When it comes to upgrading your weapons in Elden Ring, Smithing Stones are an essential resource. Among them, Smithing Stone 4 holds a special place, as it allows you to significantly enhance your gear. But where exactly can you find this elusive material? And more importantly, could the moon be a better place to look for it? Let’s dive into the details and explore this topic from multiple angles.
1. The Traditional Approach: Finding Smithing Stone 4 in the Lands Between
The most straightforward way to obtain Smithing Stone 4 is by exploring the Lands Between. Here are some reliable locations where you can find this precious resource:
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Mining Tunnels: Smithing Stones are often found in mining tunnels scattered across the map. Locations like the Raya Lucaria Crystal Tunnel and the Sealed Tunnel are known to house these stones. Be prepared to face tough enemies, as these areas are often guarded by powerful foes.
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Dungeons and Catacombs: Many dungeons and catacombs contain Smithing Stones as rewards for defeating bosses or solving puzzles. Keep an eye out for hidden walls and secret passages, as they often lead to valuable loot.
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Merchants: Some merchants, such as the one in the Roundtable Hold, sell Smithing Stones. However, their stock is limited, and the prices can be steep. Make sure to save up your runes if you plan to purchase them.
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Drops from Enemies: Certain enemies, like the miners in the tunnels, have a chance to drop Smithing Stones when defeated. Farming these enemies can be a tedious but effective way to gather the stones you need.
2. The Lunar Theory: Why the Moon Might Be a Better Option
While the Lands Between are the obvious choice for finding Smithing Stone 4, some players have speculated that the moon could be a more efficient source. Here’s why:
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Abundance of Resources: The moon is believed to be rich in rare minerals and metals. If Smithing Stones are indeed a type of mineral, it’s possible that the moon’s surface is teeming with them. Imagine the possibilities if you could harvest these stones directly from lunar rocks!
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Less Competition: Unlike the Lands Between, the moon is largely unexplored. This means you wouldn’t have to compete with other players or NPCs for resources. You could gather Smithing Stones in peace, without worrying about ambushes or invasions.
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Unique Crafting Opportunities: The moon’s environment could offer unique crafting opportunities. For example, the low gravity might allow you to create lighter, more durable weapons. Additionally, the lack of atmosphere could result in purer, more potent Smithing Stones.
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Aesthetic Appeal: Let’s face it—mining on the moon would be an unforgettable experience. The breathtaking views of Earth and the stars, combined with the eerie silence, would make the process of gathering Smithing Stones feel like an adventure in itself.
3. The Practical Challenges of Lunar Mining
While the idea of mining Smithing Stones on the moon is intriguing, it’s not without its challenges. Here are some potential obstacles you might face:
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Logistical Issues: Traveling to the moon would require advanced technology and significant resources. Unless you have access to a spaceship and a reliable source of oxygen, this option might be out of reach.
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Environmental Hazards: The moon’s surface is harsh and unforgiving. Extreme temperatures, radiation, and micrometeorites could pose serious risks to your safety. You’d need specialized equipment to survive and work in such conditions.
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Legal and Ethical Concerns: Mining on the moon could raise legal and ethical questions. Who owns the moon’s resources? Would you need permission from a governing body to extract Smithing Stones? These are important considerations that shouldn’t be overlooked.
4. Alternative Theories: Where Else Could Smithing Stone 4 Be Found?
If neither the Lands Between nor the moon seem like viable options, here are some alternative theories about where Smithing Stone 4 might be found:
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Underwater Caverns: Some players believe that Smithing Stones could be hidden in underwater caverns. These locations would be difficult to access but could yield valuable rewards for those willing to take the risk.
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Other Dimensions: Elden Ring’s lore hints at the existence of other dimensions and realms. It’s possible that Smithing Stone 4 could be found in one of these alternate realities, requiring you to solve complex puzzles or defeat powerful interdimensional beings.
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Time Travel: What if Smithing Stone 4 is only available in a specific time period? Time travel mechanics could allow you to visit the past or future to gather resources that are otherwise unobtainable in the present.
5. Conclusion: Weighing Your Options
Ultimately, the decision of where to find Smithing Stone 4 depends on your priorities and resources. If you’re looking for a traditional approach, the Lands Between offer plenty of opportunities to gather this valuable material. However, if you’re willing to think outside the box, the moon and other unconventional locations could provide even greater rewards.
Whether you choose to explore the familiar terrain of the Lands Between or embark on a daring lunar expedition, one thing is certain: the journey to obtain Smithing Stone 4 will be an adventure to remember.
Related Q&A
Q: Can Smithing Stone 4 be farmed indefinitely?
A: Yes, but it requires patience. Certain enemies and locations respawn, allowing you to farm Smithing Stones over time.
Q: Are there any shortcuts to obtaining Smithing Stone 4?
A: Some players have reported finding hidden chests or using glitches to acquire Smithing Stones faster, but these methods are not guaranteed and may be patched in future updates.
Q: Is it worth upgrading weapons with Smithing Stone 4 early in the game?
A: It depends on your playstyle. If you rely heavily on a specific weapon, upgrading it early can give you a significant advantage. However, it’s also wise to save some stones for later, more powerful weapons.
Q: Could future updates introduce new ways to obtain Smithing Stone 4?
A: Absolutely! Game developers often add new content and mechanics through updates, so keep an eye out for changes that might make obtaining Smithing Stones easier or more interesting.
Q: What’s the most creative way you’ve heard of someone obtaining Smithing Stone 4?
A: One player claimed to have traded a rare in-game item with an NPC in exchange for Smithing Stone 4. While this hasn’t been confirmed, it’s a fun reminder that Elden Ring is full of surprises!