For fans of Elden Ring, the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC continues to expand upon the rich lore and intricate combat mechanics that made the original game a phenomenon. Central to improving your weaponry and enhancing your combat effectiveness in this new realm are the Ancient Dragon Smithing Stones. These rare items allow you to upgrade your weapons to an impressive level of +25, essential for tackling the formidable foes that await in this vast landscape. Understanding their locations can turn the tide in your favor, providing you with a crucial edge during intense battles. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore various chapters detailing where you can find all the Ancient Dragon Smithing Stones scattered throughout this treacherous world.
The Importance of Ancient Dragon Smithing Stones
Ancient Dragon Smithing Stones are invaluable resources for players looking to maximize their weapon power. Unlike Somber Ancient Dragon Smithing Stones, which are required for upgrading specialized weapons to level +10, the regular Ancient Dragon Smithing Stones can enhance standard weaponry. As players embark upon treacherous quests and face off against formidable bosses, having access to these stones is not just advantageous—it could mean the difference between defeat and triumph. Therefore, early identification and acquisition of these stones is crucial for any serious player.
Locating the Ancient Dragon Smithing Stones
The Easy Find: Suppressing Pillar, Gravesite Plain
As players delve into the search for Ancient Dragon Smithing Stones, their journey begins at the Suppressing Pillar in Gravesite Plain. This location offers an easily accessible stone that doesn't require players to engage in boss fights or complete labyrinthine dungeons. Riders can simply venture east from the Site of Grace situated near Castle Front. Ascend the Pillar Path, activate the lift, and you will reach the top where this valuable stone awaits.
The Ruins Await: Ruined Forge Lava Intake
To acquire the Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone located at Ruined Forge Lava Intake, players must venture into the depths of a dungeon. Completing this area will grant you access to an altar at the end, where the coveted stone can be found. This requires thorough exploration and combat to conquer the various challenges hidden within the ruins.
A Fearsome Battle: Dragon’s Pit, Gravesite Plain
Not all Ancient Dragon Smithing Stones come easily; the one found in Dragon's Pit is fiercely guarded. To claim this stone, players must defeat the formidable Magma Wyrm, a challenging enemy typical of the Elden Ring universe. With its tough hide and imposing weaponry, many players may find success easier with heavier armaments to confront this adversary. Defeating the Magma Wyrm not only allows for the acquisition of the stone but also satisfies the craving for epic confrontations.
Dark Depths and Trolls
The Underground Challenge: Ruined Forge of Starfall Past, Scadu Altus
Venturing to the Ruined Forge of Starfall Past, located south-west of Moorth Ruins in Scadu Altus, prepares players for another underground adventure. This dungeon teems with stone trolls that pose a significant threat. Successfully navigating through these dangers and reaching the dungeon's end will lead to interaction with an altar, unlocking another Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone for your arsenal.
Double the Rewards: Taylew's Ruined Forge, Rauh Base
Players should also visit Taylew's Ruined Forge, which boasts two Ancient Dragon Smithing Stones for the resourceful. Situated within the Rauh Base sub-region, players can reach it from Scadu Altus. Similar to previous locations, the first stone can be acquired by interacting with an altar at the end of the dungeon, while the second demands a bit of agility and foresight.
Jumping for Glory: The Second Stone in Taylew's Ruined Forge
To retrieve the second Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone within Taylew's Ruined Forge, players must execute a daring jump! Ascending the central drill bit and deftly leaping towards the left platform provides access to two corpses. The second corpse contains the stone, rewarding adventurous players who dare to tread where others may shy away.
A Dragon's Domain
Unearthing Treasures: Jagged Peak
As players explore Jagged Peak, known as the dominion of dragons, another Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone awaits discovery. To locate it, ascend the rocky terrains until you reach Bayle the Dread. From the Site of Grace 'Jagged Peak Mountainside', ride Torrent, using Spiritsprings to gain height. Before reaching the final spring, look carefully and spot the corpse nestled against a rocky outcrop—your reward lies in your diligence.
A Fearsome Encounter: Ancient Dragon Senessax at Jagged Peak
For those daring enough to combat optional bosses, meeting the Ancient Dragon Senessax is not just thrilling—it promises substantial rewards. This fearsome foe is protected by cunning strategies and requires thorough preparation to conquer. Upon defeating Senessax, players will receive an Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone, as well as a Somber Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone, making the encounter doubly rewarding.
The Ongoing Quest
This guide includes all the Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone locations we have discovered throughout the Shadow of the Erdtree so far. As players continue to explore this world filled with challenges and opportunities, we will update this guide with new findings. Don't forget to check back frequently as you pursue additional resources that fortify your journey; collecting Scadutree Fragments and Revered Spirit Ash can further enhance your ability to withstand the tough challenges that lie ahead in Elden Ring's expansive universe.
As you continue your adventure, it’s clear that the rewards for persistence and exploration in the Shadow of the Erdtree are well worth the trials and tribulations faced. May the path you carve be illuminated by the treasures you unearth!