If you’ve spent more than a few hours wandering the Lands Between, you know how essential Runes are. They're not just currency—they’re the key to leveling, upgrading gear, and even surviving longer against some of the nastier bosses. But let’s be honest, Rune farming can get repetitive. Whether you're preparing for NG+ or just trying to catch up after experimenting with a new build, here are 20 creative and efficient ways to farm Runes in Elden Ring without falling asleep at your controller.

1. Mix Up Your Farming Spots

Don't stick to one area like the Mohgwyn Palace farming cliff forever. Try rotating between places like the Windmill Village, Greyoll’s Dragonbarrow, or the Haligtree outskirts. Each has different enemy types and scenery to keep things fresh.

2. Use Spirit Ashes for Fun

Summoning different Spirit Ashes can change your experience dramatically. Try farming the same spot using different summons like Lhutel the Headless or Black Knife Tiche. It keeps combat from feeling stale.

3. Go Rune-Hunting With Friends

Jump into co-op and help others with their worlds while grabbing some easy Runes. It’s more fun than grinding alone, and boss assists can be lucrative.

4. Take on Bell-Bearing Hunters at Night

These minibosses drop solid Rune rewards and useful items. Since they only appear at night and in specific locations, hunting them becomes a dynamic mini-adventure.

5. Farm While Testing New Builds

Switch up your weapon or Ash of War and turn farming into a lab session. Not only do you gain Runes, but you’ll discover new playstyles and synergies.

6. Clear Catacombs You Missed

Each minor dungeon or catacomb you skipped is a pocket of Runes waiting to be plundered. Plus, they’re bite-sized, making them perfect for quick sessions.

7. Go PvP in Rune-Farming Zones

Places like Mohgwyn are PvP hotspots. Equip your dueling talismans and farm players and enemies for a double payout.

8. Use Gold-Pickled Fowl Foot Strategically

Time your Gold-Pickled Fowl Foot usage right before a big kill. You’ll make your farming far more efficient without grinding as long.

9. Level Alt Characters

Create a new character and experience the game again with a different build. You’ll earn Runes naturally while keeping things fresh.

10. Farm With a Challenge

Turn off your HUD, wear no armor, or go one-handed. Make farming its own kind of mini-game.

11. Hunt Down Night Bosses

They’re tougher, but worth it. These nighttime foes give you a mix of Runes and rare drops that break the monotony of basic enemy farming.

12. Join the Volcano Manor Contracts

These assassination missions offer high Rune rewards and some unique lore. It’s a flavorful break from traditional grinding.

13. Use Torrent Tactically

Some farming spots are faster with Torrent. Ride in, execute a hit-and-run, and keep the momentum going.

14. Experiment With AoE Builds

Switch to a Faith or Intelligence build and decimate groups with AoE magic. You’ll speed up your Rune gain and it’s satisfying to watch enemies melt.

15. Explore Unfinished Zones

If there are areas on your map you’ve ignored, now’s the time. You’ll uncover new enemies and items, all while passively earning Runes.

16. Farm With Podcasts or Music

If your mind starts to wander, put on a podcast or soundtrack. It turns a repetitive task into a chill session.

17. Go on a Rune-Shard Hunt

Loot hidden corpses and guarded chests in hard-to-reach places. They're often stuffed with Golden Runes, and you can bank them for when you need a boost.

18. Set Micro-Goals

Challenge yourself to farm 50K Runes using only a specific weapon, or clear an area without taking damage. Goals make repetition engaging.

19. Time Your Sessions

Don’t overdo it. Farm for 20–30 minutes per session to keep the grind from turning into a chore. Short bursts help avoid burnout.

20. Take Advantage of Rune-Boosting Gear

Equip items like the Gold Scarab to maximize your Rune intake. Combined with efficient routes, it shortens your grind considerably.

Bonus Tip: Speed Things Up With the Right Tools

Sometimes you just want to get straight to the good stuff—maybe you're building a PvP character or recreating your favorite streamer’s build. For moments like that, the best site to buy Elden Ring Runes or the best site to buy Elden Ring items can be a lifesaver. It’s about playing the game your way, especially when time is limited.