What makes curved swords unique compared to other weapons? At first glance, a curved sword might not seem that different from a straight sword. The biggest difference lies in the way they handle. Curved swords are designed for fast, sweeping attacks that cover a wider area. Instead of feeling heavy or clunky, swings feel almost like they’re flowing, which is why many players describe them as “smooth.” The lighter weight and faster attack speed make curved swords excellent for chaining combos. Unlike heavier weapons, you’re not constantly pausing between hits to regain stamina. If you’ve ever tried a curved sword against groups of weaker enemies, you’ll notice that you can clear mobs without feeling sluggish or stuck in one spot. How can you maximize their smoothness in combat? One key aspect is positioning. Curved swords shine when you’re moving and weaving around enemies rather than standing still. Think of your character as a dancer: step in, strike, dodge out. Rolling into or alongside attacks not only keeps you safe but lets you maintain your combo flow, enhancing that “smooth” feeling. Another tip is upgrading your sword at the smithing table. Even a small upgrade can noticeably improve both damage and handling, making combos more satisfying. And if you’re running low on runes to afford these upgrades, sometimes the simplest way is to farm a bit more or, for players pressed for time, to buy elden ring runes from a trusted source. A little boost can get your curved sword feeling perfectly responsive without the grind. Are curved swords good for all playstyles? Not necessarily. They tend to favor dexterity builds because they scale better with agility stats. Strength-focused characters might find them underwhelming for single-target damage, but the trade-off is speed and mobility. In PvP scenarios, that speed can be a lifesaver; landing a quick backstab after a sweep is much easier than with heavier weapons. Also, don’t overlook the arts and special moves. Many curved swords come with unique skills that complement their sweeping attacks. Experimenting with these can make combat feel even smoother. For newer players, it’s worth trying out a few different curved swords before settling on a favorite—sometimes the handling feels completely different depending on the weapon’s length and weight. How do curved swords fit into Rune farming or progression? While curved swords are great in combat, they also make certain farming routes more manageable. Because of their speed and area coverage, you can clear groups of weaker enemies quickly, making it easier to gather runes efficiently. If you’re aiming for a safe level boost early in the game, curved swords can help you finish fights without taking too much damage. For players looking to skip some of the grind, platforms like U4GM can provide runes directly, saving time and letting you focus on exploring and experimenting with your weapons rather than endlessly farming. It’s not for everyone, but it’s an option if you want to test out curved swords at higher levels without frustration. Any personal tips for enjoying curved swords more? From my experience, the best part about curved swords is the rhythm they encourage. Try treating combat like a dance rather than a brawl. Roll, slice, and flow around enemies instead of standing toe-to-toe. It makes bosses less intimidating and regular mobs far less annoying. Also, mix and match different curved swords for different scenarios. Shorter ones feel snappier for tight corridors, while longer blades let you hit multiple foes at once. Finding the one that clicks with your personal style can make Elden Ring feel more enjoyable and responsive. Curved swords in Elden Ring aren’t just fast—they feel smooth because of their combination of speed, range, and adaptability. Whether you’re fighting mobs, farming runes, or dueling other players, they offer a fluid, almost musical rhythm to combat that heavier weapons can’t match. Pair them with smart movement, occasional rune boosts, and the right build, and suddenly Elden Ring combat feels more like a flowing dance than a grind. Give a few different curved swords a try, experiment with upgrades and skills, and see which one makes your playthrough feel the smoothest. Chances are, once you find your rhythm, you won’t want to go back to heavier weapons anytime soon.