Elden Ring: 23 Tips for Efficient Co-op Play

CrimsonPhoenix

Whether you're summoning friends to tackle a tough boss or joining a stranger’s world to help clear an area, co-op in Elden Ring offers a unique and rewarding way to experience the Lands Between. But navigating multiplayer isn't always intuitive. From summoning mechanics to rune management, here are 23 practical tips to make your co-op sessions more efficient, enjoyable, and rune-rich.

1. Understand the Summoning System
Before you dive into co-op, make sure you fully understand how summoning works. You'll need the Furlcalling Finger Remedy to see summoning signs, and your partner must use the Tarnished’s Furled Finger to place one.

2. Use Password Matching
Setting a multiplayer password ensures you and your friends can connect reliably without being interrupted by random players. It also syncs level ranges and matchmaking parameters for smoother sessions.

3. Stick to Compatible Areas
You can only summon in areas where you haven’t defeated the boss. Once the boss is gone, the game disables co-op in that region, so plan accordingly.

4. Optimize Your Build for Support
If you're joining someone else's world, consider a build that prioritizes healing, buffs, or crowd control. Being useful doesn't always mean dealing the most damage.

5. Bring Plenty of Elden Ring Items
Always stock up on multiplayer essentials. Items like Neutralizing Boluses, Preserving Boluses, or Stanching Boluses can help keep you and your allies alive through poison swamps and blood loss-heavy fights.

6. Watch Your Rune Gains
When you defeat enemies in another player's world, you'll still earn Elden Ring Runes, but at a reduced rate. However, since you face less risk of rune loss while assisting, it’s a great way to farm safely.

7. Use the Taunter's Tongue Wisely
Want more PvP action? Activating the Taunter’s Tongue allows for multiple invaders, making co-op sessions more chaotic but also more rewarding.

8. Communicate Off-Mic with Gestures
The game’s gesture system is surprisingly robust. Use it to communicate plans, directions, or even celebrate victories if you're not on voice chat.

9. Bring Ranged Options
Not every host wants to run into melee range. Carry at least one ranged weapon or spell to provide backup during boss fights or ambushes.

10. Stay Close but Not Cluttered
It’s easy to overwhelm narrow areas with three players. Give each other room, especially when casting or swinging wide weapons like greatswords.

11. Equip Rune-Boosting Talismans
Talismans like the Gold Scarab can enhance your rune gain during co-op sessions. It's especially helpful when you’re farming in someone else’s world.

12. Take Turns Hosting
Rotate who gets summoned. That way, everyone progresses through their own game and reaps boss rewards and item pickups.

13. Know When You’ll Get Kicked
Once a major boss is defeated in co-op, all summoned players are automatically returned to their world. Make sure you grab any Elden Ring Items or treasure before triggering boss arenas.

14. Keep an Eye on Enemy Scaling
Enemies scale when more players are present, making them tougher. Don’t assume your usual tactics will work as effectively in multiplayer.

15. Use Environment Traps Tactically
Co-op can be chaotic, but some dungeons offer traps that can damage enemies. Lure foes into them to save stamina and healing.

16. Mark Co-op Hotspots
Some areas, like Moghwyn Palace or Mountaintops of the Giants, are especially active for co-op. Setting your sign here increases chances of being summoned quickly.

17. Don’t Forget Spirit Ashes Are Disabled
When playing co-op, you can’t use Spirit Ashes. Make sure your build can handle mobs without relying on summons.

18. Be Generous with Buffs
If you’re running a faith build, use buffs like Blessing of the Erdtree or Golden Vow to empower the whole team. The benefits are shared during co-op.

19. Split Up During Exploration
While it's tempting to stick together, sometimes it’s better to fan out. One player can pull aggro while others clear enemies or activate shortcuts.

20. Equip Lightweight Gear
Mobility is key in multiplayer. A fast roll can save you from both invaders and boss attacks, so consider lowering your equip load.

21. Don't Hoard Consumables
Use items like Throwing Daggers or Sleep Pots to create openings in battle. Many Elden Ring Items are easily replenishable, so don’t be stingy.

22. Help Low-Level Players with Respect
If you're over-leveled and helping new players, avoid steamrolling bosses. Let them take part in the fight so they can learn mechanics and enjoy the challenge.

23. Celebrate the Victories
Take a moment to bask in a successful boss kill or tricky area clear. Whether it's a jump of joy or a silent bow, acknowledging the teamwork adds a satisfying rhythm to co-op play.

Co-op in Elden Ring isn't just about beating bosses — it's about learning timing, strategy, and synergy with others. With the right preparation and mindset, you can turn any session into an efficient, rune-filled adventure. Whether you’re farming Elden Ring Runes or collecting rare Elden Ring Items, teamwork makes every journey through the Lands Between more rewarding.