FromSoftware’s games are filled with deep, cryptic lore, and few weapons carry as much history as the Dark Moon Greatsword. This legendary blade, appearing in nearly every Soulsborne game under different names, represents the influence of the moon, cosmic power, and forbidden knowledge. In Elden Ring, the Dark Moon Greatsword is deeply tied to Ranni the Witch and the Age of Stars, making it one of the most significant weapons in the game.
But where did it come from? Why does it appear in so many FromSoftware titles? And what does it truly symbolize? Let’s break down the history, significance, and lore of the Dark Moon Greatsword across the Soulsborne universe.
The Origins of the Dark Moon Greatsword
The Dark Moon Greatsword in Elden Ring is a continuation of the iconic Moonlight Greatsword, a weapon that has appeared in almost every FromSoftware game since the 1994 classic King’s Field. It has taken different forms, but the core themes remain the same:
- A sword of divine or cosmic origin.
- A weapon linked to the moon or eldritch forces.
- A tool wielded by those who seek forbidden knowledge.
This weapon is never just another sword—it always represents something greater, often associated with secrets, rebellion, and breaking free from destiny.
The Dark Moon Greatsword in Elden Ring
In Elden Ring, the Dark Moon Greatsword is the final reward for completing Ranni the Witch’s questline. Ranni is a mysterious and powerful demigod who rejects the influence of the Greater Will, the ruling divine force of the world.
Ranni and the Dark Moon
Ranni seeks to usher in the Age of Stars, a new cosmic order where she and her followers will leave the world behind to rule from the shadows of space. Her connection to the Dark Moon suggests that it is an alternate divine force, one that opposes the Erdtree and the Greater Will.
- The Dark Moon Greatsword is the weapon of Lunar Princess Ranni, implying that she inherited or was chosen by this mysterious lunar power.
- The sword radiates cold energy, symbolizing the chilling distance of the stars and the quiet, eternal night Ranni wishes to bring.
- It is said to shine brightest when commanded by a true master of the moon, further reinforcing its divine connection.
By giving this sword to the Tarnished, Ranni blesses them as her eternal consort, making the Dark Moon Greatsword a symbol of loyalty and devotion in her new age.
The Dark Moon Greatsword’s Abilities
Like its predecessors, the Dark Moon Greatsword is a magical weapon, favoring Intelligence builds. It features:
- High Magic Damage – Infused with the cold magic of the Dark Moon.
- Frostbite Status Effect – Slows enemies and deals additional damage.
- Moonlight Wave Skill – A ranged energy attack that sends out waves of moonlight, a signature trait of this legendary weapon.
These abilities are consistent with past versions of the Moonlight Greatsword, reinforcing its legacy as a weapon of celestial power.
Connections to Previous Games
The Dark Moon Greatsword is not just a unique weapon in Elden Ring—it carries decades of history from previous FromSoftware games. Each appearance builds upon the legend of this sword, expanding its significance.
1. Demon’s Souls – "Large Sword of Moonlight"
- Appears as a holy weapon that ignores shields and is favored by divine beings.
- Represents divine judgment rather than cosmic power.
2. Dark Souls Series – "Moonlight Greatsword"
- In Dark Souls, it is wielded by Seath the Scaleless, a dragon obsessed with sorcery and immortality.
- In Dark Souls 3, it is tied to Dark Sun Gwyndolin, the god of the Darkmoon.
- Represents forbidden knowledge, betrayal, and the pursuit of power beyond gods.
3. Bloodborne – "Holy Moonlight Sword"
- Takes on a Lovecraftian twist, linked to the eldritch Great Ones.
- Represents the fusion of divine and cosmic horror, aligning with Bloodborne’s themes.
Each game gives the sword a slightly different origin, but the themes of mysticism, rebellion, and celestial power remain constant.
The Symbolism of the Dark Moon Greatsword
Beyond its in-game abilities, the Dark Moon Greatsword holds deep symbolic meaning:
1. A Weapon of Rebellion
- In Elden Ring, the sword is given by Ranni, who rebels against the Greater Will.
- In Dark Souls, it is associated with Seath, a dragon who betrayed his kin for power.
- In Bloodborne, it represents the pursuit of eldritch knowledge, defying traditional faith.
2. A Connection to the Moon and the Stars
- The moon in FromSoftware games often symbolizes mystery, guidance, and an unseen cosmic order.
- In Elden Ring, the Dark Moon opposes the Golden Order, implying it is an alternate divine force.
- The sword’s frost effect mirrors the cold, distant nature of the cosmos.
3. A Sword of Fate and Devotion
- In Elden Ring, it signifies the Tarnished’s bond with Ranni as her eternal consort.
- In Dark Souls, it represents dedication to sorcery and forbidden knowledge.
- In Bloodborne, it reflects a hunter’s transformation into something greater than human.
No matter the game, wielding the Dark Moon Greatsword is more than just equipping a weapon—it is embracing a path beyond the known world.
Final Thoughts: The Legacy of the Dark Moon Greatsword
The Dark Moon Greatsword is not just one of the most iconic weapons in Elden Ring, but one of the most legendary weapons in all of gaming. It represents:
- A break from fate and tradition
- The influence of cosmic and divine forces
- The pursuit of knowledge and power beyond human understanding
With every iteration, FromSoftware has refined and expanded the sword’s lore, making it a symbol of rebellion, devotion, and celestial might. In Elden Ring, it takes its final and most refined form, blessed by Ranni and tied to the Age of Stars.
For players who wield the Dark Moon Greatsword, they carry not just a weapon, but a piece of FromSoftware’s legendary history. if you are looking for a Darkmoon Greatsword replica be sure to check out our replica swords at swordslice.com
