How These 12 Elden Ring Items Function Differently in NG+

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Elden Ring’s NG+ mode isn’t just a tougher version of the base game—it changes how a lot of your favorite items behave. Some weapons scale differently, consumables have altered effects, and certain talismans shine in new ways when you return to the Lands Between for a second round. I’ve spent hours testing NG+ to see exactly how 12 key items behave differently, and here’s a breakdown that can help you plan your next playthrough.
1. Flask of Crimson TearsIn NG+, your Flasks of Crimson Tears heal slightly less if you haven’t upgraded them further. The difference isn’t massive, but in tough boss fights, every drop counts. Personally, I like topping off with a couple of extra consumables just in case. A little tip: you can stock up efficiently if you decide to buy elden ring runes before jumping into NG+—it’s a fast way to grab some extra upgrade mats for your flasks.
2. Rivers of Blood KatanaThis weapon’s bleed effect becomes even more potent in NG+, but enemy bleed resistance also increases. In practice, you’ll notice bosses taking longer to build up the bleed status unless you use Ashes of War that boost bleed damage. Pairing it with fast attacks is key; heavy attacks just won’t stack as quickly.
3. Gold Scarab TalismanThe Gold Scarab Talisman is fantastic for farming, and in NG+, the increased rune rewards from enemies feel extra sweet. If you’re looking to stock up quickly, some players I know even choose to buy elden ring runes ps5 fast delivery to give themselves a little head start on upgrading gear and consumables before tackling NG+.
4. Meteorite StaffNG+ alters how staff scaling works slightly—magic users will notice their early-game sorceries hit a bit harder relative to the base game. That said, you might need to swap to upgraded staves sooner since enemy resistance to magic grows. My advice: experiment with combining this staff with the right talismans to keep damage consistent.
5. Reduvia DaggerThis dagger gains bonus damage from successive attacks in NG+, making it even deadlier in PvP or quick boss fights. The critical hits feel sharper, and for those running dex-heavy builds, it becomes a must-have. Fun fact: it’s one of the few weapons that truly shines when paired with items that restore FP faster.
6. Flask of Cerulean TearsFP management is trickier in NG+, and you’ll notice your Flask of Cerulean Tears might not keep up if you’re spamming spells. Investing in a few extra upgrades can make a big difference. Some players like to buy elden ring runes through reliable sources like U4GM to get the materials they need without wasting farming time. This isn’t required, but it can save a lot of frustration when you’re trying to test new spell combinations.
7. Greatshield of GloryThe Greatshield of Glory’s damage reduction stays mostly the same, but enemy attacks in NG+ hit harder. The shield’s unique ability to restore stamina on block becomes more noticeable, which is great for defensive builds. I’ve found it super handy in tight boss rooms where one mistimed dodge can ruin your run.
8. Carian Regal ScepterScepters like this one see minor scaling changes in NG+. Bosses are tougher, so your sorceries may feel slightly weaker without proper stats. The key is to pair it with talismans that increase spell power, and don’t forget that stacking buffs can help offset the difficulty spike.
9. TwinbladeThe Twinblade’s combos are slightly faster in NG+, likely to compensate for tougher enemies. It’s a fun weapon for people who like fast, flowing combat, and the timing adjustments make multi-hit combos feel more fluid against NG+ bosses.
10. Starlight ShardConsumables like the Starlight Shard change subtly: in NG+, the healing effect is reduced, but it also restores FP slightly faster when used with specific talismans. It’s not game-breaking, but it’s worth noting if you’re planning a magic-heavy run.
11. Black Knife’s DaggerThis dagger’s special effect, causing bonus damage to weakened foes, works differently in NG+. Since enemies have higher base HP, it’s slightly less immediate but more rewarding in long fights. I like pairing it with status-inflicting items to maximize its burst potential.
12. Flask of Wondrous PhysickFinally, the Flask of Wondrous Physick behaves uniquely in NG+. The mixed effects you choose might have slightly diminished potency, so think carefully about what to mix. Personally, I swap combinations depending on which boss I’m facing next, and occasionally I rely on a few extra materials that I got by using U4GM to ensure I have what I need without grinding endlessly.
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