Elden Ring’s co-op mode opens up a whole new dimension of gameplay, where teamwork and strategy become crucial to overcoming the game’s toughest challenges. While most players focus on combat skills and coordination, there’s an often overlooked aspect that can truly enhance your co-op experience: creative use of Elden Ring items. Whether you’re helping a friend or tackling bosses together, understanding how to utilize items in clever ways can turn the tide of battle.

Here are 17 creative ways to use Elden Ring items in co-op mode that every player should try.

  1. Buffing Allies with Fire Grease or Magic Grease
    Applying these greases before boss fights can significantly boost your team’s weapon damage. Sharing them right before a big attack sequence maximizes efficiency and helps take down enemies faster.

  2. Using Seed of the Erdtree for Extra Summons
    This item can summon additional spirits to support both you and your co-op partner, making overwhelming enemies more manageable.

  3. Throwing Firebombs or Poison Bombs to Distract Enemies
    When a boss or miniboss targets your partner, tossing a bomb can redirect enemy attention and give your ally a breather.

  4. Deploying the Flask of Wondrous Physick
    Customizing the Flask for different buffs like increased stamina or magic resistance can complement your partner’s build and help balance the team.

  5. Sharing Spirit Ashes Strategically
    Using different Spirit Ashes with unique abilities allows for diverse tactics — one partner can summon a tanky spirit while the other calls forth a damage dealer.

  6. Equipping and Using the Lantern of Undying Light
    This item is invaluable in dark areas or during night-time boss fights, improving visibility for the whole team.

  7. Applying Gold Scarab Rune for Cheap Elden Ring Runes Farming
    Although this is more of a solo farming tip, in co-op you can help your partner stockpile runes cheaply by equipping this rune and sharing farming spots.

  8. Using the Weather Protection Rune to Avoid Status Effects
    Certain bosses or areas cause weather-related damage; sharing this buff can save your team from constant health drain.

  9. Placing Fire Pots or Frost Pots for Area Control
    Setting traps with throwable pots can corral enemies or control the battlefield, giving your team a tactical advantage.

  10. Deploying the Furlcalling Finger Remedy to Reveal Summon Signs
    If you or your partner lose each other’s summon signs, this item makes reconnecting quick and easy.

  11. Equipping and Trading Elden Ring Items for Sale in the Hub
    Sometimes your partner may lack certain items; trading or purchasing from NPC vendors can keep the team stocked without wasting precious runes.

  12. Using the Stone Sword Key to Open Secret Areas Together
    Unlocking hidden paths or shortcuts can shorten boss fights or reveal rare loot for both players.

  13. Sharing Buffs from the Flask of Physick During Boss Fights
    Timed correctly, these buffs can improve survivability and damage output, turning a hard fight into a manageable one.

  14. Throwing Runes for Cheap Elden Ring Runes Gain Post-Fight
    Dropping runes to help your partner level up or buy essential items can speed up progression.

  15. Utilizing the Bloodhound’s Step for Quick Dodges
    Coordinating dodges using this item can help your team avoid damage and counterattack efficiently.

  16. Employing the Mimic Tear Ashes to Distract Bosses
    While one player attacks, the mimic can absorb aggro, giving your co-op partner a safer opening.

  17. Stocking Up on U4GM Services for Rare Items
    If you find it hard to farm or trade certain Elden Ring items for sale, platforms like U4GM can help supplement your inventory, letting you focus more on gameplay.

In co-op mode, communication and coordination are key, but incorporating clever item usage adds a layer of strategy that can elevate your entire experience. Whether it’s buffing your partner, managing aggro, or unlocking secrets, these 17 tips should give you plenty of ideas to experiment with in your next Elden Ring session. Have you discovered any other creative ways to use items in co-op? Share your experiences below!