Navigating the expansive open world of the Lands Between in Elden Ring can be a daunting experience, especially when starting with a completely blank map. Fortunately, FromSoftware included a map fragment system that allows players to systematically uncover each region and identify landmarks. By collecting these items, you can effectively chart your progression and locate vital points of interest like dungeons and upgrades.
How to Locate Map Fragments efficiently
When entering a new region for the first time, your blank map screen will display a faint, obscure pillar icon along the main pathways. These small structures are called Map Steles, and they serve as the permanent resting spots for the fragment of that specific area. Checking your map immediately upon crossing a regional border will reveal exactly where you need to ride to claim your chart.Steering clear of dangerous local enemies is often the best strategy when rushing toward a Map Steele. Once you arrive at the stone monument, you can quickly grab the item and immediately open your menu to see the newly detailed terrain. This simple exploration loop eliminates the frustration of blindly wandering through fog-covered environments.
Crucial Early Game Map Locations
Your journey begins in Limgrave, which is split into two distinct fragments covering the western plains and the eastern forests. The western fragment is easily found at a stone pillar in the center of the Gatefront Ruins enemy camp. The eastern piece resides near the base of a massive tree along the main road running through the Mistwood region.Shortly after exploring Limgrave, players generally head south toward the Weeping Peninsula to strengthen their character. The map fragment for this isolated peninsula sits directly along the main path just past the Castle Morne Rampart site of grace. Collecting this piece early provides a clear view of the surrounding sub-dungeons and valuable upgrade materials.
Charting the Mid Game Regions
Moving northward brings players to Liurnia of the Lakes, a massive watery domain that requires three separate fragments to reveal completely. The eastern portion sits near the swampy edge close to the Academy Gate Town, while the northern piece rests right outside the sunken academy entrance. The western section is located further up the coast near the Northern Liurnia Lake Shore.
To the east of Limgrave lies Caelid, a dangerous wasteland stained by scarlet rot that features two fragments of its own. The primary Caelid fragment is found along the highway curve just south of the Swamp of Aeonia. The northern segment, known as Dragonbarrow, requires navigating steep cliffs to find the stone marker near the isolated merchant shack.
Unlocking the Late Game Zones
Reaching the grand Altus Plateau requires ascending the Grand Lift of Dectus or navigating the treacherous ravine village networks. Once you arrive on the golden plateau, the local map fragment can be found along the path heading north from the crossroads. This reveals the intricate highway system leading directly toward the outer walls of the royal capital city.
The final massive landmass involves the brutal Mountaintops of the Giants, which is divided into eastern and western halves. The western fragment rests on a corpse along the narrow track just past the Zamor Ruins checkpoint. The eastern section can be looted right after crossing the massive chain bridge over the frozen valley expanse.
