The Coolkid Forsaken isn’t just a build—it’s a statement. A weapon that turns heads, a playstyle that demands respect, and a legacy forged in the fires of *Elden Ring*’s most brutal arenas. But mastering it isn’t about spamming a greatsword and calling it a day. It’s about precision, timing, and understanding the Forsaken’s soul—literally. The weapon’s signature "Coolkid" moveset, where every swing feels like a slow-motion ballet, is deceptively simple yet brutally effective when executed correctly. Players who dismiss it as "just a meme weapon" underestimate its depth: a single misstep in its rhythm, and you’re left vulnerable in a duel. The best Coolkid Forsaken players don’t rely on raw damage—they outplay opponents with feints, parries, and the weapon’s unique stamina management. What separates the Coolkid Forsaken veterans from the casual swingers? It’s the ability to turn the weapon’s limitations into strengths. The Forsaken’s slow attack speed and high stamina cost force players to think like chess masters, calculating when to commit to a full combo versus when to bait a counter. This isn’t a build for reckless brawlers; it’s for those who treat every swing as a calculated risk. And in a game where most players default to fast, high-damage weapons, the Coolkid Forsaken thrives on its unpredictability. The weapon’s true power lies in its ability to make opponents second-guess their own attacks—because in *Elden Ring*, hesitation is the first step toward defeat. The Coolkid Forsaken build has evolved from a niche meme into a legitimate competitive and PvE powerhouse, thanks to its versatility and the sheer flair of its execution. Whether you’re dueling in Liurnia’s ruins or tackling Malenia’s final phase, the weapon’s signature moveset—rooted in the "Coolkid" YouTube series—demands mastery of both form and function. But how do you actually *play* it? The answer isn’t in the weapon’s stats alone; it’s in the philosophy behind it. This guide cuts through the noise to reveal the mechanics, mindsets, and hidden techniques that turn the Forsaken into an unstoppable force.

The Complete Overview of How to Play Coolkid Forsaken

The Coolkid Forsaken build is more than a weapon choice—it’s a playstyle defined by deliberate aggression, stamina management, and an almost rhythmic precision. At its core, the build revolves around the **Forsaken Greatsword**, a weapon that rewards patience and punishes impatience. Its slow attack animations might seem like a liability, but in the hands of a skilled player, they become a psychological weapon. The key to "how to play Coolkid Forsaken" lies in understanding that the weapon’s strength isn’t in brute force but in controlling the pace of combat. Every swing, every dodge, and every parry must be executed with purpose, turning the weapon’s limitations into a tactical advantage. The build’s signature "Coolkid" moveset—popularized by the *Elden Ring* speedrunning and PvP communities—isn’t just about looking stylish. It’s a framework for optimizing the Forsaken’s strengths: its high poise damage, its ability to trade hits effectively, and its stamina efficiency when used correctly. The weapon’s **R2 (Heavy Attack)** is its bread and win, a move that can stun opponents if landed cleanly, but it demands perfect timing. Meanwhile, the **L2 (Light Attack)** is a feint tool, luring enemies into predictable patterns. The real mastery comes in blending these attacks seamlessly, creating a dance where the opponent is always reacting to your lead. This isn’t a build for button-mashers; it’s for players who treat combat like a duel, where every movement is a calculated risk.

Historical Background and Evolution

The Coolkid Forsaken build didn’t emerge in a vacuum—it was born from the intersection of *Elden Ring*’s competitive scene and the viral appeal of the "Coolkid" aesthetic. The term "Coolkid" originates from a *Dark Souls* meme, where players would slow down their animations to make their attacks look effortlessly cool. In *Elden Ring*, this playstyle was perfected with the Forsaken Greatsword, a weapon that naturally lends itself to exaggerated, slow-motion swings. The build’s popularity surged after speedrunners and PvP enthusiasts demonstrated how the weapon’s moveset could be optimized for both efficiency and flair, turning it into a symbol of skill rather than just luck. What makes the Coolkid Forsaken unique is its adaptability. Originally a PvP weapon, its principles—stamina management, feinting, and controlled aggression—transferred seamlessly into PvE, particularly against high-damage bosses like Malenia or Radahn. The build’s evolution reflects *Elden Ring*’s meta shifts: as players discovered how to exploit the Forsaken’s poise damage and stun potential, the weapon’s reputation grew beyond being a "fun" choice. Today, it’s a staple in both casual and hardcore playstyles, proving that sometimes, the most effective builds are the ones that defy expectations.

Core Mechanisms: How It Works

The Coolkid Forsaken’s mechanics revolve around three pillars: **stamina efficiency, poise control, and attack rhythm**. The weapon’s high stamina cost means every swing must be deliberate—wasting stamina on reckless attacks leaves you vulnerable. The solution? A **3-hit combo (L1, L2, R2)** that maximizes damage while minimizing stamina drain. The **L2 (Light Attack)** is critical here; it’s not just a quick hit—it’s a feint that sets up the **R2 (Heavy Attack)**, which can stun or knock down opponents if timed correctly. This rhythm is what separates the Coolkids from the casuals: the ability to chain these attacks smoothly, forcing opponents to either block or dodge predictably. Poise damage is where the Forsaken truly shines. The weapon’s **R2** deals massive poise damage, allowing you to trade hits with heavily armored enemies or even stagger bosses like Malenia. The trick is to **commit to the heavy attack only when you’ve baited their counter**, ensuring you don’t leave yourself open. Stamina management is non-negotiable—most Coolkid players run **Vigor 40+** to survive trades, while **Endurance 20+** ensures they can spam combos without running dry. The weapon’s **Bloodhound’s Step** (dash attack) is another key tool, used to close gaps or escape pressure, but it must be used sparingly to avoid stamina depletion.

Key Benefits and Crucial Impact

The Coolkid Forsaken isn’t just a flashy build—it’s a strategic one. Its greatest strength lies in its ability to **control the flow of combat**, forcing opponents to react to your timing rather than relying on raw speed or damage. In PvP, this means you can outmaneuver faster weapons by predicting their patterns, while in PvE, it allows you to chip away at boss health without getting overwhelmed by their attacks. The build’s versatility is its defining trait: it can be used for **aggressive pressure, defensive trades, or even hybrid playstyles** that mix melee with ranged weapons like the **Carian Regal Scepter** (for magic support) or **Kukri** (for bleed buildup). What sets the Coolkid Forsaken apart from other greatsword builds is its **psychological edge**. Opponents often underestimate its effectiveness, assuming the slow animations mean it’s weak. But when executed correctly, the weapon’s moveset becomes a **trap**—every feint, every dodge, and every heavy attack is a calculated move designed to make them second-guess their own strategy. This isn’t just about hitting harder; it’s about **making them miss**.

*"The Coolkid Forsaken isn’t about power—it’s about rhythm. The best players don’t just swing; they make their opponents dance to their tune."* — **Anonymous PvP Veteran, Elden Ring Competitive Scene**

Major Advantages

• Unmatched Poise Damage: The Forsaken’s **R2** can stagger even the toughest bosses, making it ideal for **Malenia, Radahn, and Margit** fights where poise control is key.
• Stamina Efficiency in Combos: The **3-hit combo (L1 → L2 → R2)** maximizes damage while minimizing stamina loss, allowing for sustained pressure.
• Psychological Warfare: The weapon’s slow animations force opponents to predict your moves, creating openings for counters or feints.
• Versatility in Builds: Can be paired with **bleed (Kukri), magic (Carian Scepter), or even strength-focused setups** like the **Lusat’s Glintstone Staff** for hybrid play.
• High Skill Ceiling: Mastery of the moveset rewards **precision and timing**, making it a favorite in competitive PvP circles.

Comparative Analysis

Coolkid Forsaken	Other Greatswords (e.g., Greatsword, Black Knight Sword)
Slow but **high poise damage**—ideal for trading. **Stamina-heavy** but efficient in combos. **Feint-based playstyle**—relies on rhythm over raw speed. Best for **PvP and high-difficulty PvE** (e.g., Malenia).	Faster attacks but **lower poise damage**. More **stamina-efficient per hit** but lacks the Forsaken’s stun potential. Better for **burst damage** but struggles in prolonged trades. More **versatile in early-game** but outclassed by Forsaken in late-game.
Weakness: Vulnerable to **fast weapons** if misplayed.	Weakness: **Poor poise damage**—struggles against armored foes.
Best For: Players who enjoy **deliberate, rhythmic combat**.	Best For: Players who prefer **fast-paced, aggressive playstyles**.

Future Trends and Innovations

The Coolkid Forsaken build is far from stagnant—its future lies in **adaptive playstyles** that evolve with *Elden Ring*’s meta. As players experiment with **hybrid builds** (e.g., Forsaken + bleed + magic), the weapon’s potential will only grow. Expect to see more **custom movesets** emerge, where players blend the Coolkid framework with **aspects of other weapons**, such as using the **Uchigatana** for bleed buildup before switching to the Forsaken for finisher combos. Additionally, as *Elden Ring*’s PvP scene matures, we’ll likely see **more refined stamina management techniques**, where Coolkid players optimize their builds to sustain longer trades without sacrificing damage. Another trend to watch is the **integration of AI-assisted training tools**. While *Elden Ring* lacks official training modes, third-party tools and speedrunning communities are already dissecting the Forsaken’s optimal movesets. Future updates or DLCs could introduce **new greatswords or buffs** that further enhance the Coolkid playstyle, making it even more dominant in high-level play. One thing is certain: the Coolkid Forsaken isn’t going anywhere—it’s here to stay as one of the most **thematically rich and mechanically deep** builds in the game.

Conclusion

The Coolkid Forsaken isn’t just a weapon—it’s a **philosophy of combat**. It rewards patience, precision, and an almost musical understanding of rhythm. For those willing to put in the time, it offers a level of control and flair that few other builds can match. Whether you’re dueling in the Astel Naturalist’s arena or clashing blades with Malenia, the Forsaken’s signature moveset turns every fight into a **duel of wits as much as skill**. But don’t be fooled by its aesthetic appeal. The Coolkid Forsaken demands **respect**, and mastering it means embracing its limitations as strengths. It’s not about being the fastest or the hardest-hitting—it’s about being the most **unpredictable**. And in a game where most players default to brute force, that’s a power unto itself.

Comprehensive FAQs

Q: What’s the best stats distribution for a Coolkid Forsaken build?

The optimal stats for a **PvP-focused** Coolkid Forsaken are:

• Vigor 40-50 (to survive trades).
• Endurance 20-30 (for stamina efficiency).
• Strength 40-50 (for max damage).
• Dexterity 15-20 (for poise damage).
• Vitality 20-30 (for HP pool).

For **PvE (e.g., Malenia)**, you can drop Endurance slightly (15-20) and invest more in Vitality (30-40) to sustain longer fights.

Q: How do I execute the perfect Coolkid Forsaken combo?

The **core combo** is:

1. L1 (Light Attack) – Sets up the feint.
2. L2 (Light Attack) – A quick feint to bait reactions.
3. R2 (Heavy Attack) – The finisher, which can stun if landed cleanly.

The key is **timing the R2 after their dodge or block**, ensuring you don’t leave yourself open. Practice this in **PvE against NPCs** before attempting it in PvP.

Q: Can I use the Coolkid Forsaken in co-op PvE?

Absolutely. The Forsaken’s **high poise damage** makes it excellent for **boss fights like Malenia or Radahn**, where staggering their attacks is crucial. Pair it with a **healer (e.g., Golden Vow)** or a **burst damage weapon (e.g., Moonveil Katana)** for maximum efficiency.

Q: What’s the best armor set for a Coolkid Forsaken build?

The **Lusat’s Glintstone Armor** (Strength-focused) is ideal for **PvE**, while the **Tree Sentinel Set** (Dexterity-focused) works well for **PvP**. For a **hybrid build**, the **Lopaf’s Set** (Magic/Strength) can be used with the **Carian Regal Scepter** for magic support.

Q: How do I counter fast weapons like the Uchigatana or Scavenger’s Curved Sword?

Against fast weapons, **parry their L1 with your own L1**, then punish with an **R2**. The Forsaken’s **slow animations** make it harder for them to react, so **bait their attacks** and commit to the heavy attack only when they’re predictable. If they’re spamming **Bloodhound’s Step**, **dodge forward** and punish their recovery.

Q: Is the Coolkid Forsaken viable in New Game+?

Yes, but you’ll need to **adjust stats** for higher-level enemies. Focus on:

• Vigor 60+ (to survive NG+ damage).
• Endurance 25+ (for stamina management).
• Strength 50+ (for max damage).

Consider **bleed buildup (Kukri)** or **magic infusion (Lusat’s Staff)** to counter high-defense foes.

Q: Can I use the Coolkid Forsaken with a different weapon?

While the Forsaken is the **signature weapon**, you can **swap to similar greatswords** like the **Black Knight Sword** or **Giant-Crusher** for variety. However, the **Forsaken’s unique moveset** (especially the **R2 stun**) is hard to replicate, so most players stick with it for **authentic Coolkid play**.

Q: What’s the biggest mistake beginners make with the Coolkid Forsaken?

The biggest mistake is **wasting stamina on reckless attacks**. The Forsaken’s power comes from **controlled combos**, not spamming R2s. Beginners often **overcommit to heavies**, leaving themselves open. Instead, **feint with L2s** and only go for the R2 when you’ve baited their reaction.

Q: How do I improve my Coolkid Forsaken footwork?

Footwork is everything. Practice:

• Dodging forward (to close gaps).
• Dodging backward (to escape pressure).
• Parrying L1s (to punish fast weapons).
• Using Bloodhound’s Step (for mobility).

Record your fights and **analyze your movement**—most Coolkid players move **less but more deliberately** than other builds.