When it comes to Elden Ring, accumulating Runes is one of the key aspects of progressing through the game. Whether you're aiming to upgrade your gear, buy Elden Ring items, or level up your character, having a steady supply of Runes is crucial. Here are 10 smart methods to help you maximize the number of Runes you can farm per hour.

1. Farm High-Yield Enemies

The most efficient way to gain Elden Ring Runes is by hunting high-yield enemies. Look for areas with large packs of weak enemies that drop significant amounts of Runes. Some locations, like the Crumbling Farum Azula or Altus Plateau, feature large groups of enemies that you can defeat quickly for a substantial Rune reward.

2. Use Rune Boosting Gear

Elden Ring has various items that can boost the amount of Runes you earn. The Golden Scarab talisman, for example, increases Rune acquisition by 20%. Combine this with other Rune-boosting buffs to optimize your farming. Equip it while farming these high-yield areas for maximum efficiency.

3. Take Advantage of Rune Arcs

Rune Arcs are consumable items that provide a temporary boost to your Rune intake. Using a Rune Arc in combination with a Rune-boosting talisman can give you a significant increase in the Runes dropped by enemies.

4. Join Co-Op Sessions

Co-op play isn’t just for defeating tough bosses. By summoning other players for co-op play, you can clear areas faster, which in turn boosts your Rune-per-hour rate. Just be sure to choose areas where you can still farm efficiently in multiplayer.

5. Focus on Golden-Spoils Locations

Certain spots in the game offer Golden Spoils, which are dropped by enemies in specific locations and give a bonus amount of Runes. Look out for these spots and focus on farming them.

6. Use Farming Routes

Some players have mapped out efficient farming routes where enemies spawn frequently and drop large amounts of Runes. Learn these routes and follow them until you’ve farmed a substantial amount. Doing this will help you maximize your Rune earnings per hour by minimizing downtime.

7. Maximize the Use of Elden Ring Items

There are several items in Elden Ring that can help you increase your Rune intake. Golden Pickled Fowl Foot, for instance, increases the number of Runes you receive for a limited time. Similarly, Silver-Pickled Fowl Foot boosts the drop rate of items, indirectly helping you farm more valuable Elden Ring items that can be sold for Runes.

8. Farm Bosses Efficiently

Bosses in Elden Ring drop a large number of Runes, but they can be time-consuming. To make your Rune farming more efficient, focus on farmable bosses with relatively low difficulty. Some bosses offer a great Rune reward with minimal effort, making them prime targets for your farming sessions.

9. Replay Key Areas for Runes

As you progress through the game, certain areas can be revisited for farming purposes. Replaying these locations will allow you to gather additional Runes while you wait for your character’s progression or as a side activity. Don't be afraid to go back and farm areas you’ve already completed.

10. Sell Unused Elden Ring Items

As you explore and defeat enemies, you'll accumulate plenty of Elden Ring items, some of which might be of no use to you. Instead of hoarding them, consider selling them for Runes. Keep an eye out for items that can fetch a good price at vendors or in the market to increase your Rune balance.

In Elden Ring, gaining Runes is essential for progressing through the game. Whether you’re after Elden Ring items or simply aiming to level up, these methods will help you farm more Runes per hour. Combine these tips with your own in-game strategies to make the most of your time and resources.