The Wakizashi has become one of Elden Ring's most intriguing weapons since the game's release, offering unique powerstancing opportunities and versatile combat options. In 2025, with several patches having refined its capabilities, this short sword from the Land of Reeds deserves a fresh examination for both new and veteran players alike.

This compact blade may appear unassuming at first glance, but its distinctive features make it a standout choice for specific builds. The Wakizashi is technically classified as a dagger, yet it inhabits a fascinating middle ground between weapon classes that opens up tactical possibilities unavailable to other armaments.

Where to Find the Wakizashi

For those seeking this unique weapon, you'll need to venture into Gaol Cave. The Wakizashi isn't simply lying around—it's secured inside one of the locked cells. Players must first find the key to unlock these cells before claiming this prize. The journey may be challenging, but the reward is well worth the effort.

Unique Properties and Powerstancing

What truly sets the Wakizashi apart is its exceptional compatibility with katanas. Despite being classified as a dagger, the Wakizashi can powerstance with any katana when equipped in your left hand. This creates a distinctive hybrid dual-wielding setup that many players overlook.

When powerstanced with a katana, the Wakizashi:

• Uses the normal katana powerstance moveset

• Consumes approximately 20% less stamina than dual katanas for L1 combo attacks

• Can equip Ash of War: Parry, adding defensive capabilities

This combination offers significant advantages over traditional dual katana setups, particularly for players who value stamina efficiency and parrying opportunities. The trade-off comes in range—the Wakizashi's shorter length means you'll need to stay closer to enemies for reliable hits.

Scaling and Blood Loss Potential

The Wakizashi scales primarily with Strength and Dexterity, making it ideal for quality builds. After patch 1.09 adjusted its scaling values, the weapon has become even more viable for mainstream combat builds.

One of its most valuable attributes is the inherent blood loss buildup. Every hit inflicts hemorrhage status on targets, making it particularly effective against high-HP enemies and bosses. At max upgrade level (Wakizashi +25), this weapon reaches impressive damage potential while maintaining its status effect properties.

Ashes of War Compatibility

Since patch 1.08 improved attack speed and reduced recovery time, the Wakizashi has become an excellent canvas for various Ashes of War. While it comes equipped with Quickstep by default, you can infuse it with numerous alternatives to suit your playstyle:

• Parry - Perfect for defensive players looking to create critical hit opportunities

• Bloodhound's Step - Enhanced mobility for evasive combat

• Double Slash - Improved offensive capabilities

• Hoarfrost Stomp - Area damage with frost buildup

The weapon accepts a wide range of affinities, allowing you to further customize it to complement your build's strengths or compensate for weaknesses.

PVP Considerations

The 1.10 patch adjusted poise damage values for all weapons, including the Wakizashi. In PVP scenarios, understanding these values can give you a tactical edge:

• One-handed R1 attacks: 40.5 poise damage

• Two-handed R2 charged attacks: 594 poise damage

These numbers make the Wakizashi surprisingly effective at breaking opponent stance when used strategically, especially when two-handed.

Historical Connection

The in-game lore connects the Wakizashi to a mysterious figure known as Okina, a demonic swordsman who wields this blade in his left hand alongside a full-sized katana in his right. This historical reference adds depth to the weapon's identity and suggests its intended dual-wielding purpose.

Should You Use Wakizashi or Dual Katanas?

The answer depends on your playstyle. If you value stamina efficiency and parrying capabilities over range, the Wakizashi/katana combination offers unique advantages. For pure damage output and reach, dual katanas might be preferable.

Many players find the Wakizashi provides a perfect off-hand complement to main-hand katanas like the Uchigatana, Rivers of Blood, or Moonveil, creating versatile hybrid setups that balance offense and defense.

The Wakizashi's 18 Guard Boost (tied for highest among daggers) also makes it surprisingly capable of deflecting attacks when necessary.

Whether you're exploring the Lands Between for the first time or planning your next character build, don't overlook this distinctive weapon from the Land of Reeds. Its unique properties and versatility might just make it your new favorite off-hand option in Elden Ring.

Have you tried the Wakizashi in your Elden Ring adventures? What Ash of War and affinity combinations have worked best for your build? The community continues to discover new applications for this versatile weapon even years after release.