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Kiplinlen

Elden Ring Nightreign Guardian Build: Best Setup

1 min read

Elden Ring cover image

A shield-and-halberd build that leans on Steel Guard and Whirlwind to protect the squad rather than chase damage numbers.

An Elden Ring Nightreign Guardian build works because he is the roster's best pure tank, and the build should lean into that rather than fight it.

Weapon and shield

Halberds are his strongest fit, though axes, fists and colossal weapons all work. Always pair a shield with the main hand rather than two-handing — his Steel Guard passive needs it, reducing stamina drain when you dodge while holding guard.

Weapon skills worth running

Rallying Standard for team buffs, Tongues of Fire for poise damage, or Blood Tax, Golden Vow and Stormcaller depending on what the squad is missing.

Relics

  • Witch's Brooch — heals allies and reflects damage while his Art is up.
  • Stone Stake — extends Whirlwind and cuts its cooldown.

Talismans

Dragoncrest Shield Talisman for +15% physical negation and Erdtree's Favor for +7% HP and stamina — both push straight into his job of standing in front of the squad and not dying.