback combat in Elden Ring is a thrilling and dynamic aspect of the game that offers players a chance to engage in high-speed, long-range battles. While it may seem intimidating at first, mastering the art of mounted combat can give you a significant advantage when facing tough enemies or exploring the vast world of the Lands Between. In this guide, we’ll go over seven essential tips to help you become a proficient rider in Elden Ring Runes.

1. Get Comfortable with the Mounted Controls
Before you dive into horseback combat, it's crucial to get familiar with the mounted controls. Unlike regular on-foot combat, riding requires you to balance between mobility and attack timing. Spend some time in the early game practicing with your steed, Torrent. Use the left analog stick to control the movement of your mount, and the right stick to adjust the camera. Understanding how to maneuver effectively on horseback will help you get the upper hand in any fight.
2. Master Your Attacks on Horseback
Mounted combat in Elden Ring allows for both light and heavy attacks while riding. Light attacks can be performed by pressing R1 (on PlayStation or Xbox controllers), while heavy attacks are done using R2 (or RT). These attacks are fast and can be chained together, giving you a chance to keep your enemies on the defensive. Additionally, while riding, you can also perform special attacks using your mounted weapon. Experiment with different attack combinations to find the one that suits your playstyle best.
3. Use Your Speed to Your Advantage
One of the greatest benefits of horseback combat is your ability to move quickly across the battlefield. Use your mount’s speed to your advantage by staying mobile and outmaneuvering your enemies. This can be particularly helpful when facing large bosses or groups of enemies. By constantly moving, you’ll make it harder for enemies to hit you while also creating opportunities to land devastating strikes.
4. Equip the Right Gear for Mounted Combat
While Elden Ring offers a wide range of weapons and armor, not all gear is optimized for mounted combat. When choosing weapons, look for those that are effective on horseback, such as lances, spears, and curved swords. These weapons offer a balance of range and speed, making them perfect for mounted encounters. Additionally, consider equipping lighter armor to maintain your speed and mobility while riding.
5. Don’t Forget About Your Stamina
Stamina management is critical when engaging in mounted combat. Each attack and movement drains your stamina, and if you run out, you’ll be vulnerable to enemy attacks. Keep an eye on your stamina bar and be mindful of how much you’re using when attacking or dodging. If you find yourself low on stamina, take a moment to back off and recover before re-engaging your opponent.
6. Purchase Elden Ring Runes for Upgrades
In order to further enhance your abilities on horseback, you can use Elden Ring Runes to upgrade your stats. Runes are essential for leveling up your character and acquiring better equipment, which can improve your mounted combat effectiveness. If you find yourself struggling to gather enough Runes, you can always choose to purchase Elden Ring Runes from trusted sources to make sure you stay ahead of the curve.
7. Learn to Dodge Effectively
Dodging is just as important on horseback as it is on foot. While riding, you can perform quick rolls to evade incoming attacks. This can be a game-changer when fighting faster enemies or bosses that deal heavy damage. Timing is key—mastering your dodges will keep you alive longer and allow you to get in those crucial counterattacks.
Mastering horseback combat in Elden Ring can elevate your gameplay and give you an edge in battles. By getting comfortable with the mounted controls, selecting the right gear, and utilizing your speed, you’ll be able to take on enemies with ease. Don’t forget to level up and purchase Elden Ring Runes to further improve your character’s capabilities. With these tips in hand, you’ll be ready to conquer the Lands Between, one horseback fight at a time.