Elden Ring is not considered a game that explains its mechanics particularly well. For newcomers, it is often unclear how to even cast spells. MeinMMO explains the basics for using magic.
Why can’t I cast spells? In Elden Ring, there are numerous possible reasons why you might not be able to cast spells:
- You do not have a magic wand.
- You do not have any spells.
- You do not meet the minimum requirements for spells or the magic wand.
- You do not have a spell equipped, even if you already own some.
Below, we explain what matters and how you can cast spells.
Elden Ring – Learning and Using Spells
This is how you apply spells: In Elden Ring, your main attributes determine which weapons, spells, and other things you can use in combat.
The two most important attributes for a mage build are:
- Intelligence: Determines the strength of your spells and which spells you can use.
- Mind determines the amount of your ability points (FP), which are your mana in Elden Ring.
The higher your intelligence value, the stronger your spells are, and the more powerful spells you can equip.
Mind is also important if you need to cast many spells and want to save FP potions. But that’s not enough to directly start as a mage.
This is how you equip spells: If you have spells in your inventory, you just need to head to a Site of Grace. There you can select “Learn Spells” and equip them in the available slots. You unlock spell slots as you progress through the game.
In addition to the required attributes and spells, you also need a magic wand to be able to use them.
Can I also start directly as a mage? Yes, you can. One of the 10 starting classes in Elden Ring is the Astrologer. This class comes with the required attributes for some of the simple spells and also has a magic wand right from the start.
Alternatively, you can also choose the Prisoner, who also meets the minimum requirements but is more of a hybrid class.
For advanced spells, you will, of course, need to increase your mind and intelligence further. You can also upgrade your magic wand with smithing stones at the appropriate NPCs.
How do I learn new spells? There are several ways to do this. You can find spells in the game world or buy them directly from NPCs with runes.
Some spells are only unlocked when you find specific spell books and give them to the corresponding NPCs. These NPCs then have new spells and summons available.
We have put together a comprehensive mage guide for beginners, where you can find more important details.
What is the difference to summons? Summons require holy seals instead of magic wands. They also require faith as an attribute and usually have different effects and damage types.
Spells are often the more offensive option, while summons can also provide many supportive effects and even team buffs in co-op.
If you are looking for the best magic wands, check out our weapon tier list for Elden Ring.
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