A guide for newcomers to Dark Souls 3.

Your adventure in Lothric is far from over. You and your powerful Sorcerer are about to embark on a challenging and lengthy quest. But fear not; assistance is at hand. Make sure to explore the complete Dark Souls 3 guide on Polygon, which provides a wealth of information, from leveling tips to in-depth walkthroughs of every location, including a wealth of hidden and bonus content.

Dark Souls 3 holds the upper hand. This beginner’s guide aims to level the playing field.

Certainly! In any Dark Souls title, a significant aspect of the enjoyment comes from the challenge, and we have no intention of diminishing that experience. This guide has been crafted to help you understand the terminology of Dark Souls 3, and the sooner you master it, the more rewarding your experience will be.

We’re here to assist you in grasping the concepts of classes, tie-breaking, new systems, leveling, and much more — including the creation of the finest character we’ve ever developed in a Dark Souls game (and you can achieve this as well).

DEVELOP A CHARACTER THAT SUITS YOUR PERSONALITY

Similar to numerous role-playing games, Dark Souls 3 categorizes its characters into distinct classes. While many of these classes will be recognizable to seasoned Dark Souls players, there are also several new additions that have made their way into the character creation interface.

No matter which starting class you select, the most significant distinctions lie in the attribute points that have already been allocated. The initial equipment you receive merely reflects those attributes.

For instance, sorcerers possess a significant amount of points in Intelligence, which is logical given that casting spells requires a high level of this attribute. In contrast, knights typically have lower Intelligence but excel in Strength, which is essential for wielding heavy weapons while donning heavy armor. Conversely, a Thief is characterized by high Dexterity and Vigor, making them well-suited for effectively using small, lightweight weapons. Below, you can explore a gallery of the initial classes along with their respective statistics.

Sure! Please provide the text you’d like me to rephrase.

In general, you might prefer to engage in combat at close range, from afar, or a mix of both approaches.

If you enjoy close combat, opt for a Knight. For those who like to engage from afar, a Sorcerer is the way to go. If you seek a mix of both styles, the Pryomancer is a solid option. If agility is your preference, allowing you to dart in and out of dangerous encounters, consider the Thief. For a more demanding experience and the opportunity to create a character tailored to your liking, the Deprived is the ideal choice.

You can achieve a significant edge at the beginning of the game by creating an unconventional Sorcerer. This is a strategy we suggest, and we will elaborate on it further. In the meantime, you can also examine the initial statistics from a purely numerical perspective.

A PLAN FOR ADVANCING TO THE NEXT LEVEL

Alright. You’ve selected your class. What’s next?

Each character progresses in strength as you freely distribute points across almost a dozen different attributes.

Progression in the game follows the familiar mechanics found in Souls titles. You’ll collect an item known as souls, which acts as a universal form of currency. You can use these souls to either enhance your character’s level or to buy equipment like armor or fire bombs. The choice is yours, but in the initial stages of the game, it’s advisable to focus on leveling up.

Most character classes commence around level 8, with one significant exception. The Deprived class begins with a subpar weapon, a low-quality shield, and no armor. However, there’s a compelling reason to choose Deprived: all stats are set at 10, and you start at level 1. Starting as Deprived presents a challenging start, but once you overcome that hurdle, you can essentially craft your own class by investing in the least expensive levels in the game. Advancing from level 2 to 3 is much more affordable compared to playing as an Assassin, who needs to gather enough souls to level up from 10 to 11. Additionally, if you decide to switch your approach, you’ll have solid starting stats across the board.

Here you are, engaging with the Fire Keeper, eager to enhance your character. It can be daunting to face a screen filled with figures and ambiguous descriptions, but there’s a straightforward strategy to follow during the initial stages: Examine your character’s base stats and invest your initial levels into the attributes that have the highest values.

In essence, capitalize on the advantages of your chosen class. If you’ve selected a class other than Deprived, fully embrace its potential. Your character’s attributes indicate their strengths, so seize the chance to enhance your skills frequently. For a Sorcerer, focus on boosting your Intelligence. If you’re a Pyromancer, prioritize both Intelligence and Faith. Strengthening a Knight will always yield positive results.

The key takeaway is that during the early stages of Dark Souls 3, you’ll require as much assistance as possible. Enhance your skills by focusing on the strengths that your chosen class naturally possesses.

RESOLVE A STALEMATE WITH ARMS

What should you do if you find it difficult to choose between two qualities? Resolve the dilemma by utilizing your strengths.

In Dark Souls 3, every weapon gains increased strength as you invest your souls into enhancing specific attributes. This enhancement is referred to as the weapon’s Attribute bonus. If you discover that your preferred weapon benefits from particular attributes, you’ll know which ones to focus on leveling up.

The illustration above depicts the Estoc, which serves as the initial weapon for the Assassin class. It provides attribute enhancements for Strength (represented by the strong arm symbol) and Dexterity (indicated by the hand symbol). By focusing on leveling up your character’s Strength or Dexterity, you will enhance the weapon’s effectiveness more significantly than by increasing Intelligence (shown by the book symbol) or Faith (represented by the star symbol).

Hold on! There are two attributes to choose from! Which one should you select? Go for Dexterity. It has a higher minimum requirement of 12 compared to Strength’s 10.

CHALLENGE THE NORMS WHEN YOU EXPERIENCE LOVE

Dark Souls 3 presents numerous unexpected challenges, allowing you to adapt and modify the established rules to suit your strategy.

If you succeed in defeating the Master at Firelink Shrine, you will receive his samurai sword. This weapon is exceptional and definitely merits investing your souls into the necessary stats to use it.

Approach Dark Souls 3 as if it were a rhythm-based game.

The Dark Souls series is well-known for its challenging gameplay, yet it maintains a sense of fairness. The tactics you employ against foes, even if they appear a bit underhanded, are typically the same strategies they can use against you. However, you possess a distinct human advantage: your ability to use your intellect to anticipate your opponents’ actions in most situations.

While Dark Souls 3 is undeniably challenging, you often have the advantage of foresight. By taking your time and closely observing the actions of your enemies, you can approach both offense and defense with assurance.

I’ve often considered Souls games to be akin to rhythm games. I understand this might sound unusual, but let me explain. To put it simply, in games like Guitar Hero and Rock Band, your objective is to execute the correct actions at the appropriate moments. You’re constantly observing the current situation, reflecting on past events, and listening for recurring patterns, all while keeping an eye on the upcoming notes in the sequence.

In Dark Souls 3, foes exhibit similar behavior. They signal their actions prior to launching an attack. By understanding their patterns, you can achieve victory.

Observe the animations of your foes closely, and you’ll quickly discover opportunities to attack while they prepare to strike, for instance. Enemies exhibit certain cues, and it’s essential to strategize your actions based on these signals.

In other words, I’ve frequently described the combat in Souls games as “the dance,” implying that there is a specific method to engage with foes. If you visualize battles as a series of dance moves, it’s not far-fetched to consider Dark Souls 3 as a rhythm-based game.

An additional insight related to this perspective on the game is the value of consistency. Typically, employing the same tactics against identical foes in the same locations will yield similar outcomes. While there may be occasional differences and unexpected events, maintaining composure and observing the situation to anticipate future developments will be greatly advantageous.

This is especially useful during boss encounters, where maintaining composure and recognizing attack patterns can determine whether you succeed or fail. Naturally, it’s simpler to advise this when you aren’t facing a massive, armored undead creature wielding a 20-foot halberd. However, bosses typically have a restricted range of attacks, and by observing closely, you can often anticipate their next move, allowing you to dodge, defend, or retreat as needed. With this insight, you can strategize your responses ahead of time.

FAREWELL HUMANITY, WELCOME KINDLING

In earlier Dark Souls titles, the idea of Humanity was employed to differentiate between various states of existence. When you lost your Humanity, you would become Hollow, resembling a zombie. Consuming a Humanity item would grant you certain advantages, including a striking appearance. This concept was consistent, albeit with some differences, in Dark Souls and Dark Souls 2.

Dark Souls 3 completely removes the concept of Humanity and introduces a new, yet connected idea. At the start of the game, you find yourself in the Unkindled state, which signifies a form of reanimation. The very first action you take is to rise from your own grave.

You can achieve a Kindled state by using the Ember item, which can be consumed. This mechanic serves a similar purpose to Humanity in Dark Souls 3, providing a substantial increase to your health or HP. Additionally, your attire will appear to smolder, resembling the charred edges of burning paper, symbolizing your enhanced strength.

Similar to earlier installments in the Dark Souls series, utilizing an Ember offers numerous advantages. The most significant benefit is the option to call upon other players or non-playable characters for assistance. Traditionally, NPCs gather in the vicinity just before a boss encounter, making it an ideal moment to activate an Ember.

It also exposes you to the risk of invasion. Even when you engage in offline modes, non-player characters can still intrude into your game while you explore the world of Unkindled.

Similar to Humanity in the past, Embers are available in finite amounts, but From Software appears to be more generous with this crucial item than in previous titles. As you navigate the realm of Dark Souls 3, you’ll come across plenty of Embers. Additionally, you can buy them at different prices from vendors in Firelink Shrine.

AVOID ENGAGING WITH MULTIPLE FOES SIMULTANEOUSLY.

Not a chance. Absolutely not. No way, no how. Even the most timid rats in a group can spoil your day.

A guide for newcomers to Dark Souls 3.

Your adventure in Lothric is far from over. You and your powerful Sorcerer are about to embark on a challenging and lengthy quest. But fear not; assistance is at hand. Make sure to explore the complete Dark Souls 3 guide on Polygon, which provides a wealth of information, from leveling tips to in-depth walkthroughs of every location, including a wealth of hidden and bonus content.

Dark Souls 3 holds the upper hand. This beginner’s guide aims to level the playing field.

Certainly! In any Dark Souls title, a significant aspect of the enjoyment comes from the challenge, and we have no intention of diminishing that experience. This guide has been crafted to help you understand the terminology of Dark Souls 3, and the sooner you master it, the more rewarding your experience will be.

We’re here to assist you in grasping the concepts of classes, tie-breaking, new systems, leveling, and much more — including the creation of the finest character we’ve ever developed in a Dark Souls game (and you can achieve this as well).

DEVELOP A CHARACTER THAT SUITS YOUR PERSONALITY

Similar to numerous role-playing games, Dark Souls 3 categorizes its characters into distinct classes. While many of these classes will be recognizable to seasoned Dark Souls players, there are also several new additions that have made their way into the character creation interface.

No matter which starting class you select, the most significant distinctions lie in the attribute points that have already been allocated. The initial equipment you receive merely reflects those attributes.

For instance, sorcerers possess a significant amount of points in Intelligence, which is logical given that casting spells requires a high level of this attribute. In contrast, knights typically have lower Intelligence but excel in Strength, which is essential for wielding heavy weapons while donning heavy armor. Conversely, a Thief is characterized by high Dexterity and Vigor, making them well-suited for effectively using small, lightweight weapons. Below, you can explore a gallery of the initial classes along with their respective statistics.

Sure! Please provide the text you’d like me to rephrase.

In general, you might prefer to engage in combat at close range, from afar, or a mix of both approaches.

If you enjoy close combat, opt for a Knight. For those who like to engage from afar, a Sorcerer is the way to go. If you seek a mix of both styles, the Pryomancer is a solid option. If agility is your preference, allowing you to dart in and out of dangerous encounters, consider the Thief. For a more demanding experience and the opportunity to create a character tailored to your liking, the Deprived is the ideal choice.

You can achieve a significant edge at the beginning of the game by creating an unconventional Sorcerer. This is a strategy we suggest, and we will elaborate on it further. In the meantime, you can also examine the initial statistics from a purely numerical perspective.

A PLAN FOR ADVANCING TO THE NEXT LEVEL

Alright. You’ve selected your class. What’s next?

Each character progresses in strength as you freely distribute points across almost a dozen different attributes.

Progression in the game follows the familiar mechanics found in Souls titles. You’ll collect an item known as souls, which acts as a universal form of currency. You can use these souls to either enhance your character’s level or to buy equipment like armor or fire bombs. The choice is yours, but in the initial stages of the game, it’s advisable to focus on leveling up.

Most character classes commence around level 8, with one significant exception. The Deprived class begins with a subpar weapon, a low-quality shield, and no armor. However, there’s a compelling reason to choose Deprived: all stats are set at 10, and you start at level 1. Starting as Deprived presents a challenging start, but once you overcome that hurdle, you can essentially craft your own class by investing in the least expensive levels in the game. Advancing from level 2 to 3 is much more affordable compared to playing as an Assassin, who needs to gather enough souls to level up from 10 to 11. Additionally, if you decide to switch your approach, you’ll have solid starting stats across the board.

Here you are, engaging with the Fire Keeper, eager to enhance your character. It can be daunting to face a screen filled with figures and ambiguous descriptions, but there’s a straightforward strategy to follow during the initial stages: Examine your character’s base stats and invest your initial levels into the attributes that have the highest values.

In essence, capitalize on the advantages of your chosen class. If you’ve selected a class other than Deprived, fully embrace its potential. Your character’s attributes indicate their strengths, so seize the chance to enhance your skills frequently. For a Sorcerer, focus on boosting your Intelligence. If you’re a Pyromancer, prioritize both Intelligence and Faith. Strengthening a Knight will always yield positive results.

The key takeaway is that during the early stages of Dark Souls 3, you’ll require as much assistance as possible. Enhance your skills by focusing on the strengths that your chosen class naturally possesses.

RESOLVE A STALEMATE WITH ARMS

What should you do if you find it difficult to choose between two qualities? Resolve the dilemma by utilizing your strengths.

In Dark Souls 3, every weapon gains increased strength as you invest your souls into enhancing specific attributes. This enhancement is referred to as the weapon’s Attribute bonus. If you discover that your preferred weapon benefits from particular attributes, you’ll know which ones to focus on leveling up.

The illustration above depicts the Estoc, which serves as the initial weapon for the Assassin class. It provides attribute enhancements for Strength (represented by the strong arm symbol) and Dexterity (indicated by the hand symbol). By focusing on leveling up your character’s Strength or Dexterity, you will enhance the weapon’s effectiveness more significantly than by increasing Intelligence (shown by the book symbol) or Faith (represented by the star symbol).

Hold on! There are two attributes to choose from! Which one should you select? Go for Dexterity. It has a higher minimum requirement of 12 compared to Strength’s 10.

CHALLENGE THE NORMS WHEN YOU EXPERIENCE LOVE

Dark Souls 3 presents numerous unexpected challenges, allowing you to adapt and modify the established rules to suit your strategy.

If you succeed in defeating the Master at Firelink Shrine, you will receive his samurai sword. This weapon is exceptional and definitely merits investing your souls into the necessary stats to use it.

Approach Dark Souls 3 as if it were a rhythm-based game.

The Dark Souls series is well-known for its challenging gameplay, yet it maintains a sense of fairness. The tactics you employ against foes, even if they appear a bit underhanded, are typically the same strategies they can use against you. However, you possess a distinct human advantage: your ability to use your intellect to anticipate your opponents’ actions in most situations.

While Dark Souls 3 is undeniably challenging, you often have the advantage of foresight. By taking your time and closely observing the actions of your enemies, you can approach both offense and defense with assurance.

I’ve often considered Souls games to be akin to rhythm games. I understand this might sound unusual, but let me explain. To put it simply, in games like Guitar Hero and Rock Band, your objective is to execute the correct actions at the appropriate moments. You’re constantly observing the current situation, reflecting on past events, and listening for recurring patterns, all while keeping an eye on the upcoming notes in the sequence.

In Dark Souls 3, foes exhibit similar behavior. They signal their actions prior to launching an attack. By understanding their patterns, you can achieve victory.

Observe the animations of your foes closely, and you’ll quickly discover opportunities to attack while they prepare to strike, for instance. Enemies exhibit certain cues, and it’s essential to strategize your actions based on these signals.

In other words, I’ve frequently described the combat in Souls games as “the dance,” implying that there is a specific method to engage with foes. If you visualize battles as a series of dance moves, it’s not far-fetched to consider Dark Souls 3 as a rhythm-based game.

An additional insight related to this perspective on the game is the value of consistency. Typically, employing the same tactics against identical foes in the same locations will yield similar outcomes. While there may be occasional differences and unexpected events, maintaining composure and observing the situation to anticipate future developments will be greatly advantageous.

This is especially useful during boss encounters, where maintaining composure and recognizing attack patterns can determine whether you succeed or fail. Naturally, it’s simpler to advise this when you aren’t facing a massive, armored undead creature wielding a 20-foot halberd. However, bosses typically have a restricted range of attacks, and by observing closely, you can often anticipate their next move, allowing you to dodge, defend, or retreat as needed. With this insight, you can strategize your responses ahead of time.

FAREWELL HUMANITY, WELCOME KINDLING

In earlier Dark Souls titles, the idea of Humanity was employed to differentiate between various states of existence. When you lost your Humanity, you would become Hollow, resembling a zombie. Consuming a Humanity item would grant you certain advantages, including a striking appearance. This concept was consistent, albeit with some differences, in Dark Souls and Dark Souls 2.

Dark Souls 3 completely removes the concept of Humanity and introduces a new, yet connected idea. At the start of the game, you find yourself in the Unkindled state, which signifies a form of reanimation. The very first action you take is to rise from your own grave.

You can achieve a Kindled state by using the Ember item, which can be consumed. This mechanic serves a similar purpose to Humanity in Dark Souls 3, providing a substantial increase to your health or HP. Additionally, your attire will appear to smolder, resembling the charred edges of burning paper, symbolizing your enhanced strength.

Similar to earlier installments in the Dark Souls series, utilizing an Ember offers numerous advantages. The most significant benefit is the option to call upon other players or non-playable characters for assistance. Traditionally, NPCs gather in the vicinity just before a boss encounter, making it an ideal moment to activate an Ember.

It also exposes you to the risk of invasion. Even when you engage in offline modes, non-player characters can still intrude into your game while you explore the world of Unkindled.

Similar to Humanity in the past, Embers are available in finite amounts, but From Software appears to be more generous with this crucial item than in previous titles. As you navigate the realm of Dark Souls 3, you’ll come across plenty of Embers. Additionally, you can buy them at different prices from vendors in Firelink Shrine.

AVOID ENGAGING WITH MULTIPLE FOES SIMULTANEOUSLY.

Not a chance. Absolutely not. No way, no how. Even the most timid rats in a group can spoil your day.

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