Elden Ring, FromSoftware's critically acclaimed action RPG, offers a massive world full of secrets, challenging foes, and, of course, a wide array of items. While some of the most powerful and useful items in the game are well-known among players, there are several hidden gems that speedrunners frequently overlook. These underrated Elden Ring items can make a significant difference for those trying to complete the game in record time. In this article, we’ll dive into some of the most underrated Elden Ring items for speedrunners, which you should keep an eye out for in your next playthrough.

1. Radagon’s Scarseal

One of the lesser-known items in the Elden Ring items list, Radagon’s Scarseal might seem like a risky choice at first due to its increased damage taken. However, when used in combination with high mobility or defensive items, it can be a powerful tool for speedrunners. The added boost to various stats, especially Strength, Dexterity, and Vigor, allows players to deal more damage and survive tougher encounters. For speedrunners who are focusing on aggression rather than defense, Radagon’s Scarseal is an excellent choice.

2. Flask of Wondrous Physick (Specific Mixes)

While most players are familiar with the Flask of Wondrous Physick, many speedrunners overlook the potential of mixing specific Crystal Tears to optimize their speedrunning builds. By using the right combination of Tears, such as the Strength-knot Crystal Tear and the Stamina-knot Crystal Tear, players can enhance their stamina regeneration and damage output significantly. This allows for faster traversal and quicker fights, making it one of the most underrated Elden Ring items when used wisely.

3. Smoldering Wall

Smoldering Wall is a shield that offers a surprising bonus for speedrunners, thanks to its ability to temporarily increase the player’s damage output when attacking. Though shields aren’t typically associated with speedrunning, Smoldering Wall is unique because it boosts damage during its active effect. For those looking to maximize their DPS while avoiding unnecessary downtime, this shield offers both a defensive and offensive advantage that can save precious seconds during boss fights.

4. Beast Roar

Although not traditionally considered an item in the conventional sense, Beast Roar is an incantation that can be incredibly useful for speedrunners. It allows players to stagger enemies, even large bosses, at a distance. This can be particularly helpful when trying to avoid getting caught in the heat of battle and wasting time on long, drawn-out encounters. When paired with a build that focuses on intelligence and dexterity, Beast Roar can be a game-changer for those seeking faster boss kills and smoother progression.

5. Golden Scarab

Often overshadowed by more combat-focused items, the Golden Scarab is a critical item for any speedrunner looking to optimize their route through Elden Ring. The Golden Scarab increases the number of runes you obtain from defeated enemies by 20%. This may seem like a small boost, but when combined with efficient routes and quick kills, it can provide an important advantage. The additional runes mean that you can level up more quickly, giving you access to stronger builds and faster traversal, which are key to improving speedrun times.

6. Flame, Cleanse Me

Flame, Cleanse Me is an incantation that removes poison and scarlet rot, conditions that can dramatically slow down your progress during a speedrun. Speedrunners will often encounter sections where poison or scarlet rot builds up quickly, especially in regions like Caelid or the Forbidden Lands. Having this incantation at the ready means you can bypass potential delays and continue moving forward without wasting time on antidotes or other slower methods of healing. This item is especially valuable for players who want to avoid unnecessary detours during their runs.

7. Radiant Lifesteal Fist

A hidden gem among the Elden Ring items, the Radiant Lifesteal Fist is a tool that allows players to heal with each successful hit. Speedrunners often need a reliable way to recover health during encounters, and this weapon can be the perfect solution. It provides both damage and sustainability, making it an excellent choice when navigating longer sections of the game without frequent bonfire stops. While it’s not the most flashy weapon, it offers a distinct advantage in maintaining health and momentum.

8. Purifying Crystal Tear

This is another overlooked Crystal Tear that speedrunners can take advantage of. The Purifying Crystal Tear provides immunity to poison and scarlet rot for a limited time, making it a crucial item when traversing the more dangerous zones of Elden Ring. For speedrunners, the ability to move through these hazardous areas without being slowed down by poison or rot buildup can significantly reduce their overall time spent on environmental hazards.

While the Elden Ring items list contains a wealth of useful tools, these underrated items offer speedrunners distinct advantages that many players overlook. Whether it’s the damage boosts from Radagon’s Scarseal or the strategic mobility granted by specific Flask of Wondrous Physick combinations, these items can be the key to shaving off valuable seconds during your speedrun. As you continue to hone your skills and refine your route through the Lands Between, consider incorporating some of these hidden gems into your strategy for a faster, more efficient playthrough.