Elden Ring’s vast world is filled with formidable foes, and to stand a chance against them, you’ll need every advantage you can get. Spirit Ashes are invaluable tools in your journey, capable of distracting enemies, dealing damage, and even providing support. However, their initial strength isn’t always enough. Upgrading your Spirit Ashes is crucial for maximizing their effectiveness, and this guide will show you exactly how to do it.
What are Spirit Ashes?
Spirit Ashes are summonable allies that you can call upon in combat, provided you’re in an area that allows summoning (typically identified by a small icon on the left side of your screen). They range from humble wolves to powerful knights, each with their own unique abilities and stats. Upgrading them boosts their overall power, making them significantly more durable and impactful in battles.
Who Upgrades Spirit Ashes?
To upgrade your Spirit Ashes, you’ll need to find Roderika and Master Hewg. Here’s how to find them and unlock their services:
- Finding Roderika: Initially, you’ll find Roderika in the Stormhill Shack, located just north of the Stormgate (the path to Stormveil Castle). She’ll be sitting inside. Speak to her and exhaust her dialogue.
- Completing her Questline (Initial Part): After speaking to her at Stormhill Shack, she will leave. You’ll then find her again at the Roundtable Hold. She’ll be sitting near the fireplace. Talk to her there and exhaust her dialogue again, and she will ask about Master Hewg.
- Talking to Master Hewg: Speak to Master Hewg, the blacksmith at Roundtable Hold. He is located near the anvil. Talk to him, and then return to Roderika and exhaust her dialogue.
- Roderika’s New Role: Roderika will then move to the table across from Master Hewg, and become the Spirit Tuner. Now she can upgrade your Ashes.
Materials for Upgrading Spirit Ashes
Upgrading Spirit Ashes requires two primary materials:
- Grave Glovewort: These are plant-like items found in catacombs, graveyards, and other underground areas. Grave Glovewort comes in different tiers (1 through 9), with higher tiers needed for higher upgrade levels of your Ashes. Glovewort [1] for lower upgrades and glovewort [9] for highest upgrades.
- Ghost Glovewort: These are the rarer variant, usually found in more challenging areas like the Deeproot Depths. Ghost Glovewort also comes in tiers (1 through 9), similar to Grave Glovewort.
Both Grave and Ghost Glovewort will be required for upgrading Ashes. You’ll need higher-tier Glovewort as your Ashes get closer to maximum upgrade potential.
The Upgrade Process – Step-by-Step
Once you’ve unlocked Roderika’s services and gathered the necessary Glovewort, you can begin upgrading your Spirit Ashes:
- Go to Roundtable Hold: Fast travel or travel to the Roundtable Hold grace.
- Talk to Roderika: Speak with Roderika. She will now be at the table next to Master Hewg.
- Select ‘Spirit Tuning’: Select the ‘Spirit Tuning’ option. This will open the Spirit Ash upgrade menu.
- Choose an Ash: Select the Spirit Ash you want to upgrade.
- Review Requirements: The menu will display the necessary Grave or Ghost Glovewort and Runes required for the upgrade.
- Confirm Upgrade: If you have the required materials, confirm the upgrade. The Rune cost will increase with every level.
- Rinse and Repeat: Continue upgrading your Ashes as you acquire more materials and Runes.
Tips for Finding Glovewort
- Explore Catacombs: Catacombs are usually good sources of Grave Glovewort.
- Search Underground: Look out for Ghost Glovewort in areas like the Deeproot Depths.
- Prioritize Exploration: Take time to thoroughly explore dungeons and the world in general.
- Use Item Discovery Equipment: Use items or talismans that boost item discovery rate for increased item drop.
- Online Guides: Consult online resources and interactive maps for specific Glovewort locations.
Key Considerations
- Ash Choices: Not all Spirit Ashes are created equal. Experiment with different ashes to find the ones that best complement your playstyle.
- Prioritize: Since Glovewort can be limited, prioritize upgrading your most used and powerful ashes first.
- Ghost Glovewort Scarcity: Ghost Glovewort are more difficult to find, so be conservative in their use.
- Runes: Upgrading Ashes also requires Runes, which can be obtained by defeating enemies. Plan your Rune usage to upgrade both your character and ashes.
Upgrading your Spirit Ashes is a crucial aspect of Elden Ring. By following these steps, you’ll enhance your combat prowess, ensuring survival against even the most formidable bosses. Happy exploring and may your Ashes carry you to victory in the Lands Between!