Origins and Mystical Legacy of the Darkmoon Greatsword
The darkmoon greatsword is one of Elden Ring’s most iconic weapons, not just for its power but for its deep roots in FromSoftware’s history. This mystical blade has appeared in various forms throughout the studio’s games, often associated with moonlight, royalty, and a powerful lineage. In Elden Ring, it takes the form of a reward tied directly to Ranni the Witch and her quest to rebel against the Greater Will. The weapon is not just a tool of destruction—it’s a symbol of independence, cosmic mystery, and lunar magic.
When players first lay eyes on the darkmoon greatsword, its shimmering blue blade and icy aura immediately distinguish it from other greatswords. Its ties to the moon and magic-based gameplay mark it as a weapon designed for sorcerers and lore enthusiasts alike. It’s not a blade for brute force builds, but for those who choose elegance, intelligence, and arcane power.
Skill and Power of the Darkmoon Greatsword
The darkmoon greatsword’s unique skill, Moonlight Greatsword, transforms it into a weapon of glowing lunar energy. Upon activation, the blade becomes enveloped in magical frost and its charged attacks release wide-reaching beams of cold moonlight. These attacks deal both physical and magic damage, while also applying frost buildup that can stagger or slow down enemies.
This skill makes the weapon feel like an extension of your character’s sorcery. It’s not just for slashing—it allows for ranged combat without ever switching to a staff. This makes it a perfect hybrid weapon for intelligence-focused characters who want to blend spellcasting with close combat. The animations are smooth and satisfying, giving every swing of the blade a sense of grandeur and purpose.
Requirements and Scaling
The darkmoon greatsword requires 16 Strength, 11 Dexterity, and a high 38 Intelligence to wield. While the physical requirements are modest, the Intelligence requirement ensures it remains exclusive to caster builds. It scales primarily with Intelligence, making it the ideal weapon for players who have invested heavily into sorcery.
As it is a unique weapon, it uses Somber Smithing Stones for upgrades and cannot be infused with Ashes of War. This means its identity remains fixed, but its design is so focused and powerful that it never feels like a limitation. With full upgrades, its damage output becomes fearsome, particularly against enemies weak to magic or frost.
How to Get the Darkmoon Greatsword
Obtaining the darkmoon greatsword is a journey in itself. Players must complete Ranni’s lengthy questline, which begins in Liurnia of the Lakes after defeating Royal Knight Loretta at Caria Manor. This quest leads through Nokron, Eternal City, and eventually into deep underground regions like Ainsel River and the Cathedral of Manus Celes.
At the end of Ranni’s story, after becoming her consort and helping her defeat the controlling influence of the Two Fingers, players are rewarded with the darkmoon greatsword. The sword is discovered in a chest at the top of the cathedral, glowing with the same pale light as Ranni’s moon.
This quest is one of the most rewarding in Elden Ring, not only for the weapon but for the lore and character development tied to it. Ranni’s journey is filled with loss, rebellion, and purpose, and the darkmoon greatsword is the ultimate gift she leaves behind.
Best Builds for the Darkmoon Greatsword
Because the darkmoon greatsword scales with Intelligence, it fits perfectly into magic-based builds. Players who combine it with sorceries like Glintstone Pebble, Comet Azur, and Frost spells will find that it complements their playstyle naturally. It also works well with armor sets that boost Intelligence or frost resistance.
The weapon works best with talismans that enhance magic damage or charge attack power. Players can further increase their effectiveness by pairing the blade with high FP reserves and careful stamina management. While it does well in PvE, it also has strong PvP potential when used strategically with charged attacks and ranged beams to zone opponents.
Lore Significance and Ties to the Moon
The darkmoon greatsword has become a symbol of rebellion and celestial power. In Elden Ring, it represents Ranni’s ideals—freedom from the Greater Will, rejection of predestination, and alignment with the mysterious forces of the stars. The sword has ties to earlier FromSoftware titles as well, including the Moonlight Greatsword of the Dark Souls series.
Its appearance in Elden Ring is more than a callback. It’s a reimagining that fits into a new world, new mythos, and a new set of stakes. Ranni’s version of the weapon is refined, elegant, and draped in lore that gives every swing of the blade narrative weight.
This connection to the moon also plays into the game’s visual storytelling. The glow of the weapon, the chill of its frost, and the theme of moonlight all help create a mystical presence. It is a weapon that speaks to those who favor depth and emotion over raw force.
Why Players Love the Darkmoon Greatsword
Among the many legendary weapons in Elden Ring, the darkmoon greatsword remains a favorite. Its aesthetic appeal, powerful skill, and lore-rich background make it a must-have for fans of the game’s deeper stories. Players who commit to completing Ranni’s quest feel an emotional payoff when receiving the blade—not just because of its damage, but because of what it represents.
It is the weapon of a forgotten queen. A symbol of loyalty, love, and rebellion. It is the final gift in a story about choice and destiny. The fact that it remains viable all the way through New Game Plus makes it a valuable part of any mage or sorcerer’s toolkit.
A Stylish Way to Represent the Sword
For those who love the darkmoon greatsword not just in-game but in spirit, there are ways to take that admiration beyond the screen. Whether it’s a custom Elden Ring hoodie featuring Ranni’s moon symbol or a T-shirt showcasing the legendary blade itself, it’s easy to carry that same energy into the real world. These make perfect additions for fans who want to show their love for one of the most iconic weapons in Elden Ring’s universe.
Final Thoughts on the Darkmoon Greatsword
The darkmoon greatsword is more than a weapon—it’s a statement. A statement of rebellion, elegance, and magical mastery. Its frost-infused attacks, rich lore, and connection to one of Elden Ring’s most beloved characters make it one of the most memorable greatswords in the game.
Whether you’re chasing powerful endgame builds or simply want to wield a blade that represents the stars, the darkmoon greatsword is worth the journey. It captures the soul of what Elden Ring is about—mystery, power, and freedom of choice.
