Elden Ring Runes: 27 Tips That Prevent Loss in Co-Op
Losing a hard-earned stash of runes in Elden Ring is frustrating enough on your own, but it feels even worse when it happens during co-op. Whether you’re the host or a summoned ally, the chaos of multiplayer can often lead to unnecessary rune loss—especially when you're not prepared.
After countless hours exploring the Lands Between with friends and strangers alike, I’ve compiled 27 practical tips to help you keep your runes safe while enjoying co-op play. These strategies are tailored for both new players and veterans looking to avoid needless setbacks in their rune farming or exploration.
1. Always Spend Before Summoning
Don’t hoard a massive stash of runes before jumping into co-op. Spend them on levels, upgrades, or cheap Elden Ring items before you summon or get summoned.
2. Use a Sacrificial Twig
This talisman prevents rune loss upon death. Equip it before boss fights or while exploring unfamiliar zones.
3. Avoid Hostile Zones Until You're Synced
Make sure everyone in your co-op group is at the same progress point in the area. Entering high-level regions too soon often leads to one-shot deaths.
4. Pre-Buff Before Traversing Fog Gates
Apply healing and resistance buffs before entering boss areas. There’s no time once the fight starts.
5. Don’t AFK in Summon Range Areas
If you’re hosting, enemies can still attack you while your sign is active. Stay alert or rest at a Site of Grace.
6. Mark Your Rune Drops on the Map
If you do die, drop a map marker so you don’t forget where your runes are.
7. Watch for Invaders
Host players in co-op are vulnerable to PvP invaders. Keep an eye on unusual movement or disconnections.
8. Use Spirit Ashes as the Host
Summoning both players and Spirit Ashes gives you a better chance to survive without losing runes.
9. Designate a Leader in Voice Chat
Assign one person to lead during co-op. Wandering off solo in multiplayer is an easy way to die and lose runes.
10. Don’t Fight on Narrow Ledges
Avoid risky combat near cliffs or drops. One wrong dodge roll and those runes are gone.
11. Exit and Rejoin When Lag Hits
If your game is stuttering or acting erratic, it’s safer to disconnect and rejoin rather than risking a fatal glitch.
12. Use the Compass to Track Rune Location
If you die and can’t find your runes, your compass will point toward them once you respawn.
13. Backtrack for Runes First, Then Summon
If you’ve died recently, collect your runes before summoning friends again.
14. Stack Vigor in Early Co-Op Builds
Having more health gives you a buffer for mistakes, especially when you’re learning bosses with others.
15. Don’t Rush In After Being Summoned
Let the host set the pace. Getting ahead and triggering enemies solo is a quick way to get deleted.
16. Use Long-Range Attacks to Scout
Sorceries or bows can test enemy aggro without putting your life—or runes—on the line.
17. Turn Off Auto-Lock Near Ledges
Target lock-on can get you killed in co-op by pulling your camera toward another player at the wrong time.
18. Upgrade Weapons Before Joining Co-Op
A weak weapon means slower kills, which means more risk. If you need materials, it's okay to buy Elden Ring runes or cheap Elden Ring items to catch up.
19. Equip a Fast Weapon Backup
Sometimes fights get hectic. Having a quick sidearm can save your life—and your runes.
20. Know When to Use the Finger Severer
If things go south, don't hesitate to end the session and recover solo.
21. Don’t Ignore Status Build-Ups
Poison, rot, and bleed effects still kill fast in co-op. Equip resistance gear when needed.
22. Prepare for Boss One-Shots
Late-game bosses can erase you instantly. Use talismans or buffs that boost defense or HP.
23. Drop Runes in a Safe Spot (Optional)
If you must carry a huge rune count, drop them in a safe area before tackling a hard boss.
24. Watch for Co-Op Scaling Effects
Enemies get tougher with multiple players. Play more defensively than you would solo.
25. Keep Healing Duties in Mind
In co-op, you won’t have access to as many flasks. Communicate with your group about who’s healing and when.
26. Don’t Join Co-Op in the Middle of a Rune Grind
Finish your farming route, bank your runes, then hop into multiplayer.
27. Always Check Equipment Load
Being overburdened slows your rolls. A slow dodge can mean the end of you—and your runes—in fast-paced co-op fights.
Co-op in Elden Ring is one of the most rewarding ways to explore the game, but it also comes with new risks. Whether you’re helping someone beat a tough boss or just exploring together, these tips should help you minimize rune loss and stay focused on the fun.
If you're struggling to rebuild after a loss, you can always buy Elden Ring runes or look for cheap Elden Ring items to catch up without grinding endlessly. Just remember: being smart with your preparation often matters more than brute force in this game.