So, you’re hacking and slashing your way through ninth-century England as Eivor, and the burning question lingers: is dual wielding actually better in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla? The short answer, and the one that might sting a little, is… it’s complicated. While not strictly better in a direct damage-per-second kind of way, dual wielding offers a unique and engaging combat experience that can be incredibly effective in the right hands. It’s all about playstyle, weapon combinations, and knowing when to ditch the shield for a second weapon.
The game itself tells you straight up that simply holding two weapons doesn’t magically double your damage output or attack speed. So, what does it do? It’s about agility, adaptability, and unleashing unique combat maneuvers. Ditching the shield significantly reduces your weight, leading to faster, less stamina-intensive dodges. And trust me, you’ll be dodging a lot more when you’re rocking two axes instead of a trusty shield. Dual wielding isn’t just about brute force, it is about calculated aggression and strategic weapon pairing.
The Allure of the Two-Weapon Dance
The real strength of dual wielding in Valhalla lies in weapon synergy. The game allows you to mix and match weapon types, creating powerful combinations with diverse movesets and stat boosts. The third strike in your combo often utilizes both weapons, making for visually impressive and devastating attacks.
- Stat Stacking: Each weapon contributes its stats and elemental effects. Pairing a poison-infused dagger with a fire-enchanted axe can create a status effect nightmare for your enemies.
- Versatility: Facing a heavily armored foe? Switch to a hammer in your off-hand. Need to keep your distance? A spear offers excellent range.
- Unique Combos: Experiment! Discovering new and devastating combos is half the fun. Learn what works for you and use it to dominate your enemies.
Top Dual Wielding Combos for Maximum Mayhem
Let’s get down to brass tacks: what are some of the most effective dual wielding pairings in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla? These combinations are not just powerful, but also offer a balanced and engaging combat experience.
Spear and Axe: The Agile Aggressor
As the game mentions, pairing a spear (like the Fyrd Spear) with an axe (like Fafnir’s Fang) is an excellent choice for players who prioritize range and speed. The spear keeps enemies at bay, while the axe provides close-quarters power. This combination allows you to control the battlefield and dictate the pace of combat.
Two Spears: Range is King
Doubling down on spears provides unparalleled reach and makes it difficult for enemies to close the distance. This is a very safe and strategic playstyle.
Great Sword and Hammer: The Stun Lock Specialist
Combining the wide sweeping attacks of a great sword with the staggering power of a hammer can create a brutal stun-lock scenario. Keep your enemies reeling and unable to retaliate.
Spear and Hammer: Control and Power
Similar to the Great Sword and Hammer combo, the spear offers range while the hammer delivers crippling blows. This is a more versatile option than dual greatswords.
Two Dane Axes: The Whirlwind of Death
If you want pure, unadulterated destruction, wielding two Dane axes is the way to go. The attacks are slow, but the damage is immense. Just be prepared to dodge – a lot.
Two Great Swords: The Heavy Hitter
Similar to Dane Axes, two great swords deliver massive damage per swing but are very stamina intensive.
The Downside: Knowing Your Limits
While dual wielding can be incredibly powerful, it’s not without its drawbacks. The most significant limitation is the lack of a shield. This means you’re sacrificing:
- Blocking: No shield means no reliable blocking. You’ll need to rely on parrying and dodging, which require good timing and awareness.
- Passive Defense: Shields offer passive stat boosts and resistances that can significantly improve your survivability.
- Certain Abilities: Some shield-specific abilities are incredibly useful and won’t be available when dual wielding.
Is Dual Wielding Right for You?
Ultimately, the decision to dual wield in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla comes down to your personal preferences and playstyle. If you enjoy aggressive, fast-paced combat and are comfortable relying on dodging and parrying, dual wielding can be an incredibly rewarding experience. However, if you prefer a more defensive playstyle and value the protection of a shield, sticking with a one-handed weapon and shield might be a better choice.
No matter your approach, remember to experiment with different weapon combinations and find what works best for you. Valhalla offers a wide range of weapons and abilities, so there’s always something new to discover. And if you ever need a deeper dive into the game’s mechanics, remember to visit https://gbtimes.com/ or search for GB Times to uncover helpful guides, tips and news about the game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Dual Wielding in AC Valhalla
1. Does dual wielding increase attack speed?
No, the game explicitly states that dual wielding does not increase your overall attack speed. However, the reduced weight can allow for quicker dodges and more fluid movement.
2. Is dual wielding daggers viable?
Absolutely! Dual daggers can be incredibly powerful, especially when focused on increasing attack speed and critical hit chance. The rapid attacks and inherent dodge bonuses make for a lethal combination.
3. What is the best armor for a dual wielding build?
Light armor is generally recommended for dual wielding, as it provides the best stamina regeneration. This allows you to perform more dodges, parries, and special attacks, keeping you mobile and agile.
4. Does dual wielding increase damage?
Not directly. Dual wielding doesn’t inherently increase the base damage of your attacks. However, it allows you to stack stats from two weapons and access unique combo attacks that can deal significant damage.
5. Are swords or axes better for dual wielding?
Both are viable options! Swords offer a balance of speed and damage, while axes provide greater damage output. Consider the secondary stats and special perks of each weapon to determine which is best for your build.
6. Can you dual wield shields?
Unfortunately, no. While it might be entertaining to see Eivor wielding two shields, the game only allows you to equip one shield at a time.
7. What should I pair with Excalibur?
Pairing Excalibur with a fast-attacking weapon like a Carolingian Longsword is a good option, providing both raw power and speed. Dual wielding it with another greatsword is also a strong choice for maximum damage output, but will be slow.
8. Is Varin’s Axe good for dual wielding?
Varin’s Axe, when fully upgraded, is a solid weapon that can be effectively used in a dual wielding setup. It boasts respectable damage and can be paired with a faster weapon for a balanced approach.
9. What are the disadvantages of dual wielding?
The primary disadvantage is the lack of a shield, which reduces your blocking capabilities and passive defenses. You’ll need to rely more on dodging and parrying, which can be challenging.
10. How do I maximize damage when dual wielding?
Focus on stacking stats like critical hit chance, critical hit damage, and elemental damage. Experiment with different weapon combinations to find those with unique properties. Fully upgrade your weapons to increase their base stats.
11. Can I switch between dual wielding and using a shield mid-combat?
Yes! You can easily switch between dual wielding and using a shield by accessing the inventory screen. This allows you to adapt your combat style to different situations.
12. Are there any abilities that specifically benefit dual wielding?
While there aren’t any abilities that specifically benefit dual wielding, many abilities that increase damage, speed, or status effect infliction will synergize well with the playstyle. Look for abilities that enhance your overall combat prowess.
