Elden Ring: How to Use and Master Holy Damage

In Elden Ring, damage types are more than numerical modifiers-they define how players interact with enemies, bosses, and Elden Ring Runes the world itself. Among these, Holy damage is one of the most misunderstood yet thematically powerful elements in the game. Tied closely to Faith builds and the Golden Order, Holy damage excels in specific situations while struggling in others. Understanding how it works, when to use it, and how to build around it is essential for players who want to unlock its full potential.

Understanding Holy Damage in Elden Ring

Holy damage is a Faith-scaling elemental damage type primarily associated with incantations, sacred weapons, and Ashes of War aligned with the Erdtree or Golden Order. Unlike Fire or Lightning, Holy damage often carries secondary effects related to undead suppression, such as preventing skeletons from reviving or dealing bonus damage to certain enemy types.

However, Holy damage is highly situational. While it can devastate undead and lesser creatures of blasphemy, many late-game bosses-especially those tied to the Golden Order or outer gods-possess significant Holy resistance. This duality makes Holy damage a strategic choice rather than a universally optimal one.

Sources of Holy Damage

Holy damage can be applied through several avenues. Sacred-infused weapons convert a portion of physical damage into Holy damage and scale with Faith. Ashes of War like Sacred Blade and Golden Land temporarily or permanently imbue weapons with Holy power, increasing damage against vulnerable enemies.

Incantations are another major source. Spells such as Litany of Proper Death and Order's Blade are specifically designed to counter undead enemies. Additionally, Faith-based buffs can enhance Holy damage output or improve survivability, making hybrid Paladin-style builds particularly effective.

Strengths of Holy Damage

Holy damage shines in early and mid-game content, especially in catacombs, ruins, and areas infested with skeletons or Those Who Live in Death. Enemies defeated by Holy damage often stay dead, eliminating the need to destroy their remains and speeding up dungeon clears.

Another strength is build synergy. Holy damage pairs well with defensive Faith buffs, healing incantations, and high Vigor investment. This allows players to trade raw burst damage for consistency and sustainability-an advantage in prolonged encounters or exploration-heavy sessions.

Weaknesses and Limitations

Despite its strengths, Holy damage suffers from diminishing returns in the late game. Many major bosses, including demigods and divine beings, have strong resistance or outright immunity to Holy damage. Relying solely on it can result in noticeably lower damage output during critical fights.

This limitation forces Holy-focused players to diversify. Incorporating physical, Fire, or Lightning damage options is often necessary to maintain effectiveness across the entire game. Holy damage should be viewed as a tool, not a one-size-fits-all solution.

Building Effectively Around Holy Damage

To use Holy damage efficiently, players should invest heavily in Faith, while maintaining enough Strength or Dexterity to meet weapon requirements. Sacred seals that enhance Faith scaling are essential, and talismans that boost incantation potency or reduce FP costs improve overall performance.

Weapon choice also matters. Fast weapons benefit from consistent Holy procs, while slower weapons capitalize on buff-based Holy enhancements. Switching Ashes of War depending on the enemy type can dramatically improve results.

When to Use-and When to Avoid-Holy Damage

Holy damage is ideal for:

Undead-heavy areas and catacombs

Exploration-focused builds emphasizing sustain

Players who value lore-aligned, Faith-centric gameplay

It should be avoided or supplemented during:

Late-game boss encounters

Fights against Erdtree-aligned enemies

PvP scenarios where Holy resistance is common

Conclusion

Holy damage in Elden Ring is a nuanced and thematic combat option that rewards knowledge and buy Elden Ring Runes adaptability. While it is not the strongest damage type in all situations, it excels when used strategically and supported by a well-rounded Faith build. By understanding its strengths, mitigating its weaknesses, and knowing when to switch tactics, players can wield Holy damage as a powerful and meaningful force in the Lands Between.