Elden Ring can be an overwhelming experience for new players, especially when it comes to leveling and gearing up in the early game. Runes are the backbone of your progress — whether you're looking to boost your stats, upgrade weapons, or buy gear from merchants. For those just starting out, finding safe and effective rune farming methods can make all the difference.

Here are 5 efficient farming methods that can help new players gain a solid rune foundation without needing high-level gear or risky exploration.
1. Gatefront Ruins Farming Loop

One of the earliest and safest spots for rune farming is right at the Gatefront Ruins in Limgrave. This area is teeming with low-level soldiers that are easy to backstab or defeat with basic weapons. Clear the area, rest at the nearby Site of Grace, and repeat. You can net around 800–1,200 runes per loop in just a few minutes.

This loop is great for experimenting with your playstyle while gradually gaining runes to upgrade gear or buy useful items from vendors. For players looking for a smoother start, some also explore the best site to buy Elden Ring runes or gear to enhance their early-game efficiency.
2. Stormhill Wolves and Trolls

Venture a bit north toward Stormhill, and you'll encounter packs of wolves and the occasional wandering troll. While the wolves are weak, they give a steady flow of runes and can be chain-farmed with ranged or AoE attacks. Trolls, though more dangerous, reward you with thousands of runes if you¡Çre up for the challenge.

This method helps new players build rune stockpiles while practicing combat awareness and spacing — two skills essential for survival in the Lands Between.
3. Lenne¡Çs Rise Boulder Exploit

For players who have reached the Third Church of Marika and activated the portal to Bestial Sanctum, there's an easy farming trick near Lenne's Rise. Ride past the giant rolling boulder so it falls off the cliff. If timed correctly, the boulder will shatter, instantly granting you over 1,900 runes.

It¡Çs completely repeatable and doesn¡Çt require combat, making it one of the safest farming methods. Many new players use this strategy early on while looking into the best site to buy Elden Ring items to complement their farming efforts.
4. Warmaster¡Çs Shack Enemy Reset

South of the Warmaster¡Çs Shack is a road patrolled by knights and wolves. These enemies can be picked off with stealth or magic, and they offer a decent rune return per kill. After clearing the path, teleport back to the shack and repeat the process.

It¡Çs a great low-risk farming route, especially for classes with ranged spells or bows. Combine this with smart spending or assistance from places like U4GM, a best site to buy Elden Ring items, to progress even faster.
5. Waypoint Ruins Cellar (Mad Pumpkin Head Boss)

If you¡Çre confident with dodging and melee combat, head to the Waypoint Ruins in East Limgrave and challenge the Mad Pumpkin Head. He¡Çs a mini-boss who drops a healthy amount of runes and grants access to Sorceress Sellen, a useful early-game NPC vendor.

This one-time kill gives a good early boost and opens up new build options for spellcasters. For those who prefer quicker access to builds or talismans, some players supplement with resources from the best site to buy Elden Ring runes.


As a new player, rune management and farming are key to enjoying your early experience in Elden Ring. These five methods are beginner-friendly, don¡Çt require advanced gear, and help you build the momentum needed to face tougher areas. Whether you're exploring solo or augmenting your loadout through trusted sources like U4GM, staying efficient with rune farming can make the journey through the Lands Between far more rewarding.