Elden Ring is known for its vast open world and the countless ways players can approach its challenges. One of the most creative and demanding ways to experience the game is through challenge runs, where you impose unique restrictions on yourself to heighten the difficulty and fun. A particularly interesting twist is to limit yourself to using only crafted items throughout your run. This means relying on consumables, throwable weapons, and buffs you can make yourself, rather than traditional weapons or found gear.

Having spent extensive hours experimenting with various builds and strategies, I’ve found that crafted-item-only runs add a fresh layer of tactical depth and resource management that few other playthroughs offer. Here are ten challenge run ideas focused entirely on crafted items—each offering a new way to experience the Lands Between. For those who want a helping hand, Elden Ring Nightreign Boosting services can help you prepare your character or acquire essential Elden Ring Items for the run.

1. Pure Projectile Run

Use only crafted ranged weapons like firebombs, poison knives, and throwing daggers. No melee weapons allowed. This run forces you to master spacing and timing, constantly dodging and attacking from a distance. I found it thrilling and frustrating in equal measure, especially against aggressive bosses.

2. Healing Only Run

You can’t use any weapons at all, only crafted consumables for healing and buffs. Survive with Runes and summons if needed, but no attacking. It’s a true test of patience and defense. This run gave me a new appreciation for the timing of healing items.

3. Status Effect Specialist

Rely exclusively on crafted items that inflict status effects like Scarlet Rot, poison, or sleep. Combine items like Preserving Boluses with throwable knives to slowly whittle down enemies. I enjoyed the tactical aspect, especially in PVP and boss fights, though it requires serious planning.

4. Pyromancer’s Gambit

Only use crafted firebombs and incendiary grease. You’re a walking fire hazard. I enjoyed how this run pushed me to keep moving, since I was vulnerable in close combat but devastating at range.

5. Stealthy Assassin

Focus on using crafted stealth items like Rowa Raisins and Thieves’ Tools. Attack only with crafted throwing knives or darts. This run taught me to value patience and positioning in a whole new way.

6. Buffed Warrior

Use only crafted buff items—weapon greases, magic resins, and consumables that increase stats—but fight with bare fists or low-damage weapons found early on. The run is about maximizing your limited damage output with clever item use. It was surprisingly effective in my experience.

7. Frostbite Frenzy

Use crafted items that apply frostbite, such as Glintstone Pebble combined with frost greases and frostbombs. The chilling buildup and damage over time add an interesting dynamic to fights. I found this especially fun when exploring cold regions.

8. Explosive Expert

Use only explosives crafted in the field, like poison firebombs and holy water. This run demands precise aim and a steady supply of crafting materials. I often ran low on supplies but the high risk made the moments of success even sweeter.

9. Buff and Heal Support Run

Play as a support character using crafted buffs and healing items only. Help friends or NPCs in co-op by providing constant buffs and heals without directly engaging. I loved this run for the unique challenge it presents and the teamwork required.

10. Consumable Only Boss Rush

Attempt to defeat bosses using no weapons—only crafted consumables like firebombs, poison knives, and healing items. This is one of the hardest challenge runs but also the most rewarding. It tests knowledge of boss patterns and resource management in a brutal way.

Final Thoughts

Crafted item-only runs completely change how you approach Elden Ring. They emphasize creativity, resourcefulness, and patience. Throughout my experiences, I realized that combining crafted items with smart play can overcome even the toughest challenges. If grinding for crafting materials or gear feels tedious, services like Elden Ring Nightreign Boosting can help prepare your character or provide essential Elden Ring Items, letting you focus on the challenge itself.

These runs may not be for everyone, but if you’re looking for something fresh and difficult, restricting yourself to crafted items offers a unique and deeply rewarding way to experience the game.

Full Breakdown:  Elden Ring Rune Investment Strategies