The Halberd or Polearm is one of the most versatile weapon types in Outward Definitive Edition. Combining the reach of a spear with the sweeping power of a sword, halberds excel at crowd control and high burst damage. They’re particularly effective when paired with the signature skill Moon Swipe, which delivers a powerful 360-degree spin attack capable of decimating groups of enemies.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top five halberds available, focusing on their strengths, weaknesses, and ideal combat strategies. Whether you’re looking for raw physical damage, status effects, or elemental devastation, there’s a halberd here to suit your playstyle.
Honorable Mention: Thrice-Rot Halberd
- Damage Type: Pure ice and fire (no physical damage)
- Strengths: High impact and attack speed.
- Weaknesses: Lacks the raw power needed to compete with the top five.
Strategy Tip: Best paired with the Fire and Ice build for maximizing elemental damage.
5. Tsar Halberd
Design & Acquisition: Crafted from zarstone, this halberd embodies pure physical might. Its infinite durability and high impact make it a solid choice for protracted fights.
Strengths:
- Physical Damage: High enough to stagger even the toughest enemies.
- Durability: Infinite, making it ideal for attack skills.
Weaknesses:
- Attack Speed: Slow (0.8).
Strategy Tip: Use Moon Swipe early in fights to create openings and dominate with raw power.
4. Ghost Reaper
Design & Acquisition: A sinister scythe with high impact and dual elemental damage (Physical and Decay).
Strengths:
- Elemental Damage: Effective against humans and Caldera enemies.
- Mana Cost Reduction: -15%.
Weaknesses:
- Attack Speed: 0.9, slightly slower than most halberds.
Strategy Tip: Pair with Conjure or Cabal Hermit for enhanced Decay damage.
3. Duty
Design & Acquisition: Crafted by converting the Ruined Halberd with three giant hearts in the Three Brothers DLC.
Strengths:
- Elemental Combo: Applies Burning and upgrades it to Holy Blaze.
- Attack Speed: 1.0, making it versatile.
Weaknesses:
- Stamina Recovery Penalty: -10%.
Strategy Tip: Use Moon Swipe to instantly apply Holy Blaze for massive damage-over-time.
2. Sanguine Cleaver
Design & Acquisition: A legacy-upgraded version of the Cleaver Halberd. Inflicts multiple status effects, making it the best DOT (Damage Over Time) weapon.
Strengths:
- Status Effects: Extreme bleeding, burning, poison, and extreme poison.
- Enchantment: Crumbling Anger for +50% physical damage.
Weaknesses:
- Vulnerabilities: Ineffective against undead and golems.
Strategy Tip: Apply status effects quickly, then kite enemies while they bleed out.
1. Dreamer Halberd
Design & Acquisition: Obtained by visiting the Friendly Immaculate in each region.
Strengths:
- Ethereal Damage: High enough to bypass most enemy resistances.
- Attack Speed: 1.1, making it the fastest halberd.
Weaknesses:
- Impact: Moderate (48), but manageable with speed.
Strategy Tip: Pair with Antique Plate Armor for maximum ethereal damage.
Conclusion
Halberds in Outward provide an exceptional balance of reach, speed, and status effects, making them a top choice for players who want versatile and hard-hitting weapons. Whether you prefer the raw power of the Tsar Halberd, the elemental devastation of the Duty, or the ethereal annihilation of the Dreamer Halberd, there’s a polearm that fits your playstyle.
Mastering the use of Moon Swipe, timing your attacks, and managing your stamina are the keys to unlocking the full potential of these weapons.
Pick your halberd, embrace the whirlwind, and let no enemy stand in your way!




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