U4GM - 5 Easy Ways to Get Upgrade Materials Without Fighting in Elden Ring
In Elden Ring, upgrading your weapons and gear is essential to surviving the increasingly difficult challenges you’ll face. While battling tough enemies is a primary way to gather upgrade materials, there are several other methods that allow you to collect these valuable resources without lifting a sword. If you're looking for ways to get Elden Ring items like upgrade materials without having to engage in combat, here are five easy methods that will help you gather what you need without risking your health.
1. Looting from NPCs and Vendors
One of the easiest ways to get upgrade materials without fighting is to visit various NPCs and vendors throughout the Lands Between. Many of these characters sell essential Elden Ring items like Smithing Stones and other upgrade materials. For example:
Smithing Master Iji: Located near the Three Sisters in Liurnia of the Lakes, Iji sells upgrade materials and is a reliable vendor for crafting and enhancing your gear.
The Nomadic Merchant: Found in several locations, this merchant often carries a selection of upgrade materials, including somber smithing stones that can be used to upgrade special weapons.
Twin Maiden Husks: Located in Roundtable Hold, this vendor offers a variety of items for purchase, including high-tier upgrade materials once you’ve progressed further in the game.
By simply visiting these NPCs and spending your collected runes, you can gather upgrade materials without having to fight a single enemy. If you're wondering where to buy items in Elden Ring like Smithing Stones, these merchants will have the resources you're looking for.
2. Crafting Materials from the Environment
In Elden Ring, crafting is an essential mechanic that allows you to create upgrade materials from resources you find in the environment. Many crafting materials are found in specific locations, especially in areas with large concentrations of flowers, herbs, or minerals.
Dewkissed Herba: Used to craft various materials, including those that enhance your health and stamina.
Cracked Pot: Can be used for crafting various items, including upgrade materials like somber smithing stones.
Mushrooms and Flowers: Many common flowers and mushrooms are used in crafting, which can then be turned into upgrade materials at the Site of Grace.
By thoroughly exploring the environment, you can gather these materials passively. Not only will this provide you with upgrade resources, but it’ll also allow you to craft other helpful items such as healing potions and buffs.
3. Completing NPC Quests and Side Missions
Some of the best upgrade materials in Elden Ring are awarded for completing NPC side quests. Many NPCs in the game offer items, including Smithing Stones and somber smithing stones, as rewards for completing their quests. For example:
Blaidd the Half-Wolf: Blaidd offers a questline that rewards you with valuable upgrade materials.
Nepheli Loux: Completing her questline can net you a variety of upgrade items, including the rare somber smithing stones that are required for upgrading special weapons.
By taking the time to engage with NPCs and completing their side quests, you can earn a wealth of upgrade materials without having to engage in combat.
4. Exploring Hidden Caves and Ruins
Elden Ring is packed with hidden caves, ruins, and underground areas where upgrade materials can be found, often without needing to battle enemies. These places are rich with loot, including Smithing Stones, Somber Smithing Stones, and various crafting materials. Some of the easiest places to find these materials without fighting include:
Siofra River: Hidden beneath the surface of the Lands Between, this area contains many chests with valuable upgrade materials.
Underground Ruins: Many of the underground ruins, particularly those in Liurnia and Caelid, have hidden chests containing Smithing Stones and other upgrade materials.
Exploring these areas will often lead you to materials hidden in chests or lying on the ground, giving you a chance to upgrade your gear without having to engage in combat.
5. Buying Upgrade Materials on Xbox
For players on Xbox, there are also opportunities to buy items in Elden Ring, including upgrade materials. While you can find many materials through exploration and quests, if you're looking to speed up your progression, some merchants or online stores offer upgrade items for purchase. These items may be available in the in-game marketplace or through specific DLC content. While these materials might not be as plentiful as those you find through exploration, they can save you time if you want to quickly upgrade your weapons or armor.
When you’re looking to buy items in Elden Ring Xbox, keep an eye on special sales and event-based offerings, as they often provide unique resources or bundles that include upgrade materials. Always make sure to compare prices to ensure you're getting the best deal for the items you need.
Getting upgrade materials in Elden Ring doesn’t always require combat. From visiting NPC vendors and completing side quests to exploring caves and crafting materials, there are plenty of ways to gather Smithing Stones, Somber Smithing Stones, and other valuable upgrade materials without fighting. Whether you prefer exploring the world or buying items from merchants, there are numerous paths you can take to improve your gear and strengthen your character. By using these methods, you’ll ensure that your journey through Elden Ring is as efficient and rewarding as possible.

