Stop Buffing, Start Bonking: Players Slam Over-Reliance on Showy Cosmetics in Elden Ring Builds
The central argument focuses on build optimization in Elden Ring, specifically weighing the time sink of magical buffs against raw damage output.
The divide pits pure damage efficiency against aesthetic fulfillment. Some players, like teft, argue aggressively that pure 'bonk' maximization trumps all else. Meanwhile, WolfLink points to the 'vibes'—the enjoyment of a 'sword wizard with a glowing sword'—as a valid, non-efficiency-based reason for using buffs. On the other side, MissingInteger counters that buff preparation wastes time; 'it would take longer to buff-up than to actually kill the boss.' Furthermore, Kolanaki pointed out that relying on consumable items for enhancements diminishes the need to level up skills just to cast buffs.
Efficiency metrics are leading the conversation. The overall sentiment suggests that while the aesthetic appeal of complex buffing rituals exists, the pragmatic community weight leans toward direct damage output. The fault line remains between those who prioritize peak, rapid damage against a clock and those who value the build's visual identity.
Key Points
Direct damage ('bonk') is the most efficient path to victory.
teft declared focusing purely on 'bonk' overrides the need for supplementary spells. MissingInteger backed this, noting buff time can exceed boss fight duration.
Buffs are increasingly accessible via consumables, weakening the need for skill points.
Kolanaki stressed that items like physick and perfumes reduce the reliance on casting buffs from character levels.
The utility of buffs is sometimes hampered by poor system knowledge.
Kolanaki observed in co-op play that players frequently waste mana casting buffs due to incorrect stack management.
Buffing rituals are sometimes driven by aesthetics rather than mechanical necessity.
WolfLink provided the counter-argument, stating the motivation for buffs can be purely experiential, aiming for 'vibes.'
Timing complex buffs must be precise for maximum tactical impact.
Skua gave specific tactical advice to use Law of Regression last to prevent opponent counter-buffing.
Source Discussions (3)
This report was synthesized from the following Lemmy discussions, ranked by community score.