Elden Ring, the critically acclaimed action RPG from FromSoftware, offers players a wealth of tools to overcome its challenging battles. Among the most useful are Spirit Ashes, summonable allies that can turn the tide of combat in your favor. However, using them effectively requires understanding their mechanics and choosing the right ones for each situation. In this guide, we’ll explore how to maximize the potential of Spirit Ashes and highlight some of the best Elden Ring items to complement them.
Understanding Spirit Ashes
Spirit Ashes are special summons that allow you to call spectral allies during boss fights or in particularly tough areas. Unlike traditional co-op summons, Spirit Ashes don’t require multiplayer and can be used as long as you have FP (Focus Points) and a Rebirth Monument (the glowing tombstone icon) is active in the area.
To use Spirit Ashes:
Assign them to your quick items or pouch for easy access.
Ensure you have enough FP (or use a Cerulean Hidden Tear in your Flask of Wondrous Physick for zero FP cost).
Look for the Rebirth Monument symbol near boss arenas or difficult encounters.
Choosing the Right Spirit Ash
Not all Spirit Ashes are created equal—some excel in tanking damage, while others deal high DPS or provide support. Here are some top picks:
Mimic Tear Ash: One of the strongest Elden Ring items, this summon creates a copy of your character, including weapons, armor, and spells. It’s incredibly versatile and scales with your build.
Black Knife Tiche: A high-damage assassin that dodges attacks and reduces enemy HP with her blade’s destined death effect.
Greatshield Soldiers: A group of tanky summons that can distract bosses while you attack from a safe distance.
Latenna the Albinauric: A ranged specialist who fires arrows from a stationary position, ideal for drawing aggro in large arenas.
Enhancing Spirit Ashes
To make your summons even stronger, upgrade them with Elden Ring items like Grave Glovewort and Ghost Glovewort, found in catacombs and other underground areas. Higher upgrade levels significantly improve their survivability and damage output.
Synergizing with Your Build
Your playstyle should influence which Spirit Ash you use:
Melee Builds: Pair with a tanky summon like the Banished Knight Oleg to draw enemy attention.
Mage Builds: Use ranged summons like Latenna to keep foes distracted while you cast spells.
Hybrid Builds: The Mimic Tear adapts to your loadout, making it an excellent all-rounder.
Final Tips
Always check for the Rebirth Monument before engaging a boss.
Manage your FP—some summons cost a lot, so consider using FP-restoring items.
Experiment with different Spirit Ashes to find the best fit for each encounter.
By mastering Spirit Ashes and utilizing the right Elden Ring items, you can make even the toughest battles more manageable. Whether you need a distraction, extra damage, or a full-on ally, these spectral companions are invaluable in your journey through the Lands Between.
