Moonveil vs Sword of Night and Flame

Head-to-Head Comparison • Elden Ring

Both are Intelligence weapons with devastating weapon skills. Moonveil leans into katana combat; Sword of Night and Flame offers dual-element skills. Which hybrid weapon is the better choice?

Moonveil

Versatile hybrid mage play

Strengths

  • Transient Moonlight staggers reliably
  • Katana moveset is fast and safe
  • Intelligence/Dexterity scaling is efficient
  • Excellent in PvP and PvE
  • Available early from Gael Tunnel

Weaknesses

  • Slightly nerfed stagger in 1.06
  • Requires Dexterity investment
  • Single damage type (magic)
  • Staff needed for full sorcery toolkit

View Moonveil build →

VS

Sword of Night and Flame

Dual-element burst damage

Strengths

  • Two weapon skills: magic beam and fire sweep
  • Available very early from Caria Manor
  • Covers two damage types naturally
  • Excellent against groups (fire sweep)
  • Beginner-friendly execution

Weaknesses

  • Nerfed hard in 1.03 (partially restored 1.04)
  • Requires both Intelligence AND Faith investment
  • Straight sword moveset is less exciting
  • Neither element reaches true specialist damage

View Sword of Night and Flame build →

Verdict

Moonveil is the overall better weapon — faster, more viable in PvP, and needs only Intelligence. Sword of Night and Flame is better for beginners who want simple, dual-element burst damage. Choose Moonveil for endgame, SoNaF for a comfortable journey.