Spirit Ashes is a gameplay mechanic in Elden Ring that aids players in their journey, providing support in battles and quests. You can summon these creatures that take the shape of different entities or enemies found throughout the game.
A Spirit Calling Bell is required to summon the Spirit Ashes and it allows you to summon them in specific areas, particularly before a challenge or a boss fight. Unlocking the right spirit ashes at the right moment can enhance your gameplay experience and overcome the toughest enemies easily.
5 Spirit Ashes that will help you survive during the early game in Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree
1. Curseblade Meera
The Curseblade Meera ashes in the Shadow of the Erdtree is a swift and powerful spirit ash that wields a pair of shimmering circular blades hence, creating a spectacular dance of death as she attacks. Her attack speed and agility make her a formidable ally in battles as she can quickly finish off enemies.
Defeat the Cursblade Labrinth at the Bonny Gaol to claim this spirit ash.
Use this spirit ash against a mob of smaller enemies where she can unleash her true potential allowing you to focus on larger threats. Summoning her at the start of the battle will help you take advantage of the initial burst damage and quick attacks.
2. Black Knight Captain Huw
The Black Knight Captain Huw is a powerful addition to the Shadow of Erdtree who uses a twinblade and casts spells. This unique blend of melee attacks and magical power makes him valuable spirit ash during the boss battles.
Head to the Scorpion River Catacombs and navigate your way past the crushing spike traps in the L-shaped corridor. Defeat the enemies guarding the coffin to claim the spirit ash from the coffin at the end.
Use Huw to distract the enemies and weaken them with magic while you engage them. When fighting with any boss, you may summon Huw who can provide critical support with his spellcasting.
3. Divine Bird Warrior Ornis
The Divine Bird Warrior Ornis is a majestic spirit ash that will summon the spirit of Ornis wearing heavy armor. Ornis is a powerful soldier who can dominate the battlefield from the sky using his wings and divine power to bring down enemies.
Head to the Temple Town Ruins Site of Grace and move along the purple stones and Kindreds of Rot. Jump on the ruins and continue moving uphill. You will find a chest that contains this spirit ash.
Ornis is a powerful spirit ash due to its aerial advantage and ability to knock down enemies from specific positions from where they cannot retaliate. Use this spirit ash to weaken your foes from a distance before engaging in combat with them.
4. Messmer Soldier Ashes
The Messmer Soldier ashes can summon two soldiers from the Impaler’s army where one wields an axe while the other a spear. These soldiers can use their charged attacks thereby providing excellent support during battles.
Reach the Fort of Reprimand and make your way to the north in the direction of the gallows from the courtyard. Claim this spirit ash from the graves just outside the fort.
Summon the Messmer’s Soldiers while facing hordes of enemies as they are particularly effective in breaking their formations and creating openings for you to attack. The soldiers can help in providing support while you can engage in the battle from a safe distance.
5. Swordhand of Night Jolan
The Swordhand of Night Jolan carries a black sword that can penetrate any guard thereby making her a powerful offensive spirit.
Reach the Cathedral of Manus Metyr and complete the finger questline for Count Ymir. When you have obtained the Iris of Grace, hand it over to Count Ymir to receive the spirit ashes.
One drawback of using the Swordhand of Night John is its high FP cost thus limiting its frequent use.