Elden Ring: How To Choose Between Priestess Heart And Rock Heart In Shadow Of The Erdtree?

Two intriguing tools, the Priestess Heart and Rock Heart, make their debut in Elden Ring's Shadow of the Erdtree expansion. Their similarities often leave players pondering which one suits their playstyle better. Careful evaluation of the advantages and disadvantages of each item is essential for making an informed decision.

If the differences between these two items were more pronounced, the choice might be more straightforward. While one item requires the challenging task of defeating Bayle the Dread, this doesn’t necessarily make it the superior option.

Using either the Priestess Heart or Rock Heart can provide strategic combat benefits, improving the efficiency of earning Elden Ring Runes. For players trying to determine whether pursuing these items is worthwhile, understanding their unique functions and subtle distinctions is key.

Priestess Heart Is Choice For Dragon Cultists

The Priestess Heart is obtained by completing the "Defeat Bayle the Dread" quest. After defeating Bayle, players can return to the starting location of the Priestess to claim this powerful item as their reward. This reusable tool allows players to transform into an ancient dragon, although it comes with the limitation of not being able to wear armor while in dragon form.

Despite the lack of armor, players gain significant advantages in this form, including 7% damage negation and an additional 70 resistance points. Additionally, using the Priestess Heart in dragon form boosts Dragon Cult Incantation damage by 20% for one minute. Unlike similar buffs like Golden Vow, this effect does not consume FP, meaning it can be activated repeatedly without resource concerns. For players looking to maximize their potential, this buff can also stack with Golden Vow for even greater damage output.

Rock Heart Is For Dragon Communion

The Rock Heart is obtained by solving the Domain of Dragons Painting puzzle. This quest involves finding the spirit of the artist who created the painting. Like the Priestess Heart, Rock Heart also enables transformation into a dragon, with slightly different stat boosts.

In dragon form, Rock Heart provides 50 resistance points, slightly lower than the Priestess Heart. However, it compensates with 10% damage reduction, exceeding the Priestess Heart's 7% reduction. While it doesn’t enhance Dragon Cult incantations, it significantly boosts the effectiveness of Dragon Communion Incantations. Similar to its counterpart, this effect costs no FP and lasts for 60 seconds, stacking seamlessly with other buffs.

Conclusion: Priestess Heart Or Rock Heart?

hen deciding between the Priestess Heart and Rock Heart, players should consider their preferred type of incantations. The game offers 15 Dragon Cult Incantations and 16 Dragon Communion Incantations. Popular spells like Lightning Spear fall under Dragon Cult, while Dragon Communion includes Rotten Breath, favored in PvP. Depending on the situation and personal preferences, players can select the heart that complements their gameplay style.

Attribute improvements also vary between the two hearts. For instance, if a player already has a high resistance score, they might not mind the slightly lower resistance offered by the Rock Heart. Instead, they may prioritize the higher damage negation provided by Rock Heart. Ultimately, the choice boils down to whether resistance or damage negation holds more importance for the player.

Elden Ring thrives on item diversity, allowing players to experiment and combine tools in creative ways. While not every combination is optimal, the game becomes more engaging when choices reflect individual preferences. For those who wish to keep their options flexible, acquiring both hearts—even in the late-game areas like Shadow of the Erdtree—ensures versatility in adapting to different scenarios.

Whether your preference lies with the Priestess Heart or Rock Heart, both items provide valuable advantages that can enhance your journey through Elden Ring's expansive world.