Lords of the Fallen introduces items known as Runes that can be inserted inside the multiple slots in weapons and shields. These Runes are items that provide unique buffs that are different from one another. Every Rune can be equipped on either a weapon or shield, giving a different function but also allowing the function to be stacked if two Runes of the same quality are socketed into a weapon and an off-hand shield.
The more the player progresses in the game, the more Runes they will acquire, allowing them to socket Runes that cater to their builds and weapons, respectively.
6 Aelstrix
More Ammunition And Extra Throwable Damage
- Drops from Griefbound Rowena in Fief of the Chill Curse.
Runes can significantly impact ranged weapon users, and Aelstrix is no exception. This Rune enhances throwable weapons and ranged damage when equipped on a weapon, while its shield function increases ammunition capacity. Players can strategically utilize both functions to deal high damage using throwables for an extended period due to the increased ammunition capacity.
By providing all three tablets to Gerlinde and upgrading weapons to a higher level, players can unlock the potential to slot three Runes, offering valuable advantages later in the game.
5 Olandi
Smite Enemies Consecutively
- Acquired as a drop from Scourged Sister enemies.
Known for its popular Pieta's Sword, Olandi is sought after for its ability to increase the rate of Smite build-up when equipped on a weapon, and its shield function enhances resistance to Smite. When combined with other socketed Runes, Olandi can make a significant difference, especially for players utilizing Pieta's Sword to consecutively trigger Smite.
4 Hilvit
The King Of All Strength Runes
- Located inside a chest in Bramis Castle. It also drops from Receiver of Sacred Resonance if a player performs an Umbral Finisher on them.
Designed for Strength builds, Hilvit offers a substantial increase in damage regardless of the player's equipment. When equipped on a weapon, it amplifies Strength scaling, while its shield function significantly enhances the Strength attribute. This Rune suits players favoring a sword and shield playstyle, as its shield function provides substantial benefits even for those not utilizing a shield.
3 Tianarx
A Blessing For Fire Build Users
- Acquired as a drop from the Infernal Enchantress enemies.
Essential for any build involving fire damage, Tianarx provides a significant boost by increasing fire damage when equipped on a weapon, while its shield function enhances resistance to fire damage. This Rune remains pivotal throughout the game due to its substantial damage increase. Fire-build users can also combine Anarkos and Berlam to further boost the attribute or Inferno scaling.
2 Satus
The More The Holy Damage, The Better
- Acquired as a drop from Sin-Piercer enemies located in different areas of the map.
For those focused on a Holy build, Satus serves as the prime Rune, increasing Holy damage when equipped on a weapon and enhancing Holy defense when used on a shield. This Rune is ideal for players dedicated to a Holy build throughout their playthrough. Holy-build users can also consider combining Devoth and Orimon to further boost the attribute or Radiant scaling.
1 Dimexus
Dual-Wielding Looks Cool And Now Also Does Increased Damage
- Acquired after defeating Bringer Trio boss in Cistern.
Dimexus is the optimal Rune for players desiring to wield a weapon in each hand. This Rune increases physical damage when dual-wielding and enhances stamina regeneration rate when used on a shield. Even for players seeking a Rune solely for their shield, Dimexus is a favorable choice, enabling them to maintain aggression and recover stamina promptly to evade fatal blows.
As Lords of the Fallen requires players to complete multiple playthroughs to achieve all endings, acquiring multiple sets of this Rune can offer substantial benefits later in the game.