Summary
Looking for the strongest Elden Ring builds after Patch 1.17.1? The September 8 update was only a bug-fix patch and did not change gameplay balance, meaning the powerful setups introduced or improved by Patch 1.17 remain effective. Players who want to prepare their characters faster can also buy Elden Ring Runes for leveling, upgrades, and build preparation.
1. Smithscript Throwing Build
The Smithscript setup is one of the biggest winners from Patch 1.17. Smithscript Axe, Smithscript Spear, and Smithscript Greathammer received improvements to their throwing attacks, while some also gained lower stamina costs. Spear of the Impaler also benefits from the changes.
Build around Strength/Dexterity, upgrade your preferred Smithscript weapon, and use talismans that boost charged attacks, stamina, or general physical damage. The main advantage is simple: you can pressure bosses from range without giving up strong melee options.
2. Leontiel's Greatsword Counter Build
Leontiel's Greatsword offers a powerful counter-focused playstyle introduced with the Tarnished Pack. Its stance can help you avoid attacks before immediately punishing bosses with heavy strikes.
A Strength/Dexterity/Faith hybrid works well, especially when combined with Rellana's Cameo, Shard of Alexander, Spear Talisman, and Godfrey Icon. This setup rewards good timing but can deliver huge damage when you consistently counter enemy attacks.
3. Heavy Knight Power-Stance Build
The Heavy Knight setup focuses on aggressive power-stanced attacks and heavy jump attacks. Pairing Bloodhound's Fang with another suitable curved greatsword gives you strong burst damage, bleed potential, and excellent stagger pressure.
Prioritize Dexterity and Strength, then add enough Endurance and Vigor to maintain aggressive attacks without becoming too fragile. It is particularly effective against bosses that can be pressured repeatedly.
4. Euporia Faith Build
For Faith players, Euporia remains a standout option. Its unique mechanic rewards consecutive hits, allowing you to build power before unleashing its weapon skill during a safe opening.
Pair Euporia with 80 Faith, an Erdtree Seal, and supporting Holy/Faith equipment. The build takes more preparation than straightforward melee setups, but once its buffs and attack chains are active, boss health bars can disappear surprisingly quickly.
5. Blasphemous Blade Fire/Faith Build
The classic Blasphemous Blade remains one of the safest high-damage PvE choices. Taker's Flames provides strong Fire damage, stagger potential, and healing, making it excellent for both boss fights and exploration.
Build around Faith, with enough Strength and Dexterity to meet weapon requirements. Add Shard of Alexander and Fire-boosting options to maximize skill damage. Its combination of damage, range, and sustain makes it especially comfortable for players who want an OP setup without relying on complicated combos.
Final Tips
Patch 1.17.1 itself did not nerf these builds, so players can continue using Patch 1.17's strongest setups. For fast boss kills, focus on weapon upgrades, stat scaling, talisman synergy, and maintaining your build's core damage loop. If you need extra resources for leveling and upgrades, Elden Ring Runes can also help you prepare your character for these powerful setups.
