TL;DR
- Crescent Moon requires Shael-Um-Tir runes in 3-socket axes, polearms, or swords
- Key attributes include -35% enemy lightning resistance and 20% attack speed boost
- Ideal for lightning-based Sorceress and Paladin builds as budget alternative to Infinity
- Level 47 requirement with significant damage enhancement and utility effects
- Strategic choice for breaking lightning immunities without high-end rune investment
In Diablo 2 Resurrected, Runewords represent powerful crafted items created by inserting specific sequences of runes into socketed gear. The game features 33 distinct runes that can combine into various Runeword configurations. Crescent Moon stands out as an exceptional mid-game option that delivers remarkable value for its relatively accessible component requirements.
Understanding Crescent Moon Composition
Crescent Moon requires three runes inserted in exact sequence: Shael Rune, Um Rune, and Tir Rune. This Runeword’s accessibility stems from requiring only one mid-tier rune (Um) alongside two more common runes. Its balanced design makes it particularly effective for lightning-focused Sorceress builds and elemental Paladins, offering substantial offensive capabilities without demanding extreme farming efforts.
Crescent Moon’s Comprehensive Stat Breakdown
Crescent Moon delivers a versatile package of offensive enhancements:
10% Chance To Cast Level 17 Chain Lightning On Striking
7% Chance To Cast Level 13 Static Field On Striking
+20% Increased Attack Speed
+180-220% Enhanced Damage
Ignore Target’s Defense
-35% To Enemy Lightning Resist
25% Chance of Open Wounds
+9-11 Magic Absorb
+2 To Mana After Each Kill
Level 18 Summon Spirit Wolf (30 Charges)
Critical gameplay considerations:
The Enemy Lightning Resist reduction exclusively benefits the character wielding the weapon or their mercenary. This mechanic proves invaluable against monsters with partial lightning resistance.
Ignore Target’s Defense provides significant accuracy improvements but has no effect against boss monsters, super uniques, or players in PvP scenarios.
Choosing the Perfect Base for Crescent Moon
Crescent Moon can be constructed in axes, polearms, or swords that possess exactly three sockets. The base weapon’s quality tier—normal, exceptional, or elite—determines the final damage output and stat requirements. Always verify socket count before committing your runes.
Recommended Base Weapons:
Axes: Small Crescent, Ettin Axe, War Spike, Berserker Axe
Polearms: Bardiche, Voulge, Scythe, Poleaxe.
Swords: Phase Blade, Conquest Sword, Cryptic Sword, Mythical Sword.
For melee characters, Phase Blade stands out due to its inherent speed and lack of durability concerns. Sorceress builds often prefer faster weapons to trigger the proc effects more frequently.
Character Build Optimization with Crescent Moon
The level requirement for any Runeword corresponds to the highest-level rune in its recipe. Since Um Rune requires level 47, Crescent Moon inherits this same level restriction. This makes it an ideal choice for characters progressing through Nightmare difficulty.
Strategic Advantages and Comparative Analysis
While Infinity Runeword offers superior lightning resistance reduction, its requirement of two Ber Runes makes it prohibitively expensive for most players. Additionally, Infinity construction remains limited to ladder characters in certain game versions. Crescent Moon provides a cost-effective alternative that dramatically improves lightning damage output without the extreme farming commitment.
For players seeking to enhance their class-specific builds, Crescent Moon integrates seamlessly into multiple playstyles. Its versatility makes it particularly valuable for characters who rely on elemental damage types.
Common construction mistakes to avoid: never attempt Crescent Moon in weapons with incorrect socket counts, as this will waste your runes. Always double-check the rune order—Shael must be placed first, followed by Um, then Tir. Using the wrong sequence creates a failed Runeword.
Advanced players should consider pairing Crescent Moon with complementary weapon setups to maximize overall damage output. The weapon’s lightning resistance reduction stacks with other sources, making it possible to break some monster immunities when combined with Conviction aura or Lower Resist curse.
For comprehensive game strategy guidance, Crescent Moon represents one of the most efficient mid-game investments for lightning-focused characters.
Action Checklist
- Acquire Shael, Um, and Tir runes through farming or trading
- Find 3-socket axe, polearm, or sword base
- Verify rune order: Shael first, then Um, then Tir
- Insert runes in exact sequence into clean socketed base
- Test weapon on lightning-based character build
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