In this Elden Ring Build Guide, I’ll be showing you my Smithscript Dagger build. This is a Shadow of the Erdtree build that takes place after level 150. If you’ve been looking for a Throwing Blade build that rapidly attacks enemies from afar, then you might want to check this build-out.

In the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, the Shadow Blade build focuses on using the Smithscript Dagger, a unique throwing blade that allows for ranged attacks with every strike, whether it's a running attack, jumping attack, or heavy attack. Despite its long-range capability, the Smithscript Dagger has lower damage output, requiring multiple attacks to deal significant damage. Players will find that, although the weapon provides range, enemies often close the distance quickly, making it essential to learn how to maintain effective spacing during combat.

One of the standout advantages of the Smithscript Dagger is its performance on horseback. When riding, players can unleash a barrage of throws, dealing substantial damage from a safe distance. This weapon proves more reliable than a short bow, especially for horseback combat against bosses. The Piercing Throw weapon skill is highly effective, offering increased damage and extended range. It’s particularly useful for picking off difficult enemies from afar, preventing the need to engage in close combat. Although the FP cost is high, the additional range and ability to interrupt enemy spellcasting make Piercing Throw valuable.

The Smithscript Dagger deals physical damage and has excellent dexterity scaling, reaching an S rating with Keen infusion. This allows for two primary setups: full dexterity for maximum damage per throw or a blood infusion, splitting points between dexterity and arcane to leverage bleed effects. For a blood-focused build, Scattershot Throw is recommended for its ability to rapidly build up blood loss on large enemies. This setup proves particularly effective against bosses, where multiple daggers can trigger significant bleed damage.

Choosing between these setups depends on playstyle and the specific challenges faced. Dexterity with Piercing Throw is ideal for exploration and dealing with elite enemies, while the blood setup with Scattershot Throw excels in situations requiring rapid bleed buildup. Dual-wielding the Smithscript Dagger enhances attack speed and damage, making it essential to maximize the weapon's potential. Offhand options like the Sacrificial Axe can provide FP regeneration, but a light equip load for improved dodging is often preferred.

For armor, the Shadow Militiaman Set looks good aesthetically, providing a ninja-like appearance. Light armor is favored to maintain agility and maximize rolling distance, crucial for avoiding damage. Players aiming to use the Blue Dancer Charm for increased physical damage should keep their total equip load below 16 to maximize its effectiveness. However, other talismans are often more practical for this build.

The Shard of Alexander boosts the damage of Piercing Throw and Scattershot Throw, making it a universal choice for this build. The Smithing Talisman is another essential talisman, increasing damage with all thrown attacks, including weapon skills. The Lord of Blood's Exultation is particularly useful for the bleed setup, as it triggers a damage boost when blood loss occurs. Pairing this with Scattershot Throw allows for rapid blood loss buildup, enhancing overall damage. Crusade Insignia is also a good option, providing a damage boost after each kill, which can be particularly effective in areas with many enemies or in legacy dungeons. For those opting for the blood route, the White Mask armor piece is a valuable addition, offering a 10% attack power increase when blood loss is triggered. This pairs well with the Lord of Blood’s Exultation, providing a significant boost to attack power.

The Spear Talisman can be beneficial for increasing counter damage, especially when throwing into enemies during their attacks. Additionally, Millicent’s Prosthesis or Rotten Winged Sword Insignia are excellent for builds focusing on successive hits, with Millicent’s Prosthesis being better suited for a Keen scaling route, while Rotten Winged Sword Insignia complements the blood route. The Claw Talisman can enhance jump attack damage, which is useful if jump throws are a significant part of the combat strategy. Pairing this with light armor like the Shadow Militia set enhances mobility and allows for quick dodging, which is crucial for this build’s survival.

Attributes for this build vary depending on the chosen setup. For both setups, 50 Vigor is recommended, though increasing it to 60 is ideal, especially with light armor. Mind and Endurance are both set at 30 to ensure sufficient FP for weapon skills and stamina for continuous attacking and dodging. Strength is kept at the minimum requirement of 8, with Dexterity and Arcane split for the blood setup. Dexterity is maximized for the Keen setup, while Arcane is kept around 40-45 to balance blood loss buildup and damage.

Combining the Opaline Hardtear for extra protection and the Greenburst Crystal Tear for improved stamina regeneration is recommended. This setup supports sustained combat and enhances survivability, especially in boss fights. Other options include the Thorny Cracked Tear for increased attack power with successive hits, though it is less effective if weapon skills are used more frequently.

Regarding Great Runes, Radahn’s Great Rune is the preferred choice, offering bonuses to HP, FP, and stamina, which are crucial for this build. While Godrick’s Great Rune provides additional attributes, Radahn’s overall utility is more beneficial for the Shadow Blade build.