In the vast and treacherous Lands Between, the path of the samurai remains one of the most elegant and lethal choices for a Tarnished. The beauty of katanas lies in their perfect blend of speed, precision, and devastating status effects. With the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC expanding the arsenal and the game's meta evolving even into 2026, players have more razor-sharp options than ever. But which of these iconic blades truly deserves a place in your build? Let's embark on a journey to rank and discover the finest katanas Elden Ring has to offer.

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10. Uchigatana

Attribute Details
Obtained In Deathtouched Catacombs – Limgrave
Stat Requirements 11 Strength, 15 Dexterity
Upgraded With Smithing Stones

The journey of a thousand kills begins with a single slash. The Uchigatana is where many aspiring samurai start, and for good reason. Found on a corpse within the Deathtouched Catacombs, this weapon's reliability is unmatched in the early game. Its balanced stats and inherent Blood Loss buildup make it a formidable companion that can carry you through the entire adventure if you choose to master it. Isn't it remarkable that such a powerful tool is available almost from the very beginning?

9. Nagakiba

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Attribute Details
Obtained From Bloody Finger Hunter Yura's questline
Stat Requirements 18 Strength, 22 Dexterity
Upgraded With Smithing Stones

If reach is what you crave, look no further. The Nagakiba, wielded by the noble hunter Yura, is famously inordinately long. This extended range allows you to strike foes from a distance they never expect, all while building up that precious Blood Loss. Patience is key to obtaining it; you must follow Yura's tragic quest to its conclusion at the Second Church of Marika to receive it as a legacy, rather than taking the bloody shortcut.

8. Sword of Night

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Attribute Details
Obtained Defeat Swordhand of Night, Jolan
Stat Requirements 10 Strength, 23 Dexterity, 21 Intelligence
Upgraded With Somber Smithing Stones

A solid choice for Intelligence-based warriors, the Sword of Night offers a unique and visually spectacular weapon art: the Watching Hour Slash. This ability is a hybrid flourish, combining elements of legendary attacks into a delayed but devastating series of slashes. While it's a bleed-inflicting weapon, its true strength lies in timing its unique skill to punish enemy mistakes. Can you master its rhythmic, deadly rhythm?？

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