Despite its release over a year ago, Elden Ring continues to attract new players and keep veterans coming back for more. One of the game’s core mechanics—Runes—remains deceptively simple at first glance. However, managing them efficiently requires experience, awareness, and strategy. Yet even seasoned Tarnished still fall into familiar traps. Here are 7 common mistakes players still make when handling their Runes, and how to avoid them.

1. Rushing Back for a Death Run Without a Plan

Losing a pile of Runes after dying is frustrating, but it’s even worse to die again before reclaiming them. Many players rush back impulsively, often dying to the same enemy or hazard. Instead, take a moment to rethink your approach—maybe you need a different route, better equipment, or to simply wait out a patrol. Your chances of reclaiming your hard-earned Runes improve drastically with patience.

2. Ignoring Rune-Boosting Gear and Talismans

Many players overlook items that can increase Rune acquisition. Talismans like the Gold Scarab or consumables such as the Gold-Pickled Fowl Foot can significantly boost your farming efforts. Equipping the right items during a farming run or boss fight can make the difference between gaining a few thousand and tens of thousands of Runes.

3. Over-Leveling the Wrong Stats

It’s tempting to pour Runes into leveling up quickly, but too many players invest in stats that don’t benefit their build. A strength-focused warrior has little use for high intelligence, just as a sorcerer shouldn’t prioritize dexterity without reason. Misallocating levels not only wastes Runes but also weakens your overall effectiveness. Respeccing is an option, but it requires rare resources, so thoughtful planning is key.

4. Letting Runes Sit Unused

It’s not uncommon to see players holding on to hundreds of thousands of Runes, unsure of where to spend them. This hoarding mentality often results in tragic losses after an unexpected death. If you’re not sure how to use them, at least level up your primary stats or buy crafting materials. Some players prefer to Buy Elden Ring items PC as a supplement to their in-game efforts, especially when preparing for a tough area or boss.

5. Farming in Inefficient Locations

Not all farming spots are created equal. Some players keep returning to early-game areas long after they’ve outleveled the enemies, gaining only a trickle of Runes. Exploring mid to late-game farming zones like Mohgwyn Palace or the Windmill Village can yield much higher returns in less time. If you’re playing on console and struggling, some even choose to Buy Elden Ring runes PS4 to save time and focus on the exploration and combat.

6. Not Banking Runes Before PvP or Co-Op

Venturing into multiplayer without banking your Runes is a classic blunder. Whether you’re invading or being summoned, death is a real possibility. Too often, players lose large Rune stacks simply because they forgot to spend them beforehand. A quick level-up or visit to a merchant before engaging in co-op can prevent unnecessary loss.

7. Misjudging Rune Value in Trades

When trading items with other players, many underestimate the true value of Runes. A rare item or upgrade material may not be worth a high-level Rune arc or consumable, yet players often get lured into poor trades. Understanding the in-game economy and having a sense of item rarity helps you avoid being taken advantage of.

Runes are the lifeblood of your journey in Elden Ring, and mismanaging them can quickly stall progress or lead to needless frustration. Whether you prefer to earn every Rune through hard-fought battles or occasionally Buy Elden Ring runes PS4 and Buy Elden Ring items PC to support your path, understanding the common pitfalls will make your journey through the Lands Between much smoother.