Nagakiba: The Serpentblade of Elden Ring

In the vast and unforgiving world of Elden Ring, the Nagakiba stands as a formidable weapon of both elegance and lethality. This enigmatic katana, imbued with the power of the serpent, offers a unique blend of speed, reach, and damage, making it a coveted prize among Tarnished warriors seeking to conquer the Lands Between.

Origins and History

The Nagakiba's origins are shrouded in mystery, though it is believed to have been forged during the Ancient Dragon War, when the serpent-like beings known as the Draconic Tree Sentinels fought against the Golden Order. The blade was said to have been wielded by a legendary samurai who possessed the ability to control snakes, giving him an unmatched advantage on the battlefield.

After the war, the Nagakiba vanished, its whereabouts unknown for centuries. It was believed to have been lost to the annals of history, but recent expeditions into the depths of the Crumbling Farum Azula have uncovered this legendary weapon once more.

Characteristics and Abilities

The Nagakiba is a single-edged katana with a slightly curved blade, giving it both slashing and thrusting capabilities. Its serrated edge inflicts additional bleeding damage to opponents, making it a deadly choice for close-quarters combat. The blade is also imbued with the power of the serpent, giving it an eerie green glow and the ability to poison enemies with its strikes.

Key Features:

• Long reach and fast attack speed
• High base damage output
• Serrated edge for increased bleeding
• Poison buildup effect
• Graceful appearance

Acquisition and Location

The Nagakiba is a rare weapon that cannot be purchased or looted from enemies. Instead, it must be obtained by following a specific questline involving the legendary Night Cavalry boss. Players must defeat the Night Cavalry in the Summonwater Village area northwest of Limgrave to receive the weapon as a reward.

Combat and Playstyle

The Nagakiba excels in close-quarters combat, where its swift attacks and bleeding damage can quickly overwhelm opponents. Its reach and speed also make it a viable choice for kiting enemies, allowing players to strike from a distance and retreat before retaliation.

Optimal Playstyle:

• Maintain close proximity to enemies to maximize bleeding damage
• Use the weapon's reach to strike from a distance
• Combine slashing and thrusting attacks to keep opponents guessing
• Buff the weapon with consumables or sorceries to increase damage

Upgrades and Scaling

The Nagakiba scales well with Dexterity and Arcane, making it a versatile choice for builds focused on these attributes. It can be upgraded with Smithing Stones to improve its base damage and scaling, and can also be further enhanced with Ashes of War to provide additional abilities.

Upgrade Materials:

• Smithing Stones
• Somber Smithing Stones (for higher upgrade levels)

Compatible Ashes of War:

• Bloodhound's Step
• Quickstep
• Wild Strikes
• Raptor of the Mists

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths:

• Excellent damage output
• Fast attack speed and long reach
• Bleeding and poison buildup effects
• Graceful appearance

Weaknesses:

• Requires high Dexterity and Arcane to wield effectively
• Limited defensive capabilities
• Can be outmatched by weapons with longer range or higher poise damage

Comparisons and Alternatives

The Nagakiba is often compared to other katanas in Elden Ring, such as the Moonveil and the Uchi. While the Moonveil possesses a more powerful special ability, the Nagakiba's bleeding and poison buildup effects make it a stronger choice for prolonged engagements. The Uchi is a more balanced weapon with lower damage output but higher speed, making it a better choice for beginners.

Conclusion

The Nagakiba is a truly unique and powerful weapon in Elden Ring, offering a deadly combination of speed, reach, and elemental damage. Its origins in the Ancient Dragon War and its association with the Night Cavalry add to its mystique, making it a weapon that is both feared and desired by Tarnished warriors. Whether used for close-quarters combat or kiting enemies from afar, the Nagakiba is a formidable tool in the arsenal of any adventurer seeking to conquer the Lands Between.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where can I find the Nagakiba?
A: The Nagakiba is obtained as a reward for defeating the Night Cavalry boss in the Summonwater Village area.

Q: What are the Nagakiba's best attributes for scaling?
A: The Nagakiba scales best with Dexterity and Arcane.

Q: Can I use the Nagakiba with any build?
A: While the Nagakiba is versatile, it is best suited for builds focused on Dexterity and Arcane.

Q: What are the Nagakiba's weaknesses?
A: The Nagakiba's limited defensive capabilities and vulnerability to weapons with longer range or higher poise damage are its main weaknesses.

Q: How can I enhance the Nagakiba's damage output?
A: The Nagakiba can be upgraded with Smithing Stones and further enhanced with Ashes of War that provide additional abilities.