Elden Ring 1.14 Patch: A Game-Changing Update

The latest patch for Elden Ring, version 1.14, has finally arrived, bringing with it a plethora of changes, buffs, nerfs, and fixes that are sure to shake up the game's balance and gameplay. In this article, we'll dive into the details of the patch, highlighting the most significant changes and what they mean for players.

Final Boss Balance Adjustments

The final boss of the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC has received a significant overhaul, with several adjustments aimed at making the fight more manageable. The cross slash attack has been slowed down, making it easier to dodge, and the boss's attack pattern has been tweaked to make it less aggressive. Additionally, the damage of some attacks has been reduced, and the stamina damage of others has been decreased. While some players may feel that these changes make the fight too easy, others will appreciate the increased accessibility.

PVP Exclusive Balance Adjustments

In the realm of PVP, several changes have been made to balance out the playing field. The damage of backhand blades, spears, and dual wield attacks has been reduced, making them less oppressive. The PO weapon, which was previously overpowered, has also been nerfed. Furthermore, the spread crossbow will no longer cause headshot damage motion when hitting another player, and skills like scattershot throw and discus hurl have been tweaked to make them less punishing.

General Balance Adjustments

One of the most significant changes in the patch is the R2 speed buff, which affects a wide range of weapon types. This buff makes it easier to land attacks on players, especially in PVP. Hand-to-hand Arts and colossal swords have also received significant buffs, making them more viable options. On the other hand, the backhand blade weapon type has been nerfed, reducing its attack speed from a crouching position.

Other Changes and Fixes

The patch includes a plethora of other changes and fixes, including increased damage negation for small and medium shields, extended attack ranges for certain weapon arts, and adjustments to the damage animation recovery time for various skills. Several bugs have also been squashed, including ones that affected the casting of certain spells, the behavior of certain weapons, and the display of area names.

What It Means for Players

The 1.14 patch is a significant update that addresses many of the community's concerns and frustrations. The changes to the final boss fight and PVP balance will make the game more accessible and enjoyable for many players. The R2 speed buff and hand-to-hand Arts buff will also give players more options and flexibility in combat. However, some players may feel that the patch doesn't go far enough in addressing certain issues, such as the balance of certain spells and weapons. Additionally, the lack of a fix for the tuners tongue issue and seamless Co-op invasions may be disappointing for some.

Overall, the 1.14 patch is a step in the right direction for Elden Ring. While it may not address every issue, it makes significant strides in improving the game's balance and gameplay. As players dive back into the world of Elden Ring, they'll find a more refined and enjoyable experience waiting for them.