Mastering Martial Arts Combat in Elden Ring: How to Find and Unlock Hand-to-Hand Techniques

Introduction to Martial Arts in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree

With the release of the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion, martial arts combat has become one of the most intriguing additions to the Elden Ring experience. Known in-game as Dryleaf Arts or Hand-to-Hand Arts , these techniques allow players to engage in high-speed, combo-driven melee fighting reminiscent of classic martial arts films. If you’re seeking to unlock this unique fighting style, it’s essential to follow the right steps and meet specific conditions within the new DLC area. Below, you’ll find a comprehensive, actionable guide to discovering and mastering martial arts in Elden Ring.

Understanding Martial Arts (Dryleaf Arts) in Elden Ring

Martial Arts in Elden Ring are not available from the start. They are introduced as part of the Shadow of the Erdtree content and require you to progress to a particular stage in the game. The Dryleaf Arts weapon enables unarmed combat, delivering rapid punches, kicks, and special moves such as the
Palm Blast
-a powerful Ash of War. Players who enjoy aggressive, close-quarters playstyles or who have fond memories of the Bone Fist from Dark Souls II will find this addition especially satisfying [2] .

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Find Martial Arts in Elden Ring

To access martial arts techniques in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree, follow these detailed steps:

1. Progress to the Scadu Altus Region

You must first defeat Rellana, Twin Moon Knight and advance through Castle Ensis . This is a major boss and area gatekeeper in the DLC. Only after this victory will you be able to enter Scadu Altus , the region where the martial arts journey begins [1] .

2. Locate the Highroad Cross Site of Grace

Upon entering Scadu Altus, proceed toward the Highroad Cross Site of Grace. This is an important checkpoint and serves as the starting point for the martial arts questline. Here, you’ll find two key items on the ground: a
Scadutree Fragment
and a note called the Monk’s Missive [2] . The Monk’s Missive contains a cryptic challenge from Dryleaf Dane , a martial arts master and your soon-to-be opponent.

3. Seek Out Dryleaf Dane

The Monk’s Missive instructs you to seek Dryleaf Dane to the east. While the message is vague, players must travel eastward from the Highroad Cross. Dane is found meditating near a site of grace, and you’ll need to use a specific gesture to engage him. This gesture, typically acquired alongside the Monk’s Missive, is used to signal your readiness for the challenge [1] . If you do not have the gesture, check your inventory for any new emotes or re-read the missive for clues.

4. Challenge Dryleaf Dane to a Duel

Once you locate Dryleaf Dane, use the required gesture to initiate a sparring match. This duel is a fair fight; you won’t need to worry about being overwhelmed by minions or environmental hazards. Defeating Dane will reward you with the Dryleaf Arts weapon and unlock the martial arts combat style [2] .

5. Equipping and Using the Dryleaf Arts

After earning the Dryleaf Arts, equip it as you would any weapon. The combat mechanics differ from traditional swords or axes: light attacks deliver quick jabs and kicks, while heavy attacks unleash powerful spinning kicks or special moves. The
Palm Blast
Ash of War can be activated to perform a devastating strike, ideal for staggering tough opponents [3] .

Practical Tips for Success

Transitioning to martial arts combat requires a shift in tactics. Here are some actionable strategies:

Timing is critical : Combos rely on precise timing between light and heavy attacks.
Mobility matters : Use the inherent speed of martial arts to evade enemy strikes and counterattack quickly.
Resource management : The Palm Blast consumes FP (Focus Points), so monitor your resources during extended fights.
Experiment with builds : Martial arts scale well with certain stats; consider adjusting your character’s build for optimal performance.

Alternative Pathways and Additional Martial Arts Weapons

While Dryleaf Arts is the primary martial arts weapon, the DLC features other hand-to-hand weapons and Ashes of War that enhance or modify your fighting style. These can be found in hidden locations or as rewards for completing side quests involving monks and martial arts practitioners. For a comprehensive list of all martial arts monk weapons and their locations, you can search for recent video walkthroughs by reputable content creators on platforms like YouTube. Use search terms such as “Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree all martial arts weapons locations” for up-to-date guides [5] .

Potential Challenges and Solutions

Players may encounter several obstacles on the path to martial arts mastery:

High difficulty bosses : Rellana and Dryleaf Dane can be challenging. Consider leveling up your character and upgrading equipment before attempting these fights.
Ambiguous directions : The quest instructions may seem vague. Explore thoroughly and reference in-game maps to stay on course.
Gesture acquisition : If you miss the Monk’s Missive or gesture, revisit the Highroad Cross Site of Grace and search the area carefully.

Alternative Approaches to Martial Arts Gameplay

If you prefer not to pursue the Dryleaf Arts immediately, you may continue exploring the DLC for other unique weapons and combat styles. Many players report that martial arts combat is especially rewarding in player-versus-player (PvP) scenarios, where speed and unpredictability can turn the tide of battle.

Summary and Key Takeaways

Unlocking martial arts in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree requires a specific sequence: progress through Castle Ensis, reach Scadu Altus, locate the Highroad Cross Site of Grace, obtain the Monk’s Missive and gesture, find Dryleaf Dane, and win the duel. Remember, the process may involve trial and error, but thorough exploration and persistence will be rewarded with a fresh, dynamic combat style. For those seeking additional guidance or visual walkthroughs, reputable gaming websites and video platforms offer detailed, up-to-date tutorials from established creators.