Exploring Legacy Dungeons in Elden Ring Runes is one of the most rewarding yet challenging aspects of the game. These sprawling, intricately designed areas are packed with secrets, traps, elite enemies, and some of the toughest bosses in the Lands Between. Having spent over 150 hours immersed in the world of Elden Ring, I’ve learned a few crucial strategies that help ensure every corner of a Legacy Dungeon gets the attention it deserves. Whether you're diving into Stormveil Castle or tackling Leyndell, here are 10 practical tips that can enhance your dungeon experience—and possibly save your life.

1. Prepare Your Build Before Entering

Legacy Dungeons often test every aspect of your character. Before stepping in, reassess your build. Are you leaning into strength-heavy weapons, or do you need a more balanced approach with magic support? I found respec-ing at Rennala before exploring Volcano Manor gave me a much smoother time due to its enemy types. Adjusting stats and loadouts ahead of time can make a huge difference.

2. Stock Up on Consumables

These dungeons can be long, and bonfires (Sites of Grace) may be spaced out. Always carry a healthy supply of healing flasks, boluses for poison or rot, and throwing items like Kukris or Fire Pots. You can buy Elden Ring runes from trusted sites like U4GM to help afford these consumables early without grinding.

3. Take It Slow and Observe Enemy Patterns

Enemies in Legacy Dungeons are often placed deliberately to ambush or flank. Rushing in almost always ends badly. Use your shield, corner-peeking tactics, or ranged attacks to bait enemies out. In my experience with Stormveil Castle, one wrong move often led to being surrounded.

4. Check for Illusory Walls and Hidden Passages

From secret rooms in Raya Lucaria to hidden tunnels in Nokron, Legacy Dungeons are packed with concealed routes. If something feels off—a wall with a different texture or a suspiciously empty hallway—try hitting it. I’ve discovered some powerful loot this way, including rare talismans and upgrade materials.

5. Use Spirit Ashes Wisely

Some rooms, especially in areas like the Haligtree or Farum Azula, are brutal gauntlets. Using Spirit Ashes like Lhutel the Headless or Black Knife Tiche at key moments can turn the tide. Just be sure to summon in open spaces, or they may get stuck or overwhelmed quickly.

6. Mark Your Map for Backtracking

It’s easy to miss optional bosses or hidden items when dungeons are layered vertically and full of dead ends. I use markers on the in-game map to remind myself where locked doors or unexplored paths are. This habit has helped me return later with keys or new abilities.

7. Learn Boss Patterns Through Repetition

Every major Legacy Dungeon ends with a powerful boss. Don’t get discouraged by multiple deaths. Study patterns and look for tells. Against Godrick, for example, I died a dozen times before learning his phase transition and using a tanky summon to soak damage. Persistence pays off.

8. Upgrade Weapons Regularly

Running into heavily armored knights or dragons with under-leveled weapons is asking for trouble. Use Smithing Stones and Somber Smithing Stones to enhance your gear. If you’re short on runes, Elden Ring runes buy safe through platforms like U4GM is a great way to keep your weapons and gear up to par.

9. Read Messages—But With Caution

Player messages can be helpful, warning you of traps or hidden treasures. However, some are meant to mislead. Always approach cliff jumps or suspicious walls with caution. Still, I’ve been saved more than once by a helpful “Enemy ahead” warning just around a blind corner.

10. Enjoy the Atmosphere and Lore

Legacy Dungeons are more than just battlegrounds. They are storytelling spaces rich in atmosphere. Take time to admire the architecture, enemy placement, and environmental storytelling. When I explored Leyndell for the first time, the quiet tension of the abandoned capital made every enemy encounter feel meaningful.

Fully exploring Legacy Dungeons is what makes Elden Ring so immersive and rewarding. It’s about patience, preparation, and observation. And while rune farming is always an option, you can also buy Elden Ring runes safely through reputable platforms like U4GM to keep your journey efficient and fun. With the right mindset and a bit of caution, you’ll uncover everything these masterfully crafted areas have to offer.

Quick Tip: Elden Ring Rune Pets: 4 Future Mount Ideas That Could Boost Gameplay