One of the most intriguing discoveries in the Elden Ring community is the “Chainsaw Glitch,” a rare exploit that gives certain weapons a devastating rapid-hit capability. This phenomenon blends game mechanics and unintended code interactions, creating unique combat opportunities but also raising questions about balance and fair play. Below, this article explores how the glitch works, its impact on gameplay, and the wider conversation in the Elden Ring community.
What Is The Elden Ring Chainsaw Glitch?
The Elden Ring Chainsaw Glitch refers to an exploit where a player can cause specific weapons, such as the Ghiza’s Wheel, to hit opponents with extreme speed, similar to a chainsaw. This effect is achieved by overlapping certain attack animations or states, resulting in rapid successive hits far faster than intended by the developers. The glitch’s name derives from the visual and auditory similarity to a chainsaw in action, especially with weapons that already have multi-hit mechanics.
How The Chainsaw Glitch Works
Involved Weapons
Primarily, the glitch centers on the Ghiza’s Wheel, a heavy weapon with a spinning attack. Some reports also involve other multi-hit or spinning weapons, but Ghiza’s Wheel remains iconic for this exploit.
Step-By-Step Activation
- Equip Ghiza’s Wheel (or another suitable weapon).
- Hold the weapon with both hands for optimal control.
- Activate the weapon’s unique skill (often by pressing L2/LT for Ash of War).
- During the skill’s activation, perform a specific input sequence: Quickly swap weapons or initiate an item use while holding the attack button.
- If timed correctly, the game will “lock” the spinning attack’s hitbox, causing it to trigger multiple hits at a nearly constant rate until interrupted.
The challenge lies in precise timing, making it a difficult glitch to reproduce consistently but potent when successful.
Video Demonstrations And Notable Clips
The Elden Ring community on platforms like Reddit and YouTube has shared several video demonstrations. These clips show players defeating normally tough bosses in seconds thanks to the glitch, and invasions ending swiftly against unsuspecting foes. Search terms like “Elden Ring Chainsaw Glitch Ghiza’s Wheel” or “Elden Ring infinite hits exploit” return the most relevant results for those seeking visuals.
Impact On PvE And PvP Gameplay
PvE (Player vs Environment)
In PvE, the glitch allows for rapid boss phase skips and can trivialize certain encounters. Players report melting through Mogh, Malenia, or even Radahn before mechanics fully activate. This can be entertaining for experimentation but removes much of the game’s intended challenge.
PvP (Player vs Player)
In PvP scenarios, the glitch is more controversial. Its unpredictability and overwhelming speed lead to one-sided fights, creating imbalance and frustration for those encountering it. Many see its use in invasions or duels as unfair, akin to cheating.
Effects On Weapons And Scaling
| Weapon | Glitch Impact | Scaling Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Ghiza’s Wheel | Extreme rapid hits, each scaling with weapon upgrades and buffs | STR/DEX increase overall DPS |
| Other Multi-Hit Weapons | Variable, may not trigger as consistently | Depends on base weapon mechanics |
Infusing the weapon with buffs such as Lightning or Fire will apply the effects to every hit, amplifying the glitch’s power. This allows for devastating bleed, poison, or elemental build-ups in seconds.
Risks Of Using The Chainsaw Glitch
While the glitch may seem fun, there are several important drawbacks:
- Stability Issues: Prolonged activation can crash the game on some hardware, especially online.
- Bans & Penalties: Strict use in multiplayer/PvP could trigger anti-cheat responses or player reports, leading to suspensions.
- Balance Disruption: Frequent abuse can undermine the enjoyment and fairness for others in the community.
Current Patch Notes And Official Response
As of the latest major patches (1.09+), FromSoftware has not publicly acknowledged the Chainsaw Glitch in official patch notes. However, certain animation fixes have incidentally reduced the consistency of the exploit. Community tracking suggests the glitch remains possible, though with slightly more difficulty post-patch.
Community Response And Ethical Debate
The Elden Ring community is divided over the glitch. Some embrace it for speedrunning or humorous content, seeing it as a creative use of game mechanics. Others argue it breaks immersion and fairness, especially in PvP. The consensus online advises “use at your own risk,” particularly when interacting with other players.
Subreddit Polls
- Fun Only: Many agree it’s fine for single-player, non-competitive experimentation.
- Bannable Offense: Majority disapprove of use during invasions or tournaments.
- Patch Desired: Some players urge FromSoftware to address the bug directly.
Comparison To Other Elden Ring Glitches
The Chainsaw Glitch is part of a series of unique exploits discovered by the community. Others include:
- Zip Glitch: Allows players to “teleport” across the map using frame-perfect dodge rolls.
- Deathblight Skip: Enables bosses to be bypassed with status effects.
- Out Of Bounds Exploits: Lets players access unfinished or restricted zones.
Of these, the Chainsaw Glitch is notable for its direct combat application and visual impact, giving it an enduring place in Elden Ring’s evolving meta.
Should You Try The Chainsaw Glitch?
For those interested in experimentation or content creation, the glitch offers unique footage and insight into Elden Ring’s internal mechanics. However, it is not recommended for regular or competitive online play, as the risk of adverse consequences is high. Use in single-player or offline modes is generally safe and may provide a good laugh or two when facing late-game bosses.
How To Fix Or Avoid The Glitch
Players encountering the glitch accidentally can avoid it by:
- Avoiding rapid weapon/item swaps during multi-hit attacks
- Restarting the game to reset animation states
- Playing on the latest patch to reduce chances of occurrence
Reporting prolific abusers or strange online interactions to FromSoftware support is advised if the glitch negatively impacts your online experience.
Final Thoughts: The Chainsaw Glitch’s Place In Elden Ring
The Elden Ring Chainsaw Glitch stands as a testament to the game’s complexity and the community’s ingenuity in discovering novel mechanics. While it can enhance the fun for some, it remains a controversial exploit with the potential to disrupt fair play. As FromSoftware continues to refine the game, the glitch’s future is uncertain, but its legacy in memes and community videos is assured.
Helpful Resources And Further Reading
- Ghiza’s Wheel Wiki Page
- Elden Ring Subreddit
- YouTube Video Demonstrations
- Official Elden Ring Website
Stay updated on the latest exploits by joining forums and following patch notes, and always weigh the risks before experimenting with in-game glitches!
