Elden Ring Watchdogs Greatsword: The Ultimate Guide

Introduction

The Watchdogs Greatsword is a colossal weapon in Elden Ring, wielded by the enigmatic Watchdogs of Farum Azula. With its towering size, intimidating appearance, and formidable power, this greatsword has become a sought-after weapon for players looking to conquer the Lands Between.

Stats and Scaling

Physical Damage: 126 + 28
Magical Damage: 37
Critical: 130
Status Effects: Shockwave
Scaling:
Strength: S
Dexterity: E
Intelligence: E
Faith: E
Arcane: D

Skill: Watchdog's Charge

The Watchdog's Charge skill is a devastating attack that grants the greatsword a massive shockwave. When activated, the user charges forward, striking the ground and unleashing a powerful wave of force that deals significant physical damage and knocks back nearby enemies.

Acquiring the Watchdogs Greatsword

To obtain the Watchdogs Greatsword, players must defeat the Watchdog boss in the Crumbling Farum Azula region. This formidable opponent is located in the eastern part of the area, near the Temple of Eiglay.

Combat Effectiveness

The Watchdogs Greatsword excels in close-quarters combat and excels at dealing massive damage to multiple enemies. Its wide swing arcs and shockwave ability allow players to clear out groups of foes with ease. However, its slow swing speed and limited reach can make it vulnerable to fast-moving enemies and ranged attacks.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths:

• Immense physical damage: Deals high base damage and scales exceptionally well with Strength.
• Crowd control: The Watchdog's Charge skill can simultaneously damage and knock back multiple enemies.
• Shockwave effect: The shockwave generated from the Watchdog's Charge can deal additional damage to enemies caught in the blast.

Weaknesses:

• Slow swing speed: The greatsword's attacks are quite slow, making it less effective against fast opponents.
• Limited reach: The Watchdogs Greatsword has a relatively short reach, making it difficult to hit enemies from a distance.
• Vulnerability to ranged attacks: The slow swing speed makes the user vulnerable to ranged attacks during the attack animation.

Tips for Using the Watchdogs Greatsword

• Maximize Strength: Focus on leveling up Strength to enhance the greatsword's damage output.
• Use the Watchdog's Charge sparingly: The skill can be extremely powerful but consumes a large amount of FP.
• Combine with jump attacks: Jumping while using the Watchdog's Charge can extend its reach and surprise enemies.
• Watch for enemy movements: Pay attention to enemy attack patterns and use the greatsword's slow swing speed to anticipate and counter attacks.

Build Recommendations

• Strength-Focused Warrior: Level up Strength and equip heavy armor and talismans that boost Strength and physical damage.
• Faith-Hybrid Warrior: Combine Strength with Faith and use incantations to enhance the greatsword's power and crowd control capabilities.
• Bleed-Focused Berserker: Infuse the Watchdogs Greatsword with Bloodflame to inflict bleed damage on enemies and increase its damage potential.

FAQs

1. Is the Watchdogs Greatsword good for PvP? Yes, the greatsword can be effective in PvP if used strategically, but it requires precise timing and spacing.
2. What is the best way to farm for the Watchdogs Greatsword? The Watchdog boss in Crumbling Farum Azula has a 10% chance of dropping the greatsword upon defeat.
3. Can the Watchdogs Greatsword be buffed or enchanted? Yes, the greatsword can be buffed with spells, ashes of war, and consumables.
4. Is the Watchdogs Greatsword worth using? The Watchdogs Greatsword is a powerful and satisfying weapon for Strength-based characters who enjoy close-quarters combat and crowd control.
5. How do I parry the Watchdog's Charge skill? Parry the initial charge and then immediately dodge the shockwave.
6. What is the best talisman to use with the Watchdogs Greatsword? The Great-Jar's Arsenal talisman can greatly increase the user's equip load, allowing for heavier armor and more weapons.
7. Can I respec my character after getting the Watchdogs Greatsword? Yes, you can use the respec option to change your character's attributes at Rennala's Rise.
8. Is there a unique weapon art associated with the Watchdogs Greatsword? No, the Watchdogs Greatsword does not have its unique weapon art.