Welcome to our comprehensive Dark Souls 2: Ranged Build Walkthrough! Dive deep into the thrilling world of Dark Souls 2 with an expert guide tailored to players who prefer to master the battlefield from a distance. In this guide, we will explore everything you need to dominate the game with your ranged build, from choosing the best weapons to mastering combat strategies. We’ll cover essential subtopics like Choosing Weapons, Ranged Combat Tips, Mixing Ranged and Melee, Ranged in Boss Fights, and the Best Ranged Builds to keep you one step ahead of your foes. Get ready to rain down havoc and become a true legend in the realm of Drangleic!

Dark Souls 2: Ranged Build Walkthrough#

Choosing Weapons#

When diving into the world of Dark Souls 2 with a ranged build, picking the right weapons can make or break your experience. Let’s break down what you need to know about bows, crossbows, and the like to become a master marksman.

Bows#

Bows are your bread and butter when it comes to ranged combat. They offer a good balance of speed and power, making them versatile in most situations.

• Short Bow: This is your go-to for rapid firing. It has a shorter range but its quick firing rate makes it great for enemies that close the gap.
• Long Bow: If you prefer to keep your distance, the Long Bow is your friend. It has a longer range and deals more damage per shot. However, it takes a bit more time to draw.
• Black Bow of Pharis: Hands down, one of the best bows in the game for dedicated archers. It offers a great mix of range, power, and speed. Plus, it scales well with Dexterity.

To use bows effectively, don’t forget to stock up on arrows. Normal, fire, and poison arrows should cover most situations. Also, investing in Dexterity will significantly boost your damage output.

Crossbows#

Crossbows pack a punch and can be used with one hand, leaving the other free for a shield or a parry dagger. They’re perfect for players who want a mix of offense and defense.

• Light Crossbow: Ideal for beginners. It has a good balance of speed and damage. However, reloading can leave you vulnerable.
• Heavy Crossbow: As the name suggests, it hits hard. Though slower to reload, it can deal with tougher enemies quickly.
• Avelyn: The crème de la crème of crossbows. It fires three bolts in quick succession, shredding through enemies. Perfect for both PvE and PvP.

Crossbows don’t scale with stats, so feel free to invest more in survivability. Keep a good supply of various bolts; standard, lightning, and toxic can help you adapt to different enemies.

Magic Bows#

Magic bows are a great choice if you’ve already committed to a sorcery build. These weapons bring some extra arcane firepower to your ranged attacks.

• Dragonrider Bow: Requires a mix of Dexterity and Strength but deals magic damage. This makes it versatile against enemies resistant to physical attacks.
• Sea Bow: Perfect for hybrid builds, offering both physical and magic damage. It’s crafted for those who don’t want to completely commit to one type of damage.

Using magic bows means you’ll want to enhance your Intelligence. Consider adding spells like Great Magic Weapon for even more damage.

Tips For Ranged Combat#

• Stay Mobile: Always keep moving. Ranged combat gives you the advantage of distance, so don’t let enemies close the gap.
• Use Terrain: Higher ground, narrow pathways, and ledges can become your best friends. Use the environment to control the battlefield.
• Conserve Ammo: Especially with special arrows or bolts, make every shot count. Practice your aiming, and don’t waste resources on weak enemies.
• Upgrade Your Gear: Visit blacksmiths to reinforce your bows and crossbows. This can make a significant difference in your damage output.
• Mix It Up: There are times when going full ranged won’t work. Keep a backup melee weapon for those sticky situations.

By carefully choosing the right weapons and considering the nuances of each, your journey through Drangleic will be much smoother. Arrows and bolts might just be the key to overcoming the toughest of foes. Get out there, stay sharp, and may your aim be true!

Ranged Combat Tips#

So you’ve decided to take on the brutal world of Dark Souls 2 with a ranged build? Smart move! Ranged combat can make the game a bit more manageable, especially when facing down some of those tougher bosses and tricky areas. Here are some essential tips to help you master the art of ranged combat.

1. Choose Your Weapon Wisely#

First things first, picking the right weapon is crucial. Here are a few great options:

• Longbow: A great all-rounder with good range and damage.
• Short Bow: Faster draw time and good for close-ranged hits.
• Crossbow: No need to manually aim, just point and shoot.
• Hexer’s Staff: Perfect for combining ranged spells with physical attacks.

Each weapon has its pros and cons, so pick one that suits your play style. Test different ones out to see what you like best.

2. Upgrade Your Gear#

To keep your ranged weapon effective, upgrading it is a must. Head to a blacksmith or use Titanite shards to boost damage and durability. Here’s a quick guide:

• Titanite Shard → Up to +3
• Large Titanite Shard → +4 to +6
• Titanite Chunk → +7 to +9
• Titanite Slab → +10

Higher level weapons pack a punch and will definitely give you an edge.

3. Stock Up on Ammo#

Running out of arrows or bolts mid-fight is a sure way to meet your end. Always keep your ammo topped off. Buy in bulk whenever you can. Standard arrows are cheap and reliable, but don’t overlook specialty ammo for more damage or special effects:

• Fire Arrows: Great against enemies weak to fire.
• Poison Arrows: Perfect for slowly chipping away at tough foes.
• Destructive Great Arrows: High damage but costly.

Balance your stock so you’re ready for anything.

4. Learn to Kite#

Kiting (moving away from enemies while attacking) is key in ranged combat. Here’s how to do it:

1. Take a shot: Aim and fire at your target.
2. Back away: Move backwards or sideways while staying locked onto the enemy.
3. Rinse and repeat: Continue shooting while keeping your distance.

Mastering this will let you take down foes without taking damage, especially useful in areas with stronger enemies.

5. Target the Weak Spots#

Many enemies have weak spots you can exploit from afar. For example:

• Headshots: Deal extra damage and can stagger.
• Bare limbs: Most armored enemies have less protection on their limbs.
• Environmental hazards: Lure enemies into traps or off ledges.

Pay attention to enemy movements and attack patterns to find these vulnerabilities.

6. Manage Your Stamina#

Even in ranged combat, stamina management is key. Here’s what to do:

• Don’t spam shots: Fire a few well-aimed arrows and then back off to recover.
• Mind your stamina bar: Always leave enough for dodging or blocking.
• Use lighter gear: Reduces stamina costs and lets you dodge faster.

Plan your attacks and retreats to avoid running out of stamina at the worst moment.

7. Use Terrain to Your Advantage#

Being aware of your surroundings can save your life. High ground offers better angles and keeps melee enemies at bay. Tight spaces can funnel enemies, making them easy targets. Always look for elevation and choke points.

8. Mix in Magic#

Consider adding some magic to your repertoire. Spells like Soul Arrow or Great Soul Arrow can complement your physical attacks. Mixing magical and physical ranged attacks keeps enemies guessing and maximizes your damage output.

Ranged combat can make Dark Souls 2 a lot more manageable and fun. Use these tips to stay on top of your game and conquer Drangleic from a distance. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep practicing and soon you’ll be sniping enemies with ease. Good luck out there, Hunter!

Mixing Ranged and Melee#

In the unforgiving world of Dark Souls 2, adopting a hybrid combat style that combines ranged attacks with melee prowess can give you a significant edge. Mixing ranged and melee allows you to tackle different enemy types effectively, stay adaptable, and manage combat scenarios more strategically.

Why Go Hybrid?#

First off, going hybrid is about versatility. Ranged attacks can soften up enemies before they get close, while melee combat can deal high damage up close. You’ll be ready for a variety of combat situations, whether you’re sniping from a distance or engaging in close-quarters brawls.

Choosing Your Weapons#

• Ranged Options: Intense ranged weapons like bows, crossbows, and even spells can be your best friends. The Longbow offers good range and damage, while the Fireball spell from the Pyromancy flame is not only cool but also packs a punch!

• Melee Weapons: Greatswords, katanas, and spears offer excellent reach and damage. The Claymore or the Uchigatana are fantastic choices for a hybrid build, thanks to their balance of speed and power.

Balancing Your Stats#

Attributes to Focus On#

• Dexterity: Important for both ranged and melee weapons. It affects your bow and melee weapon damage, especially for dex-based weapons like katanas.
• Strength: If you favor heavier melee weapons, you’ll need some points here too.
• Endurance: More endurance lets you dodge and attack more before needing to rest. It’s crucial for both combat styles.
• Attunement: Only if you plan on mixing in spells. It gives you more spell slots and agility.

Combat Strategy#

Starting the Fight#

Begin engagements at a distance. Use your bow or cast spells to chip away at the enemy’s health. A headshot with your bow can stagger many foes, giving you time to prepare for their approach. For spellcasters, pyromancies like Fireball or sorceries like Soul Arrow work wonders from afar.

Closing the Gap#

As enemies close in or if you run out of arrows and spell uses, switch to your melee weapon. Timing your switches is key here. Practice quickly toggling between weapons to ensure you can switch in the heat of battle without fumbling.

In the Thick of It#

When faced with multiple enemies, picking them off one at a time from a distance can make melee encounters much more manageable. Use obstacles to break enemy line-of-sight and funnel them into tighter spaces where you can control the fight better.

Finishing the Fight#

Once you’ve softened the enemy’s health or reduced their numbers with your ranged attacks, dive in for melee combat. Pick off weakened enemies quickly and use your melee skills to exploit their reduced health. Keep moving and use your dodges and rolls to stay out of danger.

Equipment Load and Armor#

Balancing your equipment load is crucial. You don’t want to be over-encumbered, as this will slow you down significantly. Aim for an equipment load at or below 70% to retain a medium roll, which balances agility and defense. Light armor can keep you agile, but mix in some heavier pieces if you need more protection.

Rings#

Rings can make a big difference in complementing your hybrid style:

• Chloranthy Ring: Boosts stamina recovery, which is vital for switching between attacking and dodging.
• Ring of Blades: Increases your physical attack power for melee combat.
• Third Dragon Ring: Increases HP, stamina, and maximum equip load, giving you more flexibility.
• Flynn’s Ring: Increases physical damage when your equipment load is low.

Useful Tips#

• Practice Weapon Swapping: Get agile with switching between your ranged and melee weapons. The quicker you can adapt, the better.
• Master the Roll: Dodging is key in Dark Souls. Keep practicing to roll through attacks and counter efficiently.
• Use Terrain to Your Advantage: Use environmental obstacles to manage crowds and isolate enemies.
• Manage Resources: Keep an eye on your arrows and spell uses. Don’t waste them on easy enemies.

Wrapping It Up#

A hybrid ranged and melee build can make Dark Souls 2 a blast to play. You’ll handle different challenges with ease and keep enemies guessing. Remember to stay light, switch weapons quickly, and keep an eye on your resources. Enjoy your journey through Drangleic, and may the flames guide thee!

Ranged in Boss Fights#

Using ranged attacks in Dark Souls 2 can be a game-changer, especially during intense boss fights. With the right strategy, you can whittle down the boss’s health while staying out of their lethal range. Let’s dive into some killer strategies and tips to help you ace those tough battles with a ranged build.

Gear Up Wisely#

Before you charge into a boss arena, make sure your gear is up to the task. Here’s a quick rundown on what you’ll need:

• Bows and Crossbows: Long-range and versatile, bows and crossbows are excellent for dealing consistent damage. Try the Long Bow or Phoenix Parma for steady, reliable shots.
• Staves and Chimes: If you’re a magic user, staves and chimes will be your best friends. Sorceries and miracles can devastate bosses from afar. The Staff of Wisdom and Dragon Chime are top picks.
• Bombs and Knives: Don’t underestimate throwable items! Firebombs, Poison Throwing Knives, and Witching Urns can add an extra layer of damage.

Keep Your Distance#

The key to surviving as a ranged character is keeping your distance. This might seem obvious, but it’s worth repeating: Spacing is everything. Most bosses have deadly melee attacks that can one-shot you if you’re not careful.

• Kite the Boss: Move around the arena to avoid the boss’s attacks. Shoot when there’s an opening, and keep moving.
• Learn Attack Patterns: Every boss has a set of patterns. Study them and use the gaps between attacks to strike.
• Use Obstacles: Many arenas have objects you can hide behind. Use pillars, rocks, or any terrain to shield yourself from attacks.

Maximize Damage#

Just because you’re at a distance doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice damage. Use these tactics to maximize your output:

• Buff Up: Apply buffs like Magic Weapon or Great Lightning Spear to ramp up your damage.
• Aim for Weak Spots: Some bosses have particular weaknesses. For example, the Old Iron King takes extra damage to his head. Exploit these for massive damage.
• Upgrade Your Equipment: Don’t forget to upgrade your weapons and staves. An upgraded bow or chime can make a world of difference.

Manage Your Resources#

Ranged fights can be resource-heavy. Here’s how to ensure you don’t run out of steam mid-fight:

• Bring Plenty of Ammo: Whether it’s arrows, bolts, or spells, make sure you have more than enough. Running out mid-fight can spell disaster.
• Use Ashen Estus Flasks (For Sorcerers): Managing your spell count is crucial. Make sure you have enough Ashen Estus Flasks to replenish your mana.
• Mix Up Your Attacks: Alternate between types of ranged attacks to conserve your resources. Use spells for high damage and bows for consistent output.

Specific Boss Strategies#

Some bosses are notoriously tough for ranged builds, but with the right approach, you can come out on top.

• The Lost Sinner: This boss is quick and aggressive. Use magic like Soul Arrow or Lightning Spear and keep moving. Aim for headshots when it’s safe.
• Smelter Demon: This guy’s fire attacks are killer. Keep your distance, use ranged magic, and stay behind him whenever possible to avoid his flame bursts.
• Nashandra: Her curse orbs can be a pain. Take them out from a distance with arrows, then focus on her with your most powerful spells.

Final Thoughts#

Ranged combat in boss fights is all about staying calm, managing your resources, and knowing when to strike. With practice and patience, you’ll be taking down the toughest bosses without breaking a sweat. So gear up, keep your distance, and show those monstrosities who’s boss!

Best Ranged Builds#

Let’s face it, sometimes you want to keep your distance from those terrifying bosses and numerous enemies in Dark Souls 2. A solid ranged build can give you the upper hand. Here’s our guide to the best ranged builds to help you tackle Drangleic with precision and style!

The Sharp Shooter (Bow Build)#

Key Attributes: Dexterity, Endurance, Vigor#

If you love hitting your enemies from a distance, a bow build will be your best friend. Here’s what you need:

• Starting Class: Wanderer, due to its balanced stats and decent Dexterity.
• Primary Weapon: Composite Bow or Hunter’s Blackbow. The Composite Bow has a great balance of power and speed, while the Hunter’s Blackbow excels with its range.
• Secondary Weapon: Longsword for close encounters.
• Armor: Light armor like the Leather Set to maintain mobility.

Key Items:

• Arrows: Keep a healthy stock of various arrows (Standard, Poison, Fire).
• Rings: Hawk Ring (increases range of arrows) and the Ring of Blades (boosts physical attack).

Playstyle Tips:

• Always aim for headshots. It’s a bit tricky, but they deal significant damage and often stagger enemies.
• Use the roll-dodge to keep nimble and avoid hits. Positioning is key!

The Pyromancer Assassin (Hex & Pyromancy Build)#

Key Attributes: Intelligence, Faith, Attunement#

This build lets you combine long-range magic attacks with devastating pyromancies. It’s especially deadly in PvE.

• Starting Class: Sorcerer or Cleric. Sorcerer starts with a higher Intelligence, while Cleric starts with higher Faith.
• Primary Weapon: Pyromancy Flame and Chime/Staff to cast hexes.
• Secondary Weapon: Dark-infused weapon like the Darkdrift or Uchigatana.
• Armor: Black Witch Set or Hexer’s Set to complement your hexes.

Key Spells:

• Hexes: Resonant Soul and Dark Orb. These provide reliable damage.
• Pyromancies: Fire Orb and Great Fireball for AoE and strong single-target damage.

Key Items:

• Rings: Abyss Seal (boosts dark attacks) and Southern Ritual Band (increases attunement slots).

Playstyle Tips:

• Use the environment to your advantage, such as casting spells from high ground or behind cover.
• Mix up hexes and pyromancies to keep your enemies off guard.

The Arcane Archer (Magic Bow Build)#

Key Attributes: Dexterity, Intelligence, Attunement#

For those who want a magical twist on the traditional bow build, the Arcane Archer combines sorcery with archery.

• Starting Class: Sorcerer for the high Intelligence.
• Primary Weapon: Magic-infused Short Bow or Moonlight Butterfly Horn (for unique ranged attacks).
• Secondary Weapon: Staff like the Staff of Wisdom for sorceries.
• Armor: Lion Mage Set for faster casting speed.

Key Items:

• Arrows: Magic or Lightning arrows to add elemental damage.
• Rings: Clear Bluestone Ring (reduces casting time) and the Stone Ring (increases poise damage).

Playstyle Tips:

• Use rapid firing to pelt enemies with multiple magic arrows in quick succession.
• Combine bow shots with sorceries like Homing Soulmass to maintain pressure.

General Tips for Ranged Builds#

1. Stamina Management: Always keep an eye on your stamina bar. It’s crucial for dodging and shooting/casting.
2. Positioning: Stay mobile and keep a safe distance from enemies. High ground is your best friend.
3. Ammo: Never run out! Keep an eye on your stock of arrows or spell uses to avoid getting caught off-guard.

With these builds and tips, you’ll be breezing through Drangleic like a pro sniper. Good luck, Unkindled, and may your aim always be true!