U4GM - 7 Optimization Tips for Runes in Elden Ring NG+ Cycles

When venturing into Elden Ring New Game Plus (NG+) cycles, one of the most critical resources to manage is runes. As a player who's gone through multiple NG+ cycles, I've learned that smart rune optimization can significantly affect your efficiency, power scaling, and overall enjoyment of the game. In this article, I’ll share practical, experience-based tips to help you make the most of your Elden Ring runes, whether you're farming, leveling, or preparing for PvP and PvE challenges. These tips are especially useful for veterans who are looking to push deeper into NG+ and beyond.

1. Focus on High-Yield Farming Spots

By NG+, many enemies give substantially more runes. Areas like Mohgwyn Palace, with its Albinauric hordes, or the early parts of Consecrated Snowfield can yield tremendous amounts. My personal go-to is still the Palace Approach Ledge-Road site of grace—clearing it with AoE spells like Comet Azur or Flame of the Redmanes nets over 40,000 runes in minutes. It's a repetitive grind, but the returns are unmatched.

2. Use the Gold-Pickled Fowl Foot Strategically

A simple yet often overlooked tip: stockpile and use Gold-Pickled Fowl Feet during high-reward encounters or farm runs. Timing it right can significantly boost your rune income. I make it a habit to pop one right before boss fights or when I enter heavy mob areas, especially in NG+ cycles where rune drops are increased.

3. Invest in Rune-Gathering Talismans and Gear

Equipping the Gold Scarab talisman is essential. Combined with rune-enhancing armor like the Silver Tear Mask or using specific Rune Arcs that support farming, you'll get the best return on every fight. I often optimize my loadout purely for rune farming when I need to level multiple builds or upgrade a full weapon collection.

4. Don’t Hoard—Spend Runes Efficiently

In NG+ cycles, death can cost you a mountain of runes. I’ve learned (the hard way) that hoarding runes without spending is a risky game. Use them promptly to level up or buy upgrade materials. Diversify your investments—pump stats only when necessary and consider using runes to stockpile smithing stones, larval tears, and consumables that become harder to find later.

5. Leverage the Buy Elden Ring Currency Marketplace When Time is Limited

As someone with limited time due to freelance commitments, I’ve occasionally turned to the buy Elden Ring currency marketplace to supplement my runes—especially when I want to test out a new build without grinding for hours. Trusted marketplaces like U4GM offer a convenient and fast solution for getting the runes you need to jump back into action. Make sure to choose a reliable platform to ensure account safety and transaction transparency.

6. Plan Build Respecs for Maximum Efficiency

In NG+, the enemies get tougher, but you also get more flexible. I often use Larval Tears to respec my character after rune farming sessions. For example, I’ll farm in a pure magic setup for efficiency, then respec to my favorite melee/magic hybrid build for actual progression. Optimizing your rune spending around flexible build paths is key in late-game and NG+ scenarios.

7. Sell Unused Gear and Duplicates

You’ll inevitably accumulate a pile of duplicate weapons and armor in NG+ cycles. Don’t let them rot in your inventory. Selling unused gear to merchants can give you a decent rune boost, especially in the early stages of a new cycle. I make a habit of clearing my stash before each major boss fight—it helps both mentally and financially.

Rune optimization in Elden Ring NG+ isn’t just about grinding smarter—it’s about managing your time, resources, and game knowledge effectively. These strategies have helped me enjoy every cycle more fully, whether I’m diving into PvP duels or pushing into the Shadow Realm content. Whether you're farming for a new weapon upgrade or browsing a buy Elden Ring currency marketplace for a quick boost, remember: NG+ is a test of mastery, not just power.

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