Should you split your points between Strength and Dexterity (Quality), or go all-in on one stat? The answer depends on your weapon choice and how far into the game you are.
Quality (Str/Dex Split)
Weapon variety and balanced scaling
Strengths
- Can effectively use almost any weapon
- Both physical damage types covered
- More flexible if you want to try different weapons
- Powerstancing variety
- Balanced damage profile
Weaknesses
- Lower scaling than pure investment
- More stat-hungry (less Vigor/Mind)
- Fewer weapons reach S-scaling in Quality
- Soft caps hit both stats at lower values
- Less focused build identity
VS
Pure Stat (Str OR Dex)
Maximum damage with chosen weapons
Strengths
- Highest damage scaling for chosen weapons
- More stat points for Vigor and Endurance
- Clear build identity
- Reaches damage soft caps faster
- Stronger earlier in the game
Weaknesses
- Limited weapon options
- Can feel restrictive
- Cannot experiment with different weapon types
- May need respec if you want to switch
Verdict
Pure stat is better for optimization — you deal more damage and have more Vigor. Quality is better for experimentation — you can try any weapon. Recommendation: go pure stat for your first playthrough, then try Quality in NG+ when you have more levels.