The Relic: First Guardian Weapon Types – Full Database
Complete guide to the five weapon types in The Relic: First Guardian: sword & shield, battle staff, dagger, two-handed weapon, and longsword. Includes skill trees, upgrades, and how to obtain each one.
Overview
The Relic: First Guardian features five distinct weapon categories. Unlike traditional RPG loot systems, every weapon in the game is a one-of-a-kind item — you will never find duplicate weapons with better stats. Each weapon carries its own narrative, often tied to a fallen hero, a family heirloom, or a tragic event from the world of Arsiltus. Your choice of weapon directly shapes your combat style and progression path.
Weapons do not consume stamina for attacks. Stamina is reserved exclusively for dodging and blocking. This aggression-first combat system allows you to chain attacks freely while managing your defensive resources separately.
Weapon Categories
The game launches with five weapon types. Each category has its own unique skill tree that you can invest relic energy into, unlocking new abilities and buffs.
| Weapon Type | Primary Trait | Skill Tree Nodes |
|---|---|---|
| Sword and Shield | Balanced offense and defense; allows blocking and parrying | Upgrade tree focused on guard breaking, counterattacks, and defensive buffs |
| Battle Staff | Medium reach; good for crowd control and magic synergy | Skill tree emphasizes magic cooldown reduction and area attacks |
| Dagger | Fast attack speed; low damage per hit but high DPS | Tree boosts critical hit chance, attack speed, and mobility |
| Two-Handed Weapon | Very high damage per hit; slow wind-up animations | Nodes increase damage, stagger potential, and heavy attack combos |
| Longsword | Versatile moveset; moderate speed and reach | Skill tree offers a mix of damage, reach, and utility enhancements |
Note: Confirmed by developer Project Cloud Games and publisher Perp Games. The skill trees are exclusive to each weapon type, totaling twelve unique skill trees across all categories.
How to Obtain Weapons
Weapons are found as unique world items. You cannot craft or buy duplicates. Verified acquisition methods include:
- Exploration: Weapons are placed in specific locations throughout the semi-open world of Arsiltus. Natural obstacles (mountain ranges, chasms) guide you toward these discoveries without heavy signposting.
- Defeating Enemies and Bosses: Many weapons are rewards for overcoming enemies and the over 70 Brutal bosses. Each boss is a standalone folk tale, and defeating them may grant you their personal weapon.
- Side Quests (Events): NPCs and environmental cues trigger side quests. Completing these events often rewards you with unique weapons.
- Pre-Order Bonus: The "Knight of the Unextinguished Flame" pack (PS5 pre-order) includes exclusive weapons. This pack is confirmed to include a unique relic, armor, and a new dungeon, but the specific weapon types have not been detailed.
Unverified: No official drop rates or specific NPC vendors have been confirmed at this time.
Uses and Upgrades
Weapon Skill Trees
Each weapon you equip has its own upgrade tree. You spend ancient relic energy — found through exploration and combat — to unlock nodes. These nodes provide:
- Character buffs (e.g., increased survivability, attack tempo changes)
- New active abilities with visual effects
- Passive enhancements tied to that specific weapon
Because weapons are one-of-a-kind, investing in a weapon's skill tree builds long-term affinity with that armory.
Blacksmith Upgrades
To keep your weapons competitive against escalating threats, visit a blacksmith. Upgrades require:
- Collectible coins (found in the world or received as rewards)
- Materials (also found in exploration or from enemy drops)
The blacksmith can forge upgrades that increase a weapon's base stats. No further details on upgrade tiers or material rarities have been published.
Relic Synergy
Weapons work in tandem with the Relic system. Relics (also called Runes) are memory fragments that provide passive bonuses. Over 70 relics exist. Equipping a relic can:
- Boost core attributes and survivability
- Reduce magic cooldowns
- Alter attack tempo
- Enhance your chosen weapon type
Relics are freely interchangeable. You can only equip a handful at a time, encouraging tactical swapping based on the enemy or boss you face. This system allows you to tailor your build around your preferred weapon without permanent commitment.
Version Context
This information is current as of the game's launch on July 31, 2026 for PlayStation 5 and PC (Steam). Xbox Series X|S and Nintendo Switch 2 versions are planned for later in summer 2026. The game is developed by Project Cloud Games and published by Perp Games. No patches or post-launch weapon additions have been announced.
Related Pages
- The Relic: First Guardian Armor – details on the one-of-a-kind armor pieces and their narrative significance.
Sources
- YouTube video "The Relic: First Guardian - 15 NEW Things To Know Before You Buy" (published by a gaming channel, accessed July 28, 2026)
- Perp Games official update page: "The Latest on The Relic: First Guardian" (February 18, 2026)