Elden Ring offers a staggering array of weapons and equipment, allowing players to tailor their Tarnished to virtually any combat style imaginable. From colossal greatswords to nimble daggers, the Lands Between accommodate diverse preferences. Beyond conventional builds, however, lie unique and powerful combinations that can truly shine against the game’s formidable challenges.
One such standout is the Fingerprint Stone Shield. This gargantuan Greatshield transforms players into near-impenetrable fortresses, boasting unparalleled defensive capabilities. Paired strategically with weapons that inflict status effects or damage over time, it enables a potent “turtle” strategy: weathering enemy attacks while slowly but surely dismantling them. If you’re intrigued by becoming an unyielding bulwark in Elden Ring, this guide will walk you through acquiring the Fingerprint Stone Shield and harnessing its full potential.
Unlocking the Fingerprint Stone Shield: A Journey into the Depths
Securing the Fingerprint Stone Shield is no simple task. It’s a reward for venturing deep into one of Elden Ring‘s most perilous and hidden locations. Prepare for a challenging expedition through multiple zones, culminating in a treacherous descent.
To even begin the quest for this legendary shield, you must first reach Leyndell, Royal Capital. This majestic city, a significant milestone in your Elden Ring journey, typically becomes accessible around the mid-game.
While it’s possible to expedite your arrival in Leyndell by collecting the Dectus Medallion pieces and utilizing the Grand Lift of Dectus (potentially bypassing Stormveil Castle), be warned: this path throws you into the capital’s outskirts, teeming with formidable foes. You’ll likely face relentless onslaughts from powerful enemies, including the imposing Draconic Tree Sentinel guarding the city gates. Furthermore, progressing through Leyndell’s sewers, the Subterranean Shunning-Grounds, requires confronting Mohg, The Omen, a particularly challenging boss. Attempting this at a low level is highly discouraged. It’s best to bolster your character’s strength and level before undertaking this shield hunt.
For those undeterred or adequately prepared, the Subterranean Shunning-Grounds await. Navigating this labyrinthine sewer system is a trial in itself. Numerous guides are available online to assist you in traversing its complex pathways.
Upon reaching the Forsaken Depths Site of Grace, deep within the Shunning-Grounds, your next objective is to defeat Mohg, The Omen. Victory over this boss grants access to the Cathedral of the Forsaken Site of Grace. Locate a chest near this Grace, and behind it, a large altar. Attacking this altar will reveal a hidden passage, leading further downwards.
Prepare for a vertical platforming challenge. The newly opened path descends into a vast chasm filled with coffins, spanned by precarious wooden beams and stone ledges. Carefully navigate this “jumping puzzle,” using the beams and ledges to descend deeper. This section demands patience and precision; a single misstep results in a fatal fall. Visual guides, such as YouTube videos demonstrating the optimal path, can be invaluable here.
At the base of this perilous descent, you’ll find a corpse holding the Inescapable Frenzy Incantation. However, the Fingerprint Stone Shield is just a bit further. From the platform with the incantation, explore a small alcove to the right, winding around a corner. At the end of this body-strewn passage lies another corpse – and upon it, your hard-earned prize: the Fingerprint Stone Shield.
The Power and Potential of the Fingerprint Stone Shield
The Fingerprint Stone Shield is rightfully lauded as one of the best Greatshields in Elden Ring. Its defensive statistics are truly exceptional. It boasts perfect 100 Physical damage negation, meaning you’ll take zero physical damage when blocking. Furthermore, its elemental damage negation is remarkably high (81 Fire, 79 Lightning, 77 Magic, 75 Holy), providing robust protection against a wide range of attack types.
Even more crucial is its phenomenal 81 Guard Boost. This stat dictates how much Stamina is consumed when blocking attacks. A high Guard Boost, like that of the Fingerprint Stone Shield, allows you to absorb even the most punishing blows with minimal Stamina depletion, maintaining your offensive and defensive capabilities. While it received a slight nerf in Patch 1.04, it remains incredibly powerful.
Wielding this behemoth requires a substantial 48 Strength. However, its versatility is amplified by its ability to be infused with Ashes of War. This customization allows you to tailor the shield to your specific build and combat approach. Consider Ashes of War that provide offensive capabilities or further enhance its defensive prowess, catching opponents off guard and solidifying your impenetrable defense.
The Fingerprint Stone Shield excels in both Player versus Player (PvP) and Player versus Environment (PvE) scenarios. It transforms you into a walking fortress, capable of withstanding relentless enemy aggression. Combined with status-inflicting weapons or damage-over-time effects, it enables a highly effective and surprisingly aggressive “turtle” playstyle, allowing you to outlast and overcome even the toughest foes in the Lands Between.
Embrace the power of the Fingerprint Stone Shield and become an unstoppable force in Elden Ring!
